Tom Ingram has been officially recognised as one of the rising stars in British Motorsport after being awarded BRDC Rising Star status. The reigning Ginetta Junior Champion headed to Silverstone recently to pick up his award for prominent BRDC members Ian Titchmarsh and David Brodie.
The seventeen year old is one of four drivers getting the accomplishment, joining a list of BRDC badge holders including F1 World Champions Lewis Hamilton, Jenson Button and the club's president Damon Hill. One of the benefits Ingram will get from the award will be the use of the BRDC Clubhouse at Silverstone for sponsorship meetings on race weekends.
Ingram said: “I'm truly honoured to be associated with such an iconic name in motor racing as the BRDC. It's the most prestigious club you can be a member of in UK motorsport if not indeed the world, and to be asked to join is such a privilege. I'm just ecstatic – really, really, really pleased – and so proud to be one of the chosen few.
“They told me about what the BRDC does and explained all its history, and they asked me about what I'd done in my career so far and what I'd like to do in the future.
“They said they could see I had been racing at the front a lot and that they knew I was a very consistent driver, and David told me I was one of the most naturally-talented drivers he had ever seen. When someone says that to you it's just such a huge compliment, and I didn't really know what to say back.”
“The use of the BRDC clubhouse is such a boost, too. To be at the Home of British Motor Racing in such a fantastic building and great facility is something that I'm sure might help to seal a deal. It's just unbelievable inside; there are photographs up on the walls of all the Gold Star winners – it's a history lesson all in itself, and a real 'Who's Who' of British motorsport.”
BRDC Club Secretary Stuart Pringle said: “The BRDC has always been passionate about promoting the most promising young racing drivers and in Tom, the club sees a young man with real potential. We are delighted to welcome Tom to the Rising Stars scheme, and we hope that this endorsement of his talent will help to open doors as his career progresses.”
