I didn't know Johnny in the early days but I did pit next to him at Norwood in 1966 and 1967. Both he and Slim, his mechanic, were real gentlemen and really helped this young driver in my early years in the modifieds.
I'll never forget that I was behind Johnny going into the 1st turn in a heat race one evening at Norwood. I got into the back of him and spun him out. Needless to say (since I was pitting next to him), had there been a direct exit to Rt. 1, I would have taken it rather than pulling back in next to him in the pits. Well, he accepted my appologies and the fact that he was so understanding, has kept the memory fresh in my mind for 40 years.
He was a great racer and he sure knew how to get a lot out of that small-block!
are you the same doug mccarthy i have a photo of in the #00 at Norwood arena? i sent you an email. let me know if you got it. our racing internet radio show is celebrating Bugs Stevens, Bill Wimble, and Lew Boyd this monday night from 7-9. just click on the website above and listen in to their live interviews! i can hardly wait... call me at 941-629-7451 or email me at address above... thank you doug. ;-) i sure miss those days!!! and those people! its all changed so much. i was so sad to hear of Johnny Thompsons death ... what a great man...what a great racer.
