10 fastlane
Over a period of 44 years, Harry White undoubtedly made
a significant contribution to the development of the sport
of drag racing not only in South Australia, but nationally. Drag Racers Association (SADRA), a focus for most racers
in Adelaide through the 70s and 80s, and was made its
inaugural Life Member in 1984.
Sadly passing away in July of 2016, Harry’s list of
credentials includes 22 years as South Australia’s Division
Director, as well as time as an ANDRA Executive Director
and National Executive Member. He was also President of
the South Australian Drag Racing Association, and Race
Director for Adelaide International Raceway. As a racer, Harry campaigned ‘Dirty Harry’ - a ‘48 Holden
powered by Holden’s mighty 202 engine in the 70s for
many years.
As part of the ANDRA Administration, which he joined in
1990, he introduced his unique brand of ‘friendly formality’
– ensuring that problems were resolved with as much
satisfaction as possible.
Harry also assisted with the operation of the Australian
Drag Racing Promoters Association conferences and
provided the National Control Council with informed
advice on technical issues, particularly in the Super
Stock area, while remaining sensitive to the needs of the
competitors and the sport generally.
“There were many volunteers throughout my time with
ANDRA who made solid, long term contributions to the
sport. Harry was always near the top of that list,” said
former ANDRA CEO Tony Thornton, who nominated Harry
for the Hall of Fame.
“More than that though, he was a close personal friend
from my earliest days in the sport.
“His counsel was always important, his good humour was
always welcome and although his admin responsibilities,
always volunteer, played a bigger part in later years; he
remained the racers’ racer.”
Earlier in his career, Harry played a significant role in
the formation and operation of the South Australian
“While it has certainly seen better days, the original ‘Dirty
Harry’ is still around today and his ‘Dirty Harry MKII’
project with friends Romano and Michael Puntin debuted
at the Mildura Nostalgia Nationals just a few months
ago,” Harry’s son Steven White explains.