Mansfield racing driver seeks sponsors on road to success

While the likes of Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton grab most of the motor racing headlines, there are plenty of other drivers just finding their feet and making their way.

And 20-year-old Ryan Faulconbridge, who lives in Berry Hill, is one of them after taking the plunge last year in the Ford Fiesta ST Championship, which is run by the British Racing and Sports Car Club (BRSCC).

Of 25 drivers in his class (C), he finished a highly creditable tenth overall after amassing 182 points from 16 rounds, which included a superb fifth in one race. Now he is looking to push on in 2016 and grab a place in the top three to help him realise his ambition of moving on to touring-car racing via the Renault Clio Cup and then the British Touring Car Championship.

“Unfortunately, this type of sport doesn’t come cheap, with costs for fuel, tyres, transport and accommodation,” said Ryan. “Until now, myself and my family have tried to cover the cost of racing ourselves. Now we are looking for further support in order for me to progress.”

Enthusiastic and dedicated, Ryan hopes local companies will come forward to sponsor or advertise on his car. Packages can be discussed with him by ringing 07510 749453 or by e-mailing him at [email protected]. “I’m currently offering an excellent advertising opportunity for local companies to put their livery on my car for the season,” he says.
The new Ford Fiesta season starts in April at Snetterton in Norfolk and runs through to October, with races at top-class circuits, such as Silverstone and Brands Hatch, Castle Combe and Anglesey.

“After looking at various options, I decided on this championship after going to a McLaren track day at Donington Park a couple of years ago,” said Ryan.

“There are 16 rounds at seven different tracks across the UK, so it offers great variety. It is an ideal platform to develop and is the best route to progress.

“With sealed engines, a minimum weight of 1,100kg and only slight adjustments needed to the car, it is really down to the ability of the drivers, which makes for some close and interesting racing.

“Last year was all about learning. It was my first in any form of motorsport, so I was very happy with my performance after a lot of ups and downs. For the 2016 season, I’ve teamed up with Jam-Sport Racing, of Northampton, who will offer me extra support and, hopefully, provide me with an edge over other drivers.

“I must say a big thankyou to all the famnily, friends and supporters who have helped me over the past year, especially my father for making all this possible. We look forward to moving into the 2016 race season.”