With only twelve days to go until Christmas it is an ideal time for twelve questions about a fantastic first season and plans for 2015.
Looking back on 2014 what were your main highlights? – “ There have been a lot as it has been such an amazing year. Starting my first race at Brands Hatch back in March has to be one, being part of the Ginetta family and being part of the scholarship has given me an unbelievable first year racing cars. Having the chance to get involved with Adam and Ciceley Motorsport and being there to see Adam’s first BTCC win and all the fun and support along the way with all the guys at JHR Developments.
Has racing cars been a lot different to racing karts? - “ Yes and No, I had to learn to adjust to the extra weight of the Ginetta and the more relaxed racing style compared to karts. The actual racing and the preparation are very similar. Signing autographs was a totally new experience!
Which race in 2014 was your favourite? – “ The first race even though it did not go to plan has to be on the list. My first rookie win at Oulton after the disappointment of being forced off the track in the first race. However, the trip to north of the border and the fantastic battle with my teammate at Knockhill was my favourite.
Did you do a lot of testing before and between races? – “Unfortunately we did not have the large budget of many of the other drivers so we could only manage a couple of tests. Also my school commitments meant I could not test at Thruxton at the official test day. This really affected the outcome of the race weekend as I had only the 15 minute warm up session to learn the circuit. Being 15 also meant I could not test at certain circuits. I just had to learn the tracks and set-up very quickly, and I think I did a good job. The rookie drivers who ended the championship ahead of me all did more testing mileage, than my total season!
Your car carried a great livery and two very well known sponsors? – “ Yes I was supported by MIS Motorsport, the leading supplier of motorsport insurance. They have been a fantastic supporter of my racing career since I won the British WTP Cadet Karting Championship.
Without their help I don’t think I would now be racing cars. My other sponsor, Carlube, came on board through the scholarship and it has been fantastic working with them and a pleasure to represent them.
How have you managed school and your racing? – “My school Southam College has been very supportive and is also very proud of my achievements. I have had to miss some lessons but I made sure I always caught up. I even had to revise for one of my exams over a race weekend.
I assume when you are asked at school what you want to do when you leave, you reply “become a racing driver?” – “Yes, I had a careers’ interview at school and put on my form I wanted to be a racing driver, I was not sure what the advisor would say! As it was, he spoke to the school before the interview and they explained I had been racing since I was 8, was British WTP Cadet Champion and won the Ginetta Junior Scholarship. He actually was very supportive and made some very good suggestions about suitable colleges to further my studies alongside my racing ambitions.
What would you like to race in the future? – “I would like to experience a range of different cars. I spent a lot of time around the Peugeot Le Mans team with my father so it would be fantastic to one-day race in the 24 hours of Le Mans. Of course, racing Touring Cars is high on my list as is having a go at NASCAR. For now, my main aim is to get back on the grid for the 2015 Ginetta Junior Championship, as I have unfinished business.
Who is your motor racing idol? – “ Jimmie Johnson - six time NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Champion. He is a fantastic driver and he is a great ambassador outside the car, for his team and sponsors. I raced at Rockingham Speedway on part of the oval and, as I drove around inches from the wall, I kept thinking: how can he race like this at over 200 mph, with 43 other cars inches apart? It makes you realise what an amazing achievement it was to win five consecutive championships. I have also got to know Adam Morgan, who has been a fantastic coach and his advice and support throughout the season has been priceless to me. He has been a great role model and I admire him as a racing driver as well as his whole team.
You mention Adam Morgan has been your driver coach, what does this mean? – “ I first met Adam at the Scholarship assessment. As I was only 14 when I joined JHR Developments, I had to have somebody in the car for my first drive after winning the Scholarship. Steve from JHR suggested Adam and he sat next to me the first time I drove my race car at a public track day at Blyton Park in December 2013. Adam then supported me at each race weekend with advice and we would walk the track together when we could. I did manage three test days and Adam sat alongside me helping me with lines and gears etc.… He also would watch me around the track at race and practice days, giving me feedback. Seeing his friendly face around the pits before races, when we lined up in the paddock, before going onto the grid, was also a big help. Adam and all the Ciceley Motorsport team have really helped me this year.
What are your plans for 2015? – “ My main priority is to pull together the necessary budget to enable me to race again in Ginetta Juniors. Then I have one objective, which is to do everything to win the championship.
How are your plans going? – “I have spoken with both of my current sponsors and I am waiting to hear back if we can work together again. I am also looking for new sponsors and have had a number of enquiries. If there is anybody who would be interested in developing any sponsorship ideas I would welcome the opportunity to meet and discuss further. Please contact me through my web site at alexsedgwickracing.com.
So, as the last few days of 2014 count down, it marks the end of a fantastic first year in Ginetta racing and fingers crossed for the start of a successful 2015.