FORMULA 1: Blundell helps young racer on the path to Formula 1

Posted By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel

Philip Glew, 17, from Alford, Lincolnshire, enters Formula Ford racing this year, as the first step in his plans to pursue a motor racing career. Following 8 years of karting, Philip moved up to single seater racing last year and has concentrated on learning circuits and racecraft in preparation for a full assault on the 2001 Avon Junior Formula Ford Championship, with Mick Gardner Racing. Glew is fortunate in having the assistance of former Formula 1 and Champ Car driver, Mark Blundell, as he readies himself for competition.

Philip has motor racing in his blood. His father, Graeme Glew, is a former racing driver who raced in Dunlop Star of Tomorrow Formula Ford before setting up his own team, Team Touraco, which produced a number of Formula Ford champions including Oliver Gavin and James Rhodes. Graeme ran the team for five years before setting up a racing driver school at Cadwell Park in Lincolnshire until 1989. He then turned his attention to driver management and sponsorship and is now heavily involved with Formula One.

The Championship kicks off at Snetterton on 25th March and Philip is preparing extensively with a heavy 19-day testing programme designed to develop his skills and gain further track experience prior to the 12 round Series. Blundell, a long-time family friend, is coaching and advising the young driver, providing invaluable support at an early stage in Philip's career. Blundell says of his role, "I'm pleased to be able to share my knowledge and help Philip as he steps on the first rung of the motor racing ladder. He is very focused and has an excellent approach to racing. I believe he has the talent to go a long way and I'll be helping to nurture this talent as his career develops."

Philip Glew adds, "Mark will be an invaluable asset to me. I'm focusing all my efforts on the Championship ahead. With a strong test programme, great team behind me and Mark's practical help and support, I'll be all set to take on Formula Ford this year. I know I'm very lucky to have the involvement of someone of Mark's calibre - it's up to me now to make the best use of it."

The 2001 Avon Junior Formula Ford Championship season opener takes place at Snetterton Circuit on 25th March. Philip Glew will be driving a 2000 Formula Ford racing car with a Mygale chassis and 150 bhp, 1.8 litre Zytec engine. With a top speed of around 160 mph, the package provides close, competitive racing amongst fields of around 35 cars at each event.

Text provided by Alison Hill

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