Wannabe race engineers get a taste of life in the fast lane

VISITORS to Dearne Valley College were treated to a showcase of sprint cars, rally cars and racing cars at an open evening at the college.

To help launch a new motorsports programme a number of professional race teams, race engineers, support crews, drivers and associations were invited to the Wath-based college.

Team Honeywell, the Motor Sport Association, Sheffield and Hallamshire Motor Club and Dukeries Rally all attended to give motorsport hopefuls a taste of the skills needed to compete in motorsports.

Students also got to meet Locost Championship Driver, Max Lees.

New for September 2012, the college’s Motorsports programme will include motorsport technology, engines, duspension, brakes, and steering and chassis.

Students on the programme will also transform a MR2 Turbo road car, donated by Wombwell based performance specialists Spitfire Performance into a “Sprint Car”.

Students will work on the project from initial concept to completion, working hands-on with industry experts to ultimately get the car out of the garage and onto the racing circuit.

The car, will then be raced at a sprint car event next year.

Jon Barker, DVC programme area nanager for Engineering and Technology, said: "The Motorsports launch event was fantastic made extra special by the invited associations giving up their valuable time to visit DVC.

“Our exciting new programme is ideal for any young person wanting to pursue a career in the motor industry.

“The practical skills gained will be put to good use with the sprint car project which is a first for the college.”

Chris Wright, a former Dearne Valley College student and Director of IT Desk (UK) Limited based in Rotherham has offered sponsorship towards the project.

Dearne Valley College are now accepting applications for courses starting September 2012.

For a further education course guide 2012/2013 call the enquiry line on 01709 513355, email [email protected] or alternatively the course guide can be downloaded from www.dearne-coll.ac.uk

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