KING OF THE BOARDS |
By Gary Doyle |
Book Review |
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Book Review- King of the Boards, The Life and
Times of Jimmy Murphy |
King of the Boards
More than anything else, Gary Doyle wanted to see his distant relative finally get recognition 80 years after his death. Most knowledgeable race enthusiasts know that Jimmy Murphy was the last American to win a European Grand Prix with an American car in 1921….Aside from that, Murphy’s early demise left him in obscurity, especially compared to the Twenties sports titans like babe Ruth, Jack Dempsey and Bobby Jones.
Old Cars
Weekly News and Marketplace
As
a relation to Murphy, Doyle had access to materials that were kept by the
family since Murphy’s death in 1924. These documents have been coupled
with photos from other notable collections and with newspaper accounts and
race programs to deliver information on board track racing that cannot be
found elsewhere.
Lovers of fine research will enjoy the
new information and a comprehensive, 23-page bibliography, while photo
fanatics will droll over the quantity of race stars discussed like Eddie
Rickenbacher, Tommy Milton, Ralph DePalma and others posed in Millers,
Duesenbergs, Frontenacs and Packards to name just a few. Famous characters
Fred and August Duesenberg receive their due attention since Murphy
piloted the brothers’ magical machines.
This book is absolutely necessary for
automotive historians, race fans, and collectors
with an interest in the performance history of their favorite marque. The
hardcover, 346-page book sells for $90 with a high-quality dust-cover or
$110 with a slip case, a wonderful bargain considering just one or two
unique racing photos from this era will cost more than $100 in an on-line
auction – and this book has hundreds of them! To purchase King
of the Boards, contact author Gary Doyle at 602-636-0471, via his
website at www.king-of-the-boards.com
or e-mail at garyd@futureone.com.
The mailing address is 914 E. Osborn #302