My dad and I were walking through the pits at the U.S Nationals in 2003 when we saw Mr. Garlits sitting alone by his trailer. I was only 13 years old and had no idea who he was at the time but my dad certainly did and we walked over for an autograph right away. As soon as Mr. Garlits shook my hand, an intense feeling of almost intimidating power washed over me. I wasn't afraid but I definitely sensed something very different and very special. As we walked away, my dad simply explained that he was one of the best drag racers of all time. I never mentioned what I had felt. I didn't know how to articulate it and I didn't understand it. After watching this 18 years later...looking back, I get it now.
I remember Don Garlits when I was a young teenager and I never knew he became a Christian. I lived a very horrible life and I also became a Christian on March 23, 1971. I’ll never forget that day when my life was truly transformed and has never been the same. Thanks for the video.
@@jennifursun3303 That is a huge surprise to me. I first met Bigs in 1975 and found him to be one of the most approachable Top Fuel drivers that I ever met, Kenny Bernstein being right there with him. I recently went to one of his private tours at the museum and at 90 years young he is just as nice as he was then but he can't hear quite as well, but then neither can I. I know that every driver does their best to get in the other guys helmet and distract them as much as possible so maybe that was the case. Or maybe Snake was doing that to Bigs and he didn't take it well but I suspect there is more to that story.
That's understandable, (for Prudhomme) Prudhomme was/is a Cali/ west coast boy, young whippersnapper, and also very good at what he was doing, not to mention, basically a rich kid , compared to Garlits. Prudhomme was always high on the list of competitive foes/enemy's with Garlits, and most definitely not someone you would ever let in/near your inner circle. Completely understandable.@@jennifursun3303
I saw this amazing man run many times as a very young man. As an adult I was able to go to his museum in Ocala a few times. On one of my visits I was able to meet this man face to face and it was one of the biggest things in my life. He is humble and thankful to his fans. He is drag racing for kids who grew up in the early 60's ... Thank You "Big Daddy".
On my first visit to the museum as i was paying my entry.......there he was talking to the lady at the register. I was too starstruck even as a grown older man to speak! It was humbling to see him in an old quilted flannel jacket well worn.... To think i was that close to a legend from my childhood
I'm so sorry for your loss. Pat was so special. You won't remember me, but about ten years ago, you and Pat were kind enough to chat to me for half an hour when I visited Ocala. An Englishman in a white suit. You were amazed a Brit should know so much about you.
He is getting up there in age where we all have known thay time on this planet is beginning to fade. I'm so happy to have had the chance to see this man in hid prime during his later years in TopFuel. I want you to know "old man" I am a big fan your's and appreciate what you have done for the sport of drag racing over the @dongalits. Thank you for all you have done sir.
Watching Clay Millican’s TH-cam channel fired up my interest in drag racing after 50 years (side tracked due to things that happen in life) which led me to watch this channel. I grew up near the Lions Drag strip and watched Don Garlits race there several times and alway wondered what happened to him. When my career distracted me from the races the cars were topping out at 220 mph in the quarter mile. Now I see the rails are now going over 330 mph in a thousand feet. But best thing of all that I’ve just discovered is Garlits belief in God and how He helped ease the pain. Also just how faithful and supporting his wife was. Amazing story!
Dear Don... I remember meeting you at Sanair for the Canadian Grand Nationals. You had the smallest pit of anyone. Everyone had these big sponsors and trailers but you were under a little tent with a few mechanics. I could not believe I was meeting the worlds fastest man and he was a simple man and so friendly. I was the track photographer and the only one who had access to be on track behind the Christmas tree to take my shots. That is how I remember you sir. You are a great man.
The big white cross on his most famous streamliner didn't give it away? You need to pay better attention David G. I was at that race track when he blew over & I am sure that God made his dragster land right side up on all 4 wheels. Watch that blow over in super slow motion and you will see what I am saying.
I met him many years ago in a little town of Overton Ohio and I’ll never forget him as he lit up his rail on US20 on a Friday night. He was working with a man named Larry Millchild in a little garage on the south side of us20 right next to the south side bar. he’s still my hero and I’m 72 now and I watch this over and over he is a real man he’s a real racer God bless him
Don I met you at National Trails near Columbus,Ohio in 1967- I knew you were a lot older than me but you took the time to talk about the technical side of your car ! The last time I saw you in person was in Gainesville in 1971 ! You have been a inspiration for everyone like myself who loved Drag Racing !
Seek the Lord in His Word, the Holy Bible. Pray before you read for an understanding heart "For the Word of God is gibberish to those who are perishing" 1 Corinthians 1:18
Hero does not even begin to describe this man. He is a Soldier of God and cares about his fellow man. It is very simply love and grit in all the right amounts at the proper time. God Bless Don Garlits. And Thank You.
I've had the pleasure of meeting Don several times, he's the most down to earth legend you'll ever meet. Genuinely nice guy, very sharp mind. Definitely the real deal.
I met big daddy @ the summer nationals he wasn't racing he was there w a souvenir trailer selling his book he was so cool he let me & Kathy sit w him in the trailer & told us some stories about drag racing that trip to the nationals was a last request I had aids he told me everything will be ok well here I am 20+yrs later I'm now undetectable . & I have his autograph on a few things his book & a poster of him in swamp rat doing a fire burn out. & The memory of a great sportsman! He gave me the will to live & not give up. Thanks Don big daddy gartilits
I came here from his interview on 3ABN, a big Christian network and I'm thoroughly IMPRESSED with this Legend and Hero. Finding out he's a God Squad Warrior just warms my heart. God bless you Big Daddy Don. 🙏🏻🙏🏾✝️💪🏻💪🏾
Steely-eyed and truly courageous man. His private thoughts and affection for his wife are very impressive. He is really intelligent and determined, yet so humble that he prefers to put Jesus in front of himself. Maybe that is true greatness. I think that kind of reality, that kind of self-knowledge in a champion - littleness in greatness - is a very beautiful thing. Thank you so much Mr Garlits. Australia
My Dad drove Pro Stock & Funny Cars in the early to late 1960s before he went to Vietnam. I got to sit in BIG DADDY's Lap and do a burnout nothing like it in the world it was one of the #1 highlights of my life. I would stand behind the Christmas tree in a fireman's jacket and helmet with face shield and watch them go down the track and having rubber from the tires hitting me so much fun BIGLOVE to Don Garlits he is the BIG DADDY of the drag strip. I still have all the shirts and hats he autograft for me he is the greatest of all times.
