I take great delight in making my collection "come alive", by making dioramas. In staging the photos of my collection you see on my website, I have made small dioramas, or vignettes of racing scenes that are close to period and where possible, using minature figures of the actual drivers of the racing cars depicted. This sense of action is more pleasing to me than just a static picture of a model. Taking that one step further, I have started to create museum quality dioramas in 1/43 scale, which depict certain historic racing events and places of great interest to me. I have tried to be historically acurate with the cars, figures and other diorama aspects based on pictures and recollections, but sometimes a little artistic license is necessary. In doing research, I have found that there are ample pictures of most cars and even drivers, but very few in the pits and especially the paddock. I am pleased that my work has been featured in books, magazines, websites and for the personal collections of some noted drivers and team managers among others. Here is a gallery of my work.- THESE PIECES ARE NOT FOR SALE

RACING DIORAMA GALLERY

"The Signature Project"

The inspiration for my latest project came from friend Marshall Buck at CMA Models. I thought having signatures from drivers I have followed, been a fan of and/or helped shape my appreciation of cars and racing; together with models of important cars during their careers would make very special pieces for my collection. Because of their unique nature, being the only one in existence, I am trying to create pieces that I can pass on to my son when its time to pack my toys away.I hope over time as I obtain more signatures, this section will continue to grow. - These pieces are not for sale.
Jack Brabham - World Champion 1960: One of the pieces that inspired me to do more signature pieces was this one created by Marshall Buck of Jack Brabham's Championship winning Cooper T53 from 1960. I added the figure to complete the piece.
Jack Brabham & Denis Hulme - World Champions 1966 & 1967: Brabham made one BT19, which was called the "Old Nail". It carried Jack Brabham to a World Championship in 1966 and Deny Hulme at the start of his World Championship year in 1967. Brabham Cars won the Constructors Championship both years.
Jack Brabham - Jaguar E2A 1960: A work in progress, Jack Brabham drove the Jaguar E2A for Briggs Cunningham at the 1960 Riverside Grand Prix, where he finished 10th. Brabham was able to extract the most out of the heavy car amid lighter, faster competition.
 Luigi Chinetti - Le Mans Winner 1949: Three times Le Mans winner, Luigi Chinetti, Sr. helped put Ferrari firmly on the map with his epic win with Lord Selsdon in 1949. Friend of Enzo Ferrari, his North American Racing Team (N.A.R.T.) which helped Ferrari dominate sports car racing in the 1960's.

Juan Manuel Fangio - Five Times World Champion: While I was too yoiung to appreciate Fangio at the time, the cars he drove to his five World Championships are some of my all-time favorites, as well as having played a significant role in my love of cars and racing.
Juan Manuel Fangio - Five Times World Champion: Playing with a Dinky model as a boy, the MB W196 STR formulated my ideas of what a race car should look like and a life long love of those cars. The Ferrari D50 also played a key role, "helping" my father build a model of one as a wee lad.
 		Juan Manuel Fangio - MB 300SLR: Close after the tragedy which unfolded at Le Mans in 1955 came the Swedish GP held for sports cars. It was a close duel between Moss nd Fangio, with Fangio winning by only three-tenths of a second. Base is by Marshall Buck, I supplied the car (SPARK).
Juan Manuel Fangio and Stirling Moss - 1955: Two all-time greats, who happen to be two of my all-time racing heroes, fought it out for the F1 World Championship in 1955 driving the iconic Mercedes Benz W196. Fangio won the Championship with Moss a close second.

Stirling Moss - Personal Hero: I first became consciously aware of Stirling Moss in 1964, a couple years after his active racing career had effectively ended. I received a race set for Christmas that year that was endorsed by the great driver and from then on, his name was etched in my brain. As I grew older, I came to admire the man seeing him as a TV commentator and later, appreciating his body of work in successfully driving some of my favorite race cars. He is one of my racing heroes!
 		Stirling Moss - Personal Hero: This base is a depiction of Aintree in 1958, scene of Moss' great victory in the Vanwall. Seen here are three of my favorite sports cars driven by Sir Stirling Moss. A Jaguar C-Type in which he won the Dundrod Tourist Trophy in 1951; the Mercedes 300 SLR which he won the 1955 Mille Miglia with Denis Jenkinson as navigator and the Rob Walker Ferrari 250 GT which he won the Tourist Trophy at Goodwood in 1960. The base allows me to substitute other Moss driven cars from my collection from time to time.
Stirling Moss - Personal Hero: The 1955 Mille Miglia Moss drove with Denis Jenkinson is one of the all-time classic motor racing victories and stories. This 1/18 scale vignette shows Moss and Jenkinson alongside their winning Mercedes 300 SLR, Jenks roller map and helmet on the seat, ready to roll! Stirling Moss - Personal Hero: The Ferrari 250 GT SWB is one of the greatest GT cars ever made and the basis for some great race cars. Stirling Moss drove a couple to victory in the 1960 & 1961 Tourist Trophy races at Goodwood (listening to the radio!) Here is the 1961 winning car in Rob Walker livery, a great patron of Moss during his racing career.

BoB Tullius - Champion!: Jaguar features prominantly in my collection based on my affinity with and ownership of the marque. Long before I owned one, Bob Tullius and his Group 44 were heroes and I was lucky to see him race at Portland in the XJS
 		BoB Tullius Champion!: .Two SCCA Championships and two Trans Am Championships in iconic Group 44 livery. I am extremely proud to have Bob Tullius sign one of my pieces and thanks to Steve K. and Russell T. for helping make that happen!
 		Paul Gentilozzi - Trans Am Champion: While Bob Tullius was winning Trans Am races in the 70's, Paul Gentilozzi and his Rocketsports Racing were dominating the Trans Am in the late 90's and early 2000's. Paul was one of the first to agree to sign one of my pieces and for that I am very grateful!
 Paul Gentilozzi - Trans Am Champion: Paul Gentilozzi was a five time Champion in Trans Am in Jaguar affiliated cars. Having a XKR, his success made me very proud as a car owner and Jaguar fan. I hope to add a later XKR to this display over time.

Hurley Haywood - Porsche Great!: Noth America's greatest endurance driver! Synonymous with Brumos Racing and Porsche, Haywood also drove Jaguar's for both Group 44 and TWR in the mid-80's. While he became an even greater favorite then, it was his drives with Peter Gregg in both the Trans Am and early IMSA in the Brumos Porsche Carrera RSR's that captured my attention as they put Porsche on the racing map in the USA. I came to admire him later in life for his courage and pride in being an advocate for rights and equality of the LCBTQ community.
 		Hurley Haywood - Porsche Great!: Hurley Haywood had twenty-three wins in IMSA, along with two Championships. He has five victories at the Daytona 24-Hours, three at Le Mans and two at Sebring. In 1988, he was the Trans Am Champion. In 1972-73, Brumos campaigned the 1,100 hp Porsche 917/10 in the Can Am. By that time the Porsche 917/30 owned the Can Am, but Haywood in the Brumos car finished on the podium several times and was always in the hunt. An iconic Brumos Porsche which is only rivaled by its iconic driver!
 		John Sprinzel - "Lucky John": .I was very honored to have John Sprinzel sign a plate for me. Any diehard Austin Healey fan, especially Sprite fanatics, will know of John. He started the Speedwell Co., which developed speed and racing equipment for Sprites. Here with his famous PMO 200.
 		John Sprinzel - Speedwell & Sebring Sprites: .An accomplished rally and racing driver, John parlayed that experience into developing performance parts to make the Sprite so formidable in the late 50's and early 60's. Both at Speedwell and at Donald Healey Motor Co. Unfortunately we lost John in 2021, he will always be a legend!

