The winners of the 2012 Cyclo Automotive Technology Student Project Awards recently travelled to the USA as part of their prize, taking in the  97th Indy 500 Race in Indianapolis.

The three final year B.EngTech students; Paul Donnelly, Niall O’Brien and Simon Wall,  flew to the US at the end of May and enjoyed world-class racing, plus spending money and accommodation at a top Indianapolis hotel all courtesy of Cyclo. Their VIP itinerary also included a visit to the Indy Hall of Fame Museum, attendance at an Indy drivers meeting plus autograph session and special garage area access.

This year the world famous Indianapolis 500-Mile Race attracted an attendance of some 400,000 people and was eventually won by popular, Brazilian driver Tony Kanaan.

The Cyclo Awards scheme, which also runs in a number of colleges in the US, is designed to recognise achievement in DIT’s BEngTech in Automotive Management & Technology degree programme.  Using limited resources, Paul, Niall and Simon converted a 1997 1.3 petrol Mitsubishi Colt into a 48volt 3.9kw electric car to win their prize. 

Niall O’Brien commented, “We were delighted to have the chance to go on this trip of a lifetime and we’d like to thank Cyclo and Serfac for giving us the opportunity to do so.” He added, “The racing was fantastic and the hospitality we received was second to none.”

Larry Pesin, Chairman of Cyclo Industries said, “The Awards Scheme is a great opportunity to showcase future automotive talent emerging from the DIT degree programme and Cyclo, together with Serfac Limited, is pleased to be able to continue its sponsorship this year. The overall standard of projects has been extremely high to-date and Paul, Niall and Simon were worthy winners.  We hope they enjoyed their trip to the US.” 

USA based Cyclo Industries Inc produces a range of scientifically formulated and tested cleaners, lubricants and additives for the automotive trade. These popular products are distributed by Serfac and available from motor factors nationwide.