WRFH/Radio Free Hillsdale 101.7 FM - Back to the Brickyard: Parnelli Jones

Episode Date: September 15, 2024

The story of one of the most iconic drivers of the 1960s.

Welcome to Back to the Brickyard, your spot for Indianapolis 500 History here at Radio Free Hills Hill 1.1.7 FM. I'm Christian Papillon. Parnelli Jones was one of the most dominant but unlucky indie racers in the 1960s. He seemed to be contention every year, never qualifying worse than 6th, but almost always seemed to fall short due to unfortunate circumstances. Jones first arrived at Indy in 1961, leading 27 laps before a lost cylinder and a long pit stop. slowed him to a 12th place finish. He would still win Rookie of the Year honors along with Bobby Marshman. In 1962, Jones broke the indie track record, becoming the first driver average over 150 miles per hour for both one and four-lap qualification runs. He led 120 of the first 125

laps that year, but brake failure relegated him to a seventh place finish. In 1963, Jones won the pole again, led 167 laps, and overcame an oil leak to win his only Indy 500. Jones found himself in contention again in 1964 and 65, but came up short both times. Finally, in 1967, Jones was selected to drive Andy Granitelli's revolutionary turbine power car. Jones went from sixth to first on the first lap and never looked back until a $6 transmission part failed just 10 miles from the finish. Jones retired from Indy Racing in 1968 and focused his attention on ownership. He would win back-to-back 500s of 1970 and 71 with Al Unser at the Wheel, along with championships in 70, 71, and 72.

You have been listening to Radio Free Hillsdale 1-1.7 FM. I'm Christian Papuaul, and I'll catch you the next time you'll go back to the Brickfield.