Dan Gurney was an American race car driver known for his remarkable achievements in motorsport, including victories in Formula 1, NASCAR, and IndyCar. He was celebrated for winning the 1967 Belgian Grand Prix in a car he designed himself, showcasing his talent and innovation in racing.
Personal and Family Life
Dan Gurney was born on April 13, 1931, in Costa Mesa, California. He was married twice: first to Arleo Bodie, with whom he had four children, and later to Evi Butz, with whom he had two children. Gurney’s family played a significant role in his life, supporting him through his racing career.
Career Achievements
Gurney began his racing journey in 1955, starting with drag racing before moving up to Formula 1 in 1959. He achieved significant success, winning four Formula 1 World Championship races and a prestigious 24 Hours of LeMans in 1967 alongside A.J. Foyt. Gurney made history as the only American driver to win a Formula 1 race in his own car design, which added to his legacy in the racing world.
Death and Legacy
Dan Gurney passed away on January 14, 2018, due to pneumonia in Newport Beach, California. He is remembered as one of the greatest American race drivers, having made lasting contributions to the sport and inspiring generations of racers. His legacy lives on through his achievements and the impact he had on motorsport.
Filmography
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1966 | Grand Prix | Dan Gurney (uncredited) |
| 1969 | Winning | Dan Gurney (uncredited) |
| Transportation Department | ||
| Additional Crew |