From the moment the team was first launched, EXCELR8 Motorsport has established a strong reputation for helping young talent, with countless drivers having been given the chance to launch their racing careers with the team’s hugely successful MINI CHALLENGE programme.
The decision to enter the high-profile British Touring Car Championship back in 2019 added another strong to EXCELR8’s bow and means the team can now offer drivers the chance to follow a ladder from club level racing right through to the biggest series in British motorsport.
In a bid to further support some of the brightest talents on the racing scene, EXCELR8 has created a dedicated Driver Development Programme geared towards helping aspiring stars of the future to fulfil their potential.
Dan Zelos, winner of the 2021 MINI CHALLENGE JCW title, and young Scottish racer Ronan Pearson were the first two drivers to sign up as EXCELR8 BTCC Development Drivers, giving them the chance to work closely with the race-winning touring car team to gain vital hands-on experience that will benefit them as they progress in their respective careers.
Not only did they benefit from the opportunity to see the inner workings of the BTCC team, but they also gained a greater understanding of the commercial side of racing; something that is often overlooked, but which is arguably as important as on-track talent when it comes to making a career out of motorsport.
With Ronan now stepping up to a BTCC race seat, and with Dan in the role of reserve, two more drivers will hope to follow in their footsteps, with Bradley Gravett – son of former BTCC champion Robb – joining the pair in signing a deal as a Development Driver, whilst MINI CHALLENGE Trophy runner Tom Ovenden will also look to benefit from a role as Academy Driver as he bids to work his way up the motorsport ladder.
