At Goodwood’s Sunday Mirror Trophy Formula Two race in 1966, eventual victor Jack Brabham (Brabham BT18-Honda) is seen leading Jackie Stewart’s Matra, which retired with throttle problems. Jack went on to win both the F1 and F2 championships that year with Judd’s engines.
Photo: Ferrett Fotographics
As a wayward young schoolboy, John Judd found it difficult to find employment in the engineering businesses around his home city of Coventry. Despite having good qualifications and being at the epicenter of the UK car industry, he was rejected first by Jaguar and then initially by Coventry Climax. Fortunately, Judd’s father was able to “pull a few strings” and after a second interview the young Judd was offered an apprenticeship. Working for Climax opened up an amazing door of opportunity. Being in the right place at the right time is a cliché, especially in motor racing, but that’s just what happened to John—he was able to secure a job working for Jack Brabham, just as the double World Champion was about to embark on his historic 1966 F1 season. Judd’s relationship with Brabham led to them founding Engine Developments Limited, and to a life-long business and personal relationship. European Editor Mike Jiggle recently spoke to Judd about his life and times with Sir Jack Brabham and the contribution Engine Developments has and continues to make in the world of motor racing.
Did you begin your working life as an apprentice with Coventry Climax?
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