The world of land speed record breaking is a thrilling and perilous endeavor, and a new archive reveals the fearless era of those who dared to push the limits. This week, a British team achieved a new record at the Bonneville salt flats in Utah, a moment that couldn't be more fitting as the historical legacy of this challenge is being unveiled. The FIA is digitizing and making public over two million documents and pictures from its archive, offering a glimpse into the rich history of land speed records.
Among the records is the story of Andy Green, a former RAF wing commander, who broke the sound barrier on land and now holds the current outright land speed record of 763.035 mph. His efforts in the JCB Hydromax car, which reached 406.320 mph, showcase the ongoing pursuit of speed and innovation. The archive, held in the FIA storage facility in Valleiry, France, is a treasure trove of human-written notes, letters, and official records, providing a distinct, personal touch to the historical records.
The history of land speed records dates back to the invention of the motorcar in the late 19th century, with the first mark set by Count Gaston de Chasseloup-Laubat in 1898. The competition quickly caught the public's imagination, with men and women in machines from around the world vying for the top spot. The British played a significant role in this era, with Kenelm Lee Guinness, Malcolm Campbell, George Eyston, and John Cobb achieving multiple successes. The archive reflects a period when these exploits were front-page news, with technical reports and personal notes offering a unique insight into the challenges faced.
Malcolm Campbell's experience in 1935 at Bonneville is a stark reminder of the dangers involved. He recalled a moment when a film of oil covered his windscreen, and deadly fumes from the engine entered the cockpit, threatening to cause him to fade out. The archive also includes correspondence between Campbell and Colonel CG Péron, who assisted in finding suitable venues for record attempts, showcasing the behind-the-scenes efforts that made these achievements possible.
The competition continued post-war, with timed endurance runs becoming a focus. In 1959, an Austin-Healey Sprite set a record in the international class G, covering 1,665 miles at an average speed of 138.75 mph. The archive meticulously documents these details, including a laconic note about a driver's spin when the engine cover came off at 135 mph. The 1960s saw a drastic change as cars transitioned from wheel-driven to jet and rocket engine power, with the FIA allowing the use of thrust power.
The era was led by Craig Breedlove and Art Arfons, who exchanged records in a thrilling back-and-forth. Breedlove's Spirit of America reached 600.601 mph, and the archive includes a telegram confirming this new record. The motto of the team, 'never content', aptly reflects the spirit of the sport, as admired by Banowetz. This archive not only showcases the technical achievements but also the human stories and the bravery of those who dared to dream, build, and race these extraordinary machines.
In conclusion, the FIA's archive is a treasure trove for anyone interested in the history of land speed records, offering a unique blend of technical details and personal narratives. It serves as a reminder of the dangers and the sheer audacity of those who pushed the boundaries of speed, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of motorsports.
