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Yogi 1
Ican assure you Brian Muir is not forgotten by those of us old enough to have been around in his heyday. That red EH S4 was a standout at the time and a NSW answer to Victoria’s Norm Beechey.
I have fond memories of a day spent with him in England in 1973. It was just a social call to his workshop in Pershore, but we were soon caught up in racing gossip about mutual acquaintances, experiences at Lakeside and so on.
Soon, a mechanic came in to tell Brian that a Mk2 Jag they had been repairing was now ready for delivery to the railway station for the owner to pick up later. Brian asked if I would follow him and give him a lift from the station back to the workshop. “Are you driving that E-Type?” Brian asked. “Yes.” “Good, I won’t have to wait for you, then.” And with that he leapt into the Mk2 and thundered off down the road at maximum revs. It was essential I keep up as I had no idea where the railway was or even its direction. Soon we were going hard along narrow English roads and lanes, tall hedgerows on either side and who knew what traffic approaching. Always the boot of the Jag was visible just about to flash around the next corner as I hung on grimly. We weren’t likely to break the Land Speed Record in the country lanes around Pershore, but Brian’s attitude was we should at least try!
Pulling into the station yard both E-Type and self were gasping and breathless but, of course, I did my best to appear nonchalant. Neither of us said anything. But, after a moment, he gave me a sly smile and we both burst out laughing. The test must have been passed, as we then adjourned to the local pub for lunch.
A nice memory of a good bloke.
Yogi 2
HHere is a photo of Brian Muir in Patrick Motorsport’s Rover 3500 at Brands Hatch in July 1980. I was there for the British GP, which Alan Jones won and Muir was in the sedan support race. As an Aussie I recognised his name in the programme of course and just had to take the photo. It was a great article ( AMC #92) which I enjoyed immensely. I was on a two months tour of England and Scotland with my wife and British in-laws. My wife (Eileen) and I managed to ‘pop’ over to Le Mans for the 24 Hours and witness Jean Rondeau win in a car of his own design and name, a bit like ‘Our Jack’ winning the World Championship in a Brabham. Another great memory.
Yogi 3
Regarding the Brian Muir story, thank you very much for the great memories of a very competitive and equally nice guy. Well done! I’m sure it has been well received by the enthusiasts. Very best to you all.