Love going to his Museum in Florida, I hope it will stay open for ever, Big Daddy sure earned to have a Museum and having a special Wife to Stand by him no-matter how bad things got, God Bless you both.
This video is outstanding , brought tears , smiles and so many true words spoken. Beautiful couple and a beautiful life story of an amazing super hero Thank you Mr. Garlits I saw Don in Montreal , when Shirley just got back from an injury , sometime in the 80’s and Don introduced me to Kendal GT 1 , green oil Bless you Don 🇨🇦
The most personal story of Big Daddy I've seen, revealing the reason he put a cross on his cars later on in his career. Thank you SO much for posting this one about a true Legend in the sport.
I have always known how don was the one to beat in drag racing had no idea about the injuries. I remember a race between him and a jet in hot rod years ago. As I watched this his testimony and faith moved me. The simplicity of crying out to God as a child was mind blowing. I believe that is a key that we men miss as we are trained it is almost unmanly to feel the need for help. Inspiring and has changed me. I knew Don had put the first hemi in a dragster but had no idea of his faith.
I had the pleasure of meeting Don back in 98’ (my step dad was so pumped at the time as he remembered Don running back in the day) when he made a return to drag racing. Humble guy. Super nice. Gave me my autograph I wanted, and also his hat!! I was only 12 at the time but that was a pinnacle for me! Praise god!
I love this film. Such an extended interview with a legend is amazing. Some of the footage gives me chills. I saw him a bunch of times in upstate New York at Niagara Dragstrip and Empire Dragway. He was amazing! I remember when Shirley Muldowney was still driving her tank of a funny car and he was sharply critical of her over the PA and I thought he was very harsh. But he was right. She was too afraid of the risks to be competitive. He sounded pretty hostile at the time. But the risks he took as a driver and the total commitment he gave to this sport it's no wonder. This being said, I was amazed to see Muldowney's crew rebuilding her engine between runs and Garlits working right along with them (I believe he was using parts from his own trailer as well). What an awesome guy. I was a kid at the time and whenever I had the opportunity to see this man race I was in awe. I can't say enough good about him. An added caveat: He was always super nice to kids no matter how busy he was between runs. Thanks for sharing this film!
@@bradzimmerman3171 I don't need you to feel sorry for me. I'm curious though, why do you feel the need to say that about God? Is it because you don't believe in God or that God exists? I get comments like yours every time I mention God on the internet. I always ask people what I asked you. No one ever gives me a straight answer. For some reason they all jump right into trying to convince me He isn't real. Why would they do that? If you don't believe He's real, fine. But what is it in people that makes them furious at me for saying He is real? Christian's get accused of "shoving our beliefs down your throat", right? See, I didn't and haven't attempted to do that at all with my comment, yet here you are. Can you answer my question without quoting every atheist scientist on the planet? Can you be completely honest with me and yourself and admit the motivation of your comment?
Profound. Irony he remembered the first family to pay admission to his MUSEUM. Funny there was a pic given to me. Was first as a family trip in a pickup camper. It's my family. I was a gear head. Posters. Speed kings.ETC ETC
What a great man! I saw him here in Sweden and England in the late 70's and made my wife go all the way to Ocala to his museum a few years ago. One of my all time heroes!
Don, I to believe in GOD. In 2011 I had a stroke, the doctor said I would be in the hospital for at least 2 weeks. I looked at him said no, I would be out by the weekend. I had it on Tuesday and by Saturday I was home. Now, here is when GOD came to me. Years of smoking the doctor said no more. He give me the option of drugs, I said no, GOD will help me. Saturday night I had 3 left and said "GOD, I need to stop please help me" To this day I'm still smoke free. Thank GOD!!! See you on the strip. And GOD BLESS YOU.
@@FYMASMD dude just because you don't believe in god doesn't mean you should get in the comments talking ignorant shit about not believing why don't you just shut the fuck up and move on🤡 someone believing in god is their business and if you want to be technical about it there's more evidence to back up jesus is real than they are to say he's not so who's the fool here?? You are so keep your ignorant mouth shut nobody in the post ask you if God is real or not and nobody told you how to believe so move on dumb fuck
He was the legend, he was drag racing at its finest, at its best. He reinvented the sport and saved his and many other lives. He was my generation and one of our heroes. God Bless
My brother and I met Mr. Garlits at his museum. I think he could sense my brother was on his way out,at any rate he was so kind and generous with his time and is still my favorite racer and more importantly my favorite human being...
I first saw Garlits back in 83 when I was a young teen at the Bradenton, FL Snowbird Winter Nationals. I was quite shy and as I stood at his pits watching in awe he walked over and asked what I thought of what was going on. For me that was a highlight of the whole race. Pretty cool dude in my book.
About 1978 Don toured through east Texas. Hallsville Drag Strip, a mom n pop strip of asphalt with a hump about 2/3 the way down the track, was my only eye witness to his ability. Everyone expected him to let up about half way to avoid "the hump". I forgot the e.t., but at 226 mph, it was over before it started. He risked a lot to give us our money's worth... Thank You, Don and GOD Bless you and yours!
Every thumbs down is just another illiterate-to-life fool. Mrs. Garlits was worth her weight in gold. Don was truly blessed to have a family with this lady. And we may be sure she was instrumental in Don's innovation in the rear-engine dragster! Hats off to Mrs. Garlits who waits for Christ' return as Don will also one day soon.
Truly one of my life long heroes. Ive loved drag racing and hot rod cars since I was a lil boy. I dont remember Big Daddy ever not being a huge part of that. Thanks for giving Shirley that chance!
I can remember years ago when I was young, seeing the God Is Love decal on Big Daddies car. It is an image that has popped into my head quite often at different times in my life ever since. Thank you Don for helping remind us that the Heavenly Father is always there, waiting for His kids to come home.
