Eddie Sachs

EDDIE SACHS--THE CLOWN PRINCE OF RACING is a thoroughly researched biography of the "self-proclaimed" World's Greatest Race Car Driver. In the books introduction, the author states that just like there will never be another Bob Hope or John Wayne or Billy Graham, there will never be another Eddie Sachs. No race driver, past or present, can match the flamboyancy, zeal and zaniness of the Clown Prince of Racing.
Sachs was also a great orator who could hold audiences spellbound. He would have his audiences pleading for more racing stories. Eddie captured the prestigious pole position for the Indianapolis 500 in 1960 and 1961. He was leading the 1961 500 Mile Race until he pitted to change a badly worn tire with just three laps to go. He wound up second to A.J. Foyt by 8 seconds. The following year he charged from 27th to finish 3rd. The story of Eddie Sachs can serve as an inspiration to all youth. When Eddie began his racing career, he was one of the worst drivers to ever compete. However, by sure determination and persistence, he would go on to become a member of the Indy 500 Hall of Fame!
Many times Eddie would state, "If you can't win, be spectacular!" He lived that creed to the very end. On May 30, 1964 both Eddie and rookie driver Dave MacDonald died in a fiery crash at the start of the 500 Mile Race. It was by far the most spectacular accident in the history of the Indianapolis 500.