PCGB Rounds 5 & 6, IROC Livery G. Johncock & R. McClusk

Following two exciting races in California the PCGB paddock returns to the UK to Donington Park, the oldest motorsport circuit in the UK still in operation.

Originally part of the Donington Hall estate, it was first used for motorsport in 1931 on the lanes that formed the access roads of the hall. The circuit was requisitioned during World War 2 however racing returned in 1977 were it quickly became one of Europe’s premier venues. Donington is probably most famous for hosting the 1993 European Grand Prix, which saw an Ayrton Senna drive that is regarded as one of his finest.

For rounds 5 & 6 of the PCGB Championship the 11Tenths drivers pay tribute to pay to two more stalwarts of the 1973 IROC series:

No. 11 / Magenta / Gordon Johncock

“Gordy” was born in 1936 in Michigan, USA. Inducted into the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame in 1997, Johncock raced from 1964 to 1992, winning the world-famous Indy 500 on two occasions (1973 & 1982) and the USAC National Championship in 1976.

The number 11, Magenta coloured RSR was Gordy’s car for race 1 inthe championship, which was clearly an unlucky number for him as he went on to finish 11th in the championship, second from last, but still taking home 5,100 dollars in prize money.

No. 12 / Orange / Roger McCluskey

Born in Tucson, Arizona in 1930, McCluskey was known for his versatility and selflessness. Whilst the majority of his career was spent in open-wheelers, having raced in the USAC Championship Car series from 1956-1970, McCluskey also turned his hand to NASCAR, Can-Am & endurance racing, including the 1967 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Driving through the Esses in his MK2 Ford GT40, McCluskey deliberately crashed into a barrier to avoid hitting the wreckage of his teammate Mario Andretti, who had crashed only moments before. Despite his own injuries, McCluskey heroically pulled his stricken teammate to safety, saving his life.

Another unlucky car number for Roger, as he finished 12th in the championship, the same number car that he drove in the first race at Riverside International Raceway, the number 12, Orange coloured RSR . He, like many others, only competed in 3 of the 4 races, but despite finishing in last place he still took home 5,000 dollars in prize money.