https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AZfXr1eESMs
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If I recall correctly, I saw him win in Long Beach around 1982. I went a few times and it was right up there with late '60's Can Am.
Niki was one tough hombre.
Quote from Wall Street Journal Obituary (six weeks after he nearly burned to death):
"Mr. Lauda was in a hurry because he was still locked in a battle for the world championship with Britain’s James Hunt, a rivalry that inspired the 2013 Ron Howard-directed film “Rush.” But before he could race, he had to convince Italian doctors that his Austrian medical clearance was legitimate.
“I got so upset,” he told Reuters when the film came out. “I said, ‘Listen, I am fighting my way here. I am fit; here is the proof from the doctors. I have eyesight and can hear; I can drive, I am fit.’ And those Italian idiots start all over again.”"[/I][/I]
It was upsetting when the Lauda Air accident happened - seemed like a total fluke.
Rest In Peace - thanks for the memories.