Parry Thomas: The First Driver to be Killed in Pursuit of the Land Speed Record

This biography of the Welsh engineer and racing driver recounts the achievements of his remarkable life and his death in pursuit of a dream.

In April of 1926, J.G. Parry-Thomas broke the land speed record, reaching 171.02 miles per hour in a car he designed himself. He and his car Babs were celebrated across the world. But less than a year later, his record was beaten by Colin Campbell at Pendine Sands, on the south coast of Wales. After refitting Babs, Parry-Thomas set out to reclaim his record in a drive that would tragically be his last.

In this authoritative biography, Hugh Tours explores the fascinating life of the brilliant and adventuresome Parry-Thomas. From a conventional upbringing in Wales, he became a prominent figure in the developing world of high-speed motor car racing and design. As the chief engineer at Leyland Motors, he designed the Leyland Eight, a landmark in automotive design that bristled with novel features. It was experience of driving this car around Brooklands racetrack that persuaded Parry-Thomas to leave Leyland and devote himself to racing full-time.

This edition includes thirty-six photographs and drawings, with an additional chapter detailing the recovery and restoration of Babs.

© 2019 Pen & Sword Transport (Ebook): 9781526759238

Release date

Ebook: 30 March 2019