Cushion : 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans

EDITORS COMMENTS

In this electrifying photograph taken by Rainer Schlegelmilch during the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans at Circuit de la Sarthe, the intensity and focus of drivers Ken Miles and Denis Hulme as they pilot the iconic Shelby American Ford Mk II are palpable. The image captures a pivotal moment in the race, with the sun setting over the French countryside, casting long shadows across the track. The Shelby American Ford Mk II, a powerful and innovative racecar, was a formidable competitor in the 1960s endurance racing scene. With its advanced design and impressive performance, it quickly gained a reputation as a force to be reckoned with on the track. Miles and Hulme, two of the most skilled and determined drivers of the era, teamed up for this race, bringing their combined expertise and experience to bear as they pushed the Ford Mk II to its limits. In this moment, as they approach a corner at high speed, their complete concentration is on the task at hand, their expressions a mix of focus, determination, and adrenaline. The 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans was a grueling test of endurance, with the cars and drivers facing a variety of challenges, from extreme weather conditions to mechanical issues. But Miles and Hulme, with their unwavering commitment and skill, managed to persevere, ultimately crossing the finish line in first place, securing a historic victory for Shelby American and Ford. This photograph, with its dynamic composition and captivating story, is a testament to the passion, determination, and innovation that defined the world of motorsport in the 1960s. It is a reminder of the thrill and excitement that comes with pushing the limits of what is possible on the race track, and the indelible mark that the legends of motorsport, like Ken Miles and Denis Hulme, have left on the annals of racing history.