Categories: Look backRace and classic pictures

Happy Birthday to the Captain!

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Roger Penske is 79 years old today. Or perhaps we should say 79 years young? A walking conglomerate, with interests in hundreds of automotive-related companies, his heart and soul remain firmly entrenched in racing. Almost every other Sunday, the 'Captain' - like most insiders like to call him - can be found on the pit wall of an American race track somewhere, surveying his team and drivers, devising race strategies and getting the job of winning done. Many forget that Penske was once a very good driver who even raced twice in the US Grand Prix. Here he is back in 1962, at the wheel of his Lotus-Climax in a non-championship round in Mexico.

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.