MotorSport’s Premier Trophy Stolen

New Zealand motorsport’s premier trophy, the Jim Clark Trophy, has been stolen at a break-in in Manurewa, Auckland. The trophy was packed up ready to return to MotorSport New Zealand by the father of current holder Scott Dixon, when thieves broke into his Manurewa offices, opened the special box in which it is transported and removed it.

The break-in happened on 27 February. The police were notified but MotorSport New Zealand was not made aware of its loss until 5 pm yesterday.

“We are totally nonplussed by the theft and the time taken to advise us of it,” Lester Smith, MotorSport New Zealand’s general manager said. “Scott’s parents have moved to the United States since the burglary and overlooked advising us.

“The distinctive trophy comprises a bronze figure sculptured by well known artist Greer Twiss and mounted on a block of polished granite quarried from the Clark family’s quarry in Cockburn, Scotland. It was donated by Jim Clark’s parents to be the sport’s premier trophy in recognition of the close affinity Jim Clark had with New Zealand.

“He won the Tasman Cup three times in the 1960s, the last in 1968, just a few months before he was killed in an accident at Hockenheim.

“Since nothing else was taken in the burglary we assume that the thief or thieves knew exactly what they were stealing. Alternatively it was opportunistic.

“We are appealing to that person to return it or leave it somewhere where it can be collected and advise us. It is insured but the history it carries is irreplaceable and it is doubtful that the trophy itself can be replicated.

“Anyone who knows anything of the trophy should contact me on 04 801 9559 or 029 801 9559, anonymously if necessary,” he said.

The trophy is due to be awarded to the 2002 winner in May.

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