1 Manny 1954
Manny Ayulo at Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 1954. (Bob Gates Collection photo)

Manny Ayulo’s Unusual Path To Indy

At a time when most race car drivers were a rough-and-tumble bunch – with blue-collar backgrounds, greasy fingernails and oily clothes – Manuel Leaonedas Ayulo was a bit of an oddity.

Manny, as he came to be known, was born in Burbank, Calif., in 1922 to aristocratic Peruvian diplomat Don Manuel Ayulo and his American wife. 

Supervised by a governess, Ayulo traveled the world as a youngster, enjoying all the privileges his wealthy family provided. He attended numerous L.A. private schools before graduating from Hollywood High.

After graduation, Ayulo’s future seemed unlimited. He was a world traveler, a VIP in political circles and, with his father’s connections, had found minor roles in several films. 

However, a world miles removed from his sheltered existence allured him. The world of cars – fast cars and cool cars.

By his 16th birthday, Ayulo was embroiled in the L.A. hot rod scene. World War II interrupted pursuit of his passion, as he became a pilot with the Army Air Corps. But, when the hostilities ceased, Ayulo built a Ford roadster and raced it regularly in events at what was then known as Muroc Dry Lake.

 

Read more…

THIS ARTICLE IS ACCESSIBLE TO INSIDERS ONLY…

SPEED SPORT Insider is the ad-free premium extension of SPEEDSPORT.com. Insider is dedicated to the best and brightest in motorsports journalism – created by the best writers, photographers and reporters in the business. From veteran Hall of Fame writers like Bones Bourcier, Dave Argabright, Pat Sullivan, Keith Waltz, Ralph Sheheen and Editor in Chief Mike Kerchner, to behind the scenes SPEED SPORT reporters like David Hoffman, Nathan Solomon and more.

By subscribing to Insider, you not only get exclusive access to this premium content, but you support the journalists that are vital to telling the stories that matter most. Subscriptions are just $5/mo or $44.95 for an entire year. View plans and details.

SPECIAL OFFER! Subscribe now with this link and save $5.00!

Insider Logo2