Let’s celebrate his life and contribution to everything automotive and American. The old man of the Automotive Mountain lived a long, tuff and full life. Smoke’n, drink’n and race’n ...THEN living to almost 90 years of age with a heart and other organs on loan is proof of his determination and steely spirit.
I met him several times, most memorable in Vegas at the SEMA show when the Buick powered Shelby was unveiled and at the Dallas Grand Prix back in the 90’s. While some say he wasn’t the easiest to get along with, it was his hard driving ways that took the trophy back for Ford and the US. His bold and lofty visions set destiny in motion for all of us to enjoy one of the most exciting times in motor sport history, the muscle era of the 1960’s and 70’s. Can’t imagine what our industry, culture of life would look like if we didn’t have passionate men like Shelby, Zora Duntov, Iacocca, John Delorean and even Harley Earl in the mix.
Sad to see him go? Yes!!… But ever so enjoyable to look back at what he’s given us. RIP Carol.
Carol Shelby is the definition of Texas Tuff.