In this episode of “The Logbook” - John Yasenko recounts the discovery and historical significance of a unique 1935 front-wheel-drive speedster created by Benjamin F. Harris III. Initially found in a neglected state in 1987, the vehicle's unusual design and Harris’s innovative contributions to automotive history intrigued John and his Brother, leading to an extensive pre-internet research endeavor. Ben Harris, an early industrial designer and motorsport architect, was deeply involved in the development of American road racing and SCCA's national organization. He collaborated with notable figures like Harley Earl and Jim Kimberly, and played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Road America race track. John presents us with rich with historical insights, personal anecdotes, and acknowledges the extensive research and supportive collaborations that uncovered Harris's legacy, culminating in his posthumous induction into the SCCA Walk of Fame in 2020.
John Yasenko’s purchase of the remains of the 1935 Harris FWD Speedster decades ago led him into conducting 36 years of research into the car and its creator, Benjamin F. Harris. John’s objective has been to document how Harris was a key figure in postwar racetrack design and development, and in transforming the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) into a national organization. John is a lifelong car enthusiast, business owner, restorer and historian, automotive show host, and all-around jack of all trades.
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00:00 Discovery of the Harris Speedster
01:15 Ben Harris: The Man Behind the Machine
02:54 Innovative Design Elements of the Harris Speedster
03:33 Harris's Collaborations and Achievements
05:27 Racing Legacy and Contributions to Motorsport
09:36 Involvement in SCCA and Road America
17:29 Advocacy for Safety in Motorsport
24:29 Legacy and Induction into the Walk of Fame
29:15 Conclusion and Acknowledgements
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The Motoring Podcast Network : Years of racing, wrenching and Motorsports experience brings together a top notch collection of knowledge, stories and information. #everyonehasastory #gtmbreakfix - motoringpodcast.net
This episode is part of our HISTORY OF MOTORSPORTS SERIES and is sponsored in part by: The International Motor Racing Research Center (IMRRC), The Society of Automotive Historians (SAH), The Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Argetsinger Family - and was recorded in front of a live studio audience.
