The presence of reigning Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton at yesterday's F1 In Schools final was clear proof that the annual contest has not only earned the support of the grand prix world, but also shows many youngsters that their ambitions of a career in motorsport are more than simply a dream.
Designed to harness the imagination and enthusiasm of youngsters, F1 In Schools recreates the thrill and intensity of grand prix competition in order to provide useful skills and abilities to many youngsters longing for a career in the world of motorsport.
This year's event involved more than 200 students from 20 countries and took place at the Royal Horticultural Halls & Conference Centre in central London. Lewis dropped in to inspire and motivate the contest's participants as they knuckled down amid the heat of competition.
Lewis toured the event, speaking to the budding engineers, motivating them and giving them first-hand advice on developing their careers in motorsport. As the event reached its conclusion, Lewis also joined F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone to present trophies and congratulate the winners.
Afterwards, Lewis said: "Formula 1 provides many brilliant, unique people around the world with a fantastically challenging and rewarding career. So seeing all these young students following their dreams, and competing so professionally - and with such intensity - tells me that many of them possess the drive and commitment to make it all the way to the top.
"F1 In Schools is the ideal preparation for the sport," he added. "It teaches kids how to apply IT, physics, aerodynamic, leadership, teamwork, financial skills and media savvy in a uniquely practical and imaginative way to develop, build and race in a competitive environment. The size of the cars may be different, but the thrill of competition is exactly the same."
