Back in the late 1960s and early 1970s there existed a kind of road racing unlike any other before or since. It was called the CanAm Challenge Cup and featured many of the finest drivers from Europe and North America at the wheel of brutally fast machines. These spectacular sports-racers were virtually unimpeded by technical restrictions, allowing their designers the freedom to innovate. Here we saw the first wings on race cars, sophisticated ground effect aerodynamics, and to this day the world’s most powerful road racer, the Porsche 917-30. It took skill and bravery to drive a CanAm car at the limit, which is why the list of competitors included Bruce McLaren, Denny Hulme, Jackie Stewart, Mario Andretti, John Surtees, Mark Donohue, Dan Gurney, Jim Hall, George Follmer, Peter Revson, Jackie Oliver, Jody Scheckter and others from Formula One and around the world. As this was a joint Canadian/American effort, stars from north of the border included Eppie Wietzes, John Cannon and Ludwig Heimrath.
Unfortunately the CanAm lasted only a few years, possibly because that incredible Porsche had pushed the wide-open rulebook to its limits and with the might of the German factory behind it, competitors had little chance of winning. Now, however, you can go back in history and relive the glory days of the CanAm Challenge, thanks to a fabulous new DVD called The Speed Odyssey. Narrated by CanAm legends Jim Hall and Sam Posey, it features spectacular color footage, including helicopter airiel shots and driver interviews from famous road circuits all over the US and Canada. The Speed Odyssey will be a welcome Christmas gift or you could be a bit selfish and buy it for yourself. But don’t just take my word. Click here and watch an excellent preview, then place your order. Shipping is free from two warehouses in the UK and the USA, with 3-4 day delivery service. USA DVD: $32.96, Euro DVD: £21.99 GBP.