A thought for Ayrton…

©McLaren

For many, a visit to Imola often entails a short walk through the Parco delle Acque Minerali to a special place, where one of F1's greatest legends sits in solemn silence.

The memorial dedicated to the memory of Ayrton Senna stands just a few hundred yards from Tamburello, the very spot where the great Brazilian died on May 1st, 1994.

Senna's thoughtful demeanor, remarkably crafted by artist Stefano Pierotti, inspires one to pause and reflect on what may have been. Or perhaps on one's own mortality.

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.