Spectators at this year’s Historic Sandown are in for a thrill when one of Jack Brabham’s F1 cars is destined to grace the track under the skillful hands of racing legend John Bowe.
Originally constructed for the 1968 F1 season, the Brabham BT31 was unable to be raced due to the change of regulations by the FIA. The 3 litre engine was changed to a 2.5 litre Tasman series Repco model so the car could be used by Jack in the Tasman Series. Frustration followed frustration, when the car was held up at the docks due to a wharf strike, and subsequently missed the majority of the Australian series. Brabham finally raced the car at Sandown in 1969 and came third in its first outing. He also ran at Mt Panorama, where he reduced the lap record by 4.5 seconds in true winning style. Currently owned by well known racer Peter Strauss, the car is set to be put through its paces by John Bowe on November 11 and 12. Both crowds and Bowe are sure to enjoy the experience.
