Watson Wonders: Delving into the Unforgettable Indianapolis 500 History from 1959 to 1962

The Indianapolis 500, known as "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing," is a legendary event that has captured the hearts of racing enthusiasts for over a century. From its humble beginnings in 1911 to the present day, the race has witnessed some of the most thrilling and dramatic moments in motorsports history. Among these standout moments, the years 1959 to 1962 stand out as a golden era for one particular team: the Watson Wonders.

The Watson Dynasty

Led by the legendary Tony Bettenhausen, the Watson Wonders were a formidable force on the Indianapolis Motor Speedway during the late 1950s and early 1960s. Bettenhausen, a three-time Indy 500 winner, had a deep understanding of car mechanics and a keen eye for spotting talented drivers. He assembled a team of exceptional racers, including his sons Tony, Gary, and Merle, as well as other skilled drivers such as Rodger Ward and A.J. Foyt.

The Indianapolis 500 - Volume Three: Watson’s Wonders (1959 – 1962) (The Indianapolis 500, A History Book 3)

by Brian G. Boettcher

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5878 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	147 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

1959: Rodger Ward's Triumph

The 1959 Indianapolis 500 was a memorable race for the Watson Wonders. Defying expectations, Rodger Ward, driving the #5 Watson Roadster, emerged victorious. Ward's victory was a testament to the team's meticulous preparation and unwavering determination. With a winning speed of 135.857 mph, Ward claimed the checkered flag, making him the first driver to win the Indy 500 in a rear-engine car.

1960: Tony Bettenhausen's Heartbreak

The 1960 Indianapolis 500 brought both joy and sorrow to the Watson Wonders team. Tony Bettenhausen, the patriarch of the family, was on the cusp of making history by becoming the fourth driver to win the Indy 500 four times. However, tragedy struck on the final lap when Bettenhausen's car crashed on the fourth turn, resulting in his untimely death. The loss of Tony Bettenhausen sent shockwaves through the racing community and cast a somber shadow over the Watson Wonders' legacy.

1961: A.J. Foyt's Dominance

Despite the tragic events of 1960, the Watson Wonders rallied together in 1961 and achieved another remarkable victory. A.J. Foyt, one of the team's most promising drivers, took the wheel of the #1 Watson Roadster and dominated the race from start to finish. Foyt's impressive average speed of 139.453 mph earned him the checkered flag, making him the youngest driver to win the Indianapolis 500 at the time.

1962: A Three-Car Triumph

The 1962 Indianapolis 500 marked a historic moment for the Watson Wonders. After intense preparations, the team fielded three cars in the race, each driven by a member of the Bettenhausen family. Rodger Ward, Gary Bettenhausen, and Merle Bettenhausen took to the track, representing the Watson Wonders in style. To the delight of the crowd, all three cars finished in the top five, with Rodger Ward taking the checkered flag again, this time in the #1 Watson Roadster. This unprecedented triumph solidified the Watson Wonders' dominance in Indianapolis 500 history.

The Legacy of the Watson Wonders

The Watson Wonders left an indelible mark on the Indianapolis 500. Their exceptional teamwork, unwavering dedication, and innovative spirit played a significant role in shaping the race's history. Their triumphs and tragedies have become legendary tales in the annals of motorsports. The team's legacy continues to inspire generations of drivers and fans alike.

"Watson Wonders: 1959-1962, The Indianapolis 500 History" is a captivating account of one of the golden eras in Indy 500 history. This book delves into the extraordinary stories of Tony Bettenhausen, Rodger Ward, A.J. Foyt, and the Bettenhausen brothers, providing readers with an immersive experience of the challenges, triumphs, and emotions that shaped the Watson Wonders' legacy. Through vivid descriptions, captivating anecdotes, and stunning photographs, the book transports readers back in time to witness the unforgettable moments that made the Watson Wonders an iconic force in Indianapolis 500 history.

The Indianapolis 500 - Volume Three: Watson’s Wonders (1959 – 1962) (The Indianapolis 500, A History Book 3)

by Brian G. Boettcher

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5878 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	147 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE