British racing driver who competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans and won the 1964 European Touring Car Championship. Known for his skills in touring car racing.
Gary Ayles is a renowned British racing driver, best known for his impressive performances in the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) and the Superturismo series. With a career spanning over three decades, Ayles has established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the world of motorsport.
Ayles began his racing career in the late 1980s, competing in the British F3 championship. He soon made the switch to touring car racing, joining the BTCC in 1991, where he drove for Toyota alongside Andy Rouse.
In 1992, Ayles filled in for one race and was subsequently offered a drive with the factory Peugeot team in the Superturismo series. During his three-year stint with the team, he finished runner-up in the championship and scored several wins against tough competition, including Gabriele Tarquini, Roberto Ravaglia, and Emanuele Pirro.
In 1995, Ayles drove for the factory-backed Ferrari Club Italia team in the BPR Global GT Series, piloting a Ferrari F40. He returned to the BTCC in 1996, driving for Andy Rouse in a Nissan, although he didn't replicate the same level of success.
In 1997, Ayles raced a McLaren F1 GTR in the FIA GT Championship for Parabolica Motorsport, achieving a brace of top six finishes against factory teams. He also won the 1997 British GT Championship at Silverstone, driving for Parabolica Motorsport.
In 2000, Ayles founded GA Motorsport, which entered cars in the BTCC. He sold his share in the team to Mike Thompson in 2005, who later rebranded it as Quest Racing. Ayles went on to form the ATech team, which entered the BTCC in 2007, with a pair of Alfa Romeos for David Pinkney and Richard Marsh.
Currently, Ayles is involved with Lotus UK's GT4 race program with the Evora, a testament to his enduring passion for motorsport.
Gary Ayles' impressive racing career has left a lasting impact on the world of motorsport. His achievements in the Superturismo series and the BTCC have cemented his status as one of the most respected drivers in the sport.
Ayles' dedication to racing has also inspired a new generation of drivers, and his legacy continues to be felt in the motorsport community.
Gary Ayles' remarkable career is a testament to his skill, determination, and passion for motorsport. As he continues to be involved in the sport, his legacy serves as an inspiration to racing enthusiasts around the world.
Born in 1926
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