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An exciting new scholarship for aspiring classic rally navigators has been launched by HERO-ERA to help introduce the next generation to historic regularity rallying.
The winner will receive professional tuition before jumping into the navigator seat at four HERO-ERA rallies.
Applications are welcome from people aged 14-24 when entries open on 1 February 2023 – and no previous motorsport experience is needed.
The Bob Rutherford Historic Rally Scholarship for Young Navigators was set up by Guy Woodcock, HERO-ERA’s Competition Director, and rally organiser Will Rutherford.
It is in memory of Will’s father, Bob, who passed away on the HERO-ERA Classic Marathon recce in 2021. As well as being a long-time and enthusiastic rally competitor and marshal, Bob was committed to sharing his knowledge and helping the next generation get into regularity rallying.
With few schemes to encourage and support younger competitors, this new initiative is a fitting celebration of Bob’s legacy.
“Dad was an avid rally man who was passionate about welcoming new people into the sport, which is evident by the fact that both his sons have enjoyed competing and organising rallies from a very young age,” explained Will.
“He was always keen to put something back into the sport that he loved and this scholarship epitomises that desire.”
Young people aged 14-24 (as of 31 December 2024) can apply for the Bob Rutherford Historic Rally Scholarship for Young Navigators.
A shortlist of applicants will be invited to a selection day at Bicester Heritage this summer, where they will compete in a shootout for the scholarship.
The winner will be revealed in September, and will be enrolled on selected Motorsport UK Academy courses and invited to all HERO-ERA training seminars.
Once familiar with the theory, he or she will have the chance to develop their skills in a competition setting as they pair up with an experienced driver at four HERO-ERA rallies (the Novice Trial and three HERO Challenges).
Costs will be covered by HERO-ERA and all the equipment will be provided.
The organisers are keen to point out that the scholarship isn’t aimed solely at young people already experienced in historic rallying; the winner will be chosen based on their eagerness and willingness to learn.
“It is hoped that the ongoing scheme will give the opportunity for young and emerging talent to forge a career in the sport, all in the name and memory of the great Bob Rutherford,” Guy added.
“This will invoke his values whilst continuing to share knowledge and inspire a new generation holding on to all things that were dear to Bob.”
To learn more and apply for the Bob Rutherford Historic Rally Scholarship for Young Navigators, click here.
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