
In the somber shadows cast by the untimely passing of the esteemed World Rally Championship star, Craig Breen, emerges a beacon of hope for the world of rallying. The newly established Craig Breen Foundation stands as a tribute to the indomitable Irishman, offering a hand of support to the budding talents engaged in Ireland’s J1000 Forestry Series.
Beyond the roar of engines and the thrill of the race, Craig Breen was not just a skilled rally driver; he was a fervent patron of young talent, a visionary for the future of grassroots rallying. In the poignant year of 2023, this vision found tangible form in the creation of the Craig Breen Foundation, drawing support from the luminaries of rallying—Hyundai Motorsport, Sports & You, Hyundai Portugal, Hyundai Spain, Motorsport Ireland, and the FIA.
The foundation’s commitment transcends a mere financial injection. It extends to a 35,000 euro prize pool meticulously curated for the J1000 Forestry Series over the next five years. This commitment echoes a dedication to providing sustained and meaningful support for young drivers aged 14-17, epitomizing a profound commitment to the future of rallying.
The prizes, akin to tokens of encouragement, range from financial support for each championship round to coveted funded drives in the Spanish and Portuguese Hyundai i20 Cup alongside the esteemed Sports & You team. This team, a stage where Craig Breen himself showcased his prowess in the Portuguese Rally Championship, becomes a stage for the dreams of young talents.
A statement from the foundation resonates with warmth and purpose. It declares the pleasure of establishing the Craig Breen Foundation, underscoring Craig’s unwavering commitment to supporting the Irish J1000 Forestry Series. The foundation embarks on a mission—to build upon Craig’s legacy, to carve a path for young Irish competitors to ascend in rallying while weaving the fabric of his memory into the sport.
The prize pool for the upcoming 2024 J1000 Forestry Series is a testament to this commitment. It includes not only financial support for each round but also substantial funding for the top three placed drivers towards 2025 rally events. The championship winner earns a coveted funded drive in the Spanish/Portuguese Hyundai i20 Cup with the Sports & You team, adding a tangible allure to the dreams of the young victor.
Aspiring drivers are not just recipients of financial support. The foundation weaves a tapestry of learning opportunities—rally tuition at the esteemed John Haughland Rally School and pacenote tuition from Paul Nagle, Breen’s former co-driver. These opportunities are more than just training; they are a nod to the holistic development of young talents.
The foundation’s initiatives, shrouded in anticipation, promise more revelations in due course. Yet, amidst this unfolding narrative, the foundation pauses to express gratitude. Gratitude to the companies, organizations, and individuals who have embraced the cause. A special note of appreciation resonates for Hyundai Motorsport, an instrumental force in bringing the foundation into existence.
In conclusion, the Craig Breen Foundation transcends the realm of a mere support entity. It is a beacon of hope, a guardian of dreams for young rally drivers. With strategic partnerships, a meticulous prize pool, and a mission deeply ingrained in the passion of Craig Breen, the foundation etches its mark on the future of Irish rallying—a mark that resonates with class and legacy.
Follow us on Zeroto30s social channels:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zeroto30s/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zeroto30s
Twitter: https://twitter.com/zeroto30s
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Zeroto30s