LEGENDS: THE SERIES: THE LEGEND OF JOHN FORCE
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 14 ก.พ. 2018
- John Force’s incredible success as a professional drag racer belies a childhood in which he rarely won anything - from football to fistfights.
In this episode of Legends, the Series, season four, the 16-time Funny Car champ talks about enduring polio, the influence of his brother Louie, his family’s “Grapes of Wrath” lifestyle, a father whose pride was not evident until after his death, learning to deal with pressure and how he would most like to be remembered.
“I didn’t know I was a poor child,” the 148-time NHRA tour winner said of his years growing up in seven-member family anchored by a truck driving dad and a fry cook mom. “I thought it was the greatest time of my life.”
He recalls that when he began his drag racing career armed with little more than a big mouth and a dream, whenever he went out the door “my mom would slip me a check and say, ‘don’t tell your dad’ and my dad would slip me a credit card and say, ‘don’t tell your mom.’” He told neither.
He remembers his dad as “a mean guy, but a good man,” fondly recalls the person who sent over a bottle of champagne after his breakthrough win in Canada and observes that when you throw up on someone who’s trying to beat you up, “it kind of ruins the thrill of the fight.”
Finally, he admits that “I hate it when someone is mad at me. I hate it. I go and try to fix it, but you can’t fix the world.”
Not that he isn’t trying. Enjoy as an American icon talks about life’s lessons. - ยานยนต์และพาหนะ
John is such a humble man. I met him in Chicago (Route 66 nationals) and I watched him say thank you to me and every single fan he signed a autograph for . I didn’t ask for a autograph just a handshake and he paused , looked me right in the eyes and gave a good squeeze and said thank you to me. I’ll never forget that
My 9y cuz got his autograph and he was so cool. Gave him a big slap on the back. Great guys all of them
i had the same story but at his shop about 96 or 97 and he spoke of my town track in adelaide australia when he raced here just a bloody good bloke
That's a stark difference from my experience, I met him in indy in 2001, I was 14 going on 15 and he was a douche bag to his fans that day. So was shirly but everyone else I met that weekend were phenomenal. This was the year Darrel Gwynn had that custom electric car presented to him
Great to hear John Force yell about his memories.
😂
Lol yea pretty much
Louie force was such a cool person to meet in person in the stands that I forgot I was talking to drag racing royalty!!! Louie Force is in my book the racer in the stands!🏁
He is one of the best people you will ever meet. I seen him at Englishtown one time. The crowd was all around his trailer when it started to rain. He went over and opened the trailer ramp door to make a roof. Then he told the guys to pull down the ropes so everyone could stand under the awning. I actually got to stand inside the trailer and talked to him and few of the crew guys. This was in 91-92. I have seen him many times since then he is always the nicest guy around. Long live John Force.
You'll always be loved by your fans John, especially by those that got to know you. As one of your sponsors over 40 yrs. ago...I got that privilege. Your motivation of "never giving up" was always an inspiration to me. I'm proud to have put that Mtn. Dew sticker on your car.
I always wish we could have done more..you deserved it.
This interview could be 6 hours long. He’s willing and has the stories to tell. I’d listen to all of it too.
There is a thousand reasons why you are right about this statement, but the main ones about Force is, he always remembers where he started. He knows he didn't always have the fame, didn't always have the fans, but life and fans can leave in the blink of an eye. Not only is he humble man, but he loves talking to people. He loves being in people's company and he always takes time for every fan at the ropes. That's the type of guy he is, and I hope I can have the opportunity to meet him someday. I'd love to meet him, Shirley Muldowney, Kenny Bernstein, and Don Purdome. That's my Mount Rushmore of funny car racing. John Force, Shirley Muldowney, Kenny Bernstein and Don Purdome. If there were a fifth person it'd be Mongoose.
,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,Thank you for the post,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,John is the man we love ,,,,,
John doesn't have to worry about the fans loving him. He's had that locked down for years.
Everyone loves John even when he's snottin green cursin and spitting mad... We still love him.
John Force is a kick ass guy I just love him he's loud and he's funny even when he don't want to be but he is a awesome guy that's for sure.
I met him when he was testing at BMP years back and he was so nice and humble.. I've been a fan but didnt know he had such tough times in the beginning..
