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where did the idea of writing Elio De Angelis' biography first come from?
After I finished writing the book on Didier Pironi my
husband suggest that I wrote one on Elio. Elio was a
favorite of both of us but was my husbands hero 25 years
ago. I agreed and the book is dedicated to him.
what was the initial approach to start the
book? Did it work?
The first person I approached to help me was Clive Chapman at
Lotus who was reluctant to help me. He wanted me to prove that I
was serious about the project and needed me to get the families
approval. So I set out to contact Elio's family in Rome.
what was the most challenging difficulties in writing down
Elio's story?
The most difficult part was finind Elio family, after that it
was all downhill. I left messages on Elio's web site forums and
wrote to many people in the hope that somebody could put me in
touch with the family. One evening when I was reading my e-mails
a very special message popped up. It was from Elios sister!
Have you met any difficulties in searching, gathering
information and details?
No not at all, it was the easiest book I have written as
gathering information was very easy. After being in contact with
Elios family they contacted many of his friends and I went to
Rome to meet them al. I also contacted drivers and mechanics who
were all very happy to talk about their friend. Even Clive
Chapman changed his mind and permitted me to go and dig
through all the archives and photographs. He has been extremely
helpful.
do you think Elio's achievements are fairly/correctly
estimated?
Elio's achievements are widely documented. He was a very
talented driver and I feel in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Had he gone to WIlliams instead of Mansell (yes really he was
offered the place first) who knows what could have happened.
which aspects in Elio's life did you find most unexpected?
I had no idea what a talented artist he was. His
complicated and intricate drawings are fascinating. Had he not
become a racing driver he would have been an architect in the
family business.
will the book reveal any surprises or secrets? If so in which
areas?
I am obviously not going to tell you too many secrets or
surprises or it will spoil your enjoyment of the book. However,
his exploits with his brothers and friends on speed boats are
very surprising and extremely funny! There is one VERY big
secret in the book which I had to think long and hard about
before I put it in, it will be obvious when you read it!!
2006-04-22
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