A.J. Foyt - Indy Champion!: Four time Indianapolis 500 winner, winner of Le Mans, Daytona 500, 24 Hours of Daytona, Sebring and multiple USAC Champion. AJ Foyt's name for me is synonymous with Indy car and the Indy 500. The only driver to win the 500 with both front and rear engined cars (both twice).
 		A.J. Foyt - Indy Champion!: .A.J. Foyt to me is more than just an accomplished driver and car owner. His independent spirit, iron man style is an inspiration. A hard ass as hard as nails! I believe he is the epitome of a racing champion and feature here, two of my favorite Indy winning cars by this all-time great!
 		Richard Petty - The King: .Coming Soon
 		Richard Petty - The King: .Coming Soon

Derek Bell - Le Mans Legend: Derek Bell is one of the most accomplished sports car drivers of all time. He has won Le Mans an astounding five times and the World Sportscar Championship twice! Long associated with Porsche, he has also had successful drives for Ferrari, Mirage, Renault-Alpine, Alfa Romeo, Jaguar and others. Here are his 1982 Le Mans winning Porsche 956 and 1987 Le Mans winning Porsche 962 C.
 		Derek Bell - Daytona Legend: Derek Bell has won at Daytona three times, in 1986, 1987 and 1989. All three wins came in Porsche 962s, the first two with Al Holbert Racing in the famous Lowenbrau liveried car and the third in 1989 with Miller/Busby Racing. Besides sports car racing, Bell also had sixteen starts in F1. One of racings best, Bell was awarded the MBE for services to motorsport in 1986.
Peter Brock - Visionary Designer: Designer of iconic cars like the original Corvette Stingray, Cobra Daytona, Shelby Mustang, Hino Samurai and Aerovault trailer; as well as championship team owner. Honoring the two-time Trans Am Champion Datsun 510 from 1971 & 1972; as well as the two-time SCCA Champion Datsun 240Z from 1970 & 1971.
John Morton - Trans Am Champion: In progress

1John Surtees -1964 World Champion: The 1964 F1 World Drivers Championship was one of the most tightly contested Championships in f1 history. Going into the final race of the season at Mexico City, Graham Hill, John Surtees and Jim Clark all had a chance of winning the title. To win, Surtees had to outplace the other two drivers and finish 2nd or higher on the podium. Surtees started the race in 4th position.
 1John Surtees -1964 World Champion: In a tightly contested race, Hill held the lead until he was hit by Surtees teammate Bandini and lost power; ultimately finishing two laps down. Clark in the lead succumbed to electrical problems in his Lotus before the race ended. Bandini on team orders slowed to let Surtees into 2nd place behind Dan Gurney. Surtees won the Championship by one point over Hill (40 to 39) and Ferrari won the Manufacturers title.

Walter Boyce and Doug Woods Press-on-Regardless Rally, 1973 - WINNERS: In 1973, Walter Boyce and Doug Woods won the Press-on-Regardless Rallye (POR) held in on the upper Michigan peninsulas, covering 80 special stages over three days and covering 1,700 miles in late October and early November. The stages were run on gravel and sand tracks through Michigan State Forests. It was the first round of the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) held outside Europe and was organized by the SCCA which had a growing rally division. It was also the first WRC victory for Toyota
Model by TROFEU 1/43		 Walter Boyce and Doug Woods Press-on-Regardless Rally, 1973 - WINNER: A lack of title sponsorship and low prize money kept the teams in Europe at home and of the 58 starters, teams were composed mostly of Canadian and American drivers and navigators, with few Europeans among them. Some say this takes some of the luster off the win and accomplishment of Boyce driving a Toyota Corolla 1600 with Woods navigating, but one has to keep in mind that only 23 teams finished. Boyce and Woods were also the best rally team Canada had to offer and were worthy of being on an international stage.
Model by TROFEU 1/43		 Walter Boyce and Doug Woods Press-on-Regardless Rally, 1973 - WINNER: Both Boyce and Woods have been inducted into the Canadian Motorsports Hall of Fame. Between them, they have a long list of accomplishments. Boyce was the top North American FIA seeded drive, as well as being seeded in Europe among the best. He won five consecutive Canadian Rally Championships (CRC) and of 21 Canadian National and FIA events entered, he won 10. Woods was also very accomplished, being the only co-driver to win five CRC Championships and co-drove for Boyce in Europe as well as their victorious runs on the FIA International Canadian Winter Rally and POR.
Model by TROFEU 1/43		 Walter Boyce and Doug Woods Press-on-Regardless Rally, 1973 - WINNER: The pair started their rally careers together in a Datsun 510. Their CRC win in 1970 brought the attention of Toyota Canada, who provided the pair this car in 1972. They finished 6th on the POR in 1972, as well as the CRC win. The win on the CRC and POR in 1973 led Toyota in Japan to open up their parts bin of special bits being used by Team Toyota Europe. Boyce, Woods and their mechanic Robin Tyler went on to build a fast reliable rally car with all factory team bits and won their fifth consecutive CRC title. The body shell being pretty tired, it was retired in 1975. The car had run on 13 CRC and FIA rallies, won eleven of them and finished second twice.
Model by TROFEU 1/43

Brian Redman - Racing Icon!: Over a thirty-year career, Brian Redman raced in almost every category of racing (including F1), for some of the top teams in racing and won at some of racings greatest venues. Redman won the Targa Florio, at Monza, Laguna Seca, Watkins Glen, Spa, Nurburgring and at both Sebring and Le Mans twice (plus two class wins at Le Mans). His many years of winning races in some of the greatest machines to see a race track makes him a great racing icon!
 		Brian Redman - Racing Icon!: Brian Redman drove a whos-who list of makes during his long successful career. He drove contemporary race cars from Lola, Jaguar, Porsche, Chevron, Ferrari, Aston Martin, BMW, Cooper, BRM, Surtees and Shadow, plus many more. He drove for manufactures and noted teams such as John Weyer Automotive, Group 44, TWR, BMW Motorsport, Jim Hall/Carl Haas to name a few.
 		Brian Redman - Racing Champion!: Brian Redman was indeed a racing champion. He won the European 2-Litre Sports Car Championship for Chevron and placed second in the Drivers Championship driving this B16 in 1970. He was also the South African Springbok Series Champion in a Chevron B16 Spyder in 1970. In 1974, 1975 and 1976 he was the SCCA F5000 Champion driving a Hall/Hass Lola T330/332C. In 1981, he won the IMSA GTP Championship in this Lola T600. Bookends to his Championship career.
 		Al Unser - Indy Champion!: In progress

"In Progress"


Mario Andretti - America's Best! F! Champion, CART Champion, Indy 500 Winner:
Model by ONYX 1/43 		Michael Andretti - CART Champion:
Model by ONYX 1/43 		Portland - Father's Day 1990 - Ciao Papa!:
Model by ONYX 1/43

Michael Waltrip - Double Daytona 500 Winner: Michael Waltrip scored 4 wins, 133 top 10's and 4 poles over 784 starts in a NASCAR Cup career that lasted from 1985-2017. His best years were the early 2000's when he raced for Dale Earnhardt and won Daytona in 2001 & 2003. This is his 2002 season car. Often overshadowed by his older brother Darrell, Michael was an accomplished racer that was always a fan favorite, but never quite got the success his talent deserved. One of my all-time favorites, I love his quirky humor and personality's
 		Michael Waltrip - Double Daytona 500 Winner: I believe that if Michael had been employed by Earnhardt Racing sooner, he would have had a couple more Daytona wins and a NASCAR Championship or two. Mentored by some of the sports best, Richard Petty, Dale Earnhardt, Sr. and his brother Darrell, he had the talent, just sometimes not the best ride. From 2001-2006 he drve for Earnhardt Racing (probably his best years) in a Chevy Monte Carlo like this one from 2002. Love to see he is still driving trucks (as of 2021) and is a regular on Fox NASCAR broadcasts.
Model by ACTION 1/43 		Darrell Waltrip - NASCAR Champion: One of the most beloved drivers by the fans in NASCAR history. Darrell Waltrip (DW) drove in 809 NASCAR Cup races, winning 84, 390 top-10's and sat on pole 59 times. He won the Daytona 500 in 1989 driving for Hendrick Motorsports, In 1981, 1982 and 1985 DW was the NASCAR Champion, driving for Junior Johnson, probably his best years in NASCAR. He ran and drove for his own team with several race wins from 1991-1997, before finally retiring at the end of 1999. A remarkable NASCAR career!
 		Darrell Waltrip - NASCAR Champion: At the sunset of his NASCAR career, Darrell Waltrip (DW) drove for Hass-Carter Motorsports in this car, a Ford Taurus in 1999. After he retired from actively racing in the Cup Series, DW joined the Fox Sports broadcast team for NASCAR races. He became part of the best race broadcasting teams in history and was on the air calling races for twenty years. A member of the NASCAR Hall of Fame and just about every other racing Hall of Fame there is; one can never forget his call of "Boogity, boogity, boogity boys, let's go racin'"
Model by HOTWHEELS 1/43

