Carroll Shelby passes away

[boxhead]

Thank you Mr Shelby for bringing the world and myself such a wonderful car.
Mine may only be plastic but it embodies the spirit of your dream, every time I jump in it, I can't help but smile.
The car was going to stay in the shed today as I am heading out for a 200kl cruise with mates and car display at local retirement village for Mothers day on Sunday, but now my baby and I are going for a drive and a coffee to celebrate the joy of your dream.

Cheers mate.

[NorthernPlus]

My first Cobra encounter.... For me, Carroll first appeared on the scene when the 260 cube Cobras appeared. I was in college then. Shortly thereafter the 289s made their appearance. I was walking by the Union building at Purdue on a Saturday football weekend on my way to a Saturday morning class. A young married couple pulled up in a white Cobra and parked it in one of the 3-4 parking spots that were available on the side entrance. I stopped and commented on the car. The husband proudly told me about the car. They were putting the tounneau cover on the car as we talked. Then they walked away. I turned and made a long walk across the street. As I reached the distant curve, I heard a loud gunning of an engine. I turned to see the husband back in the parked Cobra. The only thing I could think of was that the guy who sold it to them must have told them to clean the engine out before shutting it down, and they forgot. The first among many who never knew what the hell they had bought.

Always a showman, but could he ever sell just using common sense. A true man for the ages, and he lived in our life time. Won a few races too!!

All the best always, Carroll

Norbert

[WallyB]

Carroll Shelby: Outstanding game sir, best home plate slide I've ever seen. Give my best to Ken and Dave.

[67FEfastback]

I'm deeply saddened, as he seemed to be one of those guys who kept going on forever. I guess, I took for granted that Carrol would be around for many years to come.

Obviously even in the recent years, we've seen his involvement, publicly, and I'm certain that there were many private organizations and charities, that he actively participated in.


My sincere condolences to his family, friends, coworkers, loved ones, and enthusiasts around the world.

Unfortunately I am laid up with a broken ankle, and can't go for a tribute drive tonight (there is a local cruise - organized a few days ago - which will take a whole different perspective, of course with this sad news)

We will spend an extra amount of time, when enthusiasts come up and enjoy the car, passing on the special importance that Carrol had to the automotive world.

This happened about 3 weeks ago; A young lad, about 10-11 years old, who could hardly speak English (obviously an out of country visitor) who was having his sister take photos of him, standing beside the car. I scared him, when I beeped the disarm button. "Is this your car? Don't ever sell it!" He says. Then he asks "What kind of song is it?" After a few moments of conversation, we concluded that he wanted to know what it sounded like, and how loud it was!
I said, "Just wait there! We're gonna show you!"

Despite the area being a haven for the local constabulary on Saturday nights, we made the FE "sing!"
Another converted Shelby Enthusiast!

Thanks Carrol, Rest In Peace

[ROBERT GWALTNEY]

Thank you Carol Shelby...your vision became the passion for many....I even like your chili

[Muldoon]

I actually suffered a bit of shock as though a member of the family died. But in a way, he is a member of the family of all AC Cobra owners. We own a piece of history and legend.

[pusherfans]

I am deeply saddened to hear this news. I have a lot of respect for Shelby as a man, a car builder, a race car driver and so much more.

A refreshing, no BS, to the point, kind of guy. He was truly an inspiration.

He will be missed.

[Barker]

I am Saddened by our loss, I wish his family and friends my condolences, I am greatfull for his innovation and wisdom, A true hero.
Wash polish and drive in his memory and honor.
FAT427

[ROBERT GWALTNEY]

When driving your Cobra or any Shelby drive whith you headlights on

[BVStenner]

it is a sad day. He certainly was/is a legend! May he rest in peace, and God bless his family with wonderful memories.

Bob

[D+10]

Rip cs

[BVStenner]

it is a sad day. He was one of a kind. May God bless his family, and help them recall all the great memories.

Bob

[Snakebit]

Even at 89 he was still keeping hot rodding and muscle cars alive with the Ford Mustang. A lot of acconplishments over the years, like they said, there will not be another one like him. Thanks for building the Cobra that we all love so well. I will keep him in my prayers. May he rest in peace.

[Racer_X]

I met him in 1982 at Texas World Speedway during an Aggie Cross event.
One fellow offered his GT-40 for Shelby to take around the track. He rolled out to the end of pit road and the shifter handle broke. He was apologizing all over the place.

Ill never forget it. I still have my name badge from the weekend with his signature on it.
Curtis

[427sharpe]

We knew all along that the final turn was fast approaching, but it's a sad day none the less. We may have had our differences (all families do), but we loved you and you will be missed. Buy Ken and Dave a pint, and rest in peace.

[BVStenner]

It is a sad day. Carol Shelby is certainly a legend. May God bless his family in this time of sorrow and help them remember all the good times!

Bob

[decooney]

A sad and memorable day for sure. He influenced our lives and interests in a great way.

[sunburst427]

I suppose I owe the better portion of my car collecting hobby to Carroll Shelby. Bought my first one from my Dad in 1982 (he had it since 1978). Still have her tucked away in the Garage MajHal. My Dad's still kickin' at 87. I hope he lives forever.

RIP Shel...we're sure gonna miss you!

[bomelia]

So sad. A single man who's vision created all of this! RIP Carroll, the likes of you are a rare thing indeed.

Mike

[Gregory B]

me too, Drive tonight!