HARD. Academy is our newly established programme where we work closely with drivers of all ages in providing them the tools to reach their full potential behind the wheel.
The programme is structured around the key elements of a successful racing driver; including driving skill, fitness ability, public relations, and partnership acquisition. Securing funding to get on the grid is a crucial part in succeeding in motorsport and one of the hurdles many people find the most challenging. This is why HARD. Academy devotes great focus in developing each member as a commercial asset.
Headed by Managing Director and ex-BTCC Driver, Tony Gilham, HARD. Academy is made up of a fantastic team of individuals who specialise in each of the areas above. This ensures we cover each element to a high standard.
On January 25th 2022 we welcomed 15 hand chosen individuals to the launch of the HARD. Academy at our headquarters here in Kent. We kicked off the first group of 2022 with sponsorship advice from one of our current touring car drivers, Jack Goff and media from our Marketing Manager, Josh Bashford, followed by a group based partnership task.
Covering all aspects of motorsport both on and off track they left kitted out with all the tools needed to progress in building a brand, fast-forward 3 weeks and 6 Academy drivers have secured sponsorship and a drive within Britcar Trophy and Britcar Endurance with the team for the 2022 season.
BTCC star Jack Goff & Team HARD. Racing Marketing & PR Manager Josh Bashford discussing partnerships in Motorsport
More is to come for our participants with ongoing mentorship throughout the season and a test day with tuition available for all Academy members this season.
The programme is looked after by Claire Murdoch who commented, “The Academy is a great initiative by our team to make Motorsport more inclusive for drivers who are serious about making the industry pivotal in their career moving forward.
“The Academy is inclusive to all ages and racing experience, the only requirement is that all members are committed to learning and putting the resources provided into action with the aim to get their foot in the door in the Motorsport industry.
“The current crop of Academy members have been a joy to work with so far and it’s fantastic that 6 of the group have already secured a seat with us for the 2022 season.”
After a successful initial group, the team is now taking applications to take on 15 additional members for a second group of HARD. Academy members. For more information please visit out Academy page here.
HARD. Academy members Sami Bowler and Nicole Woods.