Ormond Beach Auto Races, 1905

Description:

Photograph of (left to right) Arthur McDonald (or MacDonald) in the British-built Napier race car, no. 5, and Henry W. Fletcher in the German-built De Dietrich race car, no. 41 on Ormond Beach. Positioned side by side, both racing teams are preparing the automobiles for an upcoming speed trial. The flagman and judge are visible to the left.

The world speed record would be broken three times during these particular races. Louis Ross was the first, breaking the standing record of 92.31 mph in his twin engine steamer at 94.73 mph. McDonald soon broke that speed in the Napier at 104.65 mph. with H.L. Bowden quickly outpacing them all in his Mercedes at 109.76 mph. Bowden would be disqualified however, when it was discovered his car weighed more than the limit set by the Automobile Club de France, making McDonald the official winner of 1905.

• Title: Ormond Beach Auto Races, 1905
• Photographer: Paine, Morton Brailsford, 1883-1940
• Date: January 1905

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• Collection: Photograph Collection
• Object Name: Morton Brailsford Paine Photographs
• Object Id: MK 18217a

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  • Speed trials