Eclectic New-Zealander

Howden Ganley, sitting on the pontoon of his Iso-Marlboro, and surrounded by “the whole” team of Frank Williams, who can be seen on the far left of the photo above, seems confident before the start of the 1973 United States Grand Prix, run on the difficult Watkins Glen circuit.

The New Zealander did his best at the wheel of his uncompetitive single-seater, qualifying in twentieth position, ahead of his illustrious teammate Jacky Ickx (24th) who, having left Ferrari mid-season, and after a one-off appearance with McLaren at the Nürburgring (3rd), joined Frank Williams’ team for this final round of the 1973 season.

Qualifying was sadly marred by the terrible accident that befell François Cevert at the wheel of his Tyrrell-Ford, and the drivers are all deeply saddened by this tragic loss and are preparing, as best they can, to take the start of the race. The Tyrrell team and its drivers Jackie Stewart and Chris Amon withdrew from the race as a sign of mourning.

Howden Ganley participated in 41 Formula One Grands Prix between 1971 and 1974 for the BRM, Iso-Marlboro, March, and Maki teams, finishing fourth twice and scoring a total of 10 points in the World Championship. An excellent endurance driver, he competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans four times, driving for Matra (picture below, finishing second in 1972 with François Cevert), Mirage, and Porsche.