In the late 1960's Top Fuel action saw many changes. Engines began to make much more power. Tire manufacturers began to come up with compounds that gave better traction, and special racing tires were developed. Clutches evolved. Burnouts became the norm. All of a sudden smoke free runs became the obvious way to go fast. The side by side tire smoking runs of the mid 1960's disappeared. The face of drag racing was changing.

The slingshot cars ruled Top Fuel in the 1960's. There was a change on the horizon coming though, and nobody knew it....until a day in 1970 when a man named "Big Daddy" Don Garlits blew part of his right foot off at Lion's Drag Strip. That event eventually changed drag racing history.

The sport also began to change from a "hobby" pursuit into a "business" for some. Let's follow award winning photographer Steve Reyes down "memory lane" here and see how "The King's of the Sport" progressed. CN

Looking for a classic drag racing photo of your favorite car or star? Chances are Steve Reyes has it. Or if you would like a professional photo shoot with your car, you can contact Steve Reyes via e-mail at sb.reyes@cox.net