Paralyzed former drag racer Gwynn still passionate about racing, fishing

[ProStockJunkie]

Paralyzed former drag racer Gwynn still passionate about racing, fishing -- South Florida Sun-Sentinel.com

 

[DrRocket]

Good read. It's good to know he's doing well and is enjoying life. I sure do miss his presence on the tour.

Thank you for that link, Jackee.

 

[Nick]

Nice article.

I still remember that day I turned on espn & found out about the crash. Even though I was only 17 at the time, the news hurt and hurt bad.

It was a big "pickmeup" to then see Frank Hawley come out and win the first race in the seat of Darrell's car.

Oh how the world turns.

 

[Travo]

DG is at the nascar race every year here in Bristol. He donates a wheelchair each time. very cool. bought his book and had him sign it in gainsville a couple years ago. great read if you dont have it its worth getting



travo

 

[NONE]

In 1981 I won the NHRA Div.2 Bracket Finals and received an invitation to the Div.2 banquet in Atlanta. My wife and I were seated at the table next to the Gwynn family. They were there because Darrell had won the Div.2 Alcohol Funny Car Championship. His mother was so excited!

Here's the best photo I have of Darrell at Atlanta. I believe it's 1989.

MEMORIES.

 

[mick]

....... I believe it's 1989.

'89 a very good guess - same 'extra gold' car dominated indy '89.

 

[T.Smith]

Geez...how long is that car?...or how short is that back half?

 

[DrRocket]

Geez...how long is that car?...or how short is that back half?

Maybe the much shorter blower/injector hat combo throws the perspective off. The small front wheels might be a factor also.

 

[FABMAN]

Paralyzed former drag racer Gwynn still passionate about racing, fishing -- South Florida Sun-Sentinel.com

Jackie, great article, I remember meeting Darrell's father at Heartland Park in the fall race in 1993. We talked for at least 30 min about his son's injuries since we had a lot in common. I was injured in 87 with spinal injury and talking with his dad you could tell that Darrell was going to be fine because he had a great family supporting him. Just talking with Jerry made me feel better about myself, so I'm not surprised how well Darrell is doing today.

 

[TAFC 5 81]

Geez...how long is that car?...or how short is that back half?

My late cousin was car chief on that car. I think it had the engine as far back as the reverser would allow; it was Gwynn's first car built (Uyehara) for direct drive.