Been a Legend since i was a kid. I grew up in South Florida and i cant go by his Mueseumn without stopping whenever I’m in the State its one of my favorite places and its so funny Whenever i wear a T shirt from there how many people comment and remember that era with such great memories too
I always thought of Don Garlits as a king of drag racing. When I was a teenager back in the 60's and later in the 70"s, the greatest thing at the Detroit Drag Strip was watching Don Garlits make his runs. I never knew what a great man he was on a personally basis and how he went through until I was lucky enough to see this video. You and your wife are truly great people and with no doubt, if God was going to perform a miracle on someone in great pain, that refused pain killers, that had as much creative drive and determination as you, it would be you. I was also lucky enough to work on the cargo planes of a competitor of yours, Connie Kalitta at Willow Run Airport in Michigan. So when you two were running together, it was the best thing in life for me and many others.
Tom…I was there at Englishtown in 1986 when Don had the Blow Over. I swear when the rail went up the crowd was so quiet you could hear a pin drop. All we could see was a cloud of smoke. And then here comes Don, back towards us, out of the smoke! As he stood up out of the dragster, there was the loudest cheer you ever heard! I have met Don several times at the track, but the highlight was seeing him at his museum. He dropped whatever project he was working on to come out, and let me put my arm around him, for a Picture with Don. It was also a pleasure to meet Pat!
Same here. When I was a kid I used to have pictures of Don Garlits and Don Prudhomme's cars all over my bedroom walls. I figured he was just a religious guy. It is nice to hear why.
Don, I am 74 years old, and I STILL remember when I was in HIGH SCHOOL you were already my hero or IDOL. I hitchhiked about 300 miles to watch you run in the summer nationals in Indianapolis in 1965. You are an inspiration.
I've watched this five or six times, and it still brings me to tears. I met Don at the '71 Winternationals, when I was 11 years old. He shook my hand and signed my t-shirt and told me, "Always follow your heart". I'll never forget that.
Wow! That’s the only time I got to see him race in person… ‘71 WinterNationals… I was 10 and my head was spinning be there and seeing Big, Grumpy, Snake & Mongoose all the greats at Pomona!!! Sad that we also lost my dad’s friend from college, Pete Robinson… RIP Pete! And thank you for this awesome, honest and touching video!
Big Don I liked you b4 hearing this. I think a lot more of you now. You got a good woman too. God is great. I needed to hear this testimony. Wasn’t on here looking for Jesus. But I sure found him. What a blessing. A true man right there. It takes a big man to cry and also tell others what Jesus has done and can do.
WOW!!!!! That was awesome. Love you Big Daddy and your wife? What can I say she is one special person. You guys are truly an American Treasure, God Bless you both. Thanks You Hank From Lake Grove New York
I met this guy once when i was just a young man...i tell you there is not a more likable,down to earth man alive...he would lay a cylinder head down and take time to talk to anyone who was interested. God Bless him!
Went to Florida from Seattle 2 weeks ago to the drag racing museum. We were fortunate enough to meet Mr. Garlits and talk with him for a few minutes. What a gracious gentleman. Still very sharp mentally at age 92. A thrill of a lifetime for a 64 year old kid like me. Been watching him since the sixties. Thanks Don.
My Dad took me to Pomona Drag Strip in California one time and Big Daddy won that night. I do remember he set a track record and it may have been over 200mph. He was huge in the sport and probably the most famous person I ever met with a down to earth attitude that was real and honest nice guy. I was in second or third grade so the year was about 1958 or 1959. It was when people could just walk around during the racing so Dad took me down close to the starting line. The noise was so loud and I can remember the smell of Rubber and Fuel. We were standing a little back and to the left of the starting line when Big Daddy took the win. I remember he was in the left lane and he did a huge smoking burn out that was so cool to me. After all the racing was done Dad walked me around the pits. Big Daddy was talking to anyone that was around so Dad walked up and they shook hands.........THEN Big Daddy looked down at me and asked me my name. None of the other drivers even gave me a glance let alone talked to me. Bid Daddy got down on a knee and talked to me for a minute and I told him I knew he was going to win. He smiled really nice and just picked me up like I was his own and showed me every inch of his car. About the only thing I remember about him or his car was how cool it was that he smelled like FUEL and how kind he spoke to me...It was like so natural how he was so nice to me. Not forced at all but just like I was his own kid. He was my Idol from that day on. I don't care if anyone believes me or not....He was such a honestly nice person to me and left a lasting impression of how even a super big shot can still be a REAL down to earth nice man.
I saw him at a little country dragstrip in Dover Plains, NY, when I was 13 , Im 69 now.....they were trying to break into the 7's !!! Nice guy, he gave me one of his sparkplugs , I still have it.
I never had the privelidge of meeting MR . Garlits But He has been a unseen hero while I was trying to grow up. A real Ledgion in MY own Life time . God Bless Don & Family .
What a GREAT GREAT video, I am a 63 year old man that was at Lions drag strip in the early 70's, just a couple of times. Mr. and Mrs. Garlits it changed my whole life. My 3 grown children are huge drag racing fans today as a result of the story's I tell them about the wonderful times I experienced at Lions, and Orange County watching you do what you and all that you did! I want to thank you and Pat for all that the two of you did, and the price the two paid in this life supporting drag racing! I have a wonderful photo of my family that was taken at Pomona about 20 years ago - we purchased your book, you signed it, and then there was the photo, including my entire family including the humble Mr. Garlits. Thank you both for a lifetime of fantastic memory's, my children now carry the Drag Racing torch because of you two! God bless you both, and thank you!!!
@@bradsanders6954 I couldn’t agree more! Take every horrible life taking event in history, where was he vacation? He just let it happen? Why do we have cancer?? Because God is just an imaginary friend for adults. If he existed these thing would never happen. I can’t stand “ born again bible thumpers”! sorry for the rant, just my two cents !
I absolutely love this video. It brought a tear to my eyes. I remember seeing him multiple times at Lions with my Dad the other hero in my life. I also remember waking up one Sunday morning to the headlines in the LA Times sports section "208.66" the first 200 mph run. Great memories. God bless Don Garlits.