Hope Mr. Force reads this. My dad an I always loved watching you. My dad past away 4 years ago and I started to see the other qualities that my dad liked in John. John my dad never liked quitters and he loved how you talked and proud of yourself that you were. Hope you realize how much people enjoy watching you! Never stop being your self! I always love to show new people this sport and when I do I show them you and clay millican because you know how to make people like something they may never even known existed
he's so down to earth, i could listen to him all the time. He has morals, not many men do anymore. love ya john
'I'm hyper' That's a megalithic understatement! The guy wears me out just listening to him, always has! Love him, and respect him greatly..
There will never be another John Force. Driven,dedicated, and not afraid to tell you so. Good man.
Such a heart-felt video from a man who clawed his way to the top. Love you, John!
There is only ONE John Force....and I love you John. In my opinion, you are the best of the best!
,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,The man exudes that childlike spirit of endless energy.............All my years of watching others on NHRA telecasts ; no has ever came close to the man , John Force...........
He just wants to be loved. Well John, you have definitely achieved that!
Great story ! I could have watched for a full two hours or longer. John is one that is loved by his fans, no matter what and always will be. And, he’s despised by others, which won’t change. But, John is respected by most everyone and that’s the ultimate compliment.
The Richard Petty of the NHRA.... Always my hero...
The most entertaining guy I've ever listened to
i have great respect for this man and his family thanks for all the years of enjoyment
We need more people with passion like John has, in other areas of sports. Seems like they all lose it by the end. John? He's just as passionate as the young man he shared #150 winners circle with, Austin Prock. Maybe even moreso. ❤️👍
John Force, know this we the FANS LOVE YOU!!!
Always been a John Force fan, he is my hero,but he a great Dad to his daughters!!! He is the the king of NHRA drag racing in my opinion!
I grew up in West Yorba Linda, and my Dad drag raced Stock Eliminator. I have been a John Force fan since I was born. I'm fortunate to have painted some of your cars when I was 18... 16 years ago. Bless the race gods for him, and there will never be another John Force. Great documentary.
John Force is the best driver in the funny car class of drag racing. Awesome interview! A respected competitor and one cool guy!
Mr John Force... thank you. I admire you sir very much. Always have and always will. Your massive love and your high excitement for the sport always amazed me. It radiates from you like a blinding light. I can tell you really love what you do. Well you should sir because in my book your the best there ever was! Thank you John Force for many years of exciting entertainment... Much love and mad respect..
I grew up watching john force race.he is my inspiration and my hero.id cheer for him every time he gets to the line no matter who hes facing. Your legacy will forever live on .
John you are loved by the fans. Drag racing owes much of it's popularity to you and also your daughters . What great legacy that is Team Force!
,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,well said,,,,,John is royalty to the fan base....................................
And he is loved by the fans. Thank you John Force.
John Force you are loved by millions
Don't ever forget that...
My friend...
John force, you are loved by the fans.
As a kid growing up in the 80’s I watched you at my grandparents
Every Sunday on satellite. Up in Canada. We lived for Steve Evans sticking the camera in your face after each race. “We gonna win this or burns this car to the ground”
I remeber it to this day... legend status right there. Much love from Vancouver bc.
I used to work the front gate at Brainerd International Raceway. One time, about supper time, John and his family came driving out of the track headed to town, I waved at him and he rolled down his window and hollered, "where's there a good place to eat in this town?". After telling him the name of the best place around, he responded, "Thanks! I'll bring you back somethin". We both laughed as he sped off. John has always been a loved racer around here, always will be.
Never did get that meal though, LOL.
Did he bring you eats.
You have no idea how much the fans love you John. My biggest inspiration in life. Came from absolutely nothing and worked your way to the top. I hope to have at least half the success you have had. My only complaint is this legends needs to be at least twice as long.
Literally brought tears to my eyes. John Force has been one of my biggest heroes for almost my whole life. I have one of his old 10 time champion shirts that he autographed and I'll tell you first hand he's even more awesome in real life than he is on screen. One of the greatest men to ever live 👍
Hear, hear Adam.The last part of this video - he hopefully knows he IS LIKED BY EVERYONE of his fans and very likely by his competition. John Force is colorful, he has helped take drag racing to the level it is just as did his heros, Richard Petty, Don Prodohmme, and many others. When John Force finally makes his last pass drag racing will be different. Lets hope one day there will be another as colorful and as winning as he. It has been fun following John Force all these years and we wish he and his entire team all the very best this life has to offer, he deserves it.
