My drag racing favorite of all time. His, and the other Fords in Pro Stock were what I followed in the NHRA. He's a true legend, and irreplaceable in my mind. RIP Bob Glidden, RIP.

This is what I posted at the Studebaker site where I first found out:


As the current owner of a '73 Pinto (turbo, wagon) I am truly saddened by this. More than 40 years ago prior to the Winternational s in Pomona, Irwindale Raceway had what was called "The Winternational Warm-Ups." I remember going out there in my late teens and having idolized Glidden literally stood in front of his car for about 3 hours as he prepped. I think he caught on that I was a star struck teen and occasional would say a little something to me. It was a day I will always remember.  I was also at the '72 Ontario Motor Speedway World Finals for Glidden's first run in Pro Stock where he finished runner up.

Glidden's win record was legendary. And when one found out that he didn't use an engine stand but rather put motors together on a bench or the floor you couldn't help but think he was your "common man" with great success.