Formula Ford champion wins New Zealand Grand Prix drive
New Zealand Formula Ford champion James Penrose has won a fully-funded drive in the 2022 New Zealand Grand Prix.
James Penrose will drive in the 2022 New Zealand Grand Prix as Castrol Ambassador. (Supplied)
The twenty-five year-old is the first entrant for the Grand Prix after winning the Castrol-sponsored seat.
Sixty-six drivers applied for the drive, with a short list of seven announced in November.
After an evaluation process, the current New Zealand Formula Ford champion was confirmed as the winner.
"In the final review of some phenomenally talented young drivers, James was just what we were looking for," said Castrol Brand & Product Manager Jan Willink.
"We were amazed with the overall quality calibre of applicants."
"Picking a single winner from such a deserving field was a greater challenge than anticipated, but James’ authenticity and genuine ambition to take his career to the next level convinced us that we want to be part of that journey with him too."
"We now move to the next stage with James."
"He’ll be testing again and working with us as we build towards a reveal of the car livery for the GP."
"We cannot wait to see James out on the grid as the latest in a long and successful line of New Zealand drivers to carry Castrol colours."
James Penrose and runner-up Callum Crawley. (Supplied)
Callum Crawley was runner-up, awarded $15,000 NZD ($14,173 AUD) towards his spot in the Grand Prix.
"I knew - like all the drivers – that I had a shot at winning but it’s amazing to have actually been selected by Castrol to represent them in the Grand Prix," said Penrose.
"They’ve gone the extra mile to make this happen and I am determined to deliver on the faith they have shown in me."
"When you see who was on the shortlist, let alone in the bigger 66 strong application list, I know that the opportunity could have easily gone to another driver such is the quality in that group."
"It’s very exciting for me to be the guy selected from that group to race in these iconic colours."
"I can’t wait."
The 2022 New Zealand Grand Prix will be a one-off event, held at Hampton Downs over the weekend of February 11-13
