Steve Saleen starts racing Formula Atlantic, in a March 76B. Steve Saleen won the Southern California championship and also set numerous track records. Due to his ability and speed on the track, Steve earns the new nickname of “GAS-SALEEN”.
Steve continues to progress in the Super Vee Series by adding more aerodynamics to his Tui AM29.
In 1975 Steve switched from closed wheel to open wheel series and joined the Super Vee Series, in a Tui AM29. Steve picks up the name “Kid Saleen” from the movie Cat Ballou starring Lee Marvin.
Steve was the runner up in the Southern California B Production Championship with his second generation metallic blue over white Fastback Mustang. He began his professional competition career as well.
Steve forgets he has 1200lbs of dog food in his Mustang and blows the clutch drag racing an El Camino onto the Glendale freeway!