"Others Signature Pieces"

I also like to collect unique signature pieces done by other collectors and manufacturers that contain the signatures of my favorite drivers and models of their legendary cars. - These pieces are also not for sale.
Dan Gurney - 1967 Those Were the Days!: The Ford GT40 MkIV and Eagle-Weslake T1G driven by Gurney to victory at Le Mans and Belgian GP in 1967.
Models by MARSH MODELS 1/43 		Jim Hall and Phil Hill- Chaparral Winners: The Chaparral 2F BOAC 500 Winner in 1967 and 2D Nurburgring Winner in 1966, both driven by Phil Hill.
Models by MARSH MODELS 1/43 1/43 		Jim Hall - Texas Road Runners: The 2D from Le Mans in 1967 and Can Am 2E from 1966. Both brilliant cars from Jim Hall.
Models by TSM MODELS 1/43 		Jacky Ickx and Jackie Oliver - 1969 Le Mans Winners: The Gulf sponsored Ford GT40/Mirage that won Le Mans in 1968 and then came back and won again in 1969.
Model by REVELL 1/20

"Racing Dioramas"


"The French Grand Prix 1924"

1924 French Grand Prix : The French Grand Prix of 1924 has been labeled as one of the greatest Grand Prix races ever run by Motor Sport magazine. The event held on the public roads surrounding Lyon and drew the largest number of entries (22) of any French Grand Prix in the 1920's. On race day, over 100,000 spectators gathered to watch over the next seven hours, a 35-lap race over the 14.38 mile (23.15 km) circuit. With many roads being unpaved at the time, the course was a combination of surfaces which transitioned from paved surface to gravel to dirt and back again. It was a true test of the endurance and stamina of both the machines and men driving them, both driver and riding mechanic. Before the race, the Alfa Romeo team goes about preparing their machines for the important race at Lyon, the XVIII Grand Prix de l'A.C.F., or French GP.
Diorama by Old Irish Racing 1/43		 1924 French Grand Prix: Entries at the French Grand Prix included the top makes and racing models of the day, including Bugatti, Delage, Fiat, Sunbeam, Miller and of course, the new Alfa Romeo P2. The cars were piloted by the best European drivers with the names of Segrave, Thomas, Nazzaro, Divo, Zborowski, Constantini and Benoist, among others. Alfa Romeo was there with four cars to be driven by Ascari, Campari, Wagner and Ferrari (who did not start the race due to illness.) Timed qualifying had not yet been invented and was done by a draw among the drivers instead for starting positions. Henry Seagrave drew pole position and was off at the start into the lead in one of the three Sunbeam's entered. Ascari (in this car) pushed through past Divo's Delage into second place at the start, with the first lap top five order being Seagrave, Ascari, Guinness (Sunbeam), Campari (Alfa), Bordino (Fiat). They were followed by Divo, Resta (Sunbeam), Pastore (Fiat), Benoist (Delage) and Thomas (Delage) rounding out the top ten. Bugatti, which had entered six T35's for the race was waiting for attrition at the top to advance their positions.
Diorama by Old Irish Racing 1/43		 1924 French Grand Prix: Bordino had moved into second place by the end of the second lap and took the lead on the third when Seagrave had to pit for new spark plugs. Ascari was able to keep up with Bordino, with both Guinness and Campari pressing from behind. On lap nine, with fading brakes, Bordino overshot a corner and handed the lead to Ascari. He was driving one of the P2's which had the original cut-off body work over the longer, more streamlined cars such as Campari's. Bordino took the lead the next lap and the pair dueled until Brodino was forced to pit a few laps later to repair his brakes and eventually retire from the race after 17 laps. Now again in the lead, Ascari made a scheduled stop for fuel and tires. Guinness took the lead but it was short lived as he blew a tire, which unfortunately a piece of flying tread hit Seagraves riding mechanic, taking both Sunbeams out of serious contention for the race lead in one incident. At halfway (17 laps), the order was Campari with a minute lead over Guinness and Divo, with Ascari another two minutes behind in fourth.
Diorama by Old Irish Racing		 1924 French Grand Prix : By Lap 20, Ascari driving the #3 Alfa Romeo P2 had retaken the lead of the 1924 French Grand Prix. With the failure of the second place Sunbeam, Alfa Romeo now held the top two places, with Campari and Ascari swapping the lead on Lap 27 and again the following lap. While Divo in the Delage was pushing hard, he was no immediate threat to the Italians. With the two Alfas vying for race supremacy, Seagrave was also moving up from his early race setbacks, setting fastest lap of the race on Lap 29. On Lap 32, the race gods frowned on Ascari and his car began to slow, requiring him to pit. Unable to restart the engine, Ascari's mechanic Ramponi attempted to push the car over the line, but collapsed, the Alfa Romeo was a non-finisher. Campari won the race in the #10 P2 by just over a minute over Divo, with Benoist in the other Delage in third. A great win for Alfa Romeo, but a bitter disappointment for Ascari in this car which led so brilliantly and who sadly lost his life in this race a year later.
Model by FB MODELS 1/43

1924 French Grand Prix : Introduced by Alfa Romeo for the 1924 Grand Prix season, the P2 8C/2000 was the first creation by Alfa's new designer Vittorio Jano. Six examples were built of the 2.0L (1,987 cc) straight-8 engined car with twin Roots superchargers ahead of the twin Memini carburetors. Power was delivered by a 4-speed manual gearbox and the P2 produced 140 bhp at the rear wheels during peak revs. As typical of the day, the P2 had a rigid front axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs; while the rear had a live axle also with leaf springs. Both ends had friction shocks to cushion the ride over the bumpy racing surfaces of the day. The P2 in the hands of Antonio Ascari, won its first race at Cremona. Over the next six-years, the P2 would win 14 major Grand Prix's and take Alfa Romeo to the inaugural Automobile Championship in 1925. Its final triumph would be a win on the Targa Florio at the hands of Achille Varzi in 1930.
Model by FB MODELS 1/43		 1924 French Grand Prix: In 1924 the P2 was the center point of the formidable Alfa Romeo team, with its principal drivers of Antonio Ascari, Giuseppe Campari. Louis Wagner, Ferdinando Minoia and Enzo Ferrari (whom you may have heard of). The team was led by Ascari, who began racing in 1919 and would join the Alfa Romeo team the following year. He would win four major Grand Prix's over his career, a career which was tragically cut short in July 1925 when while leading the French Grand Prix, his car overturned, severely injuring Ascari. He was 36 years old, the same age as his son Alberto who would be two-time World Champion in 1952 & '53; who ironically died behind the wheel of his race car at the age of 36. In 1924 however, fresh off the win at Circuit of Cremona, Ascari and the Alfa Romeo team were in force with four cars for the 1924 French Grand Prix.
Model by FB MODELS 1/43		 1924 French Grand Prix
Diorama by Old Irish Racing		 1924 French Grand Prix
Diorama by Old Irish Racing

"The Targa Florio"

