Hutch Post, in partnership with Steve Harmon and the Conard-Harmon Collection, is proud to present Throwback Thursday. Enjoy a weekly release from Steve Harmon as he presents the "Hutch - Then & Now Collection."
STEVE HARMON
Hutch Post Contributor
Today's "Throwback Thursday Collection" takes us to the Kansas State Fair grandstand in September of 1971.
The 1971 fair was like no other. A few months before it started, we began seeing Hugo (Shea) Enterprises, the Harley-Davidson dealer in Wichita, with posters advertising motorcycle races for the 1971 fair, along with a crazy man named Evel Knievel, who liked to jump obstacles with his Harley. The first photo shows the program from the day's events.
The eventful day started with a pre-jump press conference with Gov. Robert Docking and Attorney General Vern Miller, who was also a motorcycle racer. The second photo shows that event.
As the program started, Evel would show off his riding prowess with wheelies like the third photo shows.
After a good bit of teasing, the jump happened. The fourth photo shows the mid-jump aerial over 10 Kenworth trucks parked side-by-side.
The video shows the actual jump, taken by Greg Payton sitting in the stands with his dad's Super 8 camera.
The fifth photo shows Evel sticking his landing before pulling out the parachute.
The sixth photo shows Evel waving to the crowd afterward. A memorable 1971 fair was had by all!
To purchase a photo print, contact: [email protected].
Throwback Thursday is brought to you by:
Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce
STRATACA Kansas Underground Salt Museum