Issuu

Issue 07 | Winter 2021/22

INTRODUCING THE

McLAREN 57OS GT4

IN THIS ISSUE:

Pages 3, 4 & 5

MAJOR NEW SPONSORS

DR ANDY PALMER CMG

JOIN US TRACKSIDE

Adrian Flux and Christopher Ward join the Team BRIT journey

The former COO of Nissan and CEO of Aston Martin has joined Team BRIT as team ambassador

We can’t wait to welcome fans, guests and sponsors to our races this season

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THE WORD FROM

IN THIS ISSUE: ONE STEP AWAY FROM LE MANS 24 HOURS Entering the British GT Championship puts us just one step away from being eligible for Le Mans...

It’s finally here! 2022 is a go! I’m not good at waiting for things to happen – just ask my management team - and my goodness it’s been tough to ‘hurry up and wait’ for the start of this year.

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DISABILITY HISTORY MONTH And the culmination of great work to celebrate and consider the history of disability across a huge number of industries.

Our team feels like a sizzling pot of anticipation at the moment as every member of the team – management, crew, drivers, volunteers and sponsors get ready for the biggest year in our history. Everyone knows that expectations are at their peak, but they also know that we’re in this together, with a sense of camaraderie that is almost palpable.

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WELCOME MAJOR NEW SPONSORS Adrian Flux and Christopher Ward join the Team BRIT journey.

Al and his team have their work cut out like never before as they work towards winter testing for the Mclaren in Portimão in February before managing four cars across three championships which begin in March. Mike is working harder than ever to ensure our sponsors are happy and updated on the work of the team, whilst also securing valuable new partners, and Lucy and the media team continue to raise our profile in all kinds of new places.

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DR ANDY PALMER CMG Former COO of Nissan and CEO of Aston Martin, Dr Andy Palmer CMG has joined Team BRIT as team ambassador.

I don’t underestimate the excitement and apprehension of our drivers. For some, this will be their first ever taste of competitive racing and for others, they’re stepping up to a completely new level of competition. I’m incredibly proud of them and delighted that they’ll be having this experience this year. In this edition of the ezine you’ll be hearing more about the new team members joining us to support our work, the incredible success and growth plans of eTeam BRIT, the range of opportunities for you to come along and enjoy trackside hospitality this year plus much more. I hope you enjoy reading our latest news and updates. Thank you to everyone who continues to believe in us – we can’t wait to make you proud this year.

DAVE PLAYER Team BRIT Founder

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RACING TO SUCCESS ON THE VIRTUAL GRID It’s all systems go for eTeam BRIT as plans for expansion continue in 2022.

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PLUS: INTRODUCING PAUL FULLICK IMPACT REPORT

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ASPIRING PHOTOGRAPHERS GET THE CHANCE OF A LIFETIME

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SPONSOR FOCUS: CHRISTOPHER WARD

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LET’S GET SOCIAL

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HEAD COACH PLANS FOR SUCCESS

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JOIN US TRACKSIDE IN STYLE

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LOOKING GOOOOOD!

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FIVE QUESTIONS WITH CHRIS OVEREND

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OUR GREATEST UNVEILING YET On the 27th October, we hosted an exclusive event for sponsors and partners, at which we revealed the new pride in the Team BRIT fleet... our Mclaren 570S GT4.

t the Leadenhall Building, the home of our title sponsor Brit Insurance, our drivers and crew came together for the formal unveiling of the car we will enter in this year’s British GT Championship. Brit Insurance Chief Underwriting Officer Christiern Dart, who also joined us for some racing last year, had the honour of revealing the car outside the offices to staff, colleagues and city goers.

“It’s a great privilege to be able to host these events at the Leadenhall Building and we’re sure to attract lots of attention.”

Our drivers spent time showing people around the car and talking through our plans for the year, which will see Bobby Trundley and Aaron Morgan stepping up to the British GT Championship, with round 1 taking place at Oulton Park on the 16th and 18th April.

More guests then joined us for a special event on the 39th floor of the building, enjoying unbeatable views over the city whilst they enjoyed a presentation from the team on its growth to date, a Q&A with Bobby and Aaron and a chance to network.

