Charles Montier

Charles Montier was an engineer, mechanic and Ford dealer in France who improved the ubiquitous Ford model T for the French market. He also modified and raced Fords in the 1920s and '30s with some success for himself, his son and his racing customers. This is the story of how growing up around the family blacksmith's forge and his early training led him to being known as the "Sorcier de la Ford" translated as the Sorcerer or Wizard. The Ford model T was not the obvious choice to race in the first running of the world famous 24-hour race at Le Mans but not only did Charles take on the challenge but he finished in a credible 14th place. He was even more successful in hill climb events in France and Belgium and then contested Grands Prix races in Europe against the best known names of the day. This book aims to bring him the belated fame he so richly deserved.