James "Hap" Sharp Born In Tulsa, Oklahoma - January 1, 1928

January 1, 1928 - May 7, 1993

James "Hap" Sharp

Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA.

Sharp drove in six Formula One grands prix. He was best known as co-owner and driver of the revolutionary Chaparral sports racing cars built by Jim Hall and Sharp in Midland, Texas. In 1962 Jim Hall and Hap Sharp formed Chaparral Cars, Inc. and immediately began the design and construction of Chaparral 2, a mid-engined car with an aerospace inspired semi-monocoque fiberglass chassis.

Sharp retired from driving after the 1965 season, with two exceptions. Sharp drove a Chaparral 2E in the 1966 Nassau Trophy race, and substituted for Mike Spence driving the Chaparral 2F in the 1967 Targa Florio.

His nickname "Hap" came from "Happy New Year", in connection with his date of birth. At the time of his death he was running a cattle ranch in Argentina. He had been suffering from personal problems and tragically committed suicide after being told he was terminally ill.

(Photo; diecastxchange.com)

Chaparral 2/2C #65 - Hap Sharp Winner - 1965 L.A. Times Grand Prix.