Dunlop MSA Formula Ford Championship of Great Britain front-runner Harrison Scott got a unique history lesson this week when he got behind the wheel of a 1861 Cooper T56 Formula Junior car.
The 17 year old was given the opportunity by the car’s owner Peter Fenichel, who was running the car this week at Silverstone in preparation for July’s Silverstone Classic.
“I have been helping Harrison with his career,” said Fenichel. “I’m always keen to help educate younger drivers about ‘proper’ racing cars, so it was a delight to be able to offer him a few laps on the Silverstone Grand Prix circuit. He looked after it well and I think he enjoyed himself.”
The 1100cc BMC engined, four-speed manual Cooper provided a completely different experience to the turbocharged Formula Ford EcoBoost Scott is used to driving.
“It was a joy and privilege to drive the Cooper,” said the Essex-based youngster. “To feel the car slide through the fast corners was exciting. Now I can understand how truly skilful drivers like Moss and Surtees were, driving these cars fast around what were by our standards dangerous circuits.
“The Cooper is always sliding and, unlike my Formula Ford, you have to balance the steering and throttle in every corner. The drum brakes were another story! I would love to race the car alongside Peter in a two-driver race at some time in the future.”
