For a woman, it’s very difficult to become successful in a male-dominated sport like Formula One. Being labeled as a “dumb blonde” would make anyone feel even more discouraged. Yet, all this didn’t stop Rosemary Smith, a 79-year-old legendary lady, to become a very successful rally pilot in the 1960s. Her passion for speed made her victorious at the Tulip Rally in 1965, or at the Monte Carlo Rally where she won the Coupe des Dames in 1966.
Prior to gaining her latest triumph, the feisty and fashion-forward female was challenged by Renault UK to drive an 800 BHP beast at the famous Paul Ricard circuit in Southern France in May.
The invitation marks the 40th anniversary of the manufacturer’s involvement in the F1 racing. During the “Follow Your Passion” campaign, the company placed the Irish woman, who had never had the opportunity to drive an F1 car before but never ceased to give up her ‘speedy’ dream, behind the wheel of an R.S.17.
Born to drive fast, the rally pilot couldn’t say no to the Boulogne-Billancourt-based company’s captivating call. “[…] when the team at Renault UK contacted me I jumped at the chance,” said the former champion.
Publicis London captured sequences from the ultimate drive test with the Renault Sport Formula One™ Team. Emotional scenes from her inspirational career path were added by the creatives to complete a three-minute-long inspirational video.
Dave Monk, the Executive Creative Director of the London-based agency, thinks the remarkable woman’s story is a huge life lesson for all of us. It “embodies the kind of passion for life we can all learn a lesson or two from,” says Monk.
As part of the Renault Sport celebration, the company offers ten lucky people the chance to enjoy a Renault F1 test drive, just as Ms. Smith did. Want to feel how the 800 galloping horses make the car’s engine roar? Check out Renault’s test drive for yourself and see if you can meet the company’s conditions. You can apply on the website until 30 September 2017.
Throughout her experience, Ms. Smith was supported and encouraged by current F1 driver Jolyon Palmer. Also, the presence of her former co-driver Pauline Gullick made her feel even more confident regarding the single-seater car. “After racing and facing the challenges of competing in a male-dominated sport together for many years I was so happy that my friend Pauline was able to share this latest milestone and give me that extra boost,” Smith explained.
The ‘Behind the Scenes’ video allows you to have a sneak peek at how it all happened and how Renault helped Rosemary follow her passion and set a new world record. Let’s go for a ride.
Credits:
Client: Renault UK
Agency: Publicis London