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Ken Downing

Ken Downing. Copyright, Stephen Latham, 2018. Used with Permission.

Ken Downing. Copyright, Stephen Latham, 2018. Used with Permission.

Ken Downing. Copyright, Stephen Latham, 2018. Used with Permission.

Ken Downing. Copyright, Stephen Latham, 2018. Used with Permission.

Born:

05 Dec 1917
Chesterton, Staffordshire

Died:

03 May 2004
Monte Carlo, Monaco

Nationality:

Great Britain

Grands Prix:

2 (1952)

Privateer racer who largely stayed loyal to Connaught, he was quite adept at sportscars. His big moment in racing came in the 1952 British Grand Prix, when he was running as high as fourth until he had to spin to avoid a backmarker, eventually finishing a still impressive ninth. However, complete lack of success the following year led to his racing retirement. Emigrated to South Africa, but lived in Monaco for years. Father-in-law to Paddy McNally, Ken sadly died in 2004. Ken was also involved, after his racing days, in dredging the sea for diamonds as well as being involved in the science and health industries.

Biography last updated 18 Nov 2017