The
72vt big block modified is owned by Sam and Linda Smith. they are
not only a couple who enjoy racing, they give a new meaning to the
term "racing team."
Sam, a disabled American Veteran, served nine years in the United
States Marines. His military service included two tours of duty in
Vietnam. In 1988, while on duty in the National Guard, Sam was
injured losing the use of his legs. Sam, even though he is paralyzed
from the ribcage down, works on the 72vt from his wheelchair. Not
only an accomplished engine builder, Sam was also a winning race
driver before his injury.
Linda, the other half of Smith Racing, is not only Sam's ever
vigilant "support system" but often works along side him on their
72vt. Her enthusiastic support and love of racing is a "driving"
force behind the success of Smith Racing. Whether turning a wrench,
changing oil or cheering on their car and driver it is impossible
not to get caught up in Linda's passion for racing.
The 72vt has also had a winning past. Sam and Linda have won three
track championships in Vermont and five in New Hampshire. They have
a recent win at the Fonda Speedway in New York with driver Mike
Fusco at the wheel.
It is truly inspiring to watch Sam work on an engine. An artist with
wrench and socket Sam's expert hands transform engine parts into a
mechanical work of art. As he has said many times with a twinkle in
his eye "Let me tweak it just a little. Zoom, zoom, happy motoring."
Sam with his "impish" grin, sincere handshake and ever present cigar
and Linda with hearty hugs, contagious smiles and generous nature,
feeding anyone who drops by their car trailer at the races are truly
an AWESOME racing team.
So, whether you're "eating dust" at the track to the roar of the
engines or sharing a home-cooked meal in their garage enhanced by
the smell of racing fuel, Sam and Linda are part of the magic that
makes our pulses race and hearts proud when we hear " Start Your
Engines!"
Below is a feature that Fox 23 Fast tracks ran about
Sam.
