On June 2nd, McLaren Automotive held a private ceremony to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the company’s founder, Bruce McLaren’s death. The ceremony took place in Woking, Surrey in the United Kingdom at the McLaren Automotive headquarters. Bruce founded Bruce McLaren Motor Racing Ltd. in 1963, which would go onto become the McLaren Automotive of today.
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“It is an honour to mark the 50th anniversary of the death of Bruce McLaren by unveiling this wonderfully crafted statue to commemorate his life and achievements. When my father died in June 1970 – just 12 years after coming to the UK from New Zealand – he had already done so much to realise his ambitions, but the best was still to come. McLaren’s accomplishments over more than 50 years in Formula 1, the landmark victory at the 1995 24 Hours of Le Mans race and the supercars and hypercars designed, developed and built under the McLaren banner, all stand as his legacy.”– Amanda McLaren, Daughter of Bruce, McLaren Automotive Ambassador
Who is Bruce McLaren?
As mentioned, Bruce McLaren was the founder of Bruce McLaren Motor Racing Ltd. in 1963, which laid the foundation for six decades of evolution into today’s McLaren Automotive. In addition, McLaren was, of course, a racecar driver himself, with many victories under his belt including Grands Prix, Can-Am championships and even the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
How did they commemorate the 50th anniversary?
In honor of the man’s life and legacy, 50 candles were lit around a 1970 McLaren M8D at McLaren’s headquarters. Even more than this, Bruce’s daughter attended the event to unveil an incredible, life-size bronze statue of her father, which will find its home at the headquarters.
You can find out more about the Bruce McLaren 50th Anniversary on the brand’s website.