Targa Florio - 1930: The 21st Targa Florio in 1930 was one of the most epic races around the island of Sicily in the history of the event. It was a battle for supremacy between Alfa Romeo, Maserati. Bugatti had dominated the event the past three years. It was also a battle within the Alfa Romeo team between Achille Varzi and Tazio Nuvolari, intense rivals that almost make the Senna and Prost rivalry sixty-years later look like kindergarten. The odds on favorite to win the race was Louis Chiron in his Bugatti Type 35B. To counter the Bugatti and new Maserati challengers, Alfa had modified a pair of older P2's for the race with a revised chassis and rear axles, which gave the powerful car a lower center of gravity.
Model by FB MODELS 1/43		 Targa Florio - 1930: Before the race, one of the P2's was withdrawn and the rest of the Scuderia Ferrari team consisted of four 6C 1750 GS', including one piloted by Nuvolari. Varzi in his first TF set a blistering pace, opening up a minute and a half lead over Nuvolari and Chiron. Driving too hard to catch him, Nuvolari's car developed steering problems, which took him out of serious contention for the victory. Nuvolari was not the only one who developed problems however. Disaster struck when Varzi's spare wheel worked itself loose on the jarring mountain roads, puncturing the fuel tank. This caused Varzi to have to stop for fuel more often and his lead dwindled with Chiron in hot pursuit.
Model by FB MODELS 1/43		 Targa Florio - 1930: By the time Varzi made his last pit stop for new tires and fuel, his lead was a slim 30 seconds. Knowing that they could not stop again for fuel, his riding mechanic grabbed a spare can of gas before they set off again. On the fifth and final 67 mile (108 Km) lap, refueling at speed, without the aid of a funnel, fuel spilled on the hot exhaust and started the car on fire. Knowing that if he stopped the car would be engulfed in flames, Varzi sped on, his mechanic trying to beat out the flames with his seat cushion.
Model by FB MODELS 1/43		 Targa Florio - 1930: With victory in sight, as he could see Varzi's flaming car, that victory was taken from Chiron when he over compensated and hit a bridge trying to catch and overtake Varzi. He ended up finishing in second, over a minute and a half behind Varzi who just made it over the finish line. This gave Alfa Romeo an epic win on home soil, with three Alfa's in the top five, including Nuvolari in 5th. As much as they hated each other, Varzi and Nuvolari who had been teammates at Bugatti the year before, found themselves teammates again in 1931 at Maserati.
Model by FB MODELS 1/43

Targa Florio: From 1906 until 1973, the Targa Florio was one of the World's most grueling and challenging endurance races. Held on the island of Sicily, the race consisted of eleven 45 mile (72 KM) laps through the mountains near the capital of Palermo. With its 800-900 corners and straights as long as four miles on narrow roads often lined with spectators; the race required utmost concentration and endurance from both man and machine. Very few ever "mastered" the entire course. One mistake in the wrong place, could spell disaster! The Targa Florio was part of the World Sports Car Championship from 1955 to its end in 1973.

The House at Via Insello: The race came down out of the mountains into the town of Collesano before the relatively flat run back to Palermo. There is a famous corner on the circuit in Collesano where a house has stood for decades. This has become photographer's favorite spot to capture the race cars as they come into the town and race through its streets. As you look at photos, you see that the house has changed many times throughout the years. I have tried to capture the "essence" of this house and famous corner with this diorama.

Targa Florio 1969: Autodelta entered three T33/2 cars for the 1969 Targa Florio, two cars in the S5.0 class with 2.0L V8 engines and this 2.5L car which was entered into P3.0, against the might of the factory Porsches. Backing up the lone factory Alfa in the prototype class was a privately entered 2.0L car in P2.0. Alfa had elected not to run the newer T33/3 cars, the Targa being better suited for the older cars. In practice, one of the S5.0 crashed and could not make the start. This car piloted by Nino Vaccarella and Andrea de Adamich was sixth fastest qualifier.
Model by BEST 1/43		 Targa Florio 1969: Waived off the start first, Vaccarella had conceded the lead to Elford's Porsche by half distance of the first lap. A hot contest for position ensued, with Giunti in the other Autodelta car was taken out of the race while in second, by Elford coming out of the pits a few laps later. This car the remaining Autodelta entry, had its engine which had been sounding progressively worse, expire on the 7th of the 10 laps of the 45-mile course while in second place. Vaccarella and de Adamich would end up being classified 39th.
Model by BEST 1/43		 Targa Florio 1969: Porsche made an all-out effort for the 1969 Targa Florio, entering six 908's. Dr. Ferry Porsche making his first visit to the Targa was given the honor of waiving off the first car, a Porsche 907. However, due to a mix-up (intentional or not) the Vaccarella T33/2 was waived off first. It was Porsche's day however, taking the first four places after the T33/2 retired. The private T33/2 entry finished 5th overall and first in class, preserving some pride for the shield and serpent.
Model by BEST 1/43

Targa Florio - 1972: Ferrari won the 1972 edition of the Targa Florio amid strong opposition from Alfa Romeo. Here, the Ferrari 312PB of Merzaro & Munarileads the Alfa Romeo of Galli/Marko through Collesane. The Ferrari win broke the Alfa stanglehold on the Targa Florio.

"Porsche's 1970 Targa Win!"

Porsche 908/3's at Targa Florio 1970: These are the four Porsche entires on the Targa Florio in 1970, upon which Jo Siffert and Brian Redman drove a masterful race, giving Porsche the win and second place with Rodriguez and Kinnunen. Inspired by the famous photgraph of the four cars together in a square in Cerda. This diorama is a of the four Porsche entries (incl. the winner #12) in a typical Sicilian town's courtyard,similar to the photo of the cars in 1/1..

"Targa Florio Pits"


Targa Florio Pits 1961: The Targa in 1961 was one of the most exciting of the 55 annual races around Sicily. It was Ferrari vs. Porsche both competing with some of the world's top drivers. Ferrari brought two of its new rear engined 246 SP and Porsche was there with three 718 RS 61's, the car upgraded from the prior season and now with a 2.0L flat-four engine. Stirling Moss and Graham Hill won driving this car (CH#718-044) entered by Camoradi USA.

Targa Florio Pits 1960's: The Targa Florio pit complex was located at the start/finish line outside the town of Cerda. The pit area undertook many changes over the years, including the addition of additional pit boxes and a second story for teams and fans in the late 60's. This diorama depicts how the Ferrari pit area generally looked in the mid-1960's. Besides a place where the teams could work on the cars, this was also where the team cars were refueled during the race. In this picture, are some notable Ferrari's from the Targa in its final years.

"The Mille Miglia 1955"

"1955"

Mercedes Benz Victory on the Mille Miglia - with Stirling Moss and Denis Jenkinson: Mercedes was all out for victory on the Mille Miglia with four of their mighty 300 SLR's ready to do battle against their arch rivals Ferrari, Aston Martin and Maserati. Won by Stirling Moss driving with Denis Jenkinson navigating, they completed the 992-mile distance in 10 hours, 7 minutes and 48 seconds- an average speed of 99 mph (160 km/h), with team mate Juan Manuel Fangio finishing second. This diorama was made in the spirit of the following Denis Jenkinson quote on his drive with Stirling Moss on the 1955 Mille Miglia.
Denis Jenkinson wrote..."..I marveled that anyone could drive so furiously for such a long time... On we went, up and over the Raticosa Pass, plunging down the other side in one long series of slides that to me felt completely uncontrolled but to Moss were obviously intentional. However, there was one particular one that was not intentional and by sheer good fortune the stone parapet on the outside of the corner stepped back just in time, and caused us to make rude faces at each other."
Not made to reference any specific corner on the roads that comprised the Mille Miglia, it is a composite of photos, stories (see below)and discriptions of the narrow, sharp turns encountered along the course. That Moss and Jenkinson did so at an average of almost 100 mph for almost 1,000 miles is stunning!

