In 1978 the greatest names from across motorsport gathered for a unique event which would pitch the legends from across the generations against each other – this was The Race of Giants.
The brainchild of Hong Kong businessman Bob Harper, The Race of Giants attracted one of the most talented fields of drivers ever brought together for a single race, held to mark the 25th anniversary of the Macau Grand Prix. Champions of Formula One, the Indianapolis 500, Le Mans and the Isle of Man TT could not resist the challenge of the demanding 3.8 mile Guia Circuit.
Jacky Ickx was the youngest driver racing, allowing a comparison between his modern style and the prowess of pre-war legends Prince Bira and Baron Toulo de Graffenried. Fans were also treated to the rare sight of Stirling Moss, Jack Brabham, Phil Hill, Bobby Unser, Dan Gurney, Denny Hulme, Roy Salvadori and many more going head-to-head – many meeting on track for the first time.
One of the revelations was Mike ‘The Bike’ Hailwood, the TT legend who, fresh from victory in the Isle of Man, quickly adapted back to four wheels to put in one of the most stunning performances of the race. Plus, there’s a barrier-bending moment for three-times Formula One World Champion Jackie Stewart, who wasn’t racing, but couldn’t resist taking a few laps.
This incredible film, presented and narrated by TV sports broadcasting icon Dickie Davies, features interviews with many of the driving stars and action from throughout the 12-lap Race of Giants, including footage from on-board and inside the 1600cc Ford Escorts, letting you get close to the drama and see these legends at work behind the wheel.
The racing is breathtaking – perhaps most notably the dice between Moss, Unser and Brabham. They may all have been in their 40s and 50s, but this film shows the years hadn’t made these greats any less determined to win.