Random Photo Thread IV

Niki Lauda - Brno 1972

 

Talbot Sunbeam Lotus

 

We lost a legend in the car preparation business this week.

A words from Ari:

David Sutton 1940 - 2021.
The picture is faded but the memories are not.
This picture sums up how much I owe David.
It was taken after Clocaenog, the last stage in the 1981 Lombard RAC Rally.
After our roller coaster season, only then did we believe that we would win the World Championship.
An endless suspense was over. Huge joy and relief is seen on our faces!
David's trust in me had finally paid off.
David ran his private team from a little garage in Acton, in the middle of London, with Jill and a few faithful mechanics.
It was a real David and Goliath operation. Spirit made up for what we lacked materially.
David lived and breathed rallying.
“I have found some money, let's go do an extra rally!"
He was always optimistic and his contagious smile disarmed you.
"The next rally will be a good one for us".
Long dinner evenings at the Sutton's house are something I still cherish today.
David would tell another story with a wide smile: "but this will stay between these four walls".
David was a warm character because he believed it could be done.
People like him can move mountains.
With David's and Hannu's close departures we witness the end of a golden era.
Thank you David and Hannu.





Best known for preparing the Escort of Ari Vatanen and Dave Richards, which won the 1981 World Rally Championship Drivers’ title. It was the first time a private team - David Sutton Motorsport - had ever won the WRC. He passed away after a long battle with cancer.




He then went on to run Audis on the British Championship, for the likes of Mikkola, Blomqvist and Mouton. 1983 being the highlight, when Stig Blomqvist won the British title outright and topped it off by winning the RAC Rally.