The Glidden name is alive and well in the sport of drag racing as Billy Glidden has made a return to NHRA J&A Pro Mod competition this weekend and the legacy shows no signs of slowing. It was patriarch Bob that built that legacy and he did so as one of the most brilliant, driven, and successful pro stock racers of all time. Glidden invented many parts of the modern pro stock lifestyle. The hyper focus on what work happens in the shop, the dogged determination to never be out worked, out run, or out witted, and the idea that pro stock racers are not won on the race track, they are won long before the truck pulls into the gate.
We love this interview because it is long form and it ranges from the beginnings of Glidden’s career, through his dedication to the Ford brand, his life with Etta and the kids, and how he came to be (at the time) the winningest driver in NHRA history. While his win marks have been overshadowed, his specter has not. Most drag racing fans (including us) speak of the guy in revered tones. We’re of the opinion that when someone’s career is discussed, it needs to be put into the context of when it was actually happening. You cannot compare Glidden with the guys who were 10 years, 20 years, etc after him. You have to look at how he fared against the competition of his day and boy did he fare well.
There were seasons where the only thing that could stop Glidden were mechanical failures. He was the consummate representative of the Ford brand, and he was always someone who made damned sure to present himself as professional both on and off camera.
There’s a fascinating section of the interview where Bob is asked about Rusty and Billy. He’s not sure if they will have the necessary dedication to perform at the professional level. You need to hear what they have to say because it is pretty awesome and typically honest.
This is really, really cool.
