While Ford’s return to the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2016 brings with it after half a century a new episode in its stunning duel with Ferrari, for the American manufacturer this 84th edition will also be a matter of national prestige facing Corvette.

But for a better understanding, let’s go back in time to the mid-1960s. After Enzo Ferrari rebuffed his buyout offer in 1963, a stung Henry Ford, II set out to beat the Italian manufacturer on its favourite playing field at the 24 Hours of Le Mans where Ferrari had dominated since 1960.

But this sporting challenge was part of a much broader business strategy: a comprehensive rejuvenation of Ford’s image and range. Two cars quickly became the posterchildren of that ambition: the GT40 and its various configurations at the 24 Hours of Le Mans on the circuit side, and the Mustang cabriolet coupe on the road side.

So, as of [...]

He started his career singing in an Oklahoma saloon.

And country superstar Garth Brooks proved he still has the common touch by rewarding his four millionth ticket buyer with a laundry list of expensive presents.

The woman, an unidentified teacher, was surely overjoyed when she learned about the vast bundle of goodies The Thunder Rolls favourite had prepared to celebrate her netting the milestone voucher for his show at Grand Rapids, Michigan on Thursday.

According to TMZ, she was given a whopping $5,000 in cash, though she was surely even more happy to learn Garth was paying off her student debt.

In addition, the 54-year-old gave her a new Jeep Cherokee, which is worth up to $32,000 and a little red Corvette, a sports car that can cost up to $80,000.

The Friends In Low Places star had even forked out so she could go on a luxury break [...]