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This is a copy of the famous Marmon
Wasp racer, which won the first Indianapolis 500 race in 1911. Manufactured
from 1902 to 1933, Marmon cars featured advanced engineering and their
classical styling exemplify the Golden Age of American automobiles.
The Marmon Wasp was designed and built by Ray Harroun from a Marmon
Model 1932 production vehicle. The Marmon engineer was the only driver
without a riding mechanic, which back then were used to warn the driver
of the other cars on the track. He didn't need the extra person as he had
rigged up what is believed to be the first ever rear view mirror. The name
is due to the yellow and black color scheme and the pointed "sting" at
the rear, an early attempt at streamlining.
The Wasp started 28th in a field of 40 cars at the famous "Brickyard".
The race ended in controversy, as Ralph Mulford was originally credited
with the win. The official timing and lap counting had been disrupted almost
mid-way through the race when a Case smacked the judges stand with everybody
abandoning their posts. It was not until late that night that officials
sorted out timing issues and awarded Harroun the win at 6 hours 42 minutes
and 8 seconds and the $25,000 prize. The Indiana native still holds an
impressive Indy 500 record: No one has ever come from the 28th (or worse)
starting position to win the race. |
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