Austin Healeys on the Mille Miglia 1955: I had originally made this diorama for the Austin Healey 100S' of Lance Macklin and Ron Flockhart on the Mille Miglia in 1955. It is inspired by one of my favorite stories of the Mille Miglia, which centers on the epic battle between Flockhart and Macklin, friends and rivals. Setting off from Brescia a minute apart, two of the four 'works' Austin Healeys and two of the 534 cars entered in the 1955 event. Macklin thought that Flockhart with his BRM tuned engine had the faster car and that he would catch him up sooner rather than later.
 Austin Healeys on the Mille Miglia 1955: Headed down the Adriatic coast towards Pescara before the race rout turned inland towards Rome; Macklin misjudged a corner coming into a village, slid and ended up on hay bales marking the corner. It took a couple of minutes before he was able, with the help of villagers, to get the cars off the now burning hay bales. Once going again, he soon saw Flockhart's 100S fill his mirrors. The two had an epic dual on the coastal roads, neither gaining an advantage over the other. Macklin thought it would be more relaxing to let Flockhart lead and waived his friend by, happy to stay right on Flockhart's tail.
 Austin Healeys on the Mille Miglia 1955: Macklin recalls that they were coming down a hill with a sharp left hand turn onto a bridge. While Macklin started to brake heavily, Flockhart didn't, sliding as he entered the bridge. Hitting the bridge, his car became airborne, striking a bridge parapet, flipping over the bridge backwards and falling 30 feet into the river below upside down. Macklin stopped at the end of the bridge to help save his friend, only to find Flockhart sitting on the river bank apparently unhurt. Macklin called off the bystanders trying to right the car, in fear there was another driver trapped underneath.
 Austin Healeys on the Mille Miglia 1955: Macklin proceeded on, but the stop to save Flockhart had cost him any chance at a top placing in the race. Ultimately, he did reach the finish and finished 36th overall, 8th in class. After his accident, his car destroyed, Flockhart was taken to a local house, stripped of his wet clothing and rubbed down with brandy. Some hours later when Geoff Healey and his wife Margot came to collect him, he was apparently in fine spirits with no serious injuries other than some bumps and bruises. The Mille Miglia run at the first of May was run before the tragic events at Le Mans a little over a month later. Events that would change motor racing and Le Mans would play a large role in both drivers' lives for different reasons.

"The Years of Le Mans"

Healeys at Le Mans - 1953
HEALEYS at LE MANS 1953: I was inspired by the two accompanying images of the Healey team at Le Mans in 1953. The team used the antiquated Chateau Chene de Coeur which contributed to the members of the team being ill during part of their stay due to poor sanitation. Geoff Healey was chagrined that they were to stay there again in 1955 with the BMC team.
Diorama by OLD IRISH RACING		 Chateau Chene de Coeur: Somehow, Healey had persuaded the organizers to allow them four entries at Le Mans. Their race cars and a few support vehicles filled the courtyard of the Chateau. The Chateau emptied their outbuildings for the team use when weather did not allow work outside in the courtyard. Basic and primitive, yet they managed.

"Le Mans Pits 1950-55"

The thought with this diorama was to depict a typical Le Mans pits from 1950 to 1955, after which the track was widened. This was my first attempt at lighting, which gives the diorama a dramatic effect representing night racing.


"Aston Martin at Le Mans 1952"

"Cooper to Le Mans 1957"

Cooper T39 to Le Mans: In 1957, Jack Brabham and Ian Raby drove this works Cooper T39 Bobtail to 15th place at Le Mans and 3rd in Class. Towed on a trailer by a Cooper Works Ford E83W 'Thames' van. Plastic case, base made to order. 1/43 Scale.

"Pay it Yourself - MG at Le Mans 1959"

MGA Twin-Cam: This is a small diorama of the 1959 MGA Twin-Cam of Lund & Escott that ran at Le Mans in 1959, being towed by a Land Rover support vehicle on a single axle trailer. From 1959-1961, a private effort to fund and field a team at Le Mans was spearheaded by Ted Lund. It was a most remarkable effort done with minimal factory or other outside support.

"Porsche Strikes Out! - Le Mans 1959"

Porsche 718 RSK: Porsche could not capitalize on their success at Le Mans the previous year, with all three factory cars failing to finish the 1959 races. It was an experieince Porsche was determined not to let happen again!

"MG at Le Mans 1960, Pay it Yourself - Part 2 & 3"

MGA at Le Mans 1960: The story of the team effort to run this MGA Twin-Cam at Le Mans in 1959-1961 is captured in a neat little book called "Pay it Yourself". In 1960, the car finished 12th overall and first in class. It was transported to Le Mans on team member Bill Hogg's flat bed truck and I have captured here, both the car in the pits and as it would have been transported to Le Mans. The truck is a modified IXO Ford Thames ET6 and the MG is made by Bizarre.

MGA at Le Mans 1961: In 1961, MG had sold the MGA to Ted Lund, who used a Land Rover and single axle trailer to transport the MGA to Le Mans for the last time. The car suffered a engine failure on Lap 15 and its run at Le Mans was over. Lund continued to race the car in the UK up until 1986..

"Jaguar at Le Mans 1960-1964

1963 Le Mans : Jaguar was back at Le Mans in 1963, with the indirect support of the Cunningham team in their white and blue striped cars. A sole Jaguar powered Lister also bolstered Jaguar's presence. The #15 Lightweight E-Type finished 9th.

1964 Le Mans : I am proud that this diorama won the Dirk De Jager Photography Award at The Isolation Island Concours d' Elegance in 2020. An amazing result against some very wonderful competition!
1964 Le Mans : I have always liked this picture and have wanted to try and replicate it. Using what I have on hand, here is my attempt (at left) to recreate the photo.

"Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato - Le Mans 1962"

Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato: Mike Salmon towed his Aston Martin to Le Mans in 1962, on a trailer behind his Jaguar MkVIIM. A private entry at Le Mans, co-driving with Ian Baillie, they retired after 14 hours with a blown piston. The car is ex-Rob Walker and Stirling Moss drove it in the first race for a DB$ GT Zagato.

"Ferrari Dominance - Le Mans 1960 - 1965"

Le Mans Winners 1960-1965: Enzo is justifiably proud of the cars he built which won Le Mans for six years running,
Le Mans 1962: The new 250 GTO dominated the GT class at Le Mans in 1962 and finishing 2nd overall to the winning Ferrari 330 TR1/LM.
 Le Mans 1963: I wanted to replicate as closely as possible the photo of the Ferari 250P's in the paddock at Le Mans in 1963 (at right).

Le Mans 1964: The Ferrari 275P (#20) would win Le Mans again for Ferrari in 1964. It was a 1-2-3 sweep of Le Mans for Ferrari. Here the Ferrari team readies the cars for the twice round the clock race. Of the Ferrari team cars, #19 would finish third, with a 330P from Maranello Concessionaires finishing second. The other factory team cars did not finish.

Le Mans 1960: The 1960 Le Mans winning 250 TR 59/60
 Le Mans 1964: The 1964 Le Mans winning 275P
 Le Mans 1965: The 1965 Le Mans winning 250 LM
 The N.A.R.T. entries - Le Mans 1965

"Porsche 904's - Le Mans 1965"

Porsche Le Mans 1965: Porsche brought five 904's to Le Mans in 1965, with the intent to win their class, which they did. They also won the Index of Performance. The 904/6 of Linge/Nocker (#32) finished 4th overall and 1st in the 2.0L prototype class.

"FORD vs. FERRARI - Le Mans 1966"

This is a large diorama I did for a customer. The base is 30" x 14" (76.2 x 35.5 cm) for the 1/18 scale Ford's that ran at Le Mans in 1966. Space limitations prohibited the base from being deeper to make more detailed pits, so we tried giving this base a 3D effect with the pit building and walls. Oh, it also had to fit in a corner, which added to the challenge!

"FORD vs. FERRARI - Le Mans 1966, Part 2"

The Ford Team that vanquished Le Mans in 1966 and firmly handed Ferrari the defeat, ending their dominance at Le Mans. The Ford Motor Company had spent millions to achieve!

"The Paddock - Le Mans 1966"

I have always been intrigued with the behind the scenes photos at Le Mans over the years. Before the era of large trailers, media centers and motorhomes, racers and crews basically camped out at the track. Some were lucky to have a trailer to crawl into between shifts, bone weary to all the noise around, just wanting to get a little sleep.
 I like to try and replicate famous photos with a diorama as close as possible. This is my take on the paddock at Le Mans in 1966 where a group of caravans have been grouped together. I'm not sure which drivers and/or teams shared this little RV park, but for those that did, I'm sure it was a welcome port in the storm.

"Gulf Ford Wins Le Mans - 1968"

Le Mans Winner 1968: Ford's third of four wins in a row came in 1968 with the John Wyer led team of Gulf Ford's. This small diorama (7" x 9.5" or 17.8 x 24.1 cm) of the winning Ford GT40 at Le Mans in 1968 in 1/43 scale, features a Spark GT40, with figures of John Wyer and Pedro Rodriguez, along with handcrafted pit buildings and signs. The diorama sits on a hardwood base and is ready for display.


