McLaren driver challenges teams to join him in Christchurch karting challenge.
Poole racing driver Sam Bird is looking for karting fans to face him on the track, in support of a Dorset cancer charity.
McLaren Formula E Ace Sam, 37, has his own team of three competing in the SWVA Karting Challenge at South Coast Karting, Chapel Gate in Christchurch, on Sunday November 17.
The Enduro 60 event will raise funds for the Dorset Cancer Care Foundation (DCCF), of which Sam is an ambassador.
A long-standing supporter of the DCCF, Sam has previously run the London Marathon for the charity.
He said: “I’m really looking forward to getting on the track with lots of other racers, having a great time and raising some good money for the DCCF.There will be a 40-lap practice session lasting 20 minutes, followed by an hour long, 120-lap race.It’s a great location and we aim to have around 13 teams of three competing.You can do it with your friends, your work colleagues, or your mates, drivers just need to be at least 13 years old and there’s going to be a great atmosphere.”
Sam started his career racing karts aged just eight and later became a test and reserve driver for Mercedes Formula 1 working with Schumacher, Rosberg and Hamilton.
One of the few drivers to have raced in Formula E since its inception, he signed for NEOM McLaren’s Formula E team for Season 10 in 2023. In March this year he sealed one of the most dramatic victories in Formula E history in the São Paulo E-Prix Round 4, when his stunning final-lap move on former Jaguar teammate Mitch Evans secured NEOM McLaren’s first victory in the World Championship, and his first with the team.
He said: “It’s a little while since I have been in a kart, but it’s where it all started for me.
“DP Burridge Developments from Poole have already entered four teams, so they look to be the ones to beat! What we need now are more teams to sign up, bring their supporters and help us to raise as much money as we can to help local people with cancer.”
The DCCF provides non-returnable cash grants to local families facing financial hardship because of a cancer diagnosis.
It costs £270 to enter a team of three drivers into The Enduro 60 and everyone receives gloves and a balaclava. One hundred pounds from each team registration will go to the DCCF.
Teams will also enjoy a barbeque and a prize raffle.
To book tickets visit the DCCF charity shop at: www.dccf.co.uk phone: 07849 249250 or email: hello@dccf.co.uk