2007 CHOF Award: Jeremy Walton
Jeremy Walton has long been known for his automotive journalism. His two
Capri-specific books, "Capri: The Development & Competition History of
Ford's European GT Car" and "The Sporting Fords Vol 3: Capris" were probably
the first to record the history of the Capri in Europe. They are still among
the best overall Capri histories yet published. These books helped to maintain
public interest in the Capri through the 1980s. Mr. Walton also wrote numerous
magazine articles about Capris.
Jeremy Walton's enthusiasm for Capris went beyond his words. He used Capris of
various varieties as daily transportation from 1969 well into the '80s. Many of
these cars were provided by his employers, but he also purchased at least two
of his own. Mr. Walton worked at Ford AVO in the pressroom for 2+ years,
1972-1975.
Walton was press officer for Ford Competitions from 1972 to 1975. This provided
his opportunity to race a Group 1 Capri 3000 in the 1973 24 hours of
Spa-Francorchamps. The car was equipped with modified road tires instead of
proper race tires, but despite this handicap he and fellow driver Nigel
Clarkson finished 13th overall and 10th in Group 1.
Mr. Walton was his usual gracious self when notified of his induction into the
Capri Hall of Fame, which took place during the Swarm banquet in September,
2007. He prepared some acceptance comments which were read aloud during the
presentation. Mr. Walton had a new book on the Audi Quattro which was being
released that week, and he was unable to join the Swarm in person. Mr. Walton's
acceptance letter follows:
I am genuinely sorry I cannot be with you on the
occasion of my induction into the Ford Capri Hall of Fame. But I understand you
have let some Brits into the ceremony and I expect they'll drink you dry and
collect any freeebies going!
That Team Blitz keep the faith in the most practical parts way today, tells us
all about the enduring appeal of Capri's lower cost route to street and track
performance.
That YouTube still carries some of the Ford TV advertisements we did in Europe
more than 20 years ago--I did the driving and had the occasional creative
thought for Campaigns like, Goes Like Lightening [2.8 injection]--also shows us
that generations brought up on affordable Japanese speed or high tech German
automobiles still appreciate the rugged simplicity of Capri.
Altogether I wrote three editions of the Haynes Capri book (Capri; The
development & Competition History of Ford's European GT Car), a 2-edition
title for Motor Racing Publications [Collector's Guide series] and raced more
than 6 examples, including completing Spa 24 hours in 1973 Belgium.
I'd like to say thanks to the Capri for its stellar role in my life-- and to you
all for honoring me. It is appreciated.
Jeremy Walton
UK
August 28 2007
|
CCNA Capri Hall of
Fame