The museum is located in Ocala, FL and it's awesome. Big Daddy also hosts an annual MOPAR car show every November on the museum property and he is always in attendance to present the awards. My father (now deceased) won Best of Show one year with his '67 GTX Hemi and I not only have photos of Big Daddy presenting the trophy to my dad but Mr. Garlits was gracious enough to allow me some time to have a conversation with him. I highly recommend visiting the museum and attending the MOPAR event.
what a story, man I got goose bumps all over. Pat thinking about the leather jacket, pants too? Wound care and burn treatment would change forever. The story about the hand all balled up reminds me of my 20# Bengal cat when he was born. His back feet turned outward and I pushed then toward his body and said God, this is all I can do, you have to do the rest. He's the fastest cat I've ever had, his name is Scooter. I injured my knee in the Air Force and they gave me morphine. I had never experienced nothing like that, It began the next 15 years of drug use. When I was ready to ask for help, I cried out to God for help, and cold turkey, I stopped using.
I've seen Big Daddy on a few occasions. You have been a blessing to many people. When you stand in front of GOD, You should have a great report. Much love for your family.
I’m so glad this popped up in my recommended feed. I remember meeting Don on a few occasions at some of the big events at Houston Raceway Park in the late ‘90’s when my dad was “crew chief” for my uncle and his drag car. I got to sit in a couple of Don’s cars over the years and I had a signed poster of him on my bedroom wall. He was a true badass, and an icon in the sport. Though many lives have been lost in the sport over the years, there’s no doubt that there would’ve been many more had Don and others not taken the initiative to make things safer, whether it was rear engine cars or fire suits. He’s a legend for sure.
Watched this two times and the ending is the key.....I m 72 years old and saw big daddy run at Fomoso in the 60s... always had a picture of him from Drag News on my bedroom wall...A true LEGEND...God has spoken to many thru you my friend!!!going to your mueseam is on my bucket list ... Peace Out MY Friend
You are the best sir!!! You where so very kind to my Brother and myself in Tampa when we had a little Auto Electric business next door To Bob Olsen and we wired one of you trailers for you. Just a very REALLY great man. You are a Hero to me
What a great video and story. Don's wife is/was everything a man would want. A true Life Partner, seeing in through 'thick and thin' all the way, no matter what. So sad to think that for too many this may no longer be the case. Wish there was a way we could all find our way back to sanity.
What an incredible, humble, awe inspiring man. It’s always been people like Big Daddy that have given me my passion for everything automotive over the past 50 years.
Since I’m so old I can remember whe gay meant happy, I can also remember whe Don Garlits and Art Arfons were the big names in drag racing and 200 mph in the QUARTER mile was unheard of. Thank you for all you did, including letting Shirley Muldowney race.
Thank you keep your ministry there is nothing more powerful than our god,Your autobiography was the first book that I ever read from cover to cover, that is how impressive you were 45 years ago to me as a child
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My dad and I were walking through the pits at the U.S Nationals in 2003 when we saw Mr. Garlits sitting alone by his trailer.
I was only 13 years old and had no idea who he was at the time but my dad certainly did and we walked over for an autograph right away.
As soon as Mr. Garlits shook my hand, an intense feeling of almost intimidating power washed over me. I wasn't afraid but I definitely sensed something very different and very special.
As we walked away, my dad simply explained that he was one of the best drag racers of all time.
I never mentioned what I had felt. I didn't know how to articulate it and I didn't understand it.
After watching this 18 years later...looking back, I get it now.
WOW wow wow!! Amazing! Good for you my friend! Big Daddy is something else!
I remember Don Garlits when I was a young teenager and I never knew he became a Christian. I lived a very horrible life and I also became a Christian on March 23, 1971. I’ll never forget that day when my life was truly transformed and has never been the same. Thanks for the video.
glad to hear that am reading The Snakes book and he said Don was a hard person to know and get along with
@@jennifursun3303 That is a huge surprise to me. I first met Bigs in 1975 and found him to be one of the most approachable Top Fuel drivers that I ever met, Kenny Bernstein being right there with him. I recently went to one of his private tours at the museum and at 90 years young he is just as nice as he was then but he can't hear quite as well, but then neither can I. I know that every driver does their best to get in the other guys helmet and distract them as much as possible so maybe that was the case. Or maybe Snake was doing that to Bigs and he didn't take it well but I suspect there is more to that story.
Praise God you found the truth.
That's understandable, (for Prudhomme) Prudhomme was/is a Cali/ west coast boy, young whippersnapper, and also very good at what he was doing, not to mention, basically a rich kid , compared to Garlits. Prudhomme was always high on the list of competitive foes/enemy's with Garlits, and most definitely not someone you would ever let in/near your inner circle. Completely understandable.@@jennifursun3303
I saw this amazing man run many times as a very young man. As an adult I was able to go to his museum in Ocala a few times. On one of my visits I was able to meet this man face to face and it was one of the biggest things in my life. He is humble and thankful to his fans. He is drag racing for kids who grew up in the early 60's ... Thank You "Big Daddy".
I saw him race when I was a kid Too…then 30-35 years later I was Able to see his Museum Too ! I never got to Meet him tho…you Lucky Dawg🦾
Yep. I was a Gatornationals regular.
The museum is the Hot rod equivalent of the field of dreams." "Am I in heaven?.... "No kid..youre in Ocala"....
@@thomashamilton9864 I couldn't agree more ... 👍🇺🇸
On my first visit to the museum as i was paying my entry.......there he was talking to the lady at the register. I was too starstruck even as a grown older man to speak! It was humbling to see him in an old quilted flannel jacket well worn.... To think i was that close to a legend from my childhood
The best part of this wonderful story was him giving all of the glory to God, where it belongs. Praise God.
that's the worst part with all that religious bullshit
Listen to "Jesus built my hotrod" by ministry. I'm sure you'll love it
Our Lord is truly on his side 🙏
I'm so sorry for your loss. Pat was so special. You won't remember me, but about ten years ago, you and Pat were kind enough to chat to me for half an hour when I visited Ocala. An Englishman in a white suit. You were amazed a Brit should know so much about you.
That message is timeless. Thanks to Don & Pat a class act team.
Big Daddy is 90 years old and still kicking. A true living legend. God Bless him.
Amen
He is getting up there in age where we all have known thay time on this planet is beginning to fade.
I'm so happy to have had the chance to see this man in hid prime during his later years in TopFuel.
