HISTORY // RACING IN THE RAIN: 1970 BOAC 1000KM

April 12th of 1970 saw a terrible storm roll over the Brands Hatch Circuit just in time for the BOAC 1000km race. Amongst those on track that weekend, was Mexican racing driver Pedro Rodriguez, who, along with co-driver Leo Kinnunen, would go on to win this test of endurance and exhibit an ability to drive in the rain few had ever seen before... [read more]

At the wheel of the number 10 JW-Automotive Gulf Porsche 917, Rodriguez would spend more than three quarters of the seven hour enduro at the helm, and would finish the day with a five lap margin over the second place car of Vic Elford and Denny Hulme

But the victory did not come easy for Rodriguez. Having been black flagged for over taking during a yellow, Rodriguez and was called into the pits where he was scolded by track officials. Having lost several laps, Rodriguez returned to the track in 12th place.

Undeterred by his grid position, Rodriguez proceeded to overtake his rivals, exhibiting a tremendous amount of control considering the conditions. In the footage below, watch as Rodriguez charges to the front of the pack, avoiding collisions and almost certain disaster. A wonderful example of The Art of Racing in the Rain.



The photo featured above, which comes courtesy of Nigel Smuckatelli, is just one of the many amazing photos exhibited on Smuckatelli's photostream.

Photo: Nigel Smuckatelli
Editorial: Justin W. Coffey