Fast Times with Jimmy Carter: America’s Racing President
Former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away Sunday at the remarkable age of 100, was known for his dedication to public service, humanitarian efforts, and a love of cars—sports cars, to be specific. Before he took the oath of office as the 39th President of the United States, Carter’s passion for racing and automobiles was already well-established, intertwining his life with the world of motorsports in unique and unexpected ways.
A Lifelong Connection to Motorsports
Carter's love for racing began during his youth in Georgia. Long before entering the political sphere, he worked as a ticket vendor at NASCAR races at Atlanta Motor Speedway. This early exposure to the roar of engines and the energy of the track planted a seed of passion that would flourish throughout his life. Even after ascending to the Governor's Mansion in Georgia, Carter maintained close ties to the sport by hosting NASCAR drivers at the Governor’s Mansion, bridging his political and personal lives with a shared enthusiasm for racing.
However, his love for motorsports extended far beyond NASCAR’s oval tracks. Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, were regular attendees of the legendary Sebring 12-Hour Race in Florida, immersing themselves in the world of endurance racing. Their experiences at Sebring became cherished memories, underscoring a deep appreciation for sports car culture and the art of competition on a global scale.
A Love for Sebring and Engine Sounds
“As soon as I came home from the Navy, Rose and I and the children began to drive down to Sebring and went to the 12-Hour race there, which was always interesting,” Carter once told IMSA.com. The endurance racing spectacle captivated the Carters, but what stood out most was their fascination with the distinctive engine sounds of the competing sports cars.
In fact, Carter and Rosalynn honed a unique skill: identifying cars by their engine notes alone. “They used to sell 33-rpm records of the different sounds of every race car at Sebring,” Carter recalled. “My wife and I used to listen to them, and we would try to look the other way and see which kind of car was coming.”
Carter’s passion for this auditory aspect of racing became so refined that he could distinguish brands by sound. He noted how Maseratis and Ferraris had smooth, high-pitched tones, likening Ferraris to a “sewing machine.” This attention to detail reflected Carter’s ability to find joy in the nuances of motorsports, much like his thoughtful approach to public service.
A Domestic Favorite: The Chevrolet Corvette
Though Carter appreciated the high-pitched symphonies of Italian and European engineering, his heart ultimately leaned toward an American icon: the Chevrolet Corvette.
“I really kind of fell in love with the Chevrolet Corvette,” Carter admitted, appreciating its ability to compete internationally during the golden era of American sports cars. He humorously compared the Corvette’s engine note to a “John Deere tractor” but praised its competitive spirit and speed. His fondness for the Corvette symbolized his admiration for domestic ingenuity and resilience, echoing his deep connection to American values throughout his life.
A Final Farewell
Jimmy Carter's legacy extends far beyond politics, encompassing his humanitarian work, dedication to peace, and a profound connection to the world of motorsports. His love for Sebring, sports cars, and the Corvette reflect a man who appreciated the beauty of competition, innovation, and the shared excitement of roaring engines.
As the nation prepares to honor Carter with a state funeral in Washington, D.C., on January 9, it’s worth remembering that this great American leader was not just a president but a true enthusiast who found joy in the universal language of motorsports.
