50/50:
The Story of Champion Race Car Driver John Paul Jr. and His Battle with Huntington’s Disease
By Sylvia Wilkinson
Initially described as “hopeless” by a professional driving instructor, John Paul Jr.’s driving career began in 1979 driving Formula Fords. The following year he joined his controversial father’s racing team as co-driver in the IMSA series. After only two years of competing, John Paul Jr. started the 1982 season with back-to-back wins at Daytona and Sebring, and by the end of the season, he had clinched the championship at the age of 22 becoming IMSA’s youngest champion. He won the Michigan 500 CART race in 1983, followed by a second place finish at Le Mans in 1984. Additionally, John Paul Jr competed in the Indianapolis 500 seven times.
Symptoms of the neuro-degenerative disorder Huntington’s disease began to appear at age 39, and John Paul Jr. began his fight against this deadly disease. This book chronicles John Paul Jr.’s life story and his battle with Huntington’s. Sadly, John Paul Jr. passed away in December of 2020.
Proceeds from this book will go to funds dedicated to fighting Huntington’s disease.
***Signed editions available***
- Price: US$40.00
- Publisher: High Desert Press
- Language: English
- Hardcover: 148 pages
- Dimensions: 7.25 x 0.5 x 9.25 inches
