90 Seconds with "Bentley Boy"
Guy Smith
Guy Smith enjoyed the most prestigious victory of his career in 2003, taking the chequered flag of the Le Mans 24 Hour race in car No.7, the Bentley Speed 8 of Team Bentley.
Guy had been a central figure for Team Bentley's attack on both the Sebring 12hrs and the Le Mans 24hrs, partnered with then six-time Le Mans winner Tom Kristensen and 'Dindo' Capello. After finishing 4th at Sebring in the 12hrs, the trio swept all before them at Le Mans that June, capturing pole-position and 1st place in the world-famous 24 Hour race. Guy was selected to pilot the car across the finish line at the end of the historic 71st running of the event to mark an emotional sixth win for Bentley.
Guy began his career in karts at age 12, earning four championships and four runner-up titles before progressing to Formula Ford competition in 1991 at the age of 17. After four successful years of Formula Ford and Formula Vauxhall, the former Autosport Young Kartist and Young Driver of the Year finalist graduated to the Formula Renault Sport Championship with nine race wins and 11 pole positions.
What would you be if not a racing driver?
Either a farmer or truck driver ( both involve driving and when I was a kid that was what I wanted to do!) Now I also have a Sports and Entertainment business.
Do you have any pre-race superstitions?
No not really I used to be quite superstitious in karts and single seater getting in from the right had side, and I used to have a lucky adidas t shirt when I raced karts. I realise now that all that stuff makes no difference!
What is your favourite racing circuit?
I really love Laguna Seca and Road America they are both great driver tracks and have loads of character and of course great corners.
Who do you admire the most?
Its a cliché but my dad as he has been a great role model in getting me to where I am today.
Favourite food?
I love Steak and Chips!!
Which other series would you like to race in?
I really love Indy cars I was lucky to do a few races there back in 2004 but I would have loved a proper crack at it.
What road car do you drive?
I have a BMW M3 and a Range Rover.
Most memorable racing moment?
Winning Le Mans and also winning the Junior British Karting championship back in 1987!
Do you have any tattoo's, if so what and where (be honest!)?
I have no Tattoo’s but my teammate Steven Kane keep’s telling me he’s getting a sleeve done!
