Racing Superstitions: Peanuts, Green Cars, and the Ghosts of Speed

Опубликовано: 17 Июнь 2026
на канале: The Motoring Podcast Network
274
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In this episode of The Logbook, our History of Motorsports series, Al Isselhard discusses the rich history of superstitions and bizarre events in auto racing, citing examples involving superstitions surrounding green race cars, the number 13, peanuts, and various rituals practiced by drivers. Events like Lee Oldfield's 1911 accident and the deaths of Gaston Chevrolet and Francois Cevert are highlighted to illustrate these superstitions. The script also details the research process behind this information, noting contributions from various sources, including old magazines, books, and the internet.



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00:00 Introduction to Auto Racing Superstitions



01:59 Origins of Green Car Superstitions



06:09 The Number 13 and Other Unlucky Numbers



08:13 Peanut Shells and Racing Mishaps



10:31 Superstitions Around Photographs and Shaving



12:39 Drivers' Personal Superstitions and Rituals



15:23 Superstitions of Southern Drivers



15:35 Famous Drivers and Their Rituals



16:33 Dale Earnhardt Sr.'s Lucky Penny



17:19 Ted Horn's Superstitions and Legacy



18:53 The Clairvoyant's Prediction for François Sivert



21:03 Audience Q&A on Racing Superstitions



24:48 Sponsorship and Closing Remarks



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This episode is part of our HISTORY OF MOTORSPORTS SERIES and is sponsored in part by: The International Motor Racing Research Center (IMRRC), The Society of Automotive Historians (SAH), The Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Argetsinger Family - and was recorded in front of a live studio audience.