A superb and rare image of the Yamaha works
factory Grand Prix rider of 1973,
the legendary Finnish road racing World Champion Jarno Saarinen.
Jarno Saarinen was the
reigning 250cc World Champion!
Jarno Saarinen made his first appearance in the Grand Prix road racing World
Championship at the circuit of Imatra,
Finland in
1968, finishing 9th in the 125cc class. During the 1970 season, at the age of
25, Saarinen competed in the 250cc (now GP2) class, finishing the season a
respectable fourth place. In 1971 Saarinen competed in both 250cc and 350cc
classes. Saarinen won his first Grand Prix that year, claiming the 350cc class
in Czechoslovakia.
He finished third in 250cc World Championship and second in 350cc. His success
didn't go unnoticed as Yamaha signed him to ride its 250cc and 350cc bikes for
the 1972 season. Saarinen delivered as expected, winning the 250cc World
Champioship. He finished second in 350cc World Championship, giving defending
champion Giacomo Agostini a strong challenge. Yamaha developed a new, four
cylinder, two-stroke 500cc bike for the 1973 season and chose Saarinen to ride
it. Finally, Saarinen was ready to challenge Giacomo Agostini and Phil Read in
the 500cc class with competitive equipment. Saarinen's 1973 season started
amazingly well, given the fact he competed in the 250cc and 500cc classes. He
became the first European rider to win the prestigious Daytona 200 race in the United States.
Returning to Europe, he jumped to an early
lead in the Grand Prix championship race by winning the first three 250cc
rounds and two out of three 500cc rounds. It seemed he was on the brink of
running away with the titles. Unfortunately, the season would end in tragedy.
On May 20, 1973,
the fourth Grand Prix of the season was held at Monza near Milan, Italy.
A crash during the 350cc race left an oil slick at La Curva Grande, the
first curve after the pit straight. On the opening lap of the 250cc race, the
race leader, Renzo Pasolini fell in front of Saarinen, who was in second place.
He couldn't avoid the fallen rider and the resulting crash caused a multiple
rider pile up. Both riders died in the accident. It would have a major impact
on the sport. His legacy continues to live on. There is still an active
Saarinen fan club in Italy.
Formula One driver Jarno Trulli was named after Saarinen. Jarno Saarinen, born
on the 11th of
December 1945, still remains the only Finn to have won a motorcycle
road racing World Championship. And he won 15 Grand Prix during his career.
This is your rare chance to own a non period
image that reflects a very interesting piece of Saarinen ‘s, Yamaha’s and
roadracing’s glorious history. Therefore it is printed in a nice large format
of ca. 7" x 12" (ca. 18 x 30 cm).
Shipping costs will only be $ 7.00 regardless of how many photos you
buy. For 5 or more photos, shipping is free!
All our photos are modern photos that are traditionally made from what we believe are the original negatives and are copyright protected.
(Note: A. Herl, Inc. does not appear on photo, for ebay purposes only)
No copyright expressed or implied. Sold as collectable item only. We are clearing out our archives that we have gathered from various sources.
All items always sent well protected in PVC clear files and board backed envelopes.
They make the perfect gift and are perfectly suited for framing. They will look gorgeous unframed and will be a true asset nicely framed with a border. They are a gorgeous and great asset in every home, workshop, workplace, restaurant, bar or club!
First come - first served. And you can always contact us for your requests. Please ask any questions before the auction ends.