AMSF to roll out International Program for 2008

C Terpos

November 02, 2007

The Australian Motor Sport Foundation (AMSF) is excited to be piloting a new international elite driver development program in 2008, the aim of which is to manage and develop selected Australian drivers competing internationally. The AMSF International Rising Star Program will leverage many of the successful elements of the existing CAMS Rising Star Program so that Australia's international drivers are provided with the appropriate structures to continue their development as elite competitors. With the AMSF now managing the CAMS Rising Star Program under licence from CAMS, the AMSF will have end-to-end control over the development of young Australian drivers from entry level motor sport up to the Formula 1 World Championship. This will ensure maximum integration between the two programs and continuity for the drivers. AMSF General Manager, Quentin Crombie was excited about the Program which was identified as a key initiative in the newly developed AMSF Strategic Plan. "For the very first time, the AMSF will play an active role in the development and management of drivers racing internationally. This will include forming alliances with the leading racing teams in Europe and other locations outside Australia, as well as providing access to leading sports psychologists, physiologists, driver coaches, mentors and other support services." Previously, the AMSF only provided funding for supported drivers and did not have an active role in team selection or driver development activities. "We feel very confident that we can now maximise the chances of getting our drivers to Formula 1 in an efficient and effective manner," concluded Crombie. The Program's focus will initially be on circuit competition, however there are plans to establish similar programs for rally and other disciplines in the longer term. In the interim, competitors from other disciplines will still be able to apply for financial support from the AMSF. Applications for the AMSF International Rising Star Program are now open and close on Friday 30 November 2007. Please click here for further information and to download the application form. ------- END For further information please contact: Quentin Crombie, General Manager, AMSF Tel: (03) 9593 7777 FOR MEDIA INFORMATION PURPOSES - NO REGULATORY VALUE