Disabled Evesham man's dream of becoming a racing driver gets backing of Formula 1 star - The Evesham Observer

Disabled Evesham man's dream of becoming a racing driver gets backing of Formula 1 star

Evesham Editorial 4th Sep, 2017 Updated: 4th Sep, 2017   0

AN INSPIRATIONAL Evesham man who was born with cerebral palsy and was told he would never be able drive is bidding to make his dream of becoming a British Touring Car racer a reality.

Chris Carter, a father of two, decided earlier this year he wouldn’t let his disability stop him from achieving his dream and has launched a fundraising drive to help him get into the sport he loves.

Despite being told he wouldn’t be able to walk or drive, and would be wheelchair bound for life, at the age of 17 Chris defiantly applied for a manual driving license and one year later passed the test.

After proving to himself he wouldn’t let his disability hold him back, he has ever since been determined to become a racing driver, a passion of his ever since watching Formula 1 and the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) as a youngster.




“For as long as I can remember, I have always loved cars and racing,” Chris said.

“I fondly remember watching F1 and BTCC as a child, wishing one day I could do what they were doing.


“It has always been a dream of mine to race, but I always felt that it wouldn’t be accepted, however, in recent years, particularly with Nic Hamilton entering motorsport, it has given me the confidence to strive to fulfil my dream.

“What I really would like to do is show other disabled people, that regardless of finances and disability, dreams can still be realised.

“I know others in a similar situation to myself, with varying disabilities who would love nothing more than the chance to prove themselves in racing, but don’t have the confidence to try. I am here to prove that there is a place in motorsport for all, able bodied or disabled.

Chris now needs to raise £5,500 to help him become a BTCC driver which will pay for the license he needs gain, equipment and for maintenance of the car.

His story has already attracted a high profile response from Formula 1 champion Damon Hill.

“What I am trying to do at present, is to secure some support for myself and an opportunity to practice/be evaluated upon my ability and potential,” Chris added.

“I am hoping to be able to negotiate a partnership with a business or organisation in order to assist me, as I don’t have the means to support my progression in the way that many do.

“Any support of any kind is appreciated.”

To donate visit www.gofundme.com/disabled-racing-driver-needs-help.

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