I want you to know "old man" I am a big fan your's and appreciate what you have done for the sport of drag racing over the @dongalits.
Thank you for all you have done sir.
Legendary guy ❤️🇺🇸✝️
I believe, as of 1/31/23 he fairly recently celebrated his 102nd birthday.
@@harryfeld1786 nah, he is 91
Watching Clay Millican’s TH-cam channel fired up my interest in drag racing after 50 years (side tracked due to things that happen in life) which led me to watch this channel. I grew up near the Lions Drag strip and watched Don Garlits race there several times and alway wondered what happened to him. When my career distracted me from the races the cars were topping out at 220 mph in the quarter mile. Now I see the rails are now going over 330 mph in a thousand feet. But best thing of all that I’ve just discovered is Garlits belief in God and how He helped ease the pain. Also just how faithful and supporting his wife was. Amazing story!
Thank you Big Daddy Don Garlits you will always be in the hearts of all NHRA fans! Thank you for your insight god bless you!
Dear Don... I remember meeting you at Sanair for the Canadian Grand Nationals. You had the smallest pit of anyone. Everyone had these big sponsors and trailers but you were under a little tent with a few mechanics. I could not believe I was meeting the worlds fastest man and he was a simple man and so friendly. I was the track photographer and the only one who had access to be on track behind the Christmas tree to take my shots. That is how I remember you sir. You are a great man.
Amen Brother !! Wow, I was a drag racer back in the 1970's, never knew this about you Don. Sing His praises ! .
The big white cross on his most famous streamliner didn't give it away?
You need to pay better attention David G.
I was at that race track when he blew over & I am sure that God made his dragster land right side up on all 4 wheels. Watch that blow over in super slow motion and you will see what I am saying.
brought tears to my eyes. Everybody needs somebody like that in their life.
I met him many years ago in a little town of Overton Ohio and I’ll never forget him as he lit up his rail on US20 on a Friday night. He was working with a man named Larry Millchild in a little garage on the south side of us20 right next to the south side bar. he’s still my hero and I’m 72 now and I watch this over and over he is a real man he’s a real racer God bless him
Don I met you at National Trails near Columbus,Ohio in 1967- I knew you were a lot older than me but you took the time to talk about the technical side of your car ! The last time I saw you in person was in Gainesville in 1971 ! You have been a inspiration for everyone like myself who loved Drag Racing !
Feeling down today and this popped up for me to watch! It raised me up and put my life in check,thanks for sharing thoughts on God it was helpful!
Daniel Young me too friend
Seek the Lord in His Word, the Holy Bible. Pray before you read for an understanding heart "For the Word of God is gibberish to those who are perishing"
1 Corinthians 1:18
Hero does not even begin to describe this man. He is a Soldier of God and cares about his fellow man.
It is very simply love and grit in all the right amounts at the proper time.
God Bless Don Garlits.
And Thank You.
I've had the pleasure of meeting Don several times, he's the most down to earth legend you'll ever meet. Genuinely nice guy, very sharp mind. Definitely the real deal.
I met big daddy @ the summer nationals he wasn't racing he was there w a souvenir trailer selling his book he was so cool he let me & Kathy sit w him in the trailer & told us some stories about drag racing that trip to the nationals was a last request I had aids he told me everything will be ok well here I am 20+yrs later I'm now undetectable . & I have his autograph on a few things his book & a poster of him in swamp rat doing a fire burn out. & The memory of a great sportsman!
He gave me the will to live & not give up. Thanks Don big daddy gartilits
I came here from his interview on 3ABN, a big Christian network and I'm thoroughly IMPRESSED with this Legend and Hero.
Finding out he's a God Squad Warrior just warms my heart.
God bless you Big Daddy Don.
🙏🏻🙏🏾✝️💪🏻💪🏾
Steely-eyed and truly courageous man. His private thoughts and affection for his wife are very impressive. He is really intelligent and determined, yet so humble that he prefers to put Jesus in front of himself. Maybe that is true greatness. I think that kind of reality, that kind of self-knowledge in a champion - littleness in greatness - is a very beautiful thing. Thank you so much Mr Garlits. Australia
My Dad drove Pro Stock & Funny Cars in the early to late 1960s before he went to Vietnam. I got to sit in BIG DADDY's Lap and do a burnout nothing like it in the world it was one of the #1 highlights of my life. I would stand behind the Christmas tree in a fireman's jacket and helmet with face shield and watch them go down the track and having rubber from the tires hitting me so much fun BIGLOVE to Don Garlits he is the BIG DADDY of the drag strip. I still have all the shirts and hats he autograft for me he is the greatest of all times.
Love going to his Museum in Florida, I hope it will stay open for ever, Big Daddy sure earned to have a Museum and having a special Wife to Stand by him no-matter how bad things got, God Bless you both.
This video is outstanding , brought tears , smiles and so many true words spoken. Beautiful couple and a beautiful life story of an amazing super hero Thank you Mr. Garlits
I saw Don in Montreal , when Shirley just got back from an injury , sometime in the 80’s and Don introduced me to Kendal GT 1 , green oil
Bless you Don 🇨🇦
I never met you, But you we're my Champion since my early years. Thank you for living your life the way you did, Love ya Don!
The most personal story of Big Daddy I've seen, revealing the reason he put a cross on his cars later on in his career. Thank you SO much for posting this one about a true Legend in the sport.
I have always known how don was the one to beat in drag racing had no idea about the injuries. I remember a race between him and a jet in hot rod years ago. As I watched this his testimony and faith moved me. The simplicity of crying out to God as a child was mind blowing. I believe that is a key that we men miss as we are trained it is almost unmanly to feel the need for help. Inspiring and has changed me. I knew Don had put the first hemi in a dragster but had no idea of his faith.
I had the pleasure of meeting Don back in 98’ (my step dad was so pumped at the time as he remembered Don running back in the day) when he made a return to drag racing. Humble guy. Super nice. Gave me my autograph I wanted, and also his hat!! I was only 12 at the time but that was a pinnacle for me! Praise god!
