LETTER FROM FRANK TAYLOR- 6/11/2009
In 1981 I founded the Frank Taylor Racing Team (FTR). That same year FTR, through a combination of hard work and dedication, had the good fortune to build the “World’s Fastest Piston-Powered Aircraft,” Dago Red. I was honored, not only to pilot this aircraft to a new world speed record in 1983 at 517mph, a record that still stands, but also to lead the world’s fastest race team.
“Frank Taylor Racing” (FTR) astounded the racing community by participating in two completely different “unlimited” racing categories: Top Fuel Drag Racing and Unlimited Air Racing. These are the fastest racing events available to piston-powered machines.
During the first 360 days of it’s existence FTR set two world speed records in different sports in it’s rookie year to become the first team to ever do so in any sporting competition.
FTR’s race plane “Dago Red” became the 1st to break 500mph. It won the National Championship Air Race during it's debut and was also the fastest qualifier. The aircraft has since won 6 National Championship Air Races and the prestigious “Thompson Trophy.”
FTR’s Top Fuel Dragster, “Dago Red” captured the quarter mile speed record on it’s second outing giving FTR the two fastest piston-powered machines on the planet.
Now, Dago Red has come home. “Finest Vintage Racing,” under the direction of Frank Taylor, has begun a complete restoration of the aircraft, and is pleased to announce our intention to capture the 3km Speed Record and return to Reno.
I invite you to become a part of the fastest racing experience in the world by joining our speed record challenges. All levels of sponsorship are welcome.
- Frank Taylor
