Vale Sir Jack Brabham

[blind_elk]

Sir Jack Brabham, Australian motorsport icon, died this morning.

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-05-19/sir-jack-brabham-3-time-formula-one-world-drivers-champion-dies/5461332

Brabham was a 3 time F1 world champion, and remains the only driver to win the world championship in a car of his own design.

[Yo-Yo]

he's finally made his final pit stop. R.I.P to a true legend

[GTR-N1]

Absolutely! And Ron his codesigner of the brilliant rear engine is in failing health too I think.

[djr81]

Terry, Ron tauranac did not design Coopers.

Another Ron, Ron Dennisis spot on:

"The word 'legend' is often used to describe successful sportsmen, but often it exaggerates their status. In the case of Sir Jack Brabham, however, it's entirely justified," said Dennis.

"A three-time Formula 1 world champion, he remains the only driver to win a Formula 1 world championship driving a car bearing his own name - a unique achievement that will surely never be matched.

"When I started out in Formula 1 in the late 1960s, I worked first for Cooper and then for Brabham. Even as a callow youth, I could recognise greatness when I saw it, and I'll always regard it as an honour and a privilege to have worked for Sir Jack. I learned a lot from him too.

"So, on behalf of all at McLaren, I'd like to pay tribute to one of the most illustrious names in motor racing history, and above all to extend heartfelt condolences to Sir Jack's widow Margaret and his three sons Geoff, David and Gary.

"Sir Jack Brabham, legend, RIP."

[GTR-N1]

Thanks! More info and accolades the better!

I'd like to know what role Ron Tauranac had to play as well? He was asked to join Sir Jack in Europe eh?

[djr81]

Well the short answer is he designed the Brabham (MRD) cars. Then the RALT's that won so much.

http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/f1/history/sir-jack-brabham-1926-2014/

http://rontauranac.com.au/

A hard, hard man. But enormously talented universally respected.

If you want to read about it I can recommend these two books:

http://www.pitstop.net.au/products/the-jack-brabham-story/

http://www.pitstop.net.au/products/brabham-ralt-honda--the-ron-tauranac-story/

Edited May 20, 2014 by djr81

[GTR-N1]

Ta heaps. Will seek.