Net Worth Ranker
What Is Don Garlits’ Net Worth?
Don Garlits, a highly celebrated figure in the world of drag racing, has accumulated a net worth of $15 million. This substantial wealth is a result of his successful career as a drag racer, automotive engineer, and entrepreneur. Earning the moniker “Big Daddy” for his contributions, Garlits’ financial standing is reflective of his widespread influence and achievements in the sport. Don Garlits built his career on the racetrack, securing numerous sponsorships and endorsements throughout his career.
Early Career and Achievements of Don Garlits
Born Donald Glenn Garlits on January 14, 1932, in Tampa, Florida, Don’s early life instilled in him a strong work ethic. His father was an electrical engineer before transitioning to a health food restaurant, while his mother worked as a cashier at the business. After his parents divorced, his mother remarried, and Don’s stepfather operated a dairy farm. Garlits recalls waking up at 4 AM to milk cows before attending school, instilling in him a deep sense of diligence.
Don’s formal education included studying accounting, where he excelled academically. After graduating, he initially worked as an accountant at Maas Brothers department store. However, encouraged by his stepfather, he transitioned to working at a garage, aligning his profession with his passion for cars.
Garlits’ drag racing journey began in 1954 when he constructed his first drag race car in his North Tampa home’s yard. He ingeniously modified a 1927 Ford Model T Roadster using a cutting torch and arc welder, integrating parts from a 1939 Ford, a 1948 Mercury engine block, and a 1948 Ford axle and differential. This resourceful creation led him to win his first NHRA race when the NHRA Safety Safari visited Lake City, Florida. Three years later, he transitioned to professional drag racing.
In March 1970, a pivotal moment occurred when the transmission of his Swamp Rat XIII exploded, causing the car to break in half. This resulted in Garlits losing part of his right foot, leading him to design the first rear-engined drag racing vehicle. This innovative design addressed safety concerns prevalent in traditional drag racing cars, and its superior speed led to its widespread adoption.
Throughout his career, Don Garlits has secured 17 championships, including 10 American Hot Rod Association titles, four International Hot Rod Association titles, and three National Hot Rod Association titles. In 1989, he was inducted into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America, solidifying his legacy in the sport.
In 1977, Don was convinced to switch from a 426 hemi engine to a 417 cu engine by Ed Donovan. This change demonstrates Don’s capacity to adapt and innovate in a sport that demands constant evolution. In 2003, at the NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series, Garlits achieved a personal best speed of 4.788 seconds at 319.98 mph in the quarter-mile, showcasing his enduring commitment to the sport.
In 2014, at the age of 82, Garlits set a speed record of 184 mph in Swamp Rat 37. He followed this accomplishment with a quarter-mile record of 189.03 mph in Swamp Rat 38 in 2019, further cementing his legacy as a pioneering figure in drag racing. Don Garlits has won more than 140 national events, adding to his financial success.
Business Ventures and Legacy of Don Garlits
Beyond his racing achievements, Don Garlits’ entrepreneurial spirit is evident in the establishment of the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing in Ocala, Florida, in 1984. This museum serves as a repository of drag racing history, showcasing Garlits’ contributions and preserving the sport’s heritage.
Garlits has also authored several books, including “King of the Dragsters: The Story of Big Daddy ‘Don’ Garlits” (1971), “Tales from the Drag Strip: Memorable Stories from the Greatest Drag Racer of All Time” (2004), and “Don Garlits and His Cars” (2013). These literary works provide insights into his career, experiences, and the evolution of drag racing.
In 1987, Don’s Swamp Rat XXX was inducted into The Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History, recognizing its significance in the sport’s history. Garlits’ other accolades include induction into the International Motorsports Hall of Fame in 1997, the Automotive Hall of Fame in 2004, the Gateway International Raceway Hall of Fame in 2008, and the British Drag Racing Hall of Fame (Overseas Member) in 2014.
The National Hot Rod Association ranked Garlits #1 on its “Top 50 Drivers, 1951–2000” list, and in 2008, ESPN ranked him #23 on its list of the “top 25 drivers of all time.” These rankings demonstrate Garlits’ enduring impact on the sport and his recognition as one of its most influential figures.
In 1994, Garlits entered the political arena, running for office in Florida’s 5th Congressional District as a Republican. However, he lost to Democrat Karen Thurman. During the 2008 presidential election, he supported Republican Ron Paul, demonstrating his involvement in political discourse.
Don Garlits’ wealth is derived from various sources, including his drag racing career, endorsements, museum, and book sales. While specific details of his earnings from each source are not publicly available, it is evident that his diverse activities have contributed to his substantial net worth. Garlits’ contributions to the sport have cemented his place in racing history, and the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing continues to educate and inspire fans of all ages. The museum is located at 13700 SW 16th Ave, Ocala, FL 34473.
