Nominations open for 2011 CAMS Rising Star Program

The Australian Motor Sport Foundation (AMSF) is seeking nominations for the 2011 CAMS Rising Star Program. Once again, Australia's brightest young stars will be able to nominate themselves to be considered for the 2011 Program. Those selected to participate in the Program will compete in either state or national level Formula Ford.

The self nomination approach has been chosen to encourage young talented drivers to be proactive in their pursuit of a national or international motor racing career. Graduates of the CAMS Rising Star Program include Scott Pye, John Martin, Ashley Walsh and Daniel Erickson. Scott Pye is currently competing in the British Formula Ford Championship as part of the AMSF International Rising Star Program.

The CAMS Rising Star Program aims to identify and fast-track the development of young Australian drivers from the junior ranks to national and international competition through clearly defined and supported pathways.

The 2011 program will be strengthened by a continued focus on fitness and ensuring peak performance. With fitness and development camps planned for the Australian Institute of Sport, team members will be able to train and learn at the world class facilities in Canberra.

Financial support is provided to the CAMS Rising Stars through the AMSF, as well as having access to a range of support services including but not limited to; media and sponsorship training, specialised motor sport fitness training, access to the CAMS Rising Star sports psychologist, networking opportunities with the AMSF's key stakeholders and exposure to the vast knowledge and skill base of the AMSF Board of Directors.

"This Program is a unique opportunity to launch a young drivers racing career," said AMSF General Manager Martin Stillman.

"The CAMS Rising Star Program has demonstrated over recent years to be the leading driver development program in the country. Drivers selected will be fast tracked to ensure peak performance in pursuit of their motor racing aspirations and goals."

Drivers wishing to nominate for the 2011 Program must meet specific assessment criteria including age (14 years and above), demonstrating elite past driver performances, and the ability to provide the balance of an operational racing budget.

Once a short list of candidates is established, they will be interviewed by an AMSF selection panel. Potential candidates may also have to attend an on track evaluation day at a Victorian circuit prior to selection. The successful candidates will be announced in mid late October 2010.

The nomination deadline is Friday 10th September 2010.

For further information on the assessment criteria and to download a nomination form, please visit www.amsf.org.au.

The CAMS Rising Star Program acknowledges the support from its partners including: the Australian Government via the Australian Sports Commission (ASC), the Confederation of Australian Motorsport (CAMS), Penrite Oils, OAMPS Insurance Brokers, Boylan Traffic Solutions, Relux Slabs, LCF Merchandise, Revolution Racegear and AMSF Patron Mark Webber.

-source: amsf