Categories: Look backRace and classic pictures

A midget amongst the giants

Believe it or not this little piece of machinery actually competed in the US Grand Prix at Sebring in 1959. And it was driven by a man born on this day in 1921, a true superstar of American racing's golden age: Rodger Ward. Often labeled as the greatest oval racer of all time, a two-time winner of the Indy 500, Ward decided to measure himself against the cream of the crop of Grand Prix racing. In Florida he qualified his nimble but under-powered Kurtis Kraft sprint car last. On race day, the great driver's efforts were fruitless but spectacular as he drifted his way around the airfield's bumpy turns. A clutch failure eventually forced him out. Although a tactical misjudgment, his attempt to challenge F1's front-runners was certainly a testimony to his boldness and determination.

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.