Race car driver assists apprentices with training
30 June 2004
Former automotive student and racing car driver Christopher Paola recently gained sponsorship for his Formula Vee car from the Automotive department at Kangan Batman TAFE.
The Highett resident and fourth year motor mechanics apprentice approached the institute's Automotive Department for sponsorship of his vehicle that will see the department maintain the car body for the current racing season.
Christopher says the sponsorship is an opportunity for him to contribute to the training of motorsport apprentices at the institute. "It gives apprentices a chance to be involved in racing at the grassroots level," he said. "It also means I can make my car more presentable. I save money on one area which allows me to spend on other areas instead."
At the moment Christopher's racing is still a weekend based, part-time pursuit but he has his sights set on becoming a full-time driver eventually. He is currently competing at state level and aims to enter the national series as well. Christopher is an apprentice with VACC which has given him the opportunity to experience different work places over the last three years. He is currently working for Booran Holden in Cheltenham.
The department has agreed to prepare and paint the fibreglass body, repair any damage during the season, supply stickers for the car and trailer and embroidered patches for Christopher's race suit and team shirts.
In return Christopher will allow Kangan Batman TAFE signage on his car, hand out information on relevant courses at race meetings or associated events and have his car available for displays and talk to prospective students.
Christopher will also talk to current Motorsport students about his experiences working as an apprentice in V8 supercars, how he got there and what he is hoping to achieve in his career.
Kangan Batman Motorsport students will also be given the opportunity to participate as part of Christopher's race team pit crew providing them with invaluable on-the-job experience.
Anyone interested in providing sponsorship for Christopher can contact him at paolamotorsport@hotmail.com
