This page is the funding site. I will be renewing it when the time runs out on Nov. 12th. You can also visit the BLOG for more current info, updates, photos and trailers.
Older trailers are under the Gallery tab above.
WHERE THEY RACED will not only be the definitive documentary film on the history of auto racing in Los Angeles, but also an exploration into the interrelationship between ‘car culture’ and the ‘So Cal’ lifestyle loved around the world.
Known around the world for its sunshine, oranges, bathing beauties and Hollywood blockbusters – its hard to imagine, and mostly forgotten, that more racing history has been made in Southern California than anywhere else in the world. In fact Los Angeles and the automobile really grew up together in the 20th century… each leaving its mark on the other. However the city is moving on and much of its racing history is being lost, or at least paved over for more parking! WHERE THEY RACED will give this history a victory lap by preserving and exposing these fading memories to future generations.
With research based on the doctoral dissertation turned into a book by Harold Osmer, and 15 years experience producing / directing two feature documentary films and over 800 PBS shows for Huell Howser at KCET, we have been able to assemble a large collection of rare archival photos, footage and ephemera.
More importantly the racing community has greeted us with open arms and many key players have already agreed to participate. From descendants of legendary race families that will share their memories and personal accounts, to archivists, historians, private collectors, museums, groups and clubs… people are eager to help keep this history alive.
Completed Interviews:
Danny Thompson – Son of Mickey. On Lions, Dry Lake Beds and off-road.
Judy Thompson Creach - First wife of Mickey. On Lions, lakes and the legend.
Richard Parks – Son Wally. On drag racing and the NRHA.
Chuck Griffiths - NHRA
Tom Malloy - Son of Emmett Malloy. Carrell Speedway and Fairmont Butte.
Greg Sharp - NHRA on Lions Drag.
Confirmed Interviews:
JUST ADDED: Parnelli Jones, Hila Sweet and Bob Falcon.
Harold Osmer – He literally wrote the book.
Hank Hilty – Grandson of Earl Gilmore. On Gilmore Oil and Stadium.
Chris and J.C. Jr Agajanian – Sons of JC Agajanian. On Ascot.
Jeff Baugh – Helicopter reporter & race fan. Will give us a birds-eye-view.
Matt Roth – Author / AAA Archivist. On the Auto Club of So. Cal.
Ken Bernstein – Manager, City of L.A. Dept of City Planning & Historic Resources.
Other Participants:
Doug Stokes – P.R.
Tony Thacker – NHRA Museum archives and shooting location.
Jeff Walker – Executive Director Automobile Driving Museum.
Don Gillespie – Lions Drag documentary filmmaker. Archives and advice.
Alan Moss - Archival footage.
Art Evans - Archival photos.
Brett Arena – Gilmore Archives.
Steve Lewis – Performance Racing Magazine.
Tom Fritz & Nicolas Hunziker are both working on poster / promotional art.
Rex Cook – Avatar Labs. Motion graphics, titles and digital photo restoration.
Please email me if you have photos or home movies: info@wheretheyraced.com
LIST OF TRACKS / SEGMENTS (things change)
The history and geography of each track listed below will be explored, additionally, even tracks not listed will be featured on an interactive map along with bullet point facts. Segments in bold will be featured with more in depth treatment, on site interviews, recreations and so on. Each major era or track type will have an associated sub-topic.
The Beginnings
Agriculture Park / Ascot Park
Altadena Hill climb
Sub-topic: Birth of auto industry
The Road Races
Santa Monica
Venice
Corona
Sub-topic: Expansion of the city, boosterism
The Board Tracks
Motordrome
Beverly Hills
Culver City
Sub-topic: Entertainment & Hollywood
The Ovals
Legion Ascot
Gilmore Stadium
Ascot Park
Saugus
Sub-topic: Tracks for the everyman
Drag & Dry Lakes
Pomona
Lions
Mojave
Sub-topic: Post WWII car culture
Modern Era
Paramount Ranch
Long Beach Grand Prix
Irwindale
Sub-topic: The future
Thank you for choosing to participate in bringing this lost history to light!
About the Director / Producer: Harry Pallenberg
For the past 15 years I have produced over 800 shows at KCET – PBS in Los Angeles for Huell Howser Productions and the CALIFORNIA’S GOLD series. Website.":http://www.calgold.com
I have also produced & directed two feature documentaries. The first is SHOTGUN FREEWAY: Drives through Lost L.A. Starring Buck Henry, David Hockney, Joan Didion, James Ellroy. Netflix it.
The second is WOMEN IN BOXES: A Documentary on Magic’s Better Half, is currently airing on The Documentary Channel and Netflix now. Website.