Bob Said, American race car driver and bobsled racer (d. 2002)

Born Boris Said in the vibrant metropolis of New York City on May 5, 1932, this remarkable figure, more familiarly known as Bob Said, carved out a unique and distinguished career as an American racing driver. His life, which concluded on March 24, 2002, in Seattle, Washington, was marked by an extraordinary versatility that saw him not only compete at the pinnacle of motorsport but also represent his nation on the Olympic stage.

A Distinguished Career in Motorsport

Bob Said's journey into the world of high-speed competition began in an era when motorsport was often the domain of intrepid gentlemen drivers. His talent quickly became evident, particularly in sports car racing, where he made a significant impact. Said secured his first major victory at the prestigious Watkins Glen Grand Prix in 1953, a clear signal of his burgeoning skill behind the wheel. He frequently challenged for top honors in prominent endurance races across the globe, participating in legendary events such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the 12 Hours of Sebring, showcasing his endurance and tactical acumen.

Perhaps one of the most notable chapters in his racing career was his brief but significant foray into Formula 1. In 1959, Bob Said etched his name into the history books by becoming the first American to compete in a Formula 1 World Championship race driving a Ferrari. He participated in two Grands Prix during that year, an achievement that underscores his caliber and ambition, placing him among an elite group of drivers who have experienced the ultimate form of open-wheel racing.

From Race Tracks to Bobsled Runs: An Olympic Athlete

What truly sets Bob Said apart from many of his contemporaries was his incredible athletic breadth. Beyond the roar of engines and the smell of burning rubber, Said possessed the speed and skill required for the icy descent of a bobsled run. He proudly represented the United States in the Winter Olympics, an extraordinary feat for any athlete, let alone one concurrently excelling in a demanding motorsport discipline.

His Olympic journey included appearances at two separate Winter Games: Cortina d'Ampezzo in 1956 and Grenoble in 1968. This dual-sport career made him a truly unique individual in the pantheon of global athletes, establishing him as the first person ever to compete in both the Formula 1 World Championship and the Winter Olympics. His ability to transition between the high-G forces of a race car and the precision demands of bobsledding speaks volumes about his physical prowess, mental fortitude, and sheer love for competitive sport.

Legacy and Personal Life

Bob Said's legacy extends beyond his personal achievements. He hailed from a family with a clear passion for speed, a tradition that continued with his son, Boris Said III, who also became a well-known and successful racing driver in various American series, particularly NASCAR. This continuation of the racing lineage further cements the Said name within American motorsport history.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bob Said

Who was Bob Said?
Bob Said, born Boris Said, was an American racing driver and Olympian known for his diverse athletic career in both motorsport and bobsledding.
When and where was Bob Said born and when did he pass away?
He was born on May 5, 1932, in New York City and passed away on March 24, 2002, in Seattle, Washington.
What were Bob Said's key achievements in motorsport?
Bob Said won the 1953 Watkins Glen Grand Prix, competed in prestigious sports car races like Le Mans and Sebring, and was the first American to drive a Ferrari in a Formula 1 World Championship race in 1959.
Did Bob Said compete in the Olympics?
Yes, Bob Said was a bobsledder who represented the United States in the Winter Olympics in 1956 (Cortina d'Ampezzo) and 1968 (Grenoble).
What makes Bob Said's career particularly unique?
His career is unique because he was the first person in history to compete in both the Formula 1 World Championship and the Winter Olympics, showcasing an extraordinary range of athletic talent.
Is there any connection between Bob Said and other racing drivers?
Yes, his son, Boris Said III, also became a prominent American racing driver, continuing the family's legacy in motorsport.