Malcolm Campbell Breaks Land Speed Record

July 21st, 1925

July 21st, 1925

Malcolm Campbell Breaks Land Speed Record
How Long Ago?

99 years, 7 months, 22 days ago

Location

Pendine Sands, Wales

Category

Sports & Recreation

People
  • Malcolm Campbell
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Malcolm Campbell Breaks Land Speed Record

Malcolm Campbell achieved a groundbreaking milestone by becoming the first person to exceed 150 miles per hour on land. He accomplished this feat at Pendine Sands in Wales, driving the powerful Sunbeam 350HP. With a two-way average speed of 150.33 mph (242 km/h), Campbell showcased both skill and the engineering prowess of the time. This impressive speed not only set a new record but also pushed the limits of automotive technology in an era fascinated by speed.

First person to exceed 150 mph on land

Achieved at Pendine Sands, Wales

Used the Sunbeam 350HP racing car

Average speed recorded was 150.33 mph

What Happened?

Malcolm Campbell, a renowned British racing driver, made history at Pendine Sands in Wales by becoming the first individual to surpass 150 miles per hour on land. This impressive achievement was made possible through the engineering marvel of the Sunbeam 350HP, a racing car purposefully built for high-speed attempts. Pendine Sands served as an ideal location due to its long, flat stretches of beach, providing a safe environment for high-speed trials. With a two-way average speed of 150.33 mph (242 km/h), Campbell’s record-breaking runs became a notable highlight in the world of motorsport, demonstrating both his driving prowess and the advancements in automotive technology of the era.

At Pendine, Campbell's efforts to exceed 150 mph were not only about personal glory but also reflected a broader cultural fascination with speed during the 1920s, an age characterized by rapid technological advancements and growing public interest in motorsports. The public and media were captivated by Campbell's daring exploits, as he pushed the boundaries of speed and precision in his quest for records. Following his achievement, he became a prominent figure in motorsport, inspiring a generation of engineers and racers alike to push the limits of performance.

The Sunbeam 350HP was a product of rigorous engineering efforts by Sunbeam, a manufacturer known for its innovation in automotive design. The record attempt raised significant interest in automotive capabilities and performance, leading to further investments in racing technology and development. Campbell’s success at Pendine Sands would set new standards for future record attempts and help cement the reputation of British motorsport on the international stage.

Why Does it Matter?

This event is interesting as it marks a pivotal moment in the quest for speed, showcasing the intersection of engineering and human ambition. Campbell’s achievement not only revolutionized perceptions of automotive performance but also inspired future generations in motorsport and engineering, leading to continuous advancements in vehicle design and safety.

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