The search for our next group of local sporting champions is on.
18 year old Harri Jones is just one recent recipient of a Local Sporting Champions grant from the Office of Ted O’Brien and is on track to become one of the Nation’s hottest names in world motor sport.
The Buderim lad graduated from Immanual Lutheran College in 2016 and spent 2017 – his gap year – racing both Formula 3 and Formula Ford events around the world.
In October last year he contested the Goulburn Cup, winning his first Formula 3 event (only two steps down from the internationally famous F1 circuit).
Another of his many highlights has been racing under lights on the famed Abu Dhabi F1 track.
He’s also completed 3 of the 4 rounds in the MRF Challenge including Bahrain, Dubai and Abu Dhabi in November and December. The four-event series run by the MRF tyre company, features 18 of the best young drivers in the world.
Harri is currently sitting in 9th position and is hopeful of moving further up the international ranks when he contests the final round in Chennai, India.
Harri received recognition as one of our Local Sporting Champions in January.
The program is an Australian Government initiative which provides funding assistance to young sports men and women participating at a State, National or International level.
“Young sports people aged 12-18 can apply for the $500 grant to assist with travel, accommodation, uniforms or equipment when competing at endorsed championship events,” explained Mr O’Brien.
“The sporting talent we have here on the Sunshine Coast is outstanding and I would encourage all our young elite athletes to take advantage of the grant’s program and Round 3 is open for applications now.”
Search for Local Sporting Champions at www.ausport.gov.au/ais