Race and classic pictures

The days of innocence of four kids with a dream

 

It's an old fuzzy picture, but it's hard not to tear up when looking at this shot of young karters Anthoine Hubert, Charles Leclerc, Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly.

As a tight-knit group of 8-year-olds, they played together, raced together and likely indulged in mischief together, laughing their hearts out along the way.

Spurred on by their dreams and passion, they shot for the moon. And Charles, Esteban and Pierre landed among the stars, where they patiently awaited Anthoine's arrival, all set to rekindle their childhood flock.

Whatever innocence was retained over the years by the gifted few was hopelessly lost in last Saturday's tragedy. But their memories of Antoine Hubert will endlessly survive.

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.

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