For many people, the 1960s and 1970s may have faded into history but for those who lived through the period, it seems just a few years ago. Back then, in the niche world of motor racing, there was still the aura of ‘enthusiastic amateurism’ about the sport.
Looking back at the photographs of the time, such as the one published here, it seems inconceivable that a professional front-running team such as Gold Leaf Team Lotus would be prepared to work on their Formula 3 cars in a cold, windswept field on the outer reaches of the Brands Hatch paddock; today, an enclosed garage with all necessary amenities, well away from the public, would be a minimum requirement. For some. This may be a good thing but for many, something has been lost.
Happily tolerating their working conditions, the Team Lotus mechanics are seen here working on the Lotus 59 F3 car of Roy Pike (standing centre right) who keeps an eye on proceedings. Roy was a very capable American driver who made the move to the UK in the hope of progressing to Formula 1 but, apart from one unsuccessful F1 entry, he failed to progress from Formula 3. His car is being prepared for a round of the MCD Lombard British Formula 3 Championship held on 3rd August 1969 where Roy came home third. The race was won by Bev Bond and second was a promising young driver from Brazil by the name of Emerson Fittipaldi.
From the book ‘Moments in Motorsport’ by Trevor Legate
