When Senna's gain was matched by his pain

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It took Ayrton Senna until 1991 to win his home Grand Prix. But what looked like an easy and casual Sunday drive from the outside on this day 35 years ago was in reality a heroic effort by the great Brazilian.

And one which many still view as the greatest moment of his career.

When the gearbox of Senna's McLaren gave up the ghost with six laps remaining, the Brazilian's commanding lead over Williams' Riccardo Patrese just melted away.

However, Senna gave it his all and succeeded in crossing the line as the day's victor, letting out a burst of screaming relief.

The celebratory sambas had broken out but Senna was so exhausted and drained that he required help to lift himself from his car.

On the podium, the incessant clamor instilled just enough energy to enable Brazil's favourite son to lift the gleaming trophy above his aching shoulders.

It had been a magnificent triumph however, and perhaps the greatest moment in Ayrton Senna's extraordinary career.

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.