The 2012 Ginetta Junior Championship is set to feature a new Rookie Championship within it for the first time, offering young drivers a cost-effective route into the popular junior championship.
Ginetta themselves will be running up to eight factory cars for the rookie class, which will be open to drivers in their first year of racing. Providing a cost capped introduction to the championship, the cars will be run with limited set up changes and will provide a level playing field for the rookies.
Ginetta Chairman Lawrence Tomlinson commented: “The establishing of the popular Ginetta Junior Championship has provided a great platform for young racing drivers at the early stages of their career, the benefits and experience they gain prepares them for any series. A great example is Frank Wrathall and his progression within 'tin tops'. That said we know there are still many talented young drivers out there that due to cost are unable to progress with their dreams…this is why we are introducing the Ginetta Junior's Rookies”
The rookie class will not impact upon the main championship, with the rookie class drivers not eligible for the main championship and Ginetta saying they will not enter any cars or drivers into the main championship, ensuring that existing teams and drivers will not be affected. Racing rookies are still able to enter the main championship meanwhile, if their budget means they can.
Championship coordinator Max Gregory said: “For new drivers entering the Junior Ginetta Championship, it is not mandatory that they take part as a Rookie, the option to enter the main championship with an independent team is still and will remain a popular option. The idea behind this is to give new young drivers a cost effective way into the Championship, who will then graduate from the Rookie Championship into the main series with an independent team. The exposure the Rookies will receive as part of ITV4 televised TOCA package supporting the BTCC can only assist their talent being recognised and attracting potential sponsors for when they 'graduate'.”
Entry for the Rookie Championship will cost £2,600 per weekend, which includes the cost of the car, tyres, fuel and entry fee.