Well said John Z...
I was dazzled by that 1000 watt smile when I walked up to his hauler. He made sure the kids got up to him for pictures.
You know
,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,I'm 73....Been knowledgeable and handson since 1965.....generations pass,,,,,,When John is done,,,,,,,,,,memorials will begin.......Great history was made in the sport........The spirit of John Force will always exist on earth.....
I remember John getting interviewed at the top end, he was amped up, talking faster than his car just ran and in filthy fire suit(before sponsorship! I have been a fan ever since.
That was awesome!! My only complaint is that I wish it has been twice as long.
cookingwithtomtom - BBQ Recipes knowing John, I'm surprised it wasn't!
John is a bridge to the golden age of drag racing.
They broke the mold when Force was created. Good thing too since the world ain't big enough for two John Forces.
I had the pleasure of getting to take time at the 4 wides in Charlotte , I was sitting in the staging Lanes, getting ready to run the jet car I drove for AL Hanna, and there was John Force sitting right next to me in the lanes, I looked over and said John can I talk with you for a few minutes, he motioned for me to come over, and him and I stood and talked for 15 minutesand it was one of the greatest conversations I ever had I'll never forget it, John you are not just a legend, and a hero, but truly a great human being!
John Force has always been my favorite drag racer. I'm such a big fan of him that my wife and I named out our daughter after his daughter Ashley.
Up side down and on Fire at 300 MPH.. Force is a true Champ..
Lol fantastic stuff . I was a teenager watching this man in Australia . Back in the days of 6’s and 7’s ets . I was on a TF crew and loved the sport
What is like working on tf crew
Always been a big fan of John Force. He is loved by many but more importantly he is RESPECTED by all.
He has that witty personality that everyone he meets is a friend.
I would've love to see Force and Earndardt in a bar some where. I bet the would have the place laughing till they cried
God pour your blessings on John! A leader of leaders!
I am SOOO proud of John Force.....A man I will always look up to !!!!
John force never forgot where he came from ...and embraces it , money doesn't make you happy and he knows it . Icon
Didn’t know A LOT about John but now after this he’s one of my new heroes.
Caught me in the feels talking about his dad! Awesome documentary!!!!
Brandon Kitchens shit, me too.
Yes -- John Force is my hero ~ what a incredible and inspiring story. He is a true American.
"DA MAN"! Always! Thank you John!!!
AWESOME DOCUMENTARY. YOUR LIVING MY FANTASY. KEEP IT UP JOHN . LOVE AND RESPECT FROM SASKATCHEWAN CANADA. WISH YOU AND YOUR DAUGHTERS THE BEST. BE SAFE
I could watch hours upon hours of legend interviews with the legendary John Force
John wears his heart on his sleeve. A great man of great character that learned humility through temporary storms of life.
lol You got that much brother. I love John Force as much the character as the competitor and champion that you are!
One of your biggest fans! We love you John and every team you own! ❤️
Best John Force video I've ever seen. I'm same age as John and I've cheered for John and his teams from day one. I can say one thing for sure, John Force and John Force Racing is loved in this house.
I'll be 50 in September. I learned to build engines helping my uncle work on his dirt late model starting when I was about 6 years old, but fell in love with drag racing not long after. I've only had 3 favorite drivers in my life. Obviously, my uncle, but also, Dale Earnhardt Sr and John Force. I never got to see Jungle Jim Leiberman run but, I did get to see Brute Force in some match races. After watching this video, I'd bet that Laurie Force and Jungle Pam Hardy would've been great friends back in the day. Not because they're both beautiful women, but, because they both know how much effort it takes to win.
I could listen to John tell stories of his life for hours!!! SO 40 minutes is like NOTHING!!!
You Sir, are liked, admired, revered and truly Loved by not just a few. By millions Sir, Millions, including me.
Soo much love and respect for you Mr.John Force been your fan all my life, you sir are a great man !
Glad I watched this, even brought tears to my eyes.
i live in Ottawa Ontario Canada and my first ever national event was at san air near Montreal we drove there ands slept in the parking lot we got to meet john force and so many of my idols most dead now but i was there for that race live when john won his first national event so every time i see him tell the story i get teary eyed
always loved watching him race he is the best in a funny car !
