From John Surtees first 500cc World Championship in 1956 to
Phil Read’s in 1974 MV Agusta almost totally dominated the big-capacity class,
producing 17 consecutive titles with only Libero Liberati spoiling the party
with a swansong title for Gilera in 1957. Those champions: John Surtees, Mike
Hailwood, Giacomo Agostini and Phil Read are celebrated in our Champion…
series. Each of these films profiles a great rider, showing lots of stunning
archive footage and interviews and also features contributions from friends and
rivals. An indispensable guide to the great motorcycle racers of the 20th
Century.
The exception is Gary Hocking, champion for MV in 350cc and 500cc
classes in 1961. His story is recounted in the new book by Roger Hughes.
‘Sox’ –Gary Hocking: The Forgotten World
Motorcycle Champion
Gary Hocking with just one 500cc World Championship to his
name in an era of multiple victories, is somewhat overlooked by history. Now
this new book from author Roger Hughes deservedly redresses that imbalance.
What Roger reveals is a fabulously talented rider who excelled riding Nortons
and MZs before being headhunted by MV Agusta for their works team. Roger goes
into great detail about the 1961 season that saw Gary secure both the 350cc and
500cc titles for MV, before going on to recount the tragic death of Gary’s
close friend Tom Phillis in the 1962 Junior TT. Tom’s death made Gary decide to
retire from motorcycle racing and opt for the ‘safer’ world of car racing, only
to lose his life within the year. A long overdue book, well worth the read.
176pp | No.VE4862 | Hardback | £16.99