BootsOntheSide
20 Oct 2003, 16:50
Although it was ebfore my time, the story of Gunnar is a sad one indeed. Having imrpessed in his rookie season in 1976, and took a first win the next year, he looked like rivalling his countryman Ronnie Peterson.
But in mid-1977 he went down with cancer, never raced in 1978 (he was supposed to ahve joined Arrows), and died 25 years ago today, mere weeks after Ronnie.
Although his stats don't amount to much, his potential was high, and sadly unfulfilled.
AdamAshmore
23 Oct 2003, 15:22
Boots you might be interested in this:
http://www.autosport.com/featuresasknigelitem.asp?id=23069&s=5&l=2
Roebuck has written about him several times. He seems much more than a racing driver...
He had a very short time at the top level of motor racing – only 31 Grands Prix – but it was enough to make his mark as a driver. Much more than that, though, I, and others, will always remember Gunnar Nilsson the man. Just a lovely bloke.
This is such a sad business, this part of the board.
Gunnar & I raced against in 73 when we were part of the Super Vee circus, bumming our way around Europe, journeying between GP back up races for our Gold Cup, living in the back of Transits living off the start and prize money.
Gunnar was a great guy, full of fun and mischief. At the end of season race car show, he and I pulled the two PentHouse Pets (well, that's what they said they were) and as we had already shared plenty of post race bottles during the hard fought year, we were happy to share an interesting few hours that night ...
Absolutely charming guy. Could make a car go too.
