```markdown Ken Miles, a name synonymous with grit, determination, and raw talent, remains a legendary figure in motorsport, particularly for his contributions to Ford's dominance in the mid-1960s. While his career was tragically cut short, Miles left an indelible mark on racing history, especially in the context of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. This article delves into Ken Miles’ racing career, specifically addressing the question: How many times did Ken Miles win at Le Mans? The answer, as we shall see, is more complex than a simple number, complicated by factors beyond his control and the vagaries of racing itself.

The Early Years and Racing Prowess

Miles’ journey to racing fame began in the United Kingdom. Born in 1918, he developed a passion for engineering and motorsports. His mechanical aptitude was matched by his driving skills, and he quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. After serving in World War II, Miles immigrated to the United States, where he continued to hone his craft. He became known for his meticulous approach to car preparation and his uncanny ability to coax the maximum performance from any vehicle he drove. Miles’ talent was quickly recognized, and he began to compete in various racing series, including sports car events. His driving style was characterized by a smooth, precise technique, which allowed him to conserve both his car and his tires. He was a thinking driver, always calculating the best strategy to win. This approach, combined with his mechanical understanding, made him a formidable competitor.

The Ford GT40 Era and Le Mans

The mid-1960s marked a pivotal period in Miles' career, coinciding with Ford's ambitious project to challenge Ferrari's dominance at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Ford's investment in racing was unprecedented, and the company assembled a team of talented drivers, engineers, and mechanics. Miles was a key component of this effort. He was instrumental in the development of the Ford GT40, a car designed from the ground up to conquer Le Mans. Miles' contributions to the GT40 project extended far beyond his driving skills. He was actively involved in the car's testing and development, providing invaluable feedback to the engineers. His attention to detail and his understanding of the car's mechanics were critical in refining the GT40's performance and reliability.

The 1966 Le Mans Controversy

The 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans remains one of the most controversial races in motorsport history, and Ken Miles was at the center of it. Ford had prepared a formidable lineup of GT40s, and Miles, along with co-driver Denny Hulme, was considered the favorite to win in their car. They dominated the race, leading for a significant portion of the event. However, Ford's executives, seeking a photo opportunity that would showcase the brand's dominance, made a controversial decision. They instructed Miles to slow down and allow the other two Ford GT40s to catch up, setting up a planned photo finish. This would have meant a dead heat between the three cars, a marketing dream. While Miles complied with the order, the race officials, citing a rule about the distance covered by each car, declared that the other Ford, driven by Bruce McLaren and Chris Amon, was the winner. The reason was McLaren and Amon had started slightly further back on the grid and thus covered a slightly longer distance. This decision robbed Miles of a well-deserved victory and a place in racing history. “It was a bitter pill to swallow,” recalled a crew member from the team. "Ken deserved that win, he was the best driver out there." The controversy surrounding the 1966 race continues to this day. Many believe that Miles was unfairly denied the victory. His performance throughout the race was exemplary, and he had earned the right to stand on the top step of the podium.

The Tragic End

Tragically, Ken Miles' life was cut short just two months after the 1966 Le Mans. He was testing a Ford J-car, a further evolution of the GT40, at Riverside International Raceway. The car suffered a catastrophic mechanical failure at high speed, and Miles was killed instantly. The racing world mourned the loss of a true champion. His death came as a shock to the entire racing community. Miles was highly respected by his peers, who admired his skill, his dedication, and his sportsmanship. His passing was a significant loss for Ford and for motorsport as a whole.

The Verdict: Zero Le Mans Wins, But a Lasting Legacy

Officially, Ken Miles never won the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The 1966 race, despite his dominant performance, was not awarded to him. However, his contributions to Ford's success at Le Mans are undeniable. He played a critical role in the development of the GT40 and was instrumental in establishing Ford's dominance in the race. The story of Ken Miles at Le Mans is a complex one. It is a story of triumph, controversy, and tragedy. While he may not have a Le Mans victory to his name, his impact on the race and on motorsport history is undeniable. He remains a symbol of determination, skill, and the sacrifices that drivers make in pursuit of victory. His legacy continues to inspire generations of racers and enthusiasts. The fact that he was instrumental in the development and preparation of the winning cars in 1966, even if he wasn't officially declared the winner, cements his status as a Le Mans legend. His story serves as a reminder that the true measure of a racer's greatness extends beyond the official results. ```