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Commercial Director Mike Scudamore said; “We’re really proud and privileged to have hosted a sponsor event at the Leadenhall Building every year since 2017 when Brit Insurance joined us as title partners.

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“Each time we use the opportunity to reveal a new car or announce some major team news and this was certainly one of the most special events in our history.

“It’s a great privilege to be able to host these events at the Leadenhall Building and we’re always sure to attract a lot of attention as we park our racing car of the moment amidst the hustle and bustle of the financial district. Our McLaren certainly turned some heads and it was wonderful for us to reveal this to the Brit Insurance staff who have followed our journey for so long.”

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ONE STEP AWAY FROM LE MANS Entering the British GT Championship puts us just one step away from being eligible to apply for Le Mans. Bobby and Aaron received silver and bronze FIA gradings last year, confirming their eligibility to race in what is largely regarded as the most professional and hotly contested GT championships in the world. THE HAND CONTROLS The Mclaren has been fitted with the latest version of our world-leading hand controls, featuring the latest adaptations. The throttle and brake are controlled by analog paddles on the rear of the steering wheel, with gears controlled by thumb switches on the face of the wheel. The latest upgrades include:

• • • • • • •

Double the number of sensors on the throttle and brake paddles, to allow better electronic fault detection.

THE CAR

Triple the number of springs on the throttle and brake paddles, to give better mitigation of mechanical failures.

The McLaren is a full competition specification GT4 car featuring a featherlight carbon fibre and 3.8 litre twinturbocharged McLaren V8 engine, linked to a race-ready 7-speed transmission.

Entirely enclosed sensor wiring within the body of the wheel, to minimise the chance of loom damage.

The latest version of our world-leading racing hand controls have been fitted to the car to enable paraplegic driver Aaron Morgan to compete on equal terms with able-bodied competitors. He will team up with the world’s fastest autistic racing driver, 22-year-old Bobby Trundley. Bobby and Aaron stunned competitors on the track last year in the Britcar Endurance Championship with multiple podiums and an overall finish position of 3rd in class.

CNC gearing to transmit paddle movement to sensors, with innovative “return to zero” mechanism in the event of a spring failure. Custom carbon fibre paddles with 3D scalloping, to increase driver feel and comfort. Electronic connections made through a quick release connector within the steering boss, no external wiring connection to the wheel. Increased adjustability and improved ergonomics.

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VIEW FROM THE

DRIVERS SEAT BOBBY TRUNDLEY “Unveiling the McLaren at Brit Insurance was really special. I literally cannot believe that I’ll be racing in it this year. To think back to the days when I was 10, scared to death at a karting birthday party I’d been invited to, compared to what I’m doing now is just incredible. “We had a mega end to the season last year. Taking a race podium at Donington and securing silverware in the overall championship is just amazing and I’m so proud of what we’ve all achieved. “Discovering karting changed my life but Team BRIT has just catapulted me into a world of racing I never knew I could be part of. Moving into British GT is huge. It really does mean we’re in touching distance of Le Mans which is our long-term goal and something I will be part of. On top of that, we’re welcoming more and more rookies into the sport thanks to our amazing technology and we’re so proud of that.”

AARON MORGAN “We could not have asked for a better end to the season in 2021. We started so well, with early podiums, and had mixed success mid-way, before finishing with a bang again, taking a race podium and an overall class finish of P3. I couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve achieved. “Motorsport has been part of my life for as long as I can remember and I’ve never allowed my disability to put an end to this sport that I love. Team BRIT has given me the technology I need to stay competitive, with support from the world’s best crew and it will be a real honour to drive the McLaren in British GT. “We’re fully aware of the mountain ahead of us when it comes to competing at this level, but we’re using the adrenaline and anticipation to our advantage so we can channel this into the best possible performance. We’ve had a great welcome from the team at SRO so far and we can’t wait to get out there and show what we can do.”

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TeamBRIT

the perfect partnership: Team BRIT & Brit Insurance

In late 2016, we saw one of Team BRIT’s drivers interviewed on TV. Their ambition, passion – and of course the Brit name – resonated strongly with us. A few months later, we launched our multi-year partnership with Team BRIT; not just to provide funding, but also to give our employees the chance to get to know the team and get involved. The business behind the logo

Driven to succeed

Brit is a global specialty insurance company. We are a leading syndicate of Lloyd’s of London, the world’s oldest specialist insurance market. Combining technical expertise with industry knowledge, we create bestin-class insurance solutions that help people and businesses face the future and thrive.