I love this film. Such an extended interview with a legend is amazing. Some of the footage gives me chills. I saw him a bunch of times in upstate New York at Niagara Dragstrip and Empire Dragway. He was amazing! I remember when Shirley Muldowney was still driving her tank of a funny car and he was sharply critical of her over the PA and I thought he was very harsh. But he was right. She was too afraid of the risks to be competitive. He sounded pretty hostile at the time. But the risks he took as a driver and the total commitment he gave to this sport it's no wonder. This being said, I was amazed to see Muldowney's crew rebuilding her engine between runs and Garlits working right along with them (I believe he was using parts from his own trailer as well). What an awesome guy. I was a kid at the time and whenever I had the opportunity to see this man race I was in awe. I can't say enough good about him. An added caveat: He was always super nice to kids no matter how busy he was between runs. Thanks for sharing this film!
I believe every word you said about God comforting you, Don.
God did the same thing for me.
Sammons feel sorry for you thinking that ,your god can't comfort shit
@@keithdaniels1994 just as stupid ( your god sucks, research that ask questions and start thinking)
@@bradzimmerman3171 I don't need you to feel sorry for me. I'm curious though, why do you feel the need to say that about God? Is it because you don't believe in God or that God exists? I get comments like yours every time I mention God on the internet. I always ask people what I asked you. No one ever gives me a straight answer. For some reason they all jump right into trying to convince me He isn't real. Why would they do that? If you don't believe He's real, fine. But what is it in people that makes them furious at me for saying He is real? Christian's get accused of "shoving our beliefs down your throat", right? See, I didn't and haven't attempted to do that at all with my comment, yet here you are. Can you answer my question without quoting every atheist scientist on the planet? Can you be completely honest with me and yourself and admit the motivation of your comment?
AS HE IS DOING WITH PEOPLE WITH CORONAVIRUS AS HE LOVES THEM SO WHY DOES HE NOT STOP IT IF HE LOVES US!
WOW, what a man, what a wife, what a testimony.
I remember the name growing up. I was too young to remember the rat rods. I was more in the John Force days
Profound. Irony he remembered the first family to pay admission to his MUSEUM. Funny there was a pic given to me. Was first as a family trip in a pickup camper. It's my family. I was a gear head. Posters. Speed kings.ETC ETC
@@chado3000 We're still in the John Force day's!
I'm 65 years old and he was and is my first and favorite hero.
Neighbor gets wife 1/2 drunk and sudoces
What an awesome guy. What a testimony! I like he and his wife even more now!
What a great man! I saw him here in Sweden and England in the late 70's and made my wife go all the way to Ocala to his museum a few years ago.
One of my all time heroes!
Don, I to believe in GOD. In 2011 I had a stroke, the doctor said I would be in the hospital for at least 2 weeks. I looked at him said no, I would be out by the weekend. I had it on Tuesday and by Saturday I was home. Now, here is when GOD came to me. Years of smoking the doctor said no more. He give me the option of drugs, I said no, GOD will help me. Saturday night I had 3 left and said "GOD, I need to stop please help me" To this day I'm still smoke free. Thank GOD!!! See you on the strip. And GOD BLESS YOU.
Amen FREEDOM 2 god bless you .
I quit smoking 5 pack's of cigarettes a day, and GOD did NOT HELP ME.
Must have been a minor stroke.
@Eric Belinc just because you don't know why people recover quickly from strokes does not automatically mean its "God". Right?. You don't know. Right?
@@FYMASMD dude just because you don't believe in god doesn't mean you should get in the comments talking ignorant shit about not believing why don't you just shut the fuck up and move on🤡 someone believing in god is their business and if you want to be technical about it there's more evidence to back up jesus is real than they are to say he's not so who's the fool here?? You are so keep your ignorant mouth shut nobody in the post ask you if God is real or not and nobody told you how to believe so move on dumb fuck
Dandy Don IS THE drag racing pioneer and THE greatest drag driver ever ...... and after watching this video ......... I am too A BELIEVER!
Big Daddy
He was the legend, he was drag racing at its finest, at its best. He reinvented the sport and saved his and many other lives. He was my generation and one of our heroes.
God Bless
So true, reinvented the sport many times, true pioneer.
is, big daddy is still around and still innovating and now into electric dragsters the man doesn't know the word quit.
My brother and I met Mr. Garlits at his museum. I think he could sense my brother was on his way out,at any rate he was so kind and generous with his time and is still my favorite racer and more importantly my favorite human being...
Once you start watching and listening to Don talk, you can't stop
I first saw Garlits back in 83 when I was a young teen at the Bradenton, FL Snowbird Winter Nationals. I was quite shy and as I stood at his pits watching in awe he walked over and asked what I thought of what was going on. For me that was a highlight of the whole race. Pretty cool dude in my book.
About 1978 Don toured through east Texas. Hallsville Drag Strip, a mom n pop strip of asphalt with a hump about 2/3 the way down the track, was my only eye witness to his ability. Everyone expected him to let up about half way to avoid "the hump". I forgot the e.t., but at 226 mph, it was over before it started. He risked a lot to give us our money's worth... Thank You, Don and GOD Bless you and yours!
Every thumbs down is just another illiterate-to-life fool.
Mrs. Garlits was worth her weight in gold. Don was truly blessed to have a family with this lady.
And we may be sure she was instrumental in Don's innovation in the rear-engine dragster! Hats off to Mrs. Garlits who waits for Christ' return as Don will also one day soon.
My childhood hero right there. Knowing about his faith makes me love him even more. Great story! Well done!
That is a wonderful testimony Don!!!! Praise God!!
I watched because I am a big fan of Big Daddy and drag racing, but Pat is truly amazing. These are some amazing people. Thanks for posting this. 💪🇺🇸👍
I absolutely LOVE that testimony at the 32 minute mark and the end!! WOW!!
Truly one of my life long heroes. Ive loved drag racing and hot rod cars since I was a lil boy. I dont remember Big Daddy ever not being a huge part of that.
Thanks for giving Shirley that chance!
7Monte9 I just watched "Heart Like A Wheel" last night. I love Shirley Muldowney! and "Big Daddy" too!
I can remember years ago when I was young, seeing the God Is Love decal on Big Daddies car. It is an image that has popped into my head quite often at different times in my life ever since. Thank you Don for helping remind us that the Heavenly Father is always there, waiting for His kids to come home.
