Loughborough to Le Castellet – F1 Academy Star Talks Motorsport

Last month, the inaugural F1 Academy programme kicked off in Austria, with fifteen young female drivers revving up to make racing history.

Amongst them is Loughborough College learner Chloe Grant, currently studying on the bespoke enhanced Diploma in Sporting Excellence (DiSE) programme, a collaboration with Motorsport UK.

Halfway through the Academy schedule, Chloe is raring to go for the rest of the season, representing team Art Grand Prix. With College alumna Abbi Pulling making it to the podium in Valencia, Loughborough College is in pole position to produce a new generation of female driving superstars.

During a break in the F1 Academy schedule, Chloe shared her thoughts about the DiSE programme, a unique mix of practical training and academics enabling drivers to get ahead in their sport without sacrificing education, “It’s a great programme to be a part of. It enables me to still be in further education as I continue to focus on my sport.

“One thing I really appreciate is focusing on the psychological side of things, outside of the driving seat. It’s something I struggle with in the sport, so focusing on having a positive mindset is something I really value.”

Reflecting on how the DiSE programme has prepared her for the F1 Academy, Chloe continued, “It’s important, especially getting an education alongside training. I personally didn’t enjoy school and didn’t get the qualifications I wanted, so I joined this course because it’s an FE qualification, and I can continue to learn.”

The F1 Academy was launched with young female drivers in mind, providing upcoming racers with the opportunities and support needed to succeed at the highest levels of competition. For Chloe, and the 14 other international drivers, it’s a chance to break down the barriers that have long held women back in motorsport.

Lining up alongside Chloe on the grid is fellow Loughborough College DiSE learner, Jess Edgar, and it’s the camaraderie of the young drivers that Chloe says makes the College a valuable place to be. Jess said: “One of the things I really value about visiting College is getting to be with other drivers, everyone is a friend. It’s especially nice to see Jess on the F1 Academy, it’s great having a familiar face across the grid.”

The F1 Academy picked back up again this weekend Zandvoort, Netherlands. Looking ahead, Chloe is aiming high, “I’d love to make it to F1 eventually, but as long as I’m racing professionally, that’s the dream.”

"Jessica Edgar v Chloe Grant - GB4 Championship" by jambox998 is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.