McLaren from the Inside
Photographs by Tyler Alexander
If ever there were a book truly from the “inside” of motor racing, this could be it. In the summer of 1962, Tyler Alexander wandered into the shop where Timmy Mayer’s FJ Cooper was being prepared, seeking a ride to the next race so he could take photographs. He was essentially drafted into the team once Timmy’s older brother Teddy discovered the shooter had studied aircraft engineering and possessed, among his may skills, the ability to weld aluminum.
In 1963, Alexander went to England to help John Mecom field the Cooper Zerex Special—the car that became, effectively, the first McLaren—for Roger Penske. His relationship with the Mayers brought him into contact with Bruce McLaren and led to him becoming a founder of Team McLaren, where his tenure would last decades. All the while, however, when Tyler would put down his wrenches, he would pick up his camera, enjoying unfettered access to everything around him. As you will see from the many potent images in this book, he did not squander the opportunity.
His captions add factual detail to the illumination provided by the images, and make this book a must-have for those who appreciate motor sport at its core.
Available for US$49.95/£35.00 from enthusiast bookstores or direct from publisher David Bull at www.bullpublishing.com
