2016 Formula Ford Festival and Walter Hayes Trophy winner Niall Murray is looking to end his sensational season in style during next week’s Mazda Road to Indy Shootout.
The Irishman has flown out to California ahead of the coveted shootout, which will take place on Tuesday and Wednesday at the iconic Laguna Seca circuit.
21 drivers aged between 14 and 25 will contest the shootout, including champions from across the USA, India, New Zealand, Brazil, Mexico and Australia.
Alongside Murray, Scottish Formula Ford 1600 champion Neil MacLennan and MSVR Mountney Formula Ford Super Series champion Oliver White will also be representing the UK.
The winner will earn $200,000 towards an entry into the 2017 Cooper Tires USF2000 Championship, the first rung on the ladder to the Verizon IndyCar Series.
Murray earned his entry to the shootout after dominating the 2016 BRSCC British National Formula Ford 1600 championship, winning twelve of the sixteen races on his way to the title.
The 21 year old also became the second driver in history to win the Festival and Walter Hayes in the same season, whilst also tasting success in the Martin Donnelly Trophy at Kirkistown.
“What a year it’s been already, and now travelling to California we have the chance to make it even better,” said Murray.
“I would like to say a particular word of thanks to the BRSCC for supporting the trip, and of course to my long term sponsors who have helped me get to this point.
“Both myself and my fantastic team of people around me have left no stone unturned this year in our preparation, so I will be going out there knowing that I will be giving this my very best shot in every way.”
“I’m looking forward to meeting so many new people, including those from Mazda Motorsports, Cooper Tires, the USF2000 teams and the other shootout finalists. Driving at Laguna Seca alone will be incredible and may the best man win!”
