Samantha Summerbell nominated for driving academy

Glenroy Sinclair, Assignment Coordinator

Samantha Summerbell's dream to one day race in the Formula One series, competing against some of the world's top-notch drivers, is inching closer to reality. And with a nod from Lady Luck and God's blessings, Samantha Summerbell may well be on her way.

"She has been nominated as the Jamaican representative (to the Young Driver Excellence Academy), but we are yet to get conformation from the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA)," secretary of the Jamaica Millennium Motoring Club (JMMC), Marcia Dawes, told Automotives on Friday.

According to the FIA Institute's website, the organisation's Young Driver Excellence Academy is a groundbreaking project to develop young talent worldwide. The academy provides opportunities for upcoming drivers to develop the skills they need to progress in their motorsport careers, doing so with a focus on safety.

If there is confirmation, the Hillel High sixth-former is expected to depart the island next month for Mexico, where she will match skills with over 25 other aspirants. Only eight will be selected to advance to the next stage.

"We are hopeful that she will advance. This is a great learning experience for her, competing against some of the top youngsters from across the world. Samantha is very smart and whatever she learns, she will share the knowledge with other youngsters here in Jamaica," her father, David Summerbell, said on Friday.

Summerbell is excited about the nomination of his daughter, who will celebrate her 18th birthday in December. A third-generation circuit racer, Samantha Summerbell is one of two female drivers currently competing at Dover.

"We are all excited. Her physical fitness will be tested, plus she will be taught the physics of motorsport," said Summerbell.

President of the JMMC, Peter Clarke, stressed that Summerbell's nomination provides more exposure for Jamaica as one of the growing forces in motorsport from the region.

CREDITABLE PERFORMANCES

"I have no doubt about her driving skills, so I am expecting some creditable performances from her. Based on the criteria for nomination, she was the most suitable young driver," said Clarke.

The academy also generates a public benefit by instilling in young drivers an understanding of the highest standards of road safety. As part of the course, participants will be taught the necessary skills to become qualified road-safety instructors, enabling them to educate the public.

The participation and support of the FIA's National Sporting Associations (ASNs) is helping to ensure that the world's most talented young drivers have access to this initiative.

The FIA Institute has teamed up with two motorsport stars to lead the academy's training programme. They are Alex Wurz, former Formula One driver and two-time Le Mans winner; and Robert Reid, 2001 World Rally Champion. Academy activities will take place in Europe and further afield, with the intention of making it a truly global driver-training programme.

Among the criteria for nomination to the Young Driver Excellence Academy is that the applicant must be between 17 and 23 years old and have consistently achieved outstanding results. They must also have circuit racing experience.

In addition, they must currently hold a valid competition licence issued by their country's ASN. The applicant must confirm that they are prepared to become an ambassador for the FIA Institute throughout their motorsport career. In addition, they must agree to sign a contract with the FIA Institute outlining their responsibilities while at the academy and in performing their role as an ambassador.