Wow! Yes great awesome video. To the man John Force, you're loved by your fans. I've been a fan of the sport over 20 years. I must admit that I'm a fan because of you,John Force thanks for the wonderful memories over the years. Side note I miss Ashley racing. Congrats on your 150th victory best wishes for many more to come. #John Force does his way 👍
John force has been my favorite racer since I started watching funny cars and if he's not racing I don't watch drag racing
I drag raced at a local drag strip in the 70's so naturally I have always been a fan. Over the years I would watch racing on Wide World of Sports and Diamond P with Steve Evans, when Steve interviewed John , I thought he was mouthy and obnoxious but I did like him.
It was 1995 when myself and friend traveled to Brainerd for the Champion Auto Parts nationals, it was the first major event for me, I was completely blown away with the crowds,cars and the Nitro especially, I'll never forget the first time I was in the pits and a funny car started for warm up, wow.
After two days of qualifying we decided to go into Brainerd to go out and eat, we went to a restaurant and we were seated next to John and representative from Allied Signal , as we were seated we just said hi and they cordially returned the gesture. I finally got Johns attention and I asked how he could stand all the constant fanfare . He looked at me directly and said if weren't for the fans, I wouldn't be where I am today.
I could tell he meant every word.
And than a young fan noticed John and came over,he appeared as if he would have won the lottery, He was so excited , he buried John with questions and comments, I don't know anyone else on the planet that could have tolerated that, John treated that young man with nothing but respect and courtesy. I would bet anything that the young man thinks of that every day. It was truly an honor to witness that, I'll never forget it.
I have gone to several nation events since, I don't necessarily have a favorite that I want to win, but when JFR is on the line , I cheer wholeheartedly because of that point in time in 1995.
This video should be required viewing for all young men in middle school
It would definitely give them some insight on how to conduct themselves as men
John force you are the man’s man
I salute you
There’s not a lot of good men like you left in this world
I met this dude as a kid at Bristol, and have been a fan ever since. Took the time to talk to each and everyone of me and my brothers and didn’t rush through any of us. We had pictures but they burnt up in a house fire a couple years later
JOHN FORCE........ God Bless you, your a true Champion !
I got Mr. Force to sign a hat for me one day.
It was my goal at the current time to work on one of those race cars.
I waited my turn to hand him my hat and say hello. He looked at me, then looked at me again and asked me a question.
I was so consumed with the idea of not wasting his time that I couldn’t respond with any meaningful dialogue.
He just smiled handed me my hat and thanked me for coming to the races.
Couldn’t believe he was just a regular human being. I had framed him larger than life.
Wished I had a do over on that one. I’m not a kid anymore.
Fantastic . Real man real life !
Adversity was his load in life . Overcome it time and time again . Got rewarded for his passion and drive all the way . Successful himself . Beautiful gorgeous wife . Beautiful smart daughters that are no fools ! Yes he’s a life winner ! The hard way . No life winner the easy way could beat !
Great, great interview with a terrific man😊
You are inspiring John Force.
Funny, John says he “Was” hyper.
John Force has been a Hero
Too me. For years..
American Racer....you the man. !!!
John Force is one of the COOLEST DUDES that ever lived! And that is a fact!
we like you John!
thanks for sharing.
What a Legend glad i got to meet him and get 2 seconds of his time and Autograph
Ive only heard about john force in passing, drag racing in australia isnt as big as in the us , but may i say , this Man has heart . John you said your father was tne best person you have ever met.. im pretty sure you are just like him mate.
Probably my favorite episode of the series yet but I feel it needed to be an hour long special or two part series. So much mora about John is have loved to have known.
You are absolutely loved John!!! I have seen you race many times in Memphis.
Wow i'm Exhausted after that! John's energy never stops!
You’re my favorite John, always have been and always will be! 🤙🏻
To my hero and the greatest thing to happen to drag racing EVER!! I love you John Force!!
Passionate man. I hope he continues to race.
John Force will always be the true legend of drag racing... It is highly likely anyone will ever catch up to his winning record..
Breath JOHN! hahahaha
Your one of the best. God Bless John Force.