"From Gullwing to Spyder, the Last Healey at Le Mans"

Healeys at Le Mans 1968-1970: I was honored by friend David Matthews has written two volumes on the SR2 and XR37 Healeys that raced at Le Mans in 1968, 1969 and 1970, to play a small role in the books by creating diorama images for the books in 1/43 scale. David, who used to work for Donald Healey, has put years of research into the book and thought my dioramas could lend some additional interest to his already fascinating book. I did vingnettes like this one for all three years.
Healeys at Le Mans 1968-1970: David Matthew's research helped me create as authentically as I could, the tow 'barge' and XR37 as it was conveyed to Le Mans in 1970. The tow vehicle was an Austin Westminster with an Austin Healey 3000 engine.
 Healeys at Le Mans 1968-1970: A photo of the SR2 taking a pit stop in 1968, with Geoff Healey at the front of the car and Jim Cashmore (arms spread) alongside the car.
 Healeys at Le Mans 1968-1970: I was asked if I could replicate the previous photo and this was my rendition of the pit stop action.

Healey SR Climax at Le Mans 1968
Healey SR Climax at Le Mans 1969
Healey XR37 Repco at Le Mans 1970
Healey's at Le Mans 1968 - 1970

Books by David Matthews: To order one or both of David's books and/or one of his other books and other Healey memorobilia such as decals like these, go to his web page World Wide Healeys CLICK HERE

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I'm Backing Healey: Fifty year anniversary decal 1970 - 2020

"Le Mans 1970"

Le Mans 1970: Le Mans in 1970 began the Porscha domination. This is a large diorama (22"wide x 24" deep) which depicts the paddock at Le Mans in 1970 with the Martini International and the Salzburg teams (race winning 917K). It is the first phase of a two phase build, with the second phase being the pit buildings and race pits of these teams (22" wide x 12" deep). The finished diorama will be 22" wide x 36" deep. Teams featured besides the ones mentioned will also include the Healey (XR37) and tow vehicle (historically researched) in the paddock. Other features include the Dunlop tire distributor truck, crew, etc. and other various pit vehicles, trailers, etc.
Models by various makes (Spark, PremiumClasixxs, Exoto, etc.) contact for details if you would like one made for you! 1/43 Scale.

"Porsche Wins Le Mans 1970"

The 1970 Le Mans Winner: I was extremely proud that I won The Porsche class and was the second place runner-up in Best of Show at The Isolation Island Concours d' Elegance in 2020. It was a great honor for such a relatively simple diorama which contains a great model.
Model by LE MANS MINIATURES 1/24

Le Mans 1983 - "Just For The Hell Of It!"

"Just for the hell of it": That was how the manager of a small British racing team described their taking on the big factory teams at Le Mans in 1983. I made this diorama for him, with great help and guidance from someone that was there. That was an tremendous help, not having to rely solely on pictures and it helped me capture small details. They were doing well too, until a poorly machined part from Porsche took them out of the race. This is a representation of that team's race pit at Le Mans in 1983. The pit building is hand assembled and cut from recycled wood. 1/43 Scale.

The finished product. Porsche Kremer CK5 - Richard Cleare Racing




"Other Racing Dioramas"


"The 1958 German GP & 1950 Le Mans"

1958 German GP (German GP, 1958): I decided I would tackle another 1/43 diorama rendition of a favorite racing photo of mine. In this case, the late, great Jesse Alexander’s image of Phil Hill at racing in his first F1 race for Ferrari at the 1958 German GP on the 14-mile long Nürburgring. In only his second F1 start, Hill looks poised as he tackles one of the banked sections of the “Green Hell”. He finished 9th in a race that saw the leaders for the World Drivers Championship, Moss and Hawthorn, both retire from the race, increasing the drama of the final rounds of the F1 season. It was also the first F1 race since 1950 that Juan Manuel Fangio was not on the grid, having retired at the end of the French GP. It also was the race that saw the untimely death Hill's teammate Peter Collins. In this photo however, Hill seems to be enveloped in a moment of relative calm.
Model by IXO 9modified), Diorama by OLD IRISH RACING		 Photo by Jesse Alexander
 1958 German GP
Diorama by OLD IRISH RACING		 Healeys at Le Mans 1950:
Diorama by OLD IRISH RACING 1/43.

"The Carrera Panamericana 1950"

1950 Carrera Panamericana: The section of the Pan-American Highway through Mexico was completed in 1950 and it didn’t take long for someone to organize a race on it, backed by the Mexican government as a means to promote the new road. The Carrera Pan Americana road race was born and that year it covered 2,100 miles North to South from the U.S. border, through Mexico to the border with Guatemala. Taking place over five days and nine stages.
 1950 Carrera Panamericana: Hershel McGriff and co-driver Ray Elliott finished first in their Olds 88, averaging 88 mph. The stock Olds used the 'Rocket 88' straight-eight cylinder 5.0L engine, which produced 135hp. The lighter weight of the Olds gave it an advantage through the mountains and reduced wear on the brakes. The pair had a trouble free run and finished on the original brake linings, which was good because neither had mechanic skills.
1950 Carrera Panamericana: The 'City of Roses' is named after McGriff's hometown of Portland, Oregon, the "Rose City'. Four Oldsmobiles finished in the top seven that year. against strong opposition from Lincoln. Our family had a black '50 Rocket Olds 88 and being from McGriff's home state of Oregon, we feel a kind of connection to him and his graet achievement. McGriff is the oldest driver to have raced in NASCAR, at age 92!

"Remembering Sir Stirling Moss"

1957 British GP - Aintree: This diorama was inspired by a documentary on Sir Stirling Moss I watched recently. It is . In 1960, the car finished 12th overall and first in class. It is loosely based on a short bit showing Moss entering the pits during the 1957 British GP at Aintree in 1957. Moss was the first British driver, driving a British car to win the British GP. He has long been one of my favorite drivers and his passing in 2020 was indeed a sad time!

"The Monte Carlo Rallye - 1963"

1963 Saab 96 (Monte Carlo Rallye 1963 - WINNER): Eric Carlsson is a legend in rallying and that legend is solidly built on three Monte Carlo Rally wins in a row. In 1963, Carlsson, teamed with Palm Gunnar set out from Oslo Norway in this Saab 96. The 841 cc, three-cylinder, two-stroke Saab took them through tough winter conditions to arrive in Monte Carlo and beat the second place Citroen team in their DS 19, by 22 seconds. It was Carlsson's third consecutive Monte win and established the Swede as rallying's first superstar! His left foot braking while hard on the throttle is legendary. His epic drives for Saab helped establish front wheel drive cars as the required setup for successful rallying in the mid-60's.
Model by ATLAS 1/43		 1963 Saab 96 (Monte Carlo Rallye 1963 - WINNER): We were pleased to win among steep competition, the Chairmans Award for one of the rounds of the 2020 Isolation Island Concours de Elegance. My first attempt at snow and ice!
Model by ATLAS 1/43

"Mini's Dominate Monte Carlo 1964-1967"

BMC Minin Cooper S (Monte Carlo Rallye Winners - 1964, 1965, 1967): The year 2024 marks the 65th anniversary of the Mini's introduction and the 60th Anniversary of the outstanding win on the Monte Carlo Rallye, proving the Mini formidable competition on the world rally stage. Mini's would go on to win the prestigious Monte Carlo Rallye outright in 1965 and 1967. A Mini finished first in 1966, but a bogus disqualification cost BMC its third win in a row, which would have been four with the win in 1967. I made this diorama for a cousin to display in the back of his Mini Traveler at shows.
Diorama by OLD IRISH RACING 1/43

"A Lovely Way to Go Racing!"

Precious Cargo!: Back in the late 1960's and early '70's, Northwest racing legend Pete Lovely hauled his ex-factory Lotus 49 and 69's to racing venues around Europe on the back of a VW transporter. That method of hauling continued as Lovely, a successful Seattle area VW dealer raced his Lotus 69 and Williams FW07 to vintage racing events. It always brought a smile to my face, one to see the transporter and its precious cargo in the paddock; and in the superb show Pete always put on on the track. He is missed!

