Liam Lawson to Drive Rare Supercar for Charity in New Zealand

Formula 1 driver Liam Lawson is set to participate in a charity event at Highlands Motorsport Park in New Zealand, offering hot laps in a rare Aston Martin Vulcan to raise funds for breast cancer research. The initiative, born from a casual conversation, highlights Lawson's commitment to supporting local causes and motorsports in his home country.

Why it matters:

This event not only offers a unique opportunity for fans to experience high-performance motoring with an F1 driver but also underscores the growing intersection of motorsports and charitable giving. For Lawson, it's a chance to give back to the community that has supported his career, reinforcing his connection to New Zealand racing while raising crucial funds for a significant health issue.

The Details:

• Event Date & Location: December 23rd at Highlands Motorsport Park in Cromwell, New Zealand.
• The Car: Lawson will be driving the Aston Martin Vulcan, a track-only supercar, for three exclusive hot lap experiences.
• Charitable Focus: The primary beneficiary is the Breast Cancer Foundation NZ.
• Hot Lap Opportunities:
  • One hot lap will be awarded to a winner through sponsorship from Shaw and Partners, including flights and accommodation.
  • Two additional hot lap sessions will be auctioned for charity, offering fans a unique chance to bid on this exclusive experience.
• Lamborghini Fast Dash: For broader fan participation, 20 sessions in a Lamborghini Fast Dash car are available for purchase at $399 each via the Highlands website.
• Origin of the Idea: The event materialized after a conversation between Lawson, Josie Spillane (Highlands CEO), and Tony Quinn (Tony Quinn Foundation) at the Singapore Grand Prix, where Lawson expressed a desire to drive the Vulcan.
• Sponsor Involvement: Shaw and Partners, a recent entrant into the New Zealand market, is actively supporting the initiative, seeing it as an excellent way to engage with the local community and motorsport scene while backing a worthy cause.

Between the lines:

Liam Lawson's participation, particularly during his off-season, speaks volumes about his dedication not only to his racing career but also to leveraging his platform for good. His long-standing relationship with the Tony Quinn Foundation, which has supported his journey, is evident in his eagerness to contribute. The event also highlights the New Zealand motorsport community's ability to pull together for meaningful causes, blending high-octane excitement with significant social impact. The involvement of Shaw and Partners also signals a growing trend of corporate entities aligning with high-profile sports figures and events for both brand visibility and corporate social responsibility.

What's next:

The success of this event could pave the way for similar initiatives, further solidifying the link between motorsport and philanthropy in New Zealand. As Lawson continues his ascent in Formula 1, such engagements will likely become more frequent, offering continued opportunities for fans and charitable organizations alike. The funds raised will directly support breast cancer patients, making a tangible difference in their time of need.