Record numbers for 2024 StreetCar Disabled Driver Scholarship
A record 16 disabled motorsport enthusiasts attended the Streetcar Disabled Driver Scholarship event at Motorsport UK’s Headquarters at Bicester Motion on Saturday 11 May.
The scholarship aims to make the sport more accessible for disabled participants and attendees were competing for the opportunity to win a fully funded AutoSOLO season and access to an adapted car.
Four drivers were awarded the Scholarship: Dean Linnell, Dominic Pearson, Ian Dance and Luke Delahunty, who will be able to access adapted vehicles at StreetCar affiliated clubs in their local area.
Drivers were required to compete in a technical AutoSOLO course in a specially adapted road car and meet with a judging panel to assess their determination and attitude.
Hugh Chambers, CEO, Motorsport UK said, “It’s incredibly important to us here at Motorsport UK that we are able to diversify and improve accessibility for drivers to come along and try our sport. It’s thanks to days like today that we can open up these opportunities for disabled drivers to give it a go and have fun within a safe and controlled environment.”
Richard Egger, Loughborough Car Club Competitions Secretary, said, "The scholarship is important in that it demonstrates that participation in club motorsport is open to many and provides a level playing field where everybody competes in one event. Engagement with Motorsport UK will bring other clubs into the project, spreading the message to a wider audience and increasing awareness of accessibility."
Dominic Pearson, scholarship winner and Mission Motorsport Beneficiary commented, “I’ve had a brilliant day today, meeting all these other people who are disabled and wheelchair users, having the opportunity to get in a car and have a go around the track – while having a load of fun doing it. It’s been fantastic.”
Claire Kirkpatrick, Head of Club and Community Development, added, "It's been wonderful to welcome so many drivers to have a go and get involved in StreetCar as part of our Disabled Driver Scholarship day. I am sure this year's winners will be able to enjoy motorsport closer to home at their local StreetCar club, and that's really what this initiative is all about, promoting accessibility in our sport."