"1960's RACING USA"

American International Racing: James Garner's racing team at Daytona in 1969, where they finished 2nd in their Lola T70 GT. Comes with detailed racing transporter with operating rear lift (Exoto), both team cars (Spark & Best) and four driver figures representing the team drivers. All in a nice clear acryllic display case. 1/43 Scale.

"Lotus Wins Daytona!"

Lotus 19 - '62 Daytona Winner: Dan Gurney won the 1962 Daytona Continental 3 Hour race in the Arciero Brothers Lotus 19. The Continental was the precursor to the 24 Hour race at Daytona and Gurney was its first winner in a dramatic finish. This diorama set includes the Lotus 19 (Spark), Arciero's El Camino (NEO) tow vehicle with spare tires and fuel drum, Dan Gurney and mechanic figure, together with two axle trailer in a nice clear acryllic show case. 1/43 Scale.

"King of the Mountain!"

King of the Mountain!: Bobby Unser, one of the undisputed greats at the Pikes Peak Hill Climb, drove the Arciero Brothers Lotus 23B to the outright win and Pikes Peak Championship in 1964. Bobby Unser won Pikes Peak thirteen times, more than any other driver of this prestigious event which has been the domain of the Unser family. This diorama set includes the Lotus 23B (Spark), Arciero's El Camino (NEO) tow vehicle with spare tires and fuel drum, together with two axle trailer in a nice clear acryllic show case with Pikes Peak backdrop. 1/43 Scale.

Ford Wins Daytona - 1966"

Shelby Team at Daytona - 1966: Ken Miles and Lloyd Ruby drove the #98 car to a win at Daytona 24h in 1966, repeating their 1965 win. This Shelby prepared car led the race from start to finish, only relinquishing the lead during its first two pit stops. Ford's took the top three places at Daytona, a year Ford would see victories at Sebring and Le Mans as well.
Model by IXO 1/43		 Shelby Team at Daytona - 1966: Dan Gurney and Jerry Grant drove the #97 car 66 and led the early part of the race. Gurney had set the best time to take the pole position and also turned the fastest lap during the race. They continued to lead at a rapid pace, the Miles car close behind, until an over heating engine forced retirement in the 18th hour. Excluding the engine, the Mk IV was totally different from other GT40s, using a specific chassis and specific bodywork.
Model by IXO 1/43		 Shelby Team at Daytona - 1966: Bruce McLaren and Chris Amon shared the driving duties at Daytona in 1966 in the #96 car, piloting this Shelby prepared GT40 (Ch.#1011). They finished 5th overall and the Ferrari of Rodriguez and Andretti was the only competitior that prevented Ford from finishing Daytona 1-2-3-4. It was a successful debut for the 1966 season, with five 7.0L V8 powered MKII GT40's entered for Daytona, with four finishing in the top five. The GT40 MkII's would go on to dominate Le Mans later in the year, finishing 1-2-3 (again) in the two premier 24 hour endurance events..
Model by IXO 1/43		 Shelby Team at Daytona - 1966

Jaguar at Daytona 1988 - "Last Stop to Victory"

Last Stop to Victory: Probably my first serious attempt at building a diorama. This scene depicts the race winning Jaguar XJR-9 during its final pit stop at Daytona in 1988. This was created mainly from memory of the Daytona pits and photos of the race scarred and battle weary Jaguar near the end of a grueling 24 hour race. It was a simpler time when pit crews didn't wear fire protective suits and helmets (except the refuelers.) I need to make a few minor changes such as a refueling rig rather than gravity feed and to the pit stand, but I believe it captures the essence of that moment in the race. 1/43 Scale.

"World Champion 1969"

World Champion 1969 - Jackie Stewart: Jackie Stewart won his first of three World Drivers Championships in 1969, winning five F1 races. One of the all-time best in any competition, this diorama features the 1969 Italian GP winning Matra MS80, along with a figure of Sir Jackie Stewart, and a 1/2 scale replica of his racing helmet with famous tartan band, signed by Jackie Stewart as part of a very limited edition in a acryllic display case. Car and driver are 1/18 Scale.
This display includes a 1/2 scale signed helmet by Jackie Stewart. Profits from the sale of this helmets has gone to Race Against Dementia,the charity started by Sir Jackie Stewart to raise money to fund breakthrough and innovative dementia research. This helmet is #30 of 100 signed limited editions.

"Seven Times World Champion!"

World Champion - Michael Schumacher: Michael Schmacher and Ferrari dominated F1 in the early part of this century, with Schumacher winning World Championships in 1994, 1995, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003 & 2004; most of those with the Scuderia. Here is Schmacher at a pit stop with his crew in 2005, the Champions #1 on the car's nose.

"Other Projects & Dioramas"

The 100 Coupes and Healey Cape Works

1953 100 Coupe (ONX 113): In 1953, Donald Healey had his designer Gerry Coker pen a couple of prototype coupe concepts around the Austin Healey 100, with the idea of making a production coupe to join the production 100 two-seat roadster. That never happened, but Healey chose this coupe as his personal car. It was not only his personal car, but was also used as a test bed for potential improvements to the production cars.
Model by SPARK 1/43 (Modified)		 1953 100 Coupe (ONX 113): This coupe received the new 100 S mechanical components, including the 100S engine (2.6L 4-cylinder) producing 132 bhp, along with 100S disc brakes and transmission. Originally with a black top, the car was repainted all red during Healeys ownership. Donald Healey used the car extensively until 1962, when it was advertised for sale and axquired into a private collection, not changing hands until sold at auction in 2015 for just under $900K USD.
Model by SPARK 1/43 (Modified)		 1953 100 Coupe (OAC 1): Taken from the production line, this standard 100 was sent to Jensen to be modified into one of the two coupe bodies designed by Gerry Coker. Delivered to DHMC in November 1953, the car began its life as a development 'hack' for Healey and was used for development work until 1962. In 1955, Jaguar disc brakes were installed as well as a Morris six-cylinder engine of 2.6L, a precursor to the engine used in the AH 100-6.
Model by DAVID MATTHEWS/SMTS (Modified) 1/43		 1953 100 Coupe (OAC 1): From its work at Healey, the car was in a sad state when its coupe top was removed in the mid-1970s and sent to Australia. Topless, it was subsequently restored and purchased by David Matthews in 1981. Matthews used the car extensively and it was entered on the RAC Lombard Golden 50 Rally with Donald Healey and Donald Morley as team members. Sold in 1988, the car was reunited with its coupe body panels and restored by Mike Daley who had purchased the car from the estate of Syd Segal.
Model by DAVID MATTHEWS/SMTS (Modified) 1/43

The 100 Coupes in 1953:
Diorama by Old Irish Racing		 The 100 Coupes in 1954:
Image by David Matthews		 The 100 Coupes - Present Day:
Image by David Matthews		 The Healey Cape Works, Circa 1953:
Diorama by Old Irish Racing

"To Coupe or Not to Coupe": My diorama work features in David Matthews book on the Austin Healey factory coupes, particularly the two coupes built in 1953. My diorama building of the Healey Motor Company Experimental Department used in the book is now in the Healey Museum in the Netherlands.

1:43 Modelcar Yearbook Cover
1:43 Modelcar-Yearbook 2018/2019: I was asked do put together some diorama ideas around Le Mans using American based/powered cars for this annual yearbook, which covers all 1:43 scale cars currently in production. At over 300 page, its a hefty volume. This vignette is from Le Mans in 1966 and features some of the GT40's, teams and drivers that raced there.
 1:43 Modelcar-Yearbook 2018/2019: When I received my copy of the Yearbook, I was surprised to find this small scene I had sent along to the publishers used on the inside front pages.

