Carroll Shelby, the man who gave the world the fabled AC Cobra (my childhood dream car), has sadly died at the age of 89.
I met him, briefly, a few years ago at the Goodwood Revival festival and i'm not sure I really appreciated it at the time but in the words of Ron Burgundy: "This guy was kind of a big deal y'know!!" Thinking back to that moment, he had a great presence about him, he was a real larger than life American. Clad completely in denim with his trademark shades and cowboy hat to set off the look. He was sitting in a deckchair, taking it easy beside one of his ferocious Daytona Coupe's chatting away with the mechanics
Edsel Ford II, a Ford board member and great grandson of founder Henry Ford, said: "Today, we have lost a legend in Ford Motor Company's history, and my family and I have lost a dear friend.
"Whether helping Ford dominate the 1960s racing scene or building some of the most famous Mustangs, his enthusiasm and passion for great automobiles over six decades has truly inspired everyone who worked with him. He was a great innovator whose legend at Ford never will be forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends."
RIP Carroll, and thanks for the V8s.
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| Shelby GT500 Mustang |
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| Shelby 427 Cobra |
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| Shelby Daytona Coupe |
