Dennis Firestone went from humble beginnings racing in Formula Fords in the California Sports Car Club (Cal Club) region of the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) to climb the racing ladder and reach the pinnacle of American road racing making numerous starts at the Indianapolis 500. His first trip there had Roger Penske helping him. From the highs of highs of winning racing and championships, to essentially a career ending crash. This interview takes us through a time capsule when innovation and passion were key elements of motorsports in America. Firestone was nice enough to tell us his story during the press day for the 2024 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach. Enjoy!
NOTE: Dennis Firestone said he will be back with his Eagle Indy car for the 50th Anniversary of the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach April 11-13, 2025.
By Larry Mason
Copyright © 2025 Larry Mason
Dennis Firestone shares a smile for the camera as he’s happy to have turned some laps at Long Beach in his incredible Eagle Indy car.
Last minute prep by Firestone’s crew gets him ready to go out on course. Resplendent in race car red with highly polished aluminum front and rear wings makes this Gurney Eagle a real fan-favorite at the track.
Perhaps the most unique design feature on this Eagle is the wide upswept diffuser/underwing. Aerodynamic innovation back in the early 80’s was wild!
Just before he goes out on track, Dennis Firestone gives us two thumbs up!
Hustling his Eagle through Turn 10, Firestone was happy with this part being familiar. It was a much different track configuration the last time he raced here!
Interview and photos Copyright © by Larry Mason (unless otherwise noted)