MY RECOLLECTIONS OF 1971 RACING THE MINI COOPER

by John Unsbee

I had been aware of Mini Coopers from British racing magazines in the 1960s and saw the first ones race at the inaugural Grand Prix of Canada at Mosport in the summer of 1967. There was a gaggle of Mini Coopers along with a lot of other little cars in the sedan support race and up front were two big Mustangs and two Camaros. I was surprised at the reaction of the crowd on the pace lap because they were all cheering and waving their arms. It was just a support race - what was all the excitement about I wondered? Clearly they knew what was coming and I didn’t.

It's a rather long story with lots of pictures here!
http://www.minimania.com/web/DisplayID/2431/SCatagory/Motorsport/DisplayType/News/ArticleV.cfm

Thanks. I enjoyed that, a good read of something other than UK or Oz material.

Great story and wonderful old photos - thanks.

I wonder if you have heard of a Canadian who raced in the 60's and 70's His name was Herb Hunt and he immigrated here to NZ in the early 80's - bringing his car with him. My friend now owns the car.

It is a 59 car I think - maybe was part of the BMC/BL Canada importers team at one time. Mayb have been an 8 port headed car later in its life.

Or maybe you might some who might know? Not sure where in Canada it raced.

Cheers

Graeme
Wellington NZ

Nice find, that was a great read.

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Too many cars, and too little time.