Early Years and Beginnings in Racing
Colin Charles Houghton Davis, born on 29 July 1933 in Marylebone, London, was the son of “Bentley Boy” and Le Mans winner, Sammy Davis. Educated at Stowe School in the late 1930s, Colin Davis embarked on a career that would see him leave a significant mark in the world of motorsport. His journey in racing began as an advertising executive who raced a 500cc Formula 3 Cooper. His passion for racing led him to move to Italy, where he furthered his racing career, demonstrating his dedication and love for the sport.
Major Successes and Highlights
Davis’s racing career, though brief in the Formula One World Championship, was marked by notable achievements. He competed in two World Championship Formula One Grands Prix, finishing 11th in the 1959 Italian Grand Prix with Scuderia Centro Sud in a Cooper-Maserati. Beyond Formula One, Davis achieved significant success in endurance racing. He was a class winner in the 1960 Nürburgring 1000km, sharing a Ferrari 250GT with Carlo Abate. His crowning achievement came in 1964 when he won the Targa Florio, sharing a Porsche 904 GTS with Antonio Pucci, cementing his legacy in motorsport history.
Life and Legacy After Retiring from Racing
After retiring from racing, Colin Davis chose a life away from the racetrack. He emigrated to Cape Town, where he worked as a radio broadcaster. His post-racing life was a testament to his versatility and ability to adapt to new challenges. Davis passed away on 19 December 2012 after a long illness, leaving behind a legacy that is remembered by motorsport enthusiasts around the world. His journey from a young racer in London to a celebrated driver in international circuits exemplifies the spirit of determination and passion that defines great sportsmen.
Career Stats
| Year | Entrant | Chassis | Engine | WDC Position | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1959 | Scuderia Centro Sud | Cooper T51 | Maserati | NC | 0 |