Been a Legend since i was a kid. I grew up in South Florida and i cant go by his Mueseumn without stopping whenever I’m in the State its one of my favorite places and its so funny Whenever i wear a T shirt from there how many people comment and remember that era with such great memories too
I always thought of Don Garlits as a king of drag racing. When I was a teenager back in the 60's and later in the 70"s, the greatest thing at the Detroit Drag Strip was watching Don Garlits make his runs. I never knew what a great man he was on a personally basis and how he went through until I was lucky enough to see this video. You and your wife are truly great people and with no doubt, if God was going to perform a miracle on someone in great pain, that refused pain killers, that had as much creative drive and determination as you, it would be you. I was also lucky enough to work on the cargo planes of a competitor of yours, Connie Kalitta at Willow Run Airport in Michigan. So when you two were running together, it was the best thing in life for me and many others.
Tom…I was there at Englishtown in 1986 when Don had the Blow Over. I swear when the rail went up the crowd was so quiet you could hear a pin drop. All we could see was a cloud of smoke. And then here comes Don, back towards us, out of the smoke! As he stood up out of the dragster, there was the loudest cheer you ever heard! I have met Don several times at the track, but the highlight was seeing him at his museum. He dropped whatever project he was working on to come out, and let me put my arm around him, for a Picture with Don. It was also a pleasure to meet Pat!
I've admired Garlits since I was just a kid and that was a long time ago.
Same here. Made my day to see this.
had a friend yrs ago one of his proud possessions was a hat signed by Big Daddy Don
Same here. When I was a kid I used to have pictures of Don Garlits and Don Prudhomme's cars all over my bedroom walls. I figured he was just a religious guy. It is nice to hear why.
@@davebrittain9216 yeah use to do models and next door where ppl that had a drag shop...amongst other things.
Hubs88 #MeToo
Don, I am 74 years old, and I STILL remember when I was in HIGH SCHOOL you were already my hero or IDOL. I hitchhiked about 300 miles to watch you run in the summer nationals in Indianapolis in 1965. You are an inspiration.
Don Garlit was the greatest Drag racer, innovator and tuner. Don your one tough cookie !
Is the greatest,and always will be, shook his hand again last year
Thank Thank Thank you, we for sure need more of it, God Bless you Brother.
He's a Legend alright....just alittle humble!
Wow! What a great video! So uplifting! Mrs and Mrs Don Garlits , both of you are heroes. You are a team. Thank you from a viewer in Iowa.
Now you know why he is the legend he is . Most men would never endured what he went through .
I've watched this five or six times, and it still brings me to tears. I met Don at the '71 Winternationals, when I was 11 years old. He shook my hand and signed my t-shirt and told me, "Always follow your heart". I'll never forget that.
Wow! That’s the only time I got to see him race in person… ‘71 WinterNationals… I was 10 and my head was spinning be there and seeing Big, Grumpy, Snake & Mongoose all the greats at Pomona!!! Sad that we also lost my dad’s friend from college, Pete Robinson… RIP Pete! And thank you for this awesome, honest and touching video!
I am so humbled by this video. Thankyou for sharing your amazing life with us Big Daddy. The vid is deep.
Big Don I liked you b4 hearing this. I think a lot more of you now. You got a good woman too. God is great. I needed to hear this testimony. Wasn’t on here looking for Jesus. But I sure found him. What a blessing. A true man right there. It takes a big man to cry and also tell others what Jesus has done and can do.
WOW!!!!! That was awesome. Love you Big Daddy and your wife? What can I say she is one special person. You guys are truly an American Treasure, God Bless you both.
Thanks You
Hank From Lake Grove New York
I’m absolutely amazed by him telling the children to find Jesus Christ, I know that is the most important of all
When I was little in Newark Ohio you took me for a ride in your race car
Hyde park
Amen :)
Thanks for the warning. I'm outta here.😎
@@FYMASMD God go with you :)
I met this guy once when i was just a young man...i tell you there is not a more likable,down to earth man alive...he would lay a cylinder head down and take time to talk to anyone who was interested. God Bless him!
Went to Florida from Seattle 2 weeks ago to the drag racing museum. We were fortunate enough to meet Mr. Garlits and talk with him for a few minutes. What a gracious gentleman. Still very sharp mentally at age 92. A thrill of a lifetime for a 64 year old kid like me. Been watching him since the sixties. Thanks Don.
My Dad took me to Pomona Drag Strip in California one time and Big Daddy won that night. I do remember he set a track record and it may have been over 200mph. He was huge in the sport and probably the most famous person I ever met with a down to earth attitude that was real and honest nice guy.
I was in second or third grade so the year was about 1958 or 1959. It was when people could just walk around during the racing so Dad took me down close to the starting line. The noise was so loud and I can remember the smell of Rubber and Fuel. We were standing a little back and to the left of the starting line when Big Daddy took the win. I remember he was in the left lane and he did a huge smoking burn out that was so cool to me.
After all the racing was done Dad walked me around the pits. Big Daddy was talking to anyone that was around so Dad walked up and they shook hands.........THEN Big Daddy looked down at me and asked me my name. None of the other drivers even gave me a glance let alone talked to me.
Bid Daddy got down on a knee and talked to me for a minute and I told him I knew he was going to win. He smiled really nice and just picked me up like I was his own and showed me every inch of his car. About the only thing I remember about him or his car was how cool it was that he smelled like FUEL and how kind he spoke to me...It was like so natural how he was so nice to me. Not forced at all but just like I was his own kid.
He was my Idol from that day on.
I don't care if anyone believes me or not....He was such a honestly nice person to me and left a lasting impression of how even a super big shot can still be a REAL down to earth nice man.
I used to worked for a Speed shop in CA. I missed those halcyon days of racing when I was tiny kid, watching Don Garlis. God Bless you.
Inspiring as always Don, thanks' for being real... God Is Love.
Don, you were they're man I'm 61 and I remember you from back in the day. Rock On Brother.
praise GOD!! WOW. to think I saw him at Ramona drag strip in mid 1960"'s and 50 years later we are both beleivers. thank GOD
I saw him at a little country dragstrip in Dover Plains, NY, when I was 13 , Im 69 now.....they were trying to break into the 7's !!! Nice guy, he gave me one of his sparkplugs , I still have it.
