Paddy Hopkirk

Paddy Hopkirk’s name is almost synonymous with the rise of the rallying Mini Cooper. His win in the Monte Carlo Rally in 1964 made him a household name. However, he raced as much as he rallied and has a phenomenal 280 events to his credit. He started rallying in a VW Beetle in 1953 and did that for two years, moved on to a TR-2 and raced and rallied the whole range of Triumphs as a works driver. He also ran a Ford Anglia in races and rallies, an Austin A-35, Sprites, Rapiers, Sunbeam Alpines, the Austin-Healey 3000 before the Mini years of 1963-1970. He has an outstanding record of success in races and rallies and won the most prestigious rallies of the 1960s.

The European Editor caught up with him in his home, a 16th century house where the stables have been converted to an office. As usual, Paddy Hopkirk was forthright and effusive, indicating how much he had enjoyed his career.