Race and classic pictures

Bottas back on the top step of the podium!

It's been a successful summer break for Valtteri Bottas who returned to the top step of the podium last weekend at Steamboat Springs, Colorado.

The Finn and his better half, pro-cyclist Tiffany Cromwell, both entered the famous SBT GRVL world-class gravel cycling event held on "the greatest gravel roads on Earth" in and around Steamboat Springs.

Participants are grouped by age, but competitors also have a choice of courses.

Bottas, a took part in the race for the first time last year, finished 4th overall on the event's 60-mile Red Course that includes 3,600 ft of climbing but 1st in his age group, while Tiffany Cromwell clocked in 7th overall on the 100-mile Blue Course but first female contestant!

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.