"Teammates" & "Sam's Uptown Service"

Teammates 1961 Phill Hill and Wolfgang 'Taffy' Von Trips were teammates at Ferrari in 1961. They battled through the Formula One season in equally prepared 156 F1 cars and were locked in a points battle for the World Drivers Championship coming into the last race, Ferrari's home grand prix at Monza. The pressure was on both to do well in order to win the Championship. Early in the race while leading, Von Trips touched wheels with Jim Clark's Lotus and spun off course, the imapct killing him instantly. In this diorama, I have tried to capture a bittersweet snapshot of when the two teammates share a quiet last moment together.
 Sam's Garage From the days when you filled your tank, attendants checked your oil, washed your windshield and aired your tires. All at .25 cents per gallon! This is an old plastic kit I assembled over thirty years ago and here offer another frozen moment in time. Since it is a Enco station and Enco/Exxon used the tiger as an advertising symbol ("Put a tiger in your tank!"), I thought it fitting to name the station after our own little house tiger, Sam.

"THE BLUES BROTHERS!"

Jake and Elwood Blues: In trouble again with the Chicago Police outside the famous Billy Goat Tavern (cheesbruger, cheeseburger...). Hand painted. 1/43 Scale.
 : Figures are moveable and can be positioned anywhere within the diorama. Diorama comes in a 13" x 5.5" x 5" display case.

"The New Tractor"

The New Tractor: A depiction of the day the new tractor is delivered to the farm, quite an event at most small farms! 1/43 Scale.

DISPLAY BASES

Custom Made Display Bases: A variety of bases used for model display and as backdrops for photos of models in my collection. Customized to era, sponsors, cars, etc.

INDY 500

Indianapolis Motor Speedway - Start Finish: A replica of the famous start/finish line at Indianapolis, with its "yard of bricks" from the old track surfice. 1/43 Scale.

Future Ideas/Projects - I always have more ideas than time or talent!

Ferrari 1-2-3: Celebrating the Ferrari 1-2-3 sweep of Daytona in 1967. This diorama will feature correct drivers and Daytona background.
 Fangio on La Carrera: Fangio's race winning Lancia D24 on the Carrera Pan Americana in 1954, with support crew and vehicle.
Cunningham Le Mans: The Briggs Cunningham team's paddock at Le Mans in 1955, with race cars, support vehicles, figures , etc.
The Cars of Portland:Cars that raced in the IMSA series at PIR, our home track 1978-1980 before the prototype era..

Jaguar Victorious!:The race winning Jaguar at Le Mans in 1988, together with other team cars, transporters and crew.
 Brabham at Monaco: Denny Hulme driving his Brabham-Repco to the win at Monaco in 1967.
 Porsche 917 at Daytona: Pedro Rodriquez won back to back victories in the 917 at Daytona in 1971.
 Mille Miglia Start: The iconic starting ramp for the Mille Miglia, circa 1955.

Sebring 1963:Dan Gurney behind the wheel of the Cobra he shared with Phil Hill at Sebring in 1963.
 The Fair's in Town: Workmen hauling a huge Showman's Engine for the fair/circus coming to town.
 Fangio's Last Dance: The French GP in 1958 was Juan Manuel Fangio's last GP. I hope to make a fitting tribute to his greatness.
 Cobra Ferrari Wars: The AC Cobra chasing the Ferrari 250 GTO at Le Mans in 1963.

Mighty Mercedes!:The Mercedes Benz Grand Prix team in 1955.
 Porsche at Le Mans: The Porsche Opel transporter behind the pits at Le Mans.
 Lancia at Monaco - 1955: The Lancia D50 of Alberto Ascari getting ready for the Monaco GP in 1955.
 Lancia at Monaco, Part 2: The Lancia Team in the Monaco pits in 1955 with the Lancia D50.


Please note that I am not actively seeking commissions for diorama or model building work any longer. That said, I will consider interesting projects on a one on one basis that interest me and that I have time for amid my own projects, travel, etc. Please contact me at the email address below if you would like me to consider doing something for you.


To continue to another section of the Old Irish Racing Collection, select one of the following:

THE SIGNATURE PROJECT & RACING DIORAMAS

RACING TRANSPORTERS, SUPPORT VEHICLES AND OTHER TRUCKS Pt.1
RACING TRANSPORTERS, SUPPORT VEHICLES AND OTHER TRUCKS Pt.2

JAGUAR RACING CARS:
To 1959
1960 - 1979
1980 - 1989
1990's - Present

ECURIE ECOSSE - JAGUAR and MORE!
GROUP 44, Inc., JAGUAR & TRIUMPH

JAGUAR AT LE MANS

JAGUAR AUTOMOBILIA

JAGUAR PRODUCTION CARS:
1926 to 1959
1960 to 1968
1969-1987
1988 - Present

JAGUAR CONCEPT CARS & SPECIAL EDITIONS

EACH JAGUAR MODEL FROM 1935 IN PRODUCTION ORDER

FERRARI RACING CARS:
1940 - 1959
1960 - 1969
1970 - 1979
1980 - Present

FERRARI FORMULA ONE

FERRARI PRODUCTION SPORTS, GT CARS & PROTOTYPES

PORSCHE RACING & PRODUCTION CARS:
1950 - 1969
1970 - 1979
1980 - 1989
1990 - Present

BRUMOS RACING TEAM

PORSCHE PRODUCTION CARS

GRAND PRIX, FORMULA 1 & INDY CARS:
1900 - 1959
1960 - 1969
1970 - 1979
1980 - PRESENT

GREAT AUTOMOTIVE MAKES & RACING TEAMS:

AMERICAN:
CHAPARRAL
CHEVROLET & GM POWER
COBRAS & DAYTONAS - SHELBY CARS
CUNNINGHAM EQUIPE - THE CARS OF BRIGGS CUNNINGHAM
FORD POWER: GT40's, MUSTANGS & MORE
MISC. AMERICAN MADE

BRITISH:
ASTON MARTIN RACE & PRODUCTION
AUSTIN HEALEY & HEALEY
BRABHAM F! & SPORTS CARS
BRM F1 & SPORTS CARS
LOLA SPORTS RACING CARS
LOTUS F1, RACE & PRODUCTION
McLAREN RACING & PRODUCTION CARS
MG CARS - RACING & PRODUCTION
TRIUMPH RACE & PRODUCTION CARS
MISC. BRITISH MADE

FRENCH:
BUGATTI
FRENCH MADE

GERMAN:
AUDI RACING
BMW RACE & PRODUCTION
MERCEDES BENZ RACE & PRODUCTION
MISC. GERMAN & SWEDISH MADE

ITALIAN:
ABARTH RACING
ALFA ROMEO RACE & PRODUCTION
LANCIA RACE & PRODUCTION
MASERATI RACE & PRODUCTION
MISC. ITALIAN & SPANISH MADE

JAPANESE:
DATSUN/NISSAN RACING
TOYOTA RACE & PRODUCTION CARS
MISC. JAPAN, ASIAN & AUSTRALIAN MADE

LAND SPEED AND ENDURANCE RECORD CARS

VETERAN, CLASSIC & SPECIAL INTEREST CARS All MARQUES

THE TRIPLE CROWN OF ENDURANCE RACES:
THE 24 HOURS of LE MANS 100 YEARS - 1923-2023
THE 12 Hours of SEBRING WINNERS
THE 24 HOURS of DAYTONA WINNERS

DRIVER TRIBUTES:
THE OLD IRISH RACING HALL OF FAME
JUAN MANUEL FANGIO TRIBUTE
STIRLING MOSS TRIBUTE
WORLD DRIVER & CONSTRUCTORS CHAMPIONS 1950 - 1985

PLAY BALL! - IT'S BASEBALL TIME:
A TRIBUTE TO BOYHOOD HEROES AND MY DAD

For copies of images, questions or comments about the collection to: OLD IRISH RACING

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All pages and content on this website (unless noted) are owned and the copyrighted and may not be reproduced or redistributed without the consent of Old Irish Racing. This is a private collection, unless noted, pieces are not for sale!

PLEASE NOTE: From 1968 into the 1990's tobacco companies sponsored many significant race cars. We don't promote tobacco use, rather we stronly discourage it. However, we do promote historical accuracy, Old Irish Racing chooses to display models in our collection as historically accurate as possible. While seeing a tobacco advert on a car gives me no more desire to go smoke than seeing a car makes me want to go suck on its exhaust pipe. If tobacco (or alcohol) adverts on race cars offend you, please go look at nice pictures of bunnies and kittens on another site. Thank you!