MIDGET RACING IN WV

 

Midget racing started in California in the late 30s.  By 1946, it was a wildly popular form of racing in WV.   One of the main reasons was that midget racers cost less to build and operate.  It also provided a way for men to race that otherwise might not have the chance. You didnt need a 2 mile oval for a midget racer.  Any piece of property could be converted into a race track at a fraction of the cost of other tracks.  But dont think for a second that midget racers didnt have all the thrills and excitement of the big boys.  Men were killed and maimed in the little cars like everyone else. They didnt even have roll-bars or cages for the longest time.  Here are a few of the more famous locals involved in midget racing.    One of the more famous teams hung around the Eastern Garage on Elizabeth Street for many years.

These photos are from the scrapbook of John Harris, (my cousin) and  who's father Johnny Harris was one of the most well-known mechanics, builders, and drivers of his day.  Johnny also holds the distinction of winning the very first Soap Box Derby held in the county.

Red Lanham

Mack McCormick

SEE MIDGETS PAGE TWO HERE

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