Africa is not known for its pilots, cars or motorcyclists. However, several world champions, sometimes forgotten, were born in these latitudes. Even though they are rare, their presence cannot be forgotten. Here are the 10 greatest African pilots of all time.
The rules of this top 10 were explained in the part XNUMX of this article. This episode follows the fourth, published yesterday.
No. 4: Ray Amm (1927-1955)
Although he was never a world champion, Ray Amm was undeniably one of the strong men of the 1950s. After having scoured the grasstrack trails of Salisbury (from now on Harare, capital of Zimbabwe) from the age of 17, Ray focused on the track and emigrated to Europe.
His talent allows him to benefit from a Norton peak. Moreover, he is eternally linked to this brand and only drove British machines in the world championship. From 1952, he appeared as one of the favorites for the 350cc and 500cc titles, even winning a race in the legendary Grand Prix of Nations.
In 1953, he won the Tourist Trophy 350cc (Junior) and 500 tsp (Senior), consolidating his status as a title contender. Unfortunately, a crash at the French Grand Prix damaged his collarbone and his hopes.
1954 was to be his year but once again, Geoff Duke stands in its way in 500cc. In 350cc, he was beaten by Fergus Anderson and therefore compiles two world vice-champion titles. Duke himself said it: Amm was fast, ready to fight and with a bright future. MV Agusta debauches him in 1955, but the Rhodesian kills himself in Imola for his first outing. Riding a machine that would become dominant in the years to come, imagine what it could have become.
Ken Kavanagh and Ray Amm at the 1953 Dutch Grand Prix. Photo: ANEFO
Holder of seven victories (including two Senior TT) and 16 podiums, Ray Amm ranks fourth in the top 10.
N ° 3: Kork Ballington (1951-)
We might as well say it straight away: The top three in this current ranking was the hardest to achieve since the start of this series. Just two weeks ago, Ballington was still in first position. After a while, you have to decide.
An entire article has already been dedicated to the four-time South African world champion. As for Jon Ekerold, so we will focus on the reason for its ranking.
As a reminder, the pilot with glasses displays a total of 31 world championship victories, 46 podiums, eight pole positions and four world championship titles (250cc and 350cc 1978/1979). Let us add to this that he is the incarnation of the Kawasaki epic of the late 1970s, and wrote the Japanese manufacturer's finest hours in the world.
The times, coupled with competition and convincing successes, could largely propel him into first position. However, the two in front, which you probably guessed, have that “something extra”.
First of all, there is no 500cc, or very little. Indeed, cork was one of the architects of the KR500, which did not work as hoped in the premier category. When we know that a 500cc world champion has still not been revealed, it is difficult to give him priority.
Then, longevity is lacking. In all and for all Ballington was very strong in 1977 to 1980, which is only four seasons. The South African also admits that his retirement was taken prematurely. As you will have noticed, these small details do not detract from his legend and Kork could, in a sense, claim to be better.
Who will be crowned the greatest African pilot of all time? See you tomorrow for the first two places!
Cover photo: WorldSBK
