Ep 2. Rallying - The Killer Years

The Killer Years is a gripping documentary series that explores the story of the deadly decade between 1967 and 1977, when the world was rocked by a series of catastrophic events. In season 1 episode 2, entitled Rallying - The Killer Years, the focus is on the world of motorsport, which experienced some of its most tragic and devastating moments during this time.

The episode kicks off with a look at the glamorous and dangerous world of motorsport in the 1960s, which saw the sport becoming increasingly popular and commercially lucrative. It was also the era of the legendary racing drivers, including Jim Clark, Graham Hill, and Jackie Stewart.

However, the episode also highlights the darker side of the sport, particularly the lack of safety regulations and the high number of fatalities that occurred during this time. The first major incident mentioned is the 1961 German Grand Prix at the Nurburgring, where British driver Stirling Moss was left in a coma after crashing into a ditch. Moss recovered, but it was a sobering reminder of the risks that racing drivers faced.

As the decade progressed, the risks became even greater as the cars got faster and the circuits more challenging. It was not uncommon for drivers to put their lives on the line every time they stepped into their vehicles, knowing that one mistake could be fatal.

In 1968, the sport was rocked by the death of Jim Clark, one of its greatest ever drivers. Clark was killed in a Formula 2 race in Germany when his car crashed into a tree. The accident stunned the racing world and prompted a renewed focus on safety.

However, it would take several more tragedies before safety regulations were implemented. In 1970, Jochen Rindt became the sport's first posthumous world champion after he was killed in a crash during practice for the Italian Grand Prix. The episode details the crash and the horrific injuries sustained by Rindt, who was killed instantly.

The death of Rindt prompted a major safety overhaul, with circuits being modified and safety barriers being improved. However, the changes were not enough to prevent further tragedy.

In 1973, Roger Williamson was killed at the Dutch Grand Prix in a crash that saw his car burst into flames. Despite the efforts of fellow driver David Purley to rescue him, Williamson died at the scene. The episode details the crash and the heroic efforts of Purley, who was awarded the George Medal for his bravery.

The episode also explores the impact of these tragedies on the drivers themselves, who had to cope with the loss of their friends and colleagues. Jackie Stewart, who had campaigned tirelessly for improved safety measures, is interviewed about the toll that the deaths took on him.

Overall, Rallying - The Killer Years is a sobering reminder of the dangers of motorsport in the 1960s and 1970s. It is a gripping and emotional episode that will leave viewers with a renewed appreciation for the risks that racing drivers took and the importance of safety regulations in the sport.