Phil Cooper, owner of the Legends Cars National Championship with MRF Tyres, has announced a fitting memorial to much-missed racer Gerard McCosh – the round-by-round Masters class award will, from the start of the new season, be called the Gerard McCosh Napoleon Award.
Presented to the best performing driver from the Masters division after each Legends Cars raceday, the re-named ‘Gerard McCosh Napoleon Award’ is the perfect way to provide a lasting tribute to the late Scottish driver who tragically lost a lengthy battle with cancer less than two weeks ago.
As one of the most loved and respected drivers in the Legends Cars National Championship paddock, the 67-year-old’s passing has left a huge void among the many friends he had among the organisers, fellow drivers and teams.
The ‘Napoleon’ aspect of the award’s new name is, of course, a reference to Gerard’s famed mascot which always brought a smile to the faces of competitors and fans alike. His illustrious passenger, a pink pig cuddly toy, was quite probably one of the most familiar faces in UK motorsport!
In addition to the award, championship owner Cooper has also confirmed Gerard’s favoured No.69 will be retired from use in the Legends Cars National Championship – another move to acknowledge and honour the popular racer from Biggar.
“It’s only right and proper we do something in Gerard’s memory, and specifically something which keeps his name part of the Legends Cars National Championship”, said Phil Cooper, “Gerard was a larger than life character and someone who always made people smile. Quite simply, a wonderful sportsman and a true gentleman.
“While it is obviously tinged with great sadness, I am delighted to confirm the winner of the Masters class from every round will now receive the Gerard McCosh Napoleon Award. As well as that, we have decided to retire his famous ‘69’ from use in the Legends Cars as a further mark of respect and way of honouring our much-missed friend.”
Provisional 2021 Legends Cars National Championship with MRF Tyres Calendar
10/11 April – Brands Hatch Indy Circuit, Kent*
24/25 April – Cadwell Park, Lincolnshire
29/30 May – Knockhill Circuit, Fife
3/4 July – Brands Hatch Indy Circuit, Kent**
7/8 August – Croft Circuit, North Yorkshire
21/22 August – Donington Park National Circuit, Leicestershire*
18/19 September – Snetterton 300 Circuit, Norfolk*
9/10 October – Pembrey Circuit, Wales*
6/7 November – Brands Hatch Indy Circuit, Kent*
*events supporting the British Truck Racing Championship
**American Speedfest 8