The Greatest Air Race is presented and narrated by astronaut Andy Thomas as he embarks on a trans-continental journey to retell one of the world’s greatest aviation stories. In 1919, four Australians became the first men to fly across the globe. They flew from London to Darwin in a rudimentary plane made of canvas, wire and wood, sitting in open cockpits with only a compass for navigation. They completed the 11,000 mile journey in 28 days.
When mankind took to the skies we took the tools of war with us. Within a century these weapons evolved from the legendary dogfighters of World War One to flying fortresses, supersonic jets, and even pilotless drones capable of destroying whole buildings… or just a single target. This episode is the story of that evolution and of mankind’s desire to fly higher, move faster, and kill better all from within the cockpit.
Officially labeled ‘The greatest driver Formula One has ever seen’, Schumacher has redefined this elite sport through his ability, dedication, media presence and appeal. This is an objective look at his journey, and the ongoing impact of his contribution to Formula One.
In mid-January 2008, Lewis Hamilton signed a new 5 year, multi-million pound contract to stay with McLaren Mercedes until at least the end of the 2012 season. Born in 1985, Hamilton began his winning career aged seven racing radio-controlled karts. His career, and his story, is one to watch.
Britain has always played a very important role in the aeronautic industry, from Sir George Cayley who designed the first actual model of an aeroplane to Sir Frank Whittle who is credited with single handedly inventing the turbojet engine.
