If there is a unicorn in the pantheon of racing greats then it would be Sir Jackie Stewart!

Maybe no other driver of his era made such huge contributions both on and off the trace track, to the overall professionalism as well as the safety aspects that undoubtably saved tens of lives.

Nicknamed the ‘Flying Scott’ he had a swift ascendancy up the racing ranks to Formula One where he won the World Drivers Championship three times and raced in nearly everything else along the way.

Surviving an era where he lost so many dear friends, Sir Jackie gave his whole life to making the sport better for everyone. Despite being a severe dyslexic, his business acumen is nothing short of brilliant, and his relationships with brands such as Rolex and Ford have lasted many decades.

Throughout this amazing journey he has enjoyed the support of his beautiful wife Helen. From the pitlane doing timing, to the halls of royalty, they have been a dynamic team. Now it is his time to be her rock as she is suffering from Alzheimer’s, but the difference is Sir Jackie is tackling this devastating disease with all his energy and resources, bringing together his vast network to find a cure.

I met with Sir Jackie in the summer during a trip to the UK, and to spend a few hours at his magnificent country estate was an honor. Seeing the memorabilia from such a life made me appreciate even more who he really is and what he achieved.

 When it comes to photographing one of my heroes I confess to being a tad nervous, but he is a pro and this image came out on top, with JYS sitting next to his legendary Tyrell!

JB