In the Early 50's the British American Racing company was formed. One of the first races it ever particpated in was the Carrera Panamerican endurance race. Sponsored By BA Petroleum and the De Havilland Aircraft Company this Canadian team was well funded. De Havilland makers of the Beaver Bush plane were eager to expand sales around the globe. The Endurance race gave them an opportunity to get their name out in the public in circles that had money and the need for this utility aircraft. The long endurance race also afforded them an opportunity to showcase the rugged short take off and landing abilities of the plane as it shadowed and spotted for the car in this grueling race. Eager the Beaver was showcased on the side of the car, and the younger kids fell in love with the tales of the Beaver on a Mexican tour.
With a photographer on board the plane, the team was lucky enough to have publicity photos as the race progressed. The plane was always one step ahead of the car, and De Havilland took every opportunity it could to take pictures and wire them to the news agencies to broaden the exposure of the race and the sponsorship logos on the car.
British American OIl was a retail and bulk seller of Petroleum products in Canada. Later on they were Purchased by Gulf, and the passion for racing passed along to the new owners. History has shown the bond forged early with racing teams has continued to the present day.
As a new team they went with the Porsche 550 Spyder to use the racing experience Porsche offered to the new upstart team.
Now on to pictures of the model prepared for this race. Home cast resin Shell, custom decals, and a scratch built chassis were all prepared especially for this race. Home cast urethane tires give the car as much traction as possible with these skinny protypical tires. The sidewinder arrangement has allowed for a full interior.
Modeled with an aluminum tub and Oxide red leather interior, this colorful entry just has the feel of a fun run. I need to model a new driver and a Mechanic, but once that is done this entry is finished and ready to race.
