"Where it all began..."

John "The Flying Mailman" Zell
by S.A.F.E.R. Staff

When the Figure 8 cars hit the track each night for the past 30 years, one of the most popular drivers with both the fans and fellow racers  alike, was John 'The Flying Mailman" Zell. With his easy going nature off the track and hard charging desire on the track, John was one of the most popular men to ever strap behind the wheel of a Figure 8 race car. A winner of four feature events over his 30 years in the sport, "The Flying Mailman" was a cornerstone of the division. When somebody needed help, you could always count on John Zell to help. Although he may not have won racing in a quantity over the years, John Zell won something else in the quantity beyond his greatest expectations. He won the friendship and respect of his fellow racers and race fans alike.

Reprinted from 1996 SAFER Yearbook