Strong as timber, remembering Uncle Ken

Legendary F1 team owner Ken Tyrrell passed away on this day in 2001.

The man who discovered Jackie Stewart ran his team in the early days from the family's timber business woodshed.

Tyrrell's blue cars were anchored to the front of F1's grid in the late 60s and early 70s, taking 23 wins and bringing Stewart all three of his world titles.

"Ken was the most important person in my life outside my family," once said the great Scot.

"Without Ken Tyrrell, I would not be where I am today."

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.