Craig Breedlove was a pioneering figure in the world of land speed records, known for his remarkable achievements in breaking the 500 mph and 600 mph speed barriers. His journey into the realm of high-speed racing began in the early 1960s, and he quickly established himself as a formidable competitor. Breedlove's innovative use of turbojet-powered vehicles, all named Spirit of America, set him apart from his contemporaries and cemented his legacy
as a trailblazer in the field.
The First Record Attempts
In 1962, Breedlove embarked on his quest for speed with a unique vehicle design that defied conventional norms. His first attempt involved a freewheeling tricycle powered by a General Electric J47 turbojet engine. Despite the vehicle's three-wheel configuration, which did not comply with FIA rules, Breedlove's determination was unwavering. On August 5, 1963, he made his first record attempt, reaching an impressive speed of 388.47 mph over the measured mile. The return pass saw him achieve a two-way average of 407.45 mph, marking a significant milestone in his career.
Breedlove's Spirit of America was so light on the ground that it did not require a tire change after the record attempt. This achievement was initially considered unofficial due to the vehicle's non-wheel-driven nature, but it was later ratified by the FIM, recognizing Breedlove's groundbreaking accomplishment.
Surpassing 500 mph
The year 1964 brought new challenges and competition for Breedlove, as he faced rivals like Walt Arfons' Wingfoot Express and Art Arfons' Green Monster. Undeterred, Breedlove pushed the boundaries of speed further, setting a new record of 468.72 mph with ease. His relentless pursuit of excellence led him to break the 500 mph barrier, achieving a speed of 526.28 mph. This feat made him the first person to exceed 500 mph, a testament to his skill and determination.
However, the record-breaking attempt was not without its challenges. During the run, one of the drogue parachute's shroud lines parted, causing the Spirit of America to continue for five miles before coming to rest in a lake. Despite the incident, Breedlove's record stood for twelve days before being surpassed by Art Arfons' Green Monster.
Reaching 600 mph
Breedlove's quest for speed did not end with the 500 mph milestone. In 1965, he built an FIA-legal four-wheeler, Sonic I, powered by a J79 turbojet engine. On November 15, 1965, Breedlove achieved a record speed of 600.601 mph, becoming the first person to break the 600 mph barrier. This record held until 1970, when it was surpassed by Gary Gabelich's Blue Flame.
Breedlove's achievements in breaking speed barriers were not only a testament to his engineering prowess but also to his indomitable spirit. His legacy continues to inspire future generations of speed enthusiasts, reminding us of the limitless possibilities when determination meets innovation.