Both our organisations share the passion and pride that go with working as a team towards a common goal. Our partnership with Team BRIT continues to be as exhilarating and rewarding as ever. We look forward to being part of its continued success.

Redefining what’s possible

To find out more about us visit: britinsurance.com and Linkedin

Like Team BRIT, our collaborative culture embraces difference. It empowers and enables talented individuals, whatever their background, to deliver outstanding results. We’re committed to growing the skills of every single employee; helping them fulfil their potential in a supportive, respectful and inclusive work environment.

the perfect partnership: Team BRIT & Brit Insurance

INJURED BIKER & FORMER SOLDIER SETS OUT TO SMASH STEREOTYPES IN MOTORSPORT We’ve added to our driver line-up once again, welcoming the latest rookie to our team. 40-year-old Paul Fullick from Southampton has begun his rookie development journey with the goal of racing our BMW 118i in the Britcar Championship this year. Paul joined the Army when he was a teenager, alongside his university course, before joining full time, which saw him travel the world competing internationally for the army in skydiving. In 2006 whilst in Egypt on a diving expedition, Paul suffered a severe ‘Bend’ (decompression sickness) and had to be evacuated for urgent medical treatment in Egypt and the UK. This left him with limited walking ability, reduced strength, problems speaking and communicating and forced his early retirement from the Army.

Paul has a long-term love of motoring and motorsport. He has raced with the British Motorcycle Racing Club, as well as working as a support mechanic for events all over the world. During a touring trip to Wales last year, Paul was then involved in an accident which resulted in the loss of his right leg.

He began working for himself, buying and restoring cars as a qualified mechanic, and taking on incredible charity challenges including driving to the Gambia in a car that cost less than £100, raising £20,000 for charity.

Paul comments, “Even when lying in the road, realising the severity of my injuries, I knew I would smash my recovery, I would get straight back to racing and I would win. I was in hospital for a month, and a week after being discharged I was back riding a bike to visit the team at the cafe, then four weeks later I took part in an offroad event in Wales.

In 2014 he bought a café in Hampshire and he also occasionally works as an extra on film and TV sets having first worked on the film ‘Band of Brothers’ whilst in the military.

“I was visited by the charity Blesma soon after the accident who told me about the work of Team BRIT which I knew was something I wanted to learn more about. I had been told

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by specialists that it would be at least two years before I could get back to things like racing, so I knew I was going to prove them wrong. By October I had completed my race licence test and now I’m signed up with the team.” Paul

continues, “The team is everything I’m about and I’m really excited about what’s ahead. Motorsport can be seen as quite an inaccessible industry for so many. There are very few disabled drivers and riders on the grid, and I want to be part of the movement to change that. I’m also passionate about championing inclusion for the LGBTQ+ community, and am the south area representative for the UK Gay Bikers Motorcycle Club. There are only eight openly gay professional racing drivers in the world and that has to change. “I’m at the very start of my journey with Team BRIT but the road ahead is incredibly exciting and we’re ready to make a massive impact next year. I’m very competitive and want to push myself in every way I can. Le Mans is in sight for the team, and I want to be part of the team that gets there.”

TeamBRIT

LOOKING BACK ON

DISABILITY HISTORY MONTH December 18th saw the close of Disability History Month 2021 and the culmination of great work to celebrate and consider the history of disability across a huge number of industries. One such industry that has been the focus of recent attention with regards to accessibility is motorsport, not least because of the incredible impact made by our team. For our team founder Dave Player, this is the continuation of years of innovation and bold determination from British pioneers and is crucial in seeing real accessibility progress. Dave explains: “I’m incredibly proud of what Team BRIT has achieved – something that has been a cumulative effort over recent years and thanks to the work of a number of great people. “However – we’re one team in a history of many determined British change makers who saw what was possible for disabled racers in motorsport and wanted to make a difference. “Back in the 1950s, Archie ScottBrown was motorsport’s first disabled hero, battling diversity to compete and win. He won the British Empire Trophy in 1957 and some 71 race victories overall. Archie had one had and severe leg disabilities after his mother contracted German Measles driving pregnancy.

