Life with Legends Episode 008: Parnelli Jones

Parnelli Jones

 Well put it like this, I wouldn’t have wanted to race against this tough competitor in his prime!

Parnelli Jones was the kind of all-rounder that won in everything he drove.

 Indy 500, USAC Stock cars, Pikes Peak, Team owner – he became the guy to beat!

 From being the 1961 Indy 500 Rookie of the year to winning it just two years later, he made a name for himself, fast!

At the same time he dominated the Pikes Peak race, to be followed up with a USAC Stock Car crown!

Wins in off -road racing in events like the Baja 1000 also cemented his reputation as the guy to beat, as well as his abilities as a team owner which brought him even further success.

 Having the opportunity to visit PJ at his house in Palos Verde, CA, was such an honor and privilege I will remember it forever. His is definitely in the final few laps of life’s race, but was gracious, funny and generous with his time.

 There is no video to accompany it as I didn’t want to show one of our heroes as being a little frail in old age, but I hope you still appreciate this conversation as much as I did.

 But check out the unique portrait I took of him www.lifewithlegends.com

Thankyou to my friend Mike Folmer for arranging everything.

JB