There have been coaster races in Bisbee on the Fourth of July for over 90 years, and the steep curves down Tombstone Canyon have dashed many a driver's hope for victory. This race on July 4, 1977 was only the second year since adults had once again been allowed to race following a serious accident in the '50s. The 1 3/4 mile course had 16 turns, and speed was determined by gravity, the driver's weight and skills. Speeds could reach 40 mph. Tragedy again struck the event in 1980 when a woman and her 5-year-old son were killed when a race car skidded out of control and slammed into a group of spectators. The race was discontinued for several years and when it resumed in 1993, drivers could not be over 16 years of age.

TOM BEAL / ARIZONA DAILY STAR 1977