Mondello Park has welcomed Patch Tyre Equipment as the title sponsor of the 2022 Junior MINI Challenge.

The Junior MINI Challenge is a new saloon car championship for 12-16 year olds. The eligible models are the R50 Cooper and MINI One model, with project cars being available for as little as €1,000.
 

A number of suppliers have produced a kit of parts required in order to build one into a race car. Technical regulations are strict and will be heavily policed, meaning it will all be about driver talent, as opposed to the size of the budget.
 

The series organisers have already run a scholarship, with James Travers from Kilkenny coming out tops and winning himself a completely funded season of racing, including entry and test fees, tyres etc. This is the first of a series of initiatives aimed at helping the drivers and promoting the class.
 

Registered drivers will be able to avail of training and assistance with sponsorship, media activity, fitness and sports psychology, with sponsor hospitality also available at race meetings.
 

Brian Matthews of Patch Tyre Equipment said: “We have always had a great relationship with Mondello Park and are delighted to become involved with the ICCR for 2022. The Junior MINI Challenge should be a great championship, giving young drivers a foot on the motor racing ladder.”