Bob Burman, 1913 Indy 500

Bob Burman leads Charlie Merz at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 1913. Burman drove a Keeton racer from the Keeton Motor Company - a largely forgotten manufacturer today. Jules Goux dominated the race, and Burman was his only serious challenger in terms of pace. An engine fire forced a protracted stop for repairs and put him hopelessly behind. Goux was the leader of an impressive roster of European entries in his French Peugeot and many Americans treated Burman as their favorite son. 
 
As for Merz, he and his riding mechanic Harry Martin delivered one of the most dramatic finishes in the entire history of the "500" when their Stutz racer crossed the finish line third after driving the last lap with their car ablaze due to an oil-fueled engine fire. Martin stood up in the car to lean forward and beat the flames with his jacket. Unfortunately, Martin lost his life at the Speedway while testing approximately one month later. Spencer Wishart drove his Mercer to the runner-up spot.
 
Forest Keeton was the founder of Keeton Motor Company and was present at the 1913 Indianapolis 500. The Keeton racer took its design and styling cues from Renault cars of the era, such as the winner of the first French Grand Prix in 1906. Thanks to the Paul Sheedy collection for submitting this image.