Craig Breedlove – American Land Speed Record Holder (by Steve Garcia)
Craig Breedlove (born March 23, 1937) is an American five-time world (LSR) land speed record holder. Between 1963 and 1965 Craig was the first person to set a World Land Speed Record above 400, 500 and 600 mph on land using surplus military turbojet engines. All his LSR cars are named (SOA) Spirit of America and the Beach Boys even wrote a song "Spirit of America" to honor his exploits.
As a result of my own land speed exploits, I had the opportunity to meet Craig in 1985. In 1996 Rache Corporation designed, laser cut and laser marked the instrument panels for Craig's latest SOA in less than 48 hours and were installed on the car at the Black Rock Desert in Nevada in preparation for Craig's attempt. The record at that time was set in 1983 by Sir Richard Noble at 633.468 mph. Craig achieved 675 mph but an unfortunate wind shear condition turned the SOA up on 2 wheels. Fortunately the car didn't pencil roll and Craig was able to right the car after experiencing a 1-1/2 mile arch off the speed course. Today, Craig has designed a bio-propellant rocket powered SOA and is awaiting funding. The current LSR was set by RAF pilot Andy Green in October 1997 at 763.035 mph. Andy was the first to break the sound barrier on land.
The world land speed record is one of sport’s most dangerous pursuits and Craig risked his life all for the glory of the United States of America.
By: Steve Garcia
Project Engineer
Rache Corporation
#SpeedWeek2018BonnevilleSaltFlats
Quality Engineer | Configuration Management
1 年Craig passed away on 4/4/2023. He was 86 years old. Craig was the most celebrated American record breaker in history. He was the first to set the land speed record over 400, 500 & 600 mph. The world won't see the likes of Mr. Breedlove again.