Bruce McLaren Scrapbook – A Pictorial Celebration of a Kiwi Legend
By Jan McLaren and Richard Becht
Bruce McLaren was the sporting, smiling and human face and founder of the team that has now morphed into that which competes in modern Formula One racing under the frosty corporate banner Vodafone McLaren Mercedes Formula 1 team and an antonym of all he established.
The Bruce McLaren Scrapbook is a pictorial anthology of his short, action-packed life from his early childhood when he was struck down with a crippling disease at age 10, to the conqueror of all things motorsport from Austin Seven Ulster to Grand Prix and Can-Am domination, all done with the most modest of attitude and conduct. This collection of personal and family memorabilia includes more than 600 many previously unpublished photographs and press clippings—meticulously cataloged into a fine pictorial publication by younger sister Jan McLaren and writer and journalist Richard Becht. Bruce McLaren had extraordinary talents as an engineer, designer, inventor and, of course, a remarkable driver. In 1959, he became the world’s youngest, and New Zealand’s first, F1 Grand Prix winner—a record that stood until a certain Sebastian Vettel won the 2008 Italian Grand Prix. It was at Goodwood motor racing circuit, some 11 years after that historic win that tragedy struck and robbed motor racing of a true great, who epitomized the glory days of the sport. In that short time, he had lived and achieved more than most would do over several lifetimes.
The book is an anthem to Bruce’s vitality and spirit, and cannot help but transport the reader back to a bygone era. It’s a must have book for all who have had a long-time love affair with motor racing in its purest form.
Hardcover, 256 pages. NZ$59.99 (approx US$48.00)
