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The launch of the Ecurie Ecosse Young Driver Initiative (EEYDI) at Knockhill last week marked an important chapter in the recent history of Scottish motorsport.
Following its full-time return to international motorsport in 2012 and first title success for 20 years last season, the Scottish squad has turned its attention to a tradition of promoting up-and-coming Scots; a roll-call that includes the likes of Sir Jackie Stewart, Allan McNish and David Coulthard.
With a view to preserving and continuing Scotland's rich motorsport heritage two home-grown talents – Ciaran Haggerty from Johnstone, Renfrewshire, and Adam MacKay from Ellon, Aberdeenshire, – will be supported by the EEYDI throughout their BRDC Formula 4 Championship and Scottish Formula Ford 1600 Championship campaigns.
The Ellon youngster enjoyed a glittering karting career before moving up to single-seaters last season in Scottish FF1600. Like Haggerty before him, the 17-year-old won the Newcomers Cup en route to third overall courtesy of podium finishes at every round.
Overseeing the initiative are, among others, five of Scottish motorsport's most prominent figures: Ecurie Ecosse team principal Hugh McCaig, Scottish Motor Racing Club competition secretary Graham Brunton, long-time champion of Scottish motorsport talent John Clark, three-time Le Mans 24 Hours winner and World Endurance Champion Allan McNish, and racing driver Dario Franchitti.
It's hoped their combined experience, guidance and hard work will ensure a route to the top remains open to Scottish talent.
Mr MacKay said: “It is a huge opportunity to be involved with such a big name in motorsport and with so much heritage behind it. I'm really excited to do them proud.
“My main goal is to win the Scottish FF1600 Championship this year, and hopefully be in with a chance of some podiums at the away races.
“Not many people can say they've had this sort of chance so I'm looking forward to making the most of it."
by Cheryl Livingstone, 1st April 2015