Story Highlight
– Event showcased pathways into motorsport for enthusiasts.
– Over 120 visitors attended the Introduction to Motorsport evening.
– Focus on women in motorsports highlighted by Helen Allen.
– Networking session provided opportunities for training and events.
– Positive feedback received from students and parents attending.
Full Story
An event in Stafford witnessed a significant turnout as Motorsports UK and the Wolverhampton & South Staffordshire Car Club collaborated with Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group (NSCG) to inspire budding motorsport enthusiasts. The gathering was aimed at promoting various aspects of the motorsport sector, presenting both professional opportunities and hobbyist avenues for involvement.
Chris Sunderland, a Mechanical Engineering Lecturer at NSCG, remarked on the remarkable response to the “Introduction to Motorsport Evening,” emphasizing the institution’s dedication to fostering motorsport education and collaboration with local clubs and employers. He noted, “The partnership with Motorsport UK and Wolverhampton & South Staffordshire Car Club allowed us to showcase the range of pathways into motorsport, from grassroots participation to professional roles.”
The event attracted over 120 attendees, including members from regional car clubs, with some traveling considerable distances, such as a participant from Manchester. Highlights included a talk from Helen Allen, Chair of the British Women Racing Drivers Club, who focused on the role of women in motorsport, alongside discussions on diverse motorsport activities like rallies and trials.
The event concluded with a networking session in the college’s atrium, where representatives from various motorsport disciplines engaged with visitors regarding upcoming events, membership, and training initiatives available in the sector. Elise Whyte, the Club Development Coordinator at Motorsports UK, expressed her enthusiasm for the high student turnout, stating, “It was fantastic to see such a great turn out 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.”
Paul Price from the Wolverhampton and South Staffordshire Car Club commended NSCG for hosting the evening, reflecting on the exceeding numbers of participants and the success of the event. He noted, “We hope we’ve given students an insight into the world of motorsport and provided them with a pathway to competing, marshalling, or helping to run events in a controlled and regulated environment.”
Looking ahead, both organizations plan to hold additional taster events throughout the year, aiming to continue engaging students and their families in the dynamic world of motorsport. For those interested in pursuing a career in this field, Stafford College offers a range of relevant courses.
