Race and classic pictures

A big 'personal moment' for Mario

They say that good things come in pairs, which is why after yesterday's 'Pic of the Day' that featured Mario Andretti, we couldn't resist adding another 'big moment' enjoyed by the F1 legend this weekend at Goodwood.

In 1954, 14-year-old twins Mario and Aldo Andretti found their way to Monza and sneaked under the park's fences near the Parabolica to watch their idol Alberto Ascari – and a plethora of great champions – do battle in the Italian Grand Prix.

The sights and sounds bestowed upon the two teenagers that day ignited a passion that would guide their existence and endeavors in life. And for Mario, that passion burns just as strongly today as it did back then.

On Saturday at Goodwood, the 1978 F1 World Champion came full circle when he ran up the hill at the wheel of Ascari's 1954 Ferrari 625.

"A big personal moment for me @fosgoodwood is driving Alberto Ascari’s car," tweeted Super Mario. "He was my absolute idol. I fell in love with racing watching him drive this car. This made my day."

Just like Mario himself has made the day of so many of his own admirers in the past.

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.