Can-Am Designer Peter Bryant Passes Away

It is with a great deal of sadness that I relay that racecar designer Peter Bryant died last night of a heart attack at his home in Las Vegas.

Peter started out as a mechanic in Formula One, but eventually went on to design his own Can-Am car, the impressive Ti22 "Titanium" car that Jackie Oliver drove to great effect in 1970, finishing a stunning 2nd at Laguna Seca that year.

I had the good fortune of spending some time with Peter, just this past weekend, at the Riverside Reunion, and as always he was in great spirits—relishing telling tall tales of his days as a constructor. He will be sorely missed.

Look for a more thorough overview of his life in the upcoming Jun issue of Vintage Racecar, and on our web site www.vintageracecar.com
Casey Annis, Editor

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Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Bruce Langson on April 1, 2009 at 1:42pm

Peter and I had become friends over the past several years. His stories, quick wit and creativity were always with him. It is great that his recent book on racing and his accomplishments in Can-Am racing is so well received.

It is very sad to hear of the passing of this friend.

Bruce Langson

Permalink Reply by Tom Escover on April 1, 2009 at 7:45pm

Although I did not personally know Peter Bryant, I certainly remember the wonderful Ti22. I was amongst the many fans that day in 1970 at Laguna, hoping to see Olvier take it to victory. Sad to learn of Peter Bryant's passing.

Permalink Reply by Daniel Mensinger on April 1, 2009 at 9:47pm

I am saddend to here this news. I purchased a copy of Peter's book last year at the Monterey Historics. At the time I did not know it but the copy was signed by the author. A special thrill since I grew up watching all of his Can-Am cars run at Riverside Raceway. He was a great builder and designer. He lived the life that I dreamed about, racing and building his own team from nothing. Looks like heaven gained another special soul.