Kenneth McAlpine facts for kids
| Born | 21 September 1920 Cobham, Surrey, England |
|---|---|
| Died | 8 April 2023 (aged 102) |
| Formula One World Championship career | |
| Nationality |  British |
| Active years | 1952, 1953, 1955 |
| Teams | Connaught |
| Entries | 7 |
| Championships | 0 |
| Wins | 0 |
| Podiums | 0 |
| Career points | 0 |
| Pole positions | 0 |
| Fastest laps | 0 |
| First entry | 1952 British Grand Prix |
| Last entry | 1955 British Grand Prix |
Kenneth McAlpine (21 September 1920 – 8 April 2023) was a British racing driver from England. He was known for his love of speed and his important role in the world of Formula One racing. He also helped a racing team financially and later became a successful businessman.
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Who Was Kenneth McAlpine?
Kenneth McAlpine was born in Cobham, Surrey, England. His grandfather was a famous civil engineer named Sir Robert McAlpine, 1st Baronet. Kenneth grew up with a passion for cars and racing.
His Racing Career
Kenneth McAlpine took part in seven Formula One World Championship races. These are the biggest races in the world for open-wheel cars. His first race was on 19 July 1952, at the 1952 British Grand Prix. Even though he raced in several big events, he did not score any championship points. Points are given to drivers who finish in the top positions in a race.
Helping the Connaught Team
Kenneth McAlpine was more than just a driver. He also gave a lot of money to the Connaught Racing Team. This team was based in Send, Surrey. His support helped the team become very successful. For example, thanks to his help, another driver named Tony Brooks won an important Formula One race in 1955. The Connaught team eventually stopped racing in 1958, and their cars were sold.
Racing at Le Mans
In 1955, Kenneth McAlpine also competed in a very famous endurance race called the 1955 24 Hours of Le Mans. This race is known for being very tough, lasting a full 24 hours. He drove a Connaught ALSR car with his co-driver, Eric Thompson. Sadly, their car had engine problems after six hours, and they had to stop racing.
Life After Racing
After he stopped racing cars, Kenneth McAlpine went back to his family's civil engineering business. He also started a new and very successful business. He began growing grapes and bottling English wine at his estate in Lamberhurst, Kent. He was also a member of a special group called The Air Squadron.
Kenneth McAlpine lived a long and full life. He passed away on 8 April 2023, at the age of 102.
See also
In Spanish: Kenneth McAlpine para niños
