'Lights out and away we go' in Long Beach

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On this day in 1981, it was 'lights out and away we go' at the US Grand Prix West at Long Beach, the opening round of the F1 season back then.

Arrows' Riccardo Patrese, starting from pole for the first time in his career, led the field down to Cook's corner and valiantly held his own at the front for 24 laps until the Italian driver's efforts were thwarted by an engine issue.

Williams' Carlos Reutemann picked up the baton but the Argentine was overhauled in short order by teammate Alan Jones who took command and never looked back to score a Williams 1-2 at the checkered flag, with future 1981 world champion Nelson Piquet completing the podium for Brabham.

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.