BS: Cannonball Baker

Subject: Cannonball Baker
From: Lyrical Lady
Date: 01 Dec 00 - 08:56 PM

I have been asked by a friend to post this thread asking if any of you know where he might find information on motorcycle racer Cannonball Baker. Any links to stories regarding his life would be greatly appreciated. Thanks,

Subject: RE: BS: Cannonball Baker
From: catspaw49
Date: 01 Dec 00 - 09:23 PM

Cannonball Baker became best known for driving cross country back in the 30's and he set some pretty unbelievable records for that time, or even now. Brock Yates of Car and Driver truly immortalized the old coot when, after the lowering of the national speed limit, he set up some "impromptu races" from NYC to the PortoFino Inn in California, drawing an odd element from the enthusiast and racing community to participate. The event was called the "Cannonball Baker Sea-to-Shining-Sea Memorial Trophy Dash." The "inaugural event" was won by Yates himself along with his driving partner, some fella' name of Dan Gurney, in a Ferrari. You can read of that tomfoolery in Yates' book, Sunday Driver. It was the basis for several of the Burt Reynolds flicks and some other piece of crap called "Bubble Gum Rally."

I'm sure there's some stuff on the web. I'll have a look around for you. My friend Randy and I were entered in the third event but had to withdraw the day before when a family emergency forced him to remain at home.

Spaw

Subject: RE: BS: Cannonball Baker
From: catspaw49
Date: 01 Dec 00 - 10:01 PM

It took place earlier than I was thinking, but here's some info on the lad and his exploits.

CLICK # 1

CLICK # 2

And here's some info written by John Mikes, a friend of an old friend of mine, Tony Adamowicz, of the Polish Racing Drivers of America. Tony was in the first Cannonball and one hell of a sports car racer. CLICK HERE for Info on the Sea-to-Shining Sea Trophy Dash.

Spaw

Subject: RE: BS: Cannonball Baker
From: Lyrical Lady
Date: 02 Dec 00 - 01:40 PM

When I posted this thread, I had a feeling you may be the one to respond, Thanks Catspaw. I'll pass this on to him. BYW, the kids loved the Green Bean Goop ...their words, not mine! LL