New Book Explores First 20 Years of the IMSA

By S.J. Bryan - January 21, 2019

**In 1969, the IMSA entered the world of pro racing and changed the landscape of the sport. Now, IMSA 1969-1989 captures that fascinating early history.**

Next month, a new coffee table book will be released that tells the exciting origins of the International Motor Sports Association (IMSA). Octane Press’ IMSA 1969-1989: The Inside Story of how John Bishop Built the World’s Greatest Sports Car Racing Series boasts unprecedented access to the IMSA’s early years.

The book was written by John Bishop‘s son, Mitch Bishop, and Mark Raffauf. John Bishop put together the IMSA in 1969 with his wife Peggy and NASCAR’s Bill France, Sr. From the IMSA’s auspicious beginnings, a mighty motorsport organization emerged. But it was a long and hard road.

The book includes hundreds of vivid and rare photographs that document the IMSA’s history.

The authors interviewed several the famed drivers, team owners, race car builders, and notable personalities from this era. IMSA 1969-1989 gives readers an extraordinary and unique look at the IMSA and the sport.

IMSA’s history is a fascinating. The story of this professional racing organization shows how automotive passion and a strong vision helped the IMSA overcome many obstacles, and the many twists and turns it took on the road to success.

This book is not only a great read, but also a beautiful coffee table book with amazing images. It not only tells the fascinating story of the IMSA’s first 20 years, but also weaves in a relatable and compelling human element. You learn about the sport, the people, and how the IMSA reached success through perseverance, ingenuity, strong guiding principles, and a deep respect for the sport.