Story Highlight
– Event showcased motorsport pathways and industry involvement.
– Over 120 visitors attended the Introduction to Motorsport Evening.
– Helen Allen highlighted Women in Motorsports during talks.
– Networking session allowed exploration of membership and training.
– Partnership emphasized student engagement in motorsport opportunities.
Full Story
Teams from Motorsports UK and Wolverhampton & South Staffordshire Car Club collaborated for an engaging evening that delved into the dynamic world of motorsport. Attendees explored numerous motorsport disciplines and learned about various routes available for both professional careers and personal involvement in this vibrant industry.
Chris Sunderland, a Mechanical Engineering Lecturer at NSCG, remarked on the enthusiastic response to the “Introduction to Motorsport Evening,” saying, “The event demonstrated our passion and commitment to motorsport education and inclusion of the clubs and employers in our region.” Sunderland noted that news of the event resonated widely among local car clubs, with even a participant traveling from Manchester to join.
The partnership between Motorsport UK and Wolverhampton & South Staffordshire Car Club enabled a comprehensive overview of pathways into motorsport, encompassing grassroots engagement to professional positions. Sunderland remarked, “What was particularly encouraging was seeing the engagement during our specialist sessions, and this event sets some strong foundations for our future motorsport activities,” highlighting the potential for developing the next generation of motorsport professionals.
With over 120 participants in attendance, the evening featured prominent figures such as Helen Allen, Chair of the British Women Racing Drivers Club, who emphasized the importance of female representation in motorsport. Additionally, attendees benefited from informative discussions on various disciplines, including rallying, trials, and competitive racing.
The event culminated in a networking opportunity in the College’s atrium, where representatives from different motorsport sectors provided insights on upcoming events, available memberships, and training initiatives within the industry.
Elise Whyte, Club Development Coordinator at Motorsports UK, expressed her delight at the turnout, stating, “It was fantastic to see such a great turnout from the students who are interested in becoming more involved in Motorsport. We made the trip to Stafford to share with the students that there are so many ways to get started.” She underscored that motorsport not only offers enjoyment but also fosters skills, networking, and career advancement.
Paul Price from Wolverhampton and South Staffordshire Car Club echoed this sentiment, extending gratitude to NSCG for hosting the event. He stated, “The number of students and parents that attended the evening exceeded our expectations, making it a very enjoyable and rewarding experience.” Price hopes that the session opened doors for students to engage with various roles such as competing, marshalling, or event management within a structured environment.
Looking ahead, both club representatives expressed eagerness to continue engaging with students and parents at upcoming taster events planned throughout the year. For those considering a career in motorsport, Stafford College offers a range of relevant courses, available for exploration online.