“The great Sir Frank Williams who very sadly died in December, was a tetraplegic after a road accident but went on to establish Frank Williams Racing Cars and later Williams Grand Prix Engineering. “Marc Haynes was born with a degenerative spinal disorder and was wheelchair bound from the age of 5, was the first paraplegic to obtain a racing licence from the RAC Motor Sports Association, went on to establish the GT Cup and was part of the Haynes family – responsible for creating the iconic ‘Haynes manuals’. “Then there’s David Butler MBE, who was left disabled after picking up an unexploded bomb as a child. He was inspired by Archie Scott-Brown after seeing him race, and went on to lobby for changes to the licensing process for disabled drivers which remain in place today. “These are all incredibly influential people who have each played a part in the history of disability motorsport and I am proud to have picked up the baton, continuing what they began. Yes we’ve made a massive difference - but we’re still a long way from

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where we need to be to say that our sport is truly inclusive. “For example, the difference between the process a disabled person and an able-bodied person has to go through to get their race licence is staggering. “Until around six years ago, disabled drivers had to acquire six noncompetitive race signatures before they could sit their test for a race licence, incurring huge costs and a very long wait. Their able-bodied friends and peers could simply apply, take their test and receive their licence the same day. “In 2015, I made a suggestion to the Motorsports Association (Now Motorsport UK) that the licencing system be reviewed to see if it could be improved and they agreed. In Nov that year, MSA agreed to trial a new ARDS test at Silverstone, under the leadership of their then disability consultant, David Butler MBE, who has led the way in enhancing accessibility in the sport for years. Under his expert advice, huge improvements were made. At the time, they tested the new system with four of our Team BRIT rookies and the process was

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updated so disabled rookies needed a medical, and an extended ARDS test, taking a full day instead of a half day and costing double.

not putting anyone at risk by granting them the ability to compete. “However, I do believe the existing system is discriminatory and can be easily changed.

“There is often talk around a ‘hierarchy of protected characteristics’ and disability is often left behind in the journey towards equality.

“This journey has never been easy and “This was a huge improvement but will never be easy, but simple the difference in process was still stark. Today, a disabled steps, based on learning, driver needs to first apply expertise and experience can “I’m incredibly proud of what be taken so that everyone is to MSUK so they can be Team BRIT has achieved given the same opportunity to assessed as to whether they thrive. are suitable or not to apply for something that has been a a race licence. Once they are cumulative effort over recent deemed suitable, they need “That’s what Team BRIT is all a medical and an ARDS test years and thanks to the work about. – plus a video escaping from of a number of great people” the car within 10 seconds. “Britain leads the way in all things disability and all things “An able-bodied applicant can have “A disabled driver often needs some motorsport, I won’t stop until these their application fast-tracked to a 3hr extra adaptations to race safely. All two positions align. We can make or 3-day application for an extra fee. that’s needed is an extra ‘passport’ British motorsport something every A disabled applicant needs at least for this adaption. This means the driver, disabled or not, can be proud two weeks. race car has its documentation, the to be part of.” racing driver has their race licence, “I’m in complete agreement that and the hand controls or other the safety of the disabled driver adaptation has its ‘passport’. This is and all other drivers they race with something my team has supported on the track must be of paramount in moving forward nationally and I’m importance when it comes to granting pleased to say it’s starting to provide the flexibility and respect to disabled race licences. drivers, that is so clearly given to Motorsport can be dangerous, and our able-bodied people. governing body has to be sure that it’s

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MAJOR NEW SPONSORS

Adrian Flux and Christopher Ward are the latest major brands to join the Team BRIT journey – supporting us as we move onwards and upwards towards our Le Mans goal.

