Sunderland motorsport sensation Charlie Benson calls for support ahead of Silverstone visit
A Sunderland-born youngster will go behind the wheel once again at the home of British Motor Racing this weekend.
Sunderland motorsport sensation Charlie Benson is set to take to the historic Silverstone track next month as he looks to continue his remarkable journey up the British GT ladder.
The 16-year-old enjoyed a successful career in karting and has now stepped into high-level car racing by securing a win at Snetterton in May and earning pole positions in the GT Cup Championship over recent months. Benson suffered major misfortune in his most recent event as he suffered mechanical issues in an event at Donington Park over the weekend - but the youngster was still able to show signs of his unquestionable ability with a strong performance in testing before he raced from the back of the pack to sit in second place on race day before further issues with the car during co-driver Ben Taylor’s time behind the wheel hampered his chances of securing a podium finish.
However, Benson was quick to turn his focus towards a visit to the home of British Motorsport when he heads to Silverstone to take part in an endurance event this weekend. The young Wearsider will feature in two endurance races lasting 50 and 100 minutes respectively and he is hoping to impress once again as he goes into competition with an eye-catching list of drivers that will include former F1 and Le Mans star David Brabham.
Speaking ahead of the weekend, Benson has called for support from businesses as he looks to secure further success in one of the most challenging events of his young career.
He said: “I've really enjoyed the GT racing side of motorsport. It's becoming just as popular as Formula 1 and there's a great following and opportunity for businesses to be involved in these paddocks and be seen, so that's what we would like to keep doing. I'm impressed by the cars and just want to start winning and bagging trophies for our efforts as much as possible for the rest of the season. We've had some great days, but also some proper unfortunate luck like at Donington, but we'll keep pushing and aim for that top step at Silverstone which should be an amazing event. I can't wait for it.”