Exciting; that’s how Jackie Stewart stands in my memory. There’s a lot more to be said of the three-time World Champion from Scotland (and it’s all been said!), but bring it down to a single word and I still think Stewart is one of the most exciting racers I’ve ever watched. “Wee Jackie” was his press moniker in the early days, but in my mind the spelling became “Whee!” the first time I saw him drive. It was at Watkins…

Jackie Stewart powerslides his Lola T-260 off of Laguna Seca’s final turn, during the 1971 Can-Am race. Despite an ill-handling car, Stewart finished second behind the McLaren of Peter Revson.
Photo: Pete Lyons