Early years
He was born on February 12, 1900 in Jamestown, North Dakota. Father, Frederick Augustus Roberts and Mother, Ruby Lenore Roberts. Around 1920 Roberts moved to California. A story in the Van Nuys News reports that Floyd Roberts married Miss Edna Vincent after a surprise shower for the couple on 18 September 1925. In 1924, prior to his marriage, he was already becoming known in auto racing circles. He raced at the Ascot Speedway in California and participated in a series of races in Hawaii.1938 Indianapolis 500
In qualifying, Roberts won the pole in his Burd Piston Ring Special, entered by car owner Lou Moore, at a record qualifying speed of 125.681 mph. At that time he had not won a major championship race in his 22-year career. He was quoted as saying, "My luck has always run in cycles. Now it's running good and I'll win." During the race, Roberts and Wilbur Shaw, in gasoline-powered cars, fell behind several alcohol-fueled machines. When the latter cars had to pit for fuel before the petrol entries, Roberts first took the lead. He made his only pit stop for gas and a tire change at about 300 miles, and relinquished the lead to Jimmy Snyder (racing driver), Jimmy Snyder. 75 miles later, Snyder came in a third time for more methanol, and Roberts, pulling away from Shaw, re-took a lead he would not give up again. He came home with a record average speed of over 117 mph. His share of winnings totaled $38,000. Owner Moore said, "Floyd has always wanted to retire to a farm as soon as he had enough money. I am hoping he will."1939
At the 1939 Indianapolis 500 Roberts was on lap 106, when the car driven by Bob Swanson (racing driver), Bob Swanson lost control and went sideways. Roberts' car struck Swanson's causing Swanson's car to flip over and catch fire ejecting Swanson. Roberts' car went over the outer wall, through a fence and headfirst into a tree. Attempting to avoid the accident, Chet Miller swerved into the debris field. His car flipped, and went into the inner wall. Two spectators were also injured by flying debris. The three drivers were taken to hospitals, while it took over 30 minutes to clear the burning wreck of Swanson's car from the track. Roberts died instantly due to a broken neck, among other injuries. His death was announced before the race was completed.Indianapolis 500 results
See also
*List of Indianapolis 500 deaths, List of fatalities at IndianapolisReferences
1900 births 1939 deaths Champ Car champions Racing drivers from North Dakota Racing drivers who died while racing Indianapolis 500 drivers Indianapolis 500 polesitters Indianapolis 500 winners People from Jamestown, North Dakota Burials at Oakwood Memorial Park Cemetery Sports deaths in Indiana AAA Championship Car drivers {{US-autoracing-bio-stub