Yahoo Autos Jungle Pam Hardy: The Eye-Popping Icon of Funny Car Drag Racing
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In the niche world of Funny Car drag racing, one duo stood out: Jim Liberman, known as “Jungle Jim,” and his sidekick and partner, Pam Hardy, or “Jungle Pam.” Their combined appeal – Jim's racing prowess and Pam's striking presence – brought unprecedented attention to their sport. Sadly, Jim's untimely death at 31 left Jungle Pam to navigate life without her beloved partner. But what became of Jungle Pam, the once heartthrob of drag racing?
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Pam Hardy, an 18-year-old from Pennsylvania, had no prior knowledge of Funny Car drag racing until she met Jim Liberman. Their chance encounter led to a partnership that revolutionized the sport. Jungle Pam’s role evolved from merely positioning Jim’s car at the starting line to a more integral team member, checking for leaks and ensuring the car was race-ready. Her attire, often revealing due to the hot sun on the tracks, inadvertently drew a fan following more for her looks than the cars themselves. This not only skyrocketed Jim's career but also significantly popularized the sport.
