Dan Hampton

As I was sitting on my dorm room bed in early October of 1968, at Stout State University, reading my most recent edition of the National Dragster, I was perusing the results of the Indy Summer Nationals. We had two big winners that year: Larry Lombardo, who took Stock Eliminator in his '61 Corvette, "Buckshot" and Sam Gianino winning Comp. Eliminator in his '57 Corvette. The image of Lombardo, who was 19 yrs old at the time, is indelibly etched in my brain. We were the same age. At 19, one had to admire that Indy win.

Years and years later, I was able to hook up with Roger Sinistri, Jr. whose father was the engine builder/tuner for Lombardo. Roger Sr., unfortunately, passed away a few years ago, but his son was gracious enough to provide the photos you are viewing today. Sinistri was a consummate engine builder from Reading, Pa and I think he was inducted into the NHRA Hall of Fame a number of years ago. "Buckshot"
opted to run a 2X4bbl car versus the F.I. variant. I have a link to the Lombardo story that I will add to this. Again, special thanks to Roger Sinistri, Jr. for the pics and great conversation about the Lombardo days.

BTW, the pic of Larry and Roger at the old Standard Station is classic 60s. Notice the neatly stacked oil cans in the window. I remember those days well.

Dan Hampton

Here is the link to the whole story:
http://eastcoastdragtimeshalloffame....motor-maestro/

Dr L-88

What a neat story. Thanks for sharing that bit of Corvette racing history.

Rex

65hihp

Love the story of Mr. Lombardo, and the photos. Thanks for posting!

1963GrayGray

Larry has appeared several times recently at EMMR (Eastern Museum Of
Motor Racing)
He spoke during a drag racing round table with other racers suck as Bruce
Larson.
When he recounted some of the antics of the earlier years of drag racing
then audience laughed till their stomachs hurt. He is a very funny guy
unless you lined up next to him at the starting line.

91DRM

https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...-61-vette.html
https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...-buckshot.html
https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...re-photos.html

Dan Hampton

Thanks, 91DRM, and super thanks to Jim Dillion. We had this discussion a number of years ago and I forgot some of the neat pieces that Jim had put up.

91DRM

Love this stuff!

Dan Hampton

Does anyone have the whereabouts of Roger Sinistri, Jr. It would be great to get his perspective on all of this.