Categories: F1 News, Reports and Race ResultsMcLaren

Ron Dennis pays tribute to Patty McLaren

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Patty McLaren, the widow of McLaren founder Bruce McLaren passed away today.

McLaren Technology Group Chairman and CEO, Ron Dennis, paid tribute to the life of a women who played an instrumental role in encouraging and supporting her husband and his extraordinary achievements.

"It was with great sadness that I heard the news that Patty McLaren, the widow of our company's founder Bruce, had passed away.

"Patty was a wonderful woman, and, over the 46 years that have elapsed since Bruce's death in a testing accident at Goodwood in the summer of 1970, she has always remained close to the company that bears her husband's name.

"She was especially resolute in the period immediately after Bruce's accident, inspiring 'my boys', as she used to refer to the men who made up the grief-stricken team, not only to keep McLaren alive but also to make it successful.

"We have therefore lost not only a great lady but also a direct link to our company's origins.

"On behalf of all 3000 of us at McLaren, I therefore pay tribute to Patty and offer our heartfelt condolences to her family and many friends.

"May she rest in peace."

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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.