Tom Delaney: 1911-2006
The Motor Sports Association was deeply saddened last week
to learn of the death of Britain’s oldest active racing
driver Tom Delaney at the age of 95.
Tom continued to race the same car, a Lea-Francis Hyper,
with which he started competing at Brooklands in the 1930s
against the likes of then-land speed record holder Malcolm
Campbell, right up to August of this year. Even an accident
at Silverstone two years ago, when he was thrown from his
car, didn’t deter him from continuing in the sport that
was his life.
It is believed that Tom was also the world’s oldest
active participant in motor sport. His incredible passion
and commitment will forever stand out as an example of how
to go motor racing. Last year, Tom’s contribution to
UK motor sport was recognised by the MSA when he became the
first recipient of its Lifetime Achievement Award.
Colin Hilton, MSA Chief Executive, comments: "I am sure
that everyone in motor sport the world over will be extremely
sorry to learn of Tom’s death and our condolences go
out to his family and many, many friends.
"We were especially pleased to commemorate Tom’s
commitment to motor sport by awarding him our first Lifetime
Achievement Award at the end of last year and we will always
remember the tremendous enthusiasm he displayed when he visited
the MSA. Tom will be deeply missed."
Tom’s funeral will take place at 11.30 on Thursday
14 September at St Paul’s Church, Wilton Place (near
Belgrave Square), Knightsbridge SW1.
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