This is an autobiography by a man who enjoyed what many would describe as the perfect job. A talented mechanical engineer, Horsman worked first for Aston Martin under the legendary leadership of John Wyer on such projects as the DP214. After Aston Martin, Horsman moved to Ford Advanced Vehicles where he worked on the famous Ford GT40 and Mirage sports prototypes under the J. W. Automotive Engineering banner before J.W.A. was hired by Porsche to manage the official factory team.
The J.W.A. and Gulf Oils partnership that was forged during this time became the team to beat, due in no small part to their brilliant racing strategies and dedication to the task. Horsman did not act alone, but was central to the achievements of the teams he worked for, enabling many good drivers to reach their full potential.
Part of the success of this book is down to the use of a great number of private and previously unpublished photographs which Horsman has obviously treasured for many years. These period photos offer the reader a rare and privileged insight into the world of motorsport and behind the scenes prototype testing and development.
During the unforgettable and heady days of motorsport in the 1960/70s, progress was constant across all facets of the sport due to advances in materials, mechanical matters and a greater understanding of aerodynamics. Not only did Horsman perform this duty admirably with a much smaller team than today, but he also kept very detailed notes which have made this book a possibility. The events are well recalled and presented in such a way that transports the reader back to those golden days of racing and you just can’t help smiling as you read those early racing accounts. This book is a must for the discerning motorsport buff.
Key information
Subtitle: My Years With Brilliant Drivers, Legendary Sports Cars, And A Dedicated Team
Author: John Horsman
Publisher: David Bull Publishing, Phoenix, Arizona
ISBN: 1-893618-71-4
Format: Hardback, 415 Pages, 214mm X 230mm
Written by: Glen Smale
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