Racing
The Golden Greek
By GREG ZYLA

Chris Karamesines' "Chizler" dragster was the first to run over 200 mph in the quarter-mile. (Photo courtesy www.draglist.com)

Q: Greg, I recently ran across a column where you answered a reader's question about drag racing's all-time fastest drivers. I was glad to see you mentioned Chris Karamesines being the first to break the 200 mph mark. Boy, did that bring back some memories.

I was at Alton Dragway in Illinois that day (April 4, 1960), and I remember all of what transpired. I remember that after the run, there was a period of silence. Finally, the results came through the PA system, and there was a lot of excitement. Some in the crowd didn't believe what was announced, though. Myself? I never had a doubt about it.

I took some photos that day, and there was one that stood out. In fact, I liked it so well that I had an 8 by 10 made. I took the shot when they were checking the lower end of the engine after one of the runs. The front end was elevated, and it was a good shot of the front end and engine with all the logos: "The Chizler," "Al's Speed Shop, Aurora, Illinois," etc. It was a beautiful photo. The sad thing is I don't know what ever became of it, or what happened to the negative.

Your column really brought those memories back. Would it be possible to contact Chris Karamesines regarding the possibility of getting a photo of that particular (Chizler) machine? The one of this era was a very short wheelbase. I think I remember that later on, they stretched the wheelbase out as the other boys were doing.

When I read that Chris was still active, I thought I would email you and see if you knew of any way to replace my lost photo of the 1960 Chizler. Any suggestions? - Stan, via e-mail

P.S. Alton Dragway was transformed into a mobile home "park." The original owner, John Storey, passed away a couple of years ago. There was a lot of good racing that took place here.

A: Stan, thanks to www.draglist.com, I tracked down a photo of the "Chizler" for you. Chris is still active today at age 76 and is known as "The Golden Greek." When I see Chris, I'll ask him about that day and if he has any other photos.

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Q: Greg, I'm a race fan who goes way back. I used to go to the races at Indy, Springfield, Ill., and Milwaukee prior to World War II. My question is, are there any half-mile or mile dirt tracks within a 30-40 mile radius of New Port Richey where they still have sprint or midget races? Thanks. - Pete N., New Port Richey, Fla.

A: Pete, the closest track where they run sprints would be East Bay Raceway Park, 6311 Burts Road in Tampa (phone 813-677-7223). East Bay runs 360 sprints once a month, and limited sprints twice a month through June. Then on Nov. 3 and 4, there is a two-day show of 360 sprints you might want to catch. Noteworthy is East Bay's annual sprint car Winternationals held every last week of January into the first week of February, where 410s also appear with 360s. It's a bit shy of a half-mile in length around the top (listed as a thirdmile), but well worth the visit. Have a good time at the races!

Write to Greg Zyla in care of King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL32853-6475, or send an e-mail to letters.kfws@hearstsc.com.

(c) 2006 King Features Synd., Inc.