Take a look at this, “The Black Knight” Street Racing Legend Won Over $1,000,000 Racing in the 60’s & 70’s!
In the vibrant era of 60s and 70s street racing, one name stood out among the rest – Levi Holmes, famously known as “The Black Knight.” This legendary street racer, who earned over $1,000,000 in winnings, recently shared his captivating journey in an insightful interview.
The interview, conducted by the team at Backyard Barn Finds, delves into the rich history of Levi’s racing career. From his early days tinkering with cars at the age of 15, Levi’s passion for racing grew rapidly. His first vehicle, a 1951 Ford with a six-cylinder three-speed overdrive, set the stage for what would become an illustrious career in the world of drag racing.
What truly defined Levi was his switch to racing Chevys, particularly a powerful 1957 Chevy equipped with a 327 engine. The pivotal moment that earned him the moniker “The Black Knight” occurred during a street race, where someone suggested the name for his 1957 Chevy, and it stuck with him ever since.
The focal point of the interview is Levi’s beloved 1969 Camaro, originally owned by Bill Blanding. This car became the epitome of his racing legacy and the vehicle he toured with extensively. Levi recalls the acquisition of the Camaro, detailing how it went from being Blanding’s car to becoming the iconic Black Knight ride.
Throughout his career, Levi participated in both professional races and thrilling street races, showcasing his prowess on the asphalt. What sets Levi apart is his dedication to doing his own car maintenance, refusing major sponsors, and relying on his skills to secure victories. He reminisces about the small pots of money involved in those early street races, a stark contrast to today’s high-stakes racing.
The interview provides a glimpse into the camaraderie and competition that defined street racing during Levi’s prime. The stories of victories, the switch to Chevys, and the evolution of his favorite Camaro create a vivid picture of a street racing pioneer.
Levi Holmes’ journey is not just about the winnings but also about the passion, the camaraderie, and the love for the sport. The Black Knight’s legacy lives on, not just in the victories and the cars he raced, but in the memories shared by those who were fortunate enough to witness a true street racing legend in action.
