RIP: Tony Rolt, 1918-2008

We're saddened to note the passing of Tony Rolt, veteran racing driver and legendary military-prison escapee. Major Anthony Peter Roylance Rolt, MC & Bar, was the last surviving competitor from the 1950 British Grand Prix, considered to be the first modern world championship grand prix. He was also the last surviving pre-WWII member of the British Racing Drivers Club, and served as an officer in the Rifle Brigade and was awarded the Military Cross and Bar for his repeated escape attempts while under Nazi internment.

Although Rolt retired early from the three grands prix he contested in the 1950s, he took the checkered flag at the 1953 24 Hours of Le Mans. After retiring from racing he continued as an engineer, working on such vehicles as the Jensen FF – the first all-wheel-drive sportscar – and several racing cars. Rolt passed away last week at the age of 89. He is survived by his children Angela, David and Stuart, who have our sympathies.

[Source: The Times of London]