Picture Perfect

In memory of Paddy Hopkirk MBE, who passed away in July, the Chairman has chosen this photograph of the legendary driver guiding his Mini Cooper S to victory in the 1964 Monte Carlo Rally.

OCCASION

1964 Monte Carlo Rally SUBJECT

Paddy Hopkirk and his Mini Cooper S on Monte Carlo’s harbour front

CREDIT

PADDY HOPKIRK WILL always be remembered as the man who, along with his co-driver Henry Liddon, won the 1964 Monte Carlo Rally in a Mini Cooper S – a tiddler against the mighty 4.7-litre V8 Ford Falcons. He played down his contribution but few were in doubt that a superstar had arrived and he instantly found himself and his little Mini on every front page and even celebrated at the London Palladium.

Hopkirk often said this period was the making of him but, while some in his position might have been changed by such success, the Belfast-born legend – who learned to drive in an invalid carriage and who was a keen racer from the start – remained approachable, warm-hearted and generous with his time throughout his long life.

In addition to his many race and rally wins, he founded a successful business, established and was patron of several charities and went on to be a Vice-President of the British Racing Drivers’ Club. However, to those who had the pleasure of his company, he was a man who could light up a room with his energy and personality while, to those he was closest to, he was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He will be missed but, here at the Club and far beyond, never forgotten.

Paddy Hopkirk MBE: 14 April 1933 – 21 July 2022.