Stars of two and four wheel racing were on hand to promote the 6th Henry Surtees Foundation fundraising kart challenge, held at Mercedes World, Brooklands. This first event since the passing of John Surtees CBE who set up the charity following the tragic death of his son Henry, killed at age 18 while competing in Formula Two race at Brands Hatch in 2009.
The primary objectives of the charity are to assist people with brain or physical injuries caused by accident to return to community living through the provision of support for equipment and facilities. They also seek to provide education and training associated with motorsport-related programs in technology, engineering, and road safety instruction for two and four wheels.
Damon Hill, Derek Bell, Freddie Spencer and Stuart Graham also took to the track to demonstrate racing cars and bikes synonymous with John Surtees’ illustrious career, and included examples of those built by Surtees and campaigned in period by drivers such as Alan Jones, Carlos Pace and Mike Hailwood.
The day, which was supported by many businesses associated with the racing industry, began with a charity auction followed the champagne reception for guests and then the 35 kart teams — who paid to compete in the two-hour race held on the unique Mercedes World track located at the scene of the very first British Grand Prix at Brooklands — took to the track in less than ideal weather conditions to vie for victory. It is hoped that this event will exceed the £60,000 total raised in 2016. For further details, or to make a donation please visit www.henrysurteesfoundation.com
