The Farnham Flyer Artwork
Artist Chris Phillips pays tribute to his boyhood hero Mike Hawthorn.
John Michael Hawthorn, the “Farnham Flyer” to his countrymen and “Le Papillon” to the French (because of his habit of racing in a bowtie), was England’s first World Champion racing driver. Hawthorn sprang to prominence in 1952 driving a Cooper-Bristol and excellent placings in the underpowered car against Continental opposition brought him to the attention of Enzo Ferrari. Joining the Ferrari team in 1953 the 6′ 2″, blond Englishman justified Enzo’s selection by audaciously besting Fangio in the French GP at Reims following a race long duel.
