Suzuki Swift scholarship for bright young drivers

Calls for applicants for a racing scholarship to help aspiring young drivers will be launched at this weekend's V8 SuperTourers in Taupo.

Premium lubricant brand Castrol will launch its Suzuki Swift Sport Cup driver scholarship programme at the Father's Day 400 V8 SuperTourer event being held at the Ricoh Taupo Motorsport Park.

The scholarship, in its sixth year, helps aspiring race drivers world-wide up to the age of 25 by providing a car and backing to contest the 2013 Suzuki Swift Sport Cup series being held at the six V8 SuperTourer events.

Co-ordinator Paul Burborough said the scholarship was for drivers who'd like the chance to run in a competitive entry-level car racing category at a top tier.

"Anyone who hasn't completed a full national race championship and is aged under 25.

"Winger Suzuki will provide the use of a car and engineer with further support from Castrol, Dunlop, Chicane Clothing and Hamilton Stripes and Signs providing goods, services and additional financial support. Essentially it's an arrive-and-drive package - itself worth $35,000."

Their fifth scholarship campaign with the Suzuki Swift class, Castrol are boosting support with access to drivers they back in the V8 SuperTourer category through a mentoring programme. Marketing manager Jayne McEwan says it's a prime opportunity to introduce new talent to the sport through their brand.

"A big part of our marketing is forming long-term relationships. That starts at grass roots level and the professionally run Suzuki series has been a perfect place to bring a potential motorsport star through our programme.

"Alongside the well regarded name of Castrol, we can guide them to become a brand identity in their own right."

The selection process requires candidates to complete a variety of tests including fitness, interview technique and sporting aptitude before they go behind the wheel.

"While we search for the applicant that impresses on and off the track, it's a chance for them to learn from the experience in becoming better themselves," McEwan said.

"Our customers demand the best from our products, and that's what we require from our brand ambassadors - their best."

Potential applicants can apply via the www.swiftcup.co.nz website before being drafted for a selection day to be held on November 16, at the Hampton Downs race circuit in Waikato.

Winner of the 2011/2012 Castrol scholarship opportunity, Nelson's Kent Yarrall said it got him to a level where he could continue seriously.

"Essentially it got me to a tier-one level of racing - to that next level of professionalism. Being there allowed me to compete with greater confidence.

"Plus with the media exposure, I got a lot more confident at delivering the message - especially with television," said Yarrall.

"I met a lot of good people, some of which I hope become future sponsors. Now I'm keen to continue and compete again next season."

A preliminary driver line-up will be announced next week along with a management board as the series attracts new competitors in the small car race category.