The winner of the 2013 'Become a Racing Driver Competition' has been announced as Stephen O'Keefe - granting him free entry into this year's Formula Sheane Championship.
O'Keefe's prize doesn't stop at free entry however, as it also includes coaching, testing, the use of a fully maintained Sheane single-seater and a full race suit sponsored by Murray Racing to keep. In short, the €15,000 prize should provide him with everything he needs to make a name for himself in the world of motor racing.
This year's contest is the third one of its kind to take place. Previous winners, Sean Hynes and Timmy Swail, have already achieved successful first seasons. "He will have a tough job following in the footsteps of our previous winners, but we are all sure he is up to the job," comments Ken Elliott, Mondello Park Chief Instructor. "He drove really well on the day and really impressed the judges."
"I can't believe that I have been chosen," said O'Keefe shortly after the win. "It is a fantastic opportunity to get a chance to take up this great sport. I'm very grateful to Mondello Park, Sheane Cars and Murray Motorsport for their time and financial investment."
Despite winning the competition, the pressure is still on O'Keefe, as he will be back at Mondello Park in the next few days to qualify for his Motorsport Ireland race licence. This will then be followed by further testing at Mondello Park, leading up to his first race weekend at Bishopscourt, Co. Down in May.
With the 2013 prize snatched up, the search for the 2014 competition has already begun. Entrants for next year's event will be selected from those who take part in a Mondello Park Motor Racing Experience throughout the year.
For more details please visit www.racedriver.ie.