The British people have a long history of sporting hobbies. Formula One racing got its start in Britain with the famous British Grand Prix races and pioneers such as Bernie Ecclestone and Max Mosley. It is no wonder that famous Brits are often major sports persons. Here are some of the sporting hobbies of some of these famous individuals. Some of these celebs have invested a lot of their time and money in the pursuit of success in sports.
Sport cars
Many famous Brits enjoy collecting cars and taking them out on the track. Some of Lord Irvine Laidlaw’s motors sold for over £17 million. Lord Laidlaw has long known that cars can make a great investment if one has a shrewd ethic when choosing which to buy. Classic cars can fetch many thousands of pounds depending upon the rarity, condition, and history of the car. Lord Laidlaw also enjoys track days in his spare time and has competed around the world at various motorsport events. Laidlaw collected such classics as the 1955 Jaguar and other cars that are not often seen. Meanwhile, Max Mosley took his passion for the motor sports and created an entire career out of it. Although he started off as a fan and then a racer, Mosley’s true gift was in management. In fact, his leadership led to the development of race cars and regular cars that are safer to drive than they ever were before.
Fencing
While David Beckham may be famous for his prowess as a football great and his marriage to former Spice Girl Victoria Beckham, he is also an avid fencer. He and fellow celebs regularly get together to fence. Fencing combines age-old chivalry and skill in one exciting sport and also develops finesse, footwork, endurance, and quick thinking skills.
Cycling
Cycling has long been a passion of Top Gear legend James May, and he is an advocate of cycling safety as well. James lives in London, so bicycling is a much easier method of transportation than his also beloved sports cars. He encourages the public to use bicycles more often and also espouses his support of drivers and cyclists mutually respecting one another on the road, as safe cycling is a big concern in congested cities such as London.
Support and fandom
Famous Brits do a lot to support a wide variety of sports. Appearances at Formula One races and even team sponsorships all attest to the dedication of famous Brits to the sporting lifestyle. Without this type of support and exposure, there would be far fewer fans and even fewer race cars. When people see their favourite celebs enjoying sports, they are more likely to consider that sport in a favourable way and become fans themselves. Sometimes, being a fan first is how celebrities discover their passion for a sport. Of course, having the extra income to be able to pursue a sports hobby to the fullest is a luxury that celebs can enjoy.