George Constantine – Montreal, QC
(1945 – 1970)
About
George Constantine was a famed Canadian drag racing champion.
He started his racing career in 1966 with a 271 Mustang, switching to a 427 Fairlane, and then a 1968 Super Stock Mustang Cobra Jet. He was sponsored by Sud Automobile, a Longueuil-based Ford dealer. Constantine was the winner of the Eastern U.S. and Canada Circuit Championships in 1969, and was a member of South Super Snakes Ford Drag Club, and the Ford of Canada Drag Racing Team.
One of Constantine’s most notable victories was during a race between his SS/G Cobra Jet Mustang and Bill ‘Grumpy’ Jenkins’ Pro Stock Camaro in May 1970 at the NHRA Canadian National at the Napierville Dragway. During a specially arranged “match bash”, George used his handicap to its fullest, and much to the delight of the Québec fans, beat the Pro Stocker with a quick 11.24 second ET against Jenkin’s superfast 9.90.
Constantine was tragically killed in a boating accident on June 7, 1970 just weeks before his 25th Birthday. His legacy was honoured at the Sanair International Drag Strip with a commemorative plaque and trophy.
George Constantine played a pivotal role in solidifying the importance and popularity of drag racing in Eastern Canada.
2 Comments. Leave new
On monday june the 8, 1970 at the garage where I work, I learn off his tragic death.
Although I never was found of Ford product, Mr. Constantine made us proud to be Canadian. His driving ability was recognize by most car lovers.
I was born in 1947 and today is name came in a round table discussion. Out of 8 peoples, thre was only 2 persons that remember him.
Although I never spoke of the accident over 50 some year I was proud to remember the event.
On Monday June the 8, 1970 at the garage where I work, I learn of his tragic death.
Although I never was found of Ford product, Mr. Constantine made us proud to be Canadian. His driving ability was recognize by most car lovers.
I was born in 1947 and today his name came in a round table discussion. Out of 8 peoples, there was only 2 persons that remember him.
Although I never spoke of the accident over 50 some year I was proud to remember the event.