Marcel Haan reviews the book 'A concise history of the North American Racing Team' by Terry O’Neil. Since the start in 1957, N.A.R.T. has played an important role.
After my last book review on The Dino, I received a new publication from Veloce Publishing, who are known for their excellent automotive books. I had asked Veloce Publishing if they had books which would fit in with our Ferrari theme month and did not expect a book, which is based on the history of racing in North America, to be filled with Ferrari’s. What a welcome surprise!
I learned a lot from reading N.A.R.T. A Concise history of the North American Racing Team 1957 to 1983. Luigi Chinetti, the Italian born Ferrari importer for the USA, had himself booked some pretty impressive race results. In 1949 he won the Spa 24-hour with co-driver Jean Lucas driving a Ferrari 166 MM.
During the late 1950's, races in America became more and more professional. The cost of racing increased and drivers expected a monetary reward. While the race organizations at that time were firmly against the idea of paying start or prize money, Chinetti realized that something needed to change. N.A.R.T. became Chinetti’s answer to funding all the racing activities.
Since the start in 1957, N.A.R.T. has played an important role. From the Le Mans successes in 1965, to the turmoil in the late sixties and all the challenges in the years that followed.
Author Terry O’Neil has done a great job taking the reader on a journey through those years. From the die hard LeMans fan to the Ferrari enthusiast and racing addict, this book provides a good understanding of what it takes to race. While we often only see the finished results of races and drivers, this book is in a way, a tribute to all the hard working and passionate people behind the scenes. All the people who invest in the cars, parts and tools, the mechanics and everyone with a passion who make these Ferrari’s perform to what they have been designed for, to RACE.
This book is published at Veloce Publishing and available here.
ISBN: 978-1-845847-87-6