Brian Gubby

Early Years and Beginnings in Racing

Brian Gubby, born on 17 April 1934 in Epsom, Surrey, England, embarked on his racing career after completing his national service in the 1950s. Initially, Gubby was a freelance motor trader, a profession that allowed him to nurture his passion for motorsports. He began his journey in the racing world through rallying and then transitioned to circuit racing. Gubby raced various cars, including a Speedwell-tuned Austin A30 and a 3.8 litre Jaguar, before moving to single-seaters in Formula Junior in the early 1960s. His early racing arsenal included a Lotus Eleven, a Lotus 18, and a rare Ausper T4. This period was marked by both excitement and tragedy, as he witnessed the death of his friend Dennis Taylor during a race in Monte Carlo in 1962, an event that profoundly impacted him.

Major Successes and Highlights

Brian Gubby’s racing career, though brief, was marked by notable successes. He progressed to Formula Libre and acquired a dark blue Lotus 24, with which he achieved significant victories. These included winning the Gold Flake Trophy at Leinster and a race at Phoenix Park. Encouraged by these triumphs, Gubby decided to step up to Formula One. His most significant attempt in Formula One was at the 1965 British Grand Prix. However, his Formula One journey was fraught with challenges, including a severe crash in the 1964 Mediterranean Grand Prix during practice, and a gear issue at the 1965 British Grand Prix, which led him to reconsider his racing career.

Life and Legacy After Racing

After his brief stint in Formula One, Brian Gubby shifted his focus from the racetrack to the racecourse. He became a successful racehorse trainer, a profession influenced by his heritage as the son of a jockey. Based in Bagshot, Surrey, Gubby trained several successful horses, including the sprinter Gabitat, winner of the Group 3 Duke of York Stakes and the Group 3 Goldene Peitsche. His 80-acre training facilities and hands-on approach to horse training highlighted his dedication and love for the sport. Gubby’s transition from motorsports to horse racing illustrates his versatile and passionate nature in the world of competitive sports.

Career Stats

Seasons Competed in

1. 1965 Season