I've worked as a Ford dealer tech since high school ( '66 ) and was very much a "gear head". In '67 I worked in Chicago and watched an "old man" that owned a dry cleaning business drive/park his 427 Cobra to his business and parked it in front. I saw him almost every day in that car in nice weather. I always wondered why an old man would have a car like that. I thought,at the time,that it was a "young man's" car. As time went by I tried to buy a '67 GT 500 and was told that I was not "old" enough! Finally in '87 I bought my first Shelby! A '68 GT 350 convertible. I've raced a few different cars w/427 Ford side oiler engines and always remembered that "old man" that had the first 427 Ford . I've enjoyed following Carroll's career and life. He proves that you are never too "old" to chase your dreams and accomplish your personal goals. He has shown that his personal success can be shared with others with his Heart Fund progams. Never let the age of your body affect your mind and enthusiasm for life. I took my Grandson to a SAAC meet to enjoy the cars and people and he wandered too close to one of the 427 Cobras and bumped into Carroll himself! Carroll just gave him a big smile and a pat on his head and asked if was having fun....I went to the Ford 100th celebration and watched as Carroll came out to do a TV interview. It was totally silent as people were in awe of his presence. I finally asked in a loud/polite voice " How's 'ol Carroll doing? He looked to be relieved that somebody broke the silence and smiled and laughed and replied " 'Ol Carroll is doing fine". He looked me straight in the eye and winked as if to say"thanks for asking" . No problem Carroll, you have taught me much and have never met me. Thanks!
