5th September - Jochen Rindt

[jacobyte]

With F1 going to Italy this weekend, spare a thought for Jochen Rindt, as it was 37 years ago today that he was killed in practice for the Monza GP.

Also, he won the championship that year (posthumously, of course)

[woof]

that was a tragic year - Piers Courage died at the dutch GP as well - one of Rindt's closest friends

RIP

[Hut49]

I'm stunned to recall that it was 37 years ago - it was my first real exposure to the horror that can rapidly transform motorsport from emotionally exciting to emotionally devastating in the blink of an eye. RIP Jochen

[Dunit]

I remember that year as one of the last races he had in the 49 was at Monaco before Colin gave him the 72. His chase of Jack Brabham over the last ten laps was one of the best ,Breaking the lap record on nearly every lap he forced Jack into a mistake on the last corner to snatch it.
His accident at Monza was thought to have been caused by a snapped driveshaft to the inboard front brakes causing the car to turn straight into the G/rail.
Because of the wedge shape of the 72 the car went under the rail at 150 mph stopping in about 5 feet . The G force must have been something else .
One of the true greats and a gentleman.

[skeggysteve]

Thanks for reminding me.

Like others I an staggered that it is 37 years ago - hell am I that old...yes!

Jochen's death was my introduction to the real world of F1.
I can remember it like it was yesterday.
Reading the back page of some newspaper at school.
These days I would have been offered counseling.
All I remember was a teacher talking/helping to me - thanks Doug.

I went to see my first F1 GP at Brands in July of that year and will never get out of my memory the sight of Jochen
drifting his Lotus around Clearways, steering with his right foot.

Jochen Rindt is responsible for turning me into an F1/motor racing fan.

So thanks Jochen and RIP.

[ISL Steve]

Gone , but never forgotten.

S

[rude-boy]

RIP.

I was lucky enough to spend half a day with Nina his widow a number of years ago at the Essen Motor Show. A very interesting man who died doing what he loved and whose memory still lives strong in those who loved him.

[central]

37 years! I can *just* remember it.

RIP

[ph123]

Yep, no question; this guy was one of the greatest racers you could ever have seen. Right up there with Bellof. Naturally charismatic, hugely fast and car control out of this world. Probably my choice for No.1 .