Two rally co-drivers and a kartsport driver topped this year’s Elite MotorSport Academy in Dunedin .
Co-drivers Tarryn Cox (Rotorua) and Jason Farmer (Huntly) were first and third-placed graduates, with Daniel Kinsman – the first kartsport driver in the academy’s nine-year history – graded second.
The programme is overseen by the MotorSport NZ Scholarship Trust and aims to develop the wide range of critical skills, other than driving, which underpin success in the sport. Decision making and mental skills are key elements of the training.
“We emphasise the ability to clearly focus and respond fast and accurately to multiple tasks – skills that provide a winning edge in competition,” said trust manager Ian Snellgrove.”
“Students sit a computer-based skill test called WOMBAT, which is used internationally by leading airlines to assess trainee pilots. WOMBAT requires 45 minutes of high concentration from the participant, while they undertake tasks that require excellent hand-eye coordination and retentive memory.”
Chris Cox from Rangiora astounded the lecturers by recording the highest score ever achieved at the Elite MotorSport Academy , blitzing the previous best result.
Scholarship Trust Chairman and MotorSport New Zealand president Shayne Harris said that the Elite Academy programme has become internationally recognised, helped by the success of young graduates in competitions around the world. He added that the inclusion of a kartsport competitor is recognition of its important role introducing youngsters to the thrills and spills of motorsport.
Development manager of Kartsport New Zealand Robert Hutton said: “We were very impressed with the programme and the work done with the young competitors. We hope we can establish an ongoing opportunity for kartsport competitors in future Academy programmes.”
The nine graduates from the 2011 Academy will continue in the Graduate Development programme, which provides access to tutors and trainers in their home areas to further develop particular skills.
NZ Academy of Sport South Island and Otago University partner the Trust in delivering the Academy and Graduate programme.
“Attendance at the Elite Academy is fully funded and The MotorSport NZ Scholarship Trust acknowledges the financial support of SPARC, MotorSport NZ, The Community Trust, TAB Sports Bet, Fujitsu General NZ Ltd, Taupo Car Club and Rally New Zealand Ltd,” Ian Snellgrove said.