I never had the privelidge of meeting MR . Garlits But He has been a unseen hero while I was trying to grow up. A real Ledgion in MY own Life time . God Bless Don & Family .
Great Sunday morning sermon. Don, I appreciate your testimony.
What a GREAT GREAT video, I am a 63 year old man that was at Lions drag strip in the early 70's, just a couple of times. Mr. and Mrs. Garlits it changed my whole life. My 3 grown children are huge drag racing fans today as a result of the story's I tell them about the wonderful times I experienced at Lions, and Orange County watching you do what you and all that you did! I want to thank you and Pat for all that the two of you did, and the price the two paid in this life supporting drag racing!
I have a wonderful photo of my family that was taken at Pomona about 20 years ago - we purchased your book, you signed it, and then there was the photo, including my entire family including the humble Mr. Garlits.
Thank you both for a lifetime of fantastic memory's, my children now carry the Drag Racing torch because of you two!
God bless you both, and thank you!!!
this has been a very very inspirational video.. His prayer to God was amazing.. I have shared this... God Bless you Dan.
I'm so sorry it took me all these years to find this! What an inspiration and a truly good man!
What a great testimony to the power of God!
Amen
Amen 🙏🙏
sorry He was just lucky
God had nothing to do with
drag racing. What was he a spectator and then stepped in?!?
@@buzzedalldrink9131 To a fanatic everything is god, except when it goes really bad and nobody lives.
That wasnt god.
@@bradsanders6954 I couldn’t agree more!
Take every horrible life taking event in history, where was he vacation? He just let it happen? Why do we have cancer?? Because God is just an imaginary friend for adults. If he existed these thing would never happen. I can’t stand “ born again bible thumpers”!
sorry for the rant, just my two cents !
Don has been my hero for so many decades... great film, great post.
I absolutely love this video. It brought a tear to my eyes. I remember seeing him multiple times at Lions with my Dad the other hero in my life. I also remember waking up one Sunday morning to the headlines in the LA Times sports section "208.66" the first 200 mph run. Great memories. God bless Don Garlits.
The museum is located in Ocala, FL and it's awesome. Big Daddy also hosts an annual MOPAR car show every November on the museum property and he is always in attendance to present the awards. My father (now deceased) won Best of Show one year with his '67 GTX Hemi and I not only have photos of Big Daddy presenting the trophy to my dad but Mr. Garlits was gracious enough to allow me some time to have a conversation with him. I highly recommend visiting the museum and attending the MOPAR event.
what a beautiful couple ,,you can see the love they have for one another.
I watched this as a kid until the tape broke! Thanks for the memories!!!
His heroes are a far cry from what they are today. They don't make 'em like him anymore. God bless him.
The man, the myth, the legend, BIG DADDY!
Even off of the strip and in an interview, he has grease in his cuticles!
The man!!!!
An amazing man and racer - I consider myself fortunate to have seen him race up here several times in the match races against Shirley Muldowney.
what a story, man I got goose bumps all over. Pat thinking about the leather jacket, pants too? Wound care and burn treatment would change forever. The story about the hand all balled up reminds me of my 20# Bengal cat when he was born. His back feet turned outward and I pushed then toward his body and said God, this is all I can do, you have to do the rest. He's the fastest cat I've ever had, his name is Scooter. I injured my knee in the Air Force and they gave me morphine. I had never experienced nothing like that, It began the next 15 years of drug use. When I was ready to ask for help, I cried out to God for help, and cold turkey, I stopped using.
God bless big daddy and his family what a testimony I pray some people who need watch this that’s a good Lord make a possible
Had the pleasure of meeting this cat in the pits back in ‘76 at Great Lake Dragway in Union Grove Wis. A really cool time and a great guy
I've seen Big Daddy on a few occasions. You have been a blessing to many people. When you stand in front of GOD, You should have a great report.
Much love for your family.
I’m so glad this popped up in my recommended feed. I remember meeting Don on a few occasions at some of the big events at Houston Raceway Park in the late ‘90’s when my dad was “crew chief” for my uncle and his drag car. I got to sit in a couple of Don’s cars over the years and I had a signed poster of him on my bedroom wall. He was a true badass, and an icon in the sport. Though many lives have been lost in the sport over the years, there’s no doubt that there would’ve been many more had Don and others not taken the initiative to make things safer, whether it was rear engine cars or fire suits. He’s a legend for sure.
an Icon may God continue to bless this good man
Watched this two times and the ending is the key.....I m 72 years old and saw big daddy run at Fomoso in the 60s... always had a picture of him from Drag News on my bedroom wall...A true LEGEND...God has spoken to many thru you my friend!!!going to your mueseam is on my bucket list ... Peace Out MY Friend
God Bless Don Garlits
You are the best sir!!! You where so very kind to my Brother and myself in Tampa when we had a little Auto Electric business next door To Bob Olsen and we wired one of you trailers for you. Just a very REALLY great man. You are a Hero to me
What a great video and story.
Don's wife is/was everything a man would want.
A true Life Partner, seeing in through 'thick and thin' all the way, no matter what.
So sad to think that for too many this may no longer be the case.
Wish there was a way we could all find our way back to sanity.
Wow, best documentary ever.
What an incredible, humble, awe inspiring man. It’s always been people like Big Daddy that have given me my passion for everything automotive over the past 50 years.
Thank you for an outstanding video of an amazing God gifted man and his wife.
Since I’m so old I can remember whe gay meant happy, I can also remember whe Don Garlits and Art Arfons were the big names in drag racing and 200 mph in the QUARTER mile was unheard of. Thank you for all you did, including letting Shirley Muldowney race.
i was a kid in the fifties reading hot rod magazine. big daddy was a superstar. i like him even more now. thanks.
Connie Swingle one of the best welders that i ever met how many people remember he drove Don car when he was hurt
Visited the museum a number of years back, and was really struck by the "God Is Love" crosses on the cars - very powerful. What a cool guy.
I'll never forget what he said about god. Don Garlits will forever be my hero.
Truly
Thank you keep your ministry there is nothing more powerful than our god,Your autobiography was the first book that I ever read from cover to cover, that is how impressive you were 45 years ago to me as a child