A laborious run up the hill for Clark at Ollons-Villars

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Up until 2017, when Zurich hosted a round of the Formula E series, motor racing was banned in Switzerland, a restriction imposed after the horrendous tragedy at Le Mans in 1955.

However, while no circuit racing was allowed in the Swiss Confederation during this period, hill climbs continued to take place in the country, and Ollon-Villars was its most famous run-up-the-hill venue, and one which always attracted big names.

On this day in 1965, F1 legend Jimmy Clark tackled the scenic and twisty 4.9-mile climb, but the Scot failed to make much of an impression behind the wheel of his very unsuited and rather overpowered Indy-winning Lotus-Ford 38.

The car's cumbersome handling was complemented by a misfiring engine, both of which left Clark well down the order after his timed run.

However, the organizer's generous hand-out to the Scot for appearing at the event made the whole hassle well worth the trip!

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.