Ken Miles was a legendary British racing driver who was best known for his incredible performances at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The race, which takes place annually in France, is widely regarded as one of the most challenging and prestigious endurance events in the world. Miles participated in the race several times throughout his career, and his impressive performances have earned him a place in the history books. In this article, we will explore how many times Ken Miles won Le Mans and take a closer look at his remarkable career.
Who Was Ken Miles?
Ken Miles was born in Birmingham, England, in 1918. He developed an early interest in motorsports and began racing in the 1930s. During World War II, Miles served as a tank driver in the British Army, but he returned to racing after the war ended. He emigrated to the United States in the early 1950s and quickly made a name for himself as a talented driver. Miles was known for his technical expertise and his ability to set up cars for maximum speed and performance.
Ken Miles and Ford
In the mid-1960s, Ken Miles became an instrumental part of Ford's racing program. He was one of the key drivers who helped develop the Ford GT40, a car that was designed to beat Ferrari at Le Mans. Miles played a critical role in the development of the car, and he was chosen to drive it in several important races, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
How Many Times Did Ken Miles Win Le Mans?
Ken Miles participated in the 24 Hours of Le Mans several times throughout his career, but he only won the race once. In 1966, Miles teamed up with fellow driver Denny Hulme to drive a Ford GT40 to victory. The win was a historic moment for Ford, as it marked the first time an American car had won the race.
Miles came close to winning the race again in 1965, when he and co-driver Bruce McLaren finished second in a Ford GT40. The race was marred by controversy, as the two drivers were forced to slow down in the final moments to allow their teammates to cross the finish line first. Many people believe that Miles and McLaren were the true winners of the race, but they were denied the victory due to team orders.
Ken Miles' Legacy
Despite only winning Le Mans once, Ken Miles' legacy as a racing driver is secure. He was known for his technical expertise and his ability to push cars to their limits. He was also a beloved figure in the racing community, known for his friendly personality and his willingness to help others.
Tragically, Ken Miles died in a testing accident while driving a prototype car in 1966. He was just 47 years old at the time of his death. Despite his untimely passing, Miles' contributions to the world of motorsports will never be forgotten. He remains an icon of the sport, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of drivers.
Conclusion
Ken Miles was an incredible racing driver who made a lasting impact on the world of motorsports. Although he only won the 24 Hours of Le Mans once, his contributions to the racing community were immeasurable. Miles' technical expertise, his friendly personality, and his willingness to help others made him a beloved figure among his peers. Today, he is remembered as one of the greatest drivers of his generation, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of racers.
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