06 Januar 2011 Von: Katie Fabian, F1 in Schools

Vodafone McLaren Mercedes Team Principal, Martin Whitmarsh, joins an illustrious line-up of Formula 1 personalities as a Patron of F1 in Schools, lending his support to this global educational initiative, which is privileged to have the support of the Formula One community.

Andrew Denford, Founder and Chairman, F1 in Schools, welcomes Martin Whitmarsh, saying, “We are very flattered that Martin has agreed to be a Patron of F1 in Schools. This initiative has close links with Formula One, and to have direct involvement with the personalities really helps us to engage with the students. Martin is an inspirational Team Principal and we appreciate his generosity in joining our other Formula One Patrons of F1 in Schools.”

F1 in Schools has a roster of Patrons which reads like a ‘Who’s Who’ of motorsport, including legendary Chief Technical Officer of 2010 World Championship winning team, Red Bull Racing, Adrian Newey; Lotus Racing’s technical supremo, Mike Gascoyne and Mercedes GP boss, Ross Brawn.

Whitmarsh says of becoming a Patron of F1 in Schools, “This educational initiative is a great way to encourage students to study key subjects within the curriculum, while also introducing new fans to Formula One. We are always considering the long-term future of our sport and with initiatives such as F1 in Schools we are assured that there will be plenty of bright, young, talent looking to enter the industry.

“We met a number of the students after the 2009 World Finals in London, when the winning team was given a tour of the McLaren Technology Centre. The students’ knowledge of the sport and their depth of engineering understanding were very impressive, so we know that F1 in Schools is playing an important role in preparing students for further education and, ultimately, careers in industry. I am sure we will see F1 in Schools ‘alumni’ in F1, and possibly Vodafone McLaren Mercedes, in the not too distant future.”

F1 in Schools challenges students to design, manufacture and race CO2 powered miniature race cars. It is the only global multi-disciplinary challenge for students aged 9 to 19. The competition inspires students to use IT to learn about physics, aerodynamics, design, manufacturing, branding, graphics, sponsorship, marketing, leadership, teamwork, media skills and financial strategy, and apply them in a practical, imaginative and exciting way.