Gary Gabelich, an accomplished driver and engineer, piloted the Blue Flame to set an extraordinary land speed record. The vehicle, a rocket-powered automobile, was designed for optimal performance, featuring a unique aerodynamic shape and powered by a combination of natural gas and liquid oxygen, propelling it to unprecedented speeds. Built by a team at the California Institute of Technology, the Blue Flame represented a significant advancement in automotive technology, emphasizing the potential of rocket propulsion outside of traditional spacecraft.

On a dry lake bed in the Alvord Desert in California, the Blue Flame made its record-setting run, where the flat terrain allowed for a smooth ride that was crucial for achieving such high speeds. Gabelich's successful attempt was the culmination of rigorous research and engineering, showcasing the dedication of a team committed to breaking barriers in automotive speed. The vehicle itself was a marvel of engineering, integrating both speed and fuel efficiency to achieve its goals.

The official speed recorded on the two-way average was an impressive 622.407 mph (1,005.85 km/h), setting a new benchmark in land speed records at the time. Gabelich’s achievement not only brought attention to rocket-powered vehicles but also inspired future innovations in both automotive racing and rocket technology. The Blue Flame became a symbol of human ingenuity and the relentless pursuit of speed and performance.