My friends and I were at the nationals in Sonoma and as we stood at the plastic fence barrier that separated the crowd from John Force and Tony Pedregon's (AKA Dos Amigos)pits. Mr. Pedregon approached and asked if I wanted an autograph I said know but could you tell me if Kelly has time to say hi to an old friend, Kelly being a friend that crewed with my older brother in the World of Outlaws series, he then called Kelly out of the trailer and Kelly acknowledge me and I was pulled under the tape and into the realm that very few get to see. Kelly showed me around Tony's trailer and let me hangout while he built up a new set of piston. After that Tony introduced me to John Force and told him i was a friend of Kelly's from when he was on the WoO sprint circuit. Let me tell you this John Force is a true ambassador of Drag Racing he showed me everything even their weather station in their trailer, he was really psyched about the Doppler System, He explained to me about how they could read the grains of water in the air and how that dictated some parameters of the tune they would set for that day He offered me a hot meal that was right off the BBQ they had set up. He and Tony then signed all of the gear that my friends had bought and I am not talking one friends stuff but all five of them and I mean they signed everything, After that John thanked me for my time and I said no sir "thank you for taking time out for me." He then went over to the far side of the fenced off area and lifted it up and brought in a young lady in a wheelchair and Aid " Hi I am John would you like a tour of our pits." What a class act a true down to earth humble as all get out gentlemen Mr. Force is.
A truly great and genuine man. Not a phony. What you see is what you get. Love him and his lovely family. John Force for President!
"Get out there and take you wuppin!" My dad pretty much told me the same thing, I hated him for it then, love him for it now. Too bad we can't raise kids the same way now!
The greatest of all time! I got to meet him several times back when I sold Castrol. He is the real deal!
The Best time I ever had was Partying & Drag Racing all in one.
In the 80's, my dad and I would watch Diamond P. We fell in love with John Force. Everything John does is just great for the sport, and I'm a big fan still.
The greatest thing in life is to be accepted and unconditional love !!! I don’t know about all fans but I love and respect you !!!
I was at Pomona with my kids , was at the Force pits late Sunday night , John was beeline out of there, my son said hey John, He was kind enough to come by and shake our hands very good of him.....
what a honorable wonderful joyful good sportsmanship guy grew up poor just like me with a rich attitude and shows a lot of loves respect love ya john God Bless and Protect you and family
I remember that crash, I was there! Scared the hell out of everyone there.
Great Lakes Dragaway, Union Grove, Wisconsin. I went to college in Chicago in 1971. I drove up to Union Grove to see some of the drag gods, in person. Prudhomme, Force, Muldowney, Garlits, McEwen. The best that ever ran a quarter mile. Great memories.
Outstanding documentary! Very relateable as I am Johns age and grew up in far southern Oregon close to a dinky town named days creek. Dad was tough love but took care of mom and us 4 kids driving his log truck. Later on got a case of drag race fever. Wound up owning a BAD and crewed for Joey Severance for a couple years prior to his championship run. Neither John or I would trade life history with anyone! God bless you John Force
A legend never dies.. John Force the best
Garlits, Force, The snake, Mongoose, Greek. I love these tales. I worked and been involved in this sport for so long. The social climate of our nation has really bruised the American Dream. But these stories keep me motivated. If you can dream it you can build it. I’m sitting here with my funny cars looking for a reason to keep going. These videos make it happen.
Wow.....first time I saw John Force was at Ennis in 1991 at the beginning of the dynasty. Jolly Rancher on the car and 1/8 mile burnouts - didn't know who it was, but when that car pulled into the burnout box it was clear - "He was on a mission"...stole the show. Stone Woods & Cook Willy's did an exhibition run, jet dragsters and whole day of NHRA pro drag racing - Dixon, Bernstein Hill, LaHaie, Gwynn, Hofmann, Warren Johnson, McEwen, Garlits, Cha Cha - they were all there......and John Force stole the show. The best burnouts in the history of drag racing and I was there. It was like watching the wheel standers - Little Red Wagon and Hurst Hemi Under Glass only it happened every round. Force is legendary beyond legendary. I remember one year at Ennis, at the Fall Nationals - championship already clinched, lined up in the final beside Al Hofmann and Force red lit the ultimate red light. He gave Hofmann the win with style, and gave the fans a full pass and of course a killer burnout. John Force is a class act.