After a hearty Meal at Don Julio’s last night, seven Vettes and 9 members met at 9 a.m. for a drive out to the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing in Ocala. As usual, Buzz Gunn did a stellar job of leading the way and getting us all there at the same time.It was another beautiful day in Central Florida (I love saying that!) and the drive was without incident.
Once inside we were treated to the very best examples from the history of drag racing. Not only from Mr. Garlits past but from many different racers. Primarily from the Top Fuel category but certainly not the only group. There were stock cars, Funny Cars, gassers, go carts (140 m.p.h.) plus many dragsters from a lot of former racers as well and even a drag bike. Memorabilia from many drag strips across the county and a vast array of photos dating back to the 1950’s.
In a building next door housed many antique autos. From the early 1900’s included many of Mr. Garlits personal cars. A 1939 Ford which he drove when he dated his late wife Pat., their first race car they built together and many cars from the bygone eras of the ’20’s & 30’s
After the museum we had lunch at Eaton’s Beach, a lake side venue we have visited several times. One thing was different, new menus which meant the prices went up. None the less we ate very good and had great conversation before we wandered our was back home.
Somehow, Bill & Mary Anderson didn’t make it to the group photo. Sorry.
Looking forward to something different for a drive out next month. Stay tuned.
