Juan Manuel Fangio's name is indelibly inscribed in the record books and many consider him to be the greatest driver in history.

It was 46 years before his record of five World Championships was beaten, but even now he is still remembered for an exceptional Formula 1 career which contained some of the greatest displays of skill and daring ever seen.

Few though know of his almost super-human exploits in epic South American road races that made competition at the pinnacle of motor sport seem like child's play.

Gerald Donaldson chronicles not only those arduous early competitions but also his long journey from humble origins in remote Argentina to the lofty heights of international celebrity.