Michael Satterfield
Over
the years, I had the honor of meeting countless racers and legends from
the golden age of motorsports, at events like SEMA, the Legends of
Riverside, or historic racing events. I had the pleasure of meeting
Carroll Shelby several times and every time was a joy. A few years ago
at the Legends of Riverside, myself and group gathered got to listen to
Shelby unplugged and unedited talking about the career that made him a
legend.
Long before we started M&P Speed Apparel and became a Shelby
Licensee, I was just a high school kid working part time for a Mustang
shop in Ontario, California, dreaming of GT350’s and Cobras. That fueled
my passion to work in the automotive industry, and in 2003 I met Mr.
Shelby for the first time at the Ford 100th Anniversary in
Dearborn. I think I said something profound like “Wow it’s an honor to
meet you” he shook my hand in passing and just said “thank you” as the
crowds all pushed in around trying to meet him. At the SEMA show a few
years later, I was giving an interview for a radio station that was
broadcasting from the show. The booth was above the Ford booth and
Carroll and his entourage were waiting taking a break from the crowds,
he was kind and we had a short conversation about the new Shelby
Mustangs that were on display in the Ford booth. Every interaction I had
with him was a great one, he was always warm, kind, and magnanimous to
me. So many people say, “don’t meet your heroes” but with Mr. Shelby
nothing could be further from the truth.
When we had the opportunity to work with Shelby Licensing, I was excited
that a small company like ours would have a chance to work with the
legendary racer. The staff at Shelby Licensing was excited about our
line and unique heritage style. Like with all of our products we put a
lot of time and effort into reproducing authentic Shelby style. Today we
all mourn the loss of an automotive icon, a world changer, and a man
that was unwilling to compromise on his vision.
The entire staff of M&P Speed Apparel is saddened by the loss, and
our hearts and prayers are with his family and friends. We hope that in
some small way we can help carry on the spirit of Carroll Shelby.
Michael Satterfield
CEO/ Founder
M&P Speed Apparel
