A young hopeful and his idol meet for the first time

Our thoughts are once again with Michael Schumacher today on the seven-time world champion's 54th birthday.

Back in 1999, a burgeoning young talent by the name of Sebastian Vettel had blitzed a field of karters at the Schumacher family's track in Kerpen, and little 'Seb' was duly congratulated by the F1 legend.

Their paths would naturally cross again years later, but this time at the pinnacle of motorsport.

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.