Larry Perkins

Larry Perkins

Larry Perkins was born on March 18th, 1950

Full Name: Larry Clarence Perkins
Place of Birth: Cowangie, Victoria, Australia
Profession: Racing Driver
Formula One: Entered 11 Grands Prix
Best Finish: 6th place
Teams: Boro, Brabham
Career Span: 1974-1977
Nationality: Australian

Australian motor racing legend, winner of six Bathurst 1000 titles, and a stalwart of the Holden racing team. Known for his fearless driving style and unwavering dedication to the sport.

Written by: Lisa Chang Lisa Chang

Larry Perkins: The Australian Racing Legend

A Career Marked by Speed and Innovation

Larry Perkins is a former racing driver and V8 Supercar team owner from Australia, renowned for his impressive career in motorsports, which spanned over four decades. He is arguably most famous for being the winner of the 1975 European Formula Three Championship and his participation in Formula One during the 1970s.

Early Life and Racing Beginnings

Born on March 18, 1950, in Cowangie, Victoria, Perkins grew up on a farm, where he developed a passion for cars from a young age. His father, Eddie Perkins, was a racing driver himself, who had won the 1956 RedeX Round Australia Trial. This familial influence, combined with his maternal uncle George Reynolds' victory in the Bathurst 500, instilled in him a love for speed and mechanics.

Racing Career Highlights

Perkins' racing career was marked by numerous achievements, including:

Innovation and Environmental Awareness

Perkins was also involved in innovative projects, such as the development of the Holden LJ Torana GTR XU1 V8, which, although canceled, showcased his commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive technology. Furthermore, he worked on the construction of the solar-powered car, "The Quiet Achiever," which successfully completed a transcontinental crossing of Australia in 1982 and 1983. This pioneering feat demonstrated his interest in environmentally friendly alternatives in motorsports.

Bathurst 1000 and Le Mans 24 Hour

Perkins made his Bathurst 1000 debut in 1977, driving a Holden LX Torana SS A9X Hatchback. He also participated in the Le Mans 24 Hour in 1988, finishing an impressive fourth with Tom Walkinshaw Racing.

Lifetime Achievements and Legacy

Throughout his illustrious career, Larry Perkins has left an indelible mark on the world of motorsports. His accomplishments serve as a testament to his dedication, passion, and innovative spirit. As a pioneering figure in Australian motorsports, his legacy continues to inspire future generations of racing drivers and enthusiasts alike.
Timeline
1950
Born in Cowangie, Australia
Larry Perkins was born on July 18, 1950, in Cowangie, Australia. He would go on to become a successful race car driver.
1974
Started racing career
Larry Perkins began his racing career in 1974, competing in the Australian Touring Car Championship.
1981
Won Bathurst 1000
In 1981, Larry Perkins won the Bathurst 1000, a major Australian motor racing event.
1993
Retired from racing
Larry Perkins retired from professional racing in 1993, at the age of 43.
2007
Inducted into the Australian Motorsport Hall of Fame
Larry Perkins was inducted into the Australian Motorsport Hall of Fame in 2007, recognizing his achievements as a driver and team owner.
Larry Perkins

Larry Perkins Quiz

What is Larry Perkins known for in the motor racing world?

Score: 0/5
FAQ
What is Larry Perkins most notable racing achievement?
Larry Perkins is best known for his six Bathurst 1000 wins, including three victories with Holden and three with Ford.
What is Larry Perkins racing style?
Larry Perkins was known for his calm and calculated approach to racing, which earned him the nickname LP.
What awards has Larry Perkins won?
Larry Perkins has won numerous awards for his racing career, including the Australian Sports Medal and the V8 Supercars Hall of Fame.
What is Larry Perkins current involvement in motorsport?
Larry Perkins is still involved in motorsport, serving as a co-owner of the Kelly Racing team in the Supercars Championship.
What is Larry Perkins legacy in Australian motorsport?
Larry Perkins is widely regarded as one of the most successful and influential racing drivers in Australian motorsport history, with a career spanning over three decades.

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