Sir Stirling Moss becomes Patron of Chelsea AutoLegends
One of the most famous racing drivers of all time, Sir Stirling Moss OBE, is to be the Patron of 2011 Chelsea AutoLegends, London’s unique gathering of some of the world’s most desirable competition, classic and supercars.
After a hugely successful debut in 2010, the capital’s premier automotive event returns to the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea on Sunday 4th September.
This year’s highlights include an even greater line up of the finest racing and road cars from the past and present… and there’ll be a special focus on the Swinging Sixties.
“We are deeply honoured that Sir Stirling has agreed to be our official Patron for 2011 Chelsea AutoLegends,” said Eric Verdon-Roe, Chairman of Chelsea AutoLegends.
“Quite apart from his remarkable racing record, he’s lived all his life in London, so a high-profile automotive showcase set in the capital city couldn’t have a more esteemed or appropriate figurehead. Stirling was also an integral part of the Swinging Sixties…”
“Mini Coopers, mini skirts, E-types, the Beatles… those really were the days,” recalls Sir Stirling. “Where better to celebrate car culture from the Swinging Sixties than right in the heart of Chelsea, close to the King’s Road?
“I’m sure the spectacular displays planned for this year’s Chelsea AutoLegends will be a genuine trip down memory lane for those of my generation, and a place where history comes alive for those a little younger,” he adds.
This is not the great man’s first visit to Chelsea AutoLegends. “I was lucky enough to be asked to open last year’s event at the Royal Hospital and couldn’t believe the fantastic cars on show.
“I said it then, and I’ll say it again, London is the best city in the world and it deserves an amazing automotive festival like this… even more so as it’s helping to raise much-needed funds for the Chelsea Pensioners.”
Moss’ role as Patron is all the more apposite as several of the cars he raced will form part of a special tribute to notable British private entrants who successfully took the fight to the top factory Formula 1 and GT teams during the 1960s.
Among the illustrious cars being displayed is the wonderful Rob Walker-entered Ferrari 250GT SWB in which Moss won the 1961 Tourist Trophy at Goodwood.
“Although I never raced for Ferrari in Formula 1 – I vowed never to drive for Enzo Ferrari after he messed me around early in my career – I did have success in Ferraris run by private entrants like the great Rob Walker.
“Rob was a true gentleman and a real enthusiast. But he was also a damn good team manager and our win together at the Goodwood TT was one of the highlights of my career. I am delighted that Chelsea AutoLegends is honoring Rob, and some of the other British private entrants, at this year’s event. Without people like Rob Walker, motor racing in the 1960s just wouldn’t have been the same.”
Tickets for this year’s Chelsea AutoLegends are now on sale either via the event’s website ChelseaAutoLegends.com. Those pre-booking can take advantage of considerable savings with adult tickets priced at £15 in advance rather than £20 on the gate. Underlining the event’s family entertainment values, accompanied children aged under 12 will be admitted free of charge.