Adrian Flux, which has over 45 year’s experience arranging specialist and classic car and home insurance has joined the team’s army of supporters. Adrian Flux was a disabled driver himself. He founded the company that bears his name in 1973, after struggling to get insurance for his beloved kit car. Gerry Bucke, Adrian Flux General Manager said: “We’re massive fans of motorsport and are delighted to be supporting Team BRIT on their historic quest to be the first ever all-disabled team to compete in the Le Mans 24 hour. “Some of the world’s best drivers compete in Le Mans 24hr and with the addition of the new McLaren and a move to British GT, we believe Team BRIT has every chance of progressing to this top level of world-class racing. “Adrian Flux were formed when our founder couldn’t get disabled insurance for his kit car in 1973 and this sponsorship takes us back to our roots and shows our commitment, not only to motorsport, More information on Adrian Flux can be found at www.adrianflux.co.uk

Ground-breaking English watch brand Christopher Ward designs its premium mechanical watches from its base in Maidenhead. The watches are then hand-built at its atelier in Biel, Switzerland. Founded by Mike France, Peter Ellis and Chris Ward in 2004, Christopher Ward was the world’s first online-only watch brand. In 2014, it launched Calibre SH21, the first commercially viable mechanical movement from a British watch company in over 50 years. Our cars will now proudly bear the Christopher Ward branding. And its nine drivers and crew, including latest rookies in the team’s development programme, have each been presented with Christopher Ward watches. Christopher Ward CEO Mike France said: “Team Brit are probably the most inspirational group of people we’ve ever met. When we learned of their ambition to become the first all-disabled team to compete at Le Mans, and witnessed first-hand their passion and professionalism, we immediately wanted to become involved. It’s one of the most exciting stories in motorsport.” More information on Christopher Ward can be found at www.christopherward.com

The team at Christopher Ward meet the Team BRIT McLaren 570S. 11

Interview

Dr Andy Palmer CMG Former COO of Nissan and former CEO of Aston Martin Dr Andy Palmer CMG has joined Team BRIT as team ambassador. He tells us why he’s backing the team, why he believes Le Mans will happen and why inclusivity simply ‘makes sense’. Dr Andy Palmer CMG is an automotive executive with more than 42 years’ experience in the industry, having been COO of Nissan and more recently, CEO of Aston Martin Lagonda. He is now Executive VC and CEO at SWITCH Mobility Ltd and an entrepreneur in the automotive net zero carbon movement with Chairmanship of Inobat, Hilo and SID with PodPoint. Named by Auto Express in 2018 as the “person of the past 30 years”, Andy has led transformational change in major organisations and pioneered some of the most influential innovations to impact the automotive industry. He led the development of the Nissan Leaf electric car and oversaw the launch of four core car models at Aston Martin.

inclusion aren’t anything to do with being politically correct or ‘woke’, it’s actually a business advantage. From a manufacturing perspective, 50% of cars or more are bought by women, for example, and the stats around purchasing fit with the wider demographics of society. Why wouldn’t we include women and people from all under-represented groups in our development work?

help me understand. I did the same when working on the Aston Martin DBX, forming a female advisory board to feed in their input. I’ll never be a woman so cannot fully understand a female perspective, and sitting in a wheelchair doesn’t mean I can understand the reality of a disabled body.” Andy has extensive experience in racing, which began with his work with ‘Nismo’, Nissan’s motorsport team with a tagline of ‘the innovation that excites.’ This pursuit of improvement through technology is something that Andy believes is at the heart of the sport.

“I’m up for the fight and we’ll get there”

Andy has worked to support inclusion in the automotive industry throughout his career. In 2021 he received the ‘Men as Allies’ award by the Women’s Engineering Society and has founded a charitable foundation to fund apprenticeships for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. “Historically, the industry has been behind on addressing diversity” he says, “but it’s not always been a conscious act. In my mind, the reasons for moving towards

“Inclusion and diversity isn’t just a ‘nice to have’, it makes better products and better companies.” Engineering for disabled drivers isn’t a new topic for Andy, who’s engineering credentials include the development of accessible taxis. He’s now had a full tour of the Team BRIT HQ and seen first-hand the hand controls which have been developed over time, based on direct feedback from drivers. “When I worked on the development of New York and Tokyo taxis that would be wheelchair accessible, I understood that I had to come at it from the ground up. You have to understand the challenges from the very beginning, so I worked with disabled people from the start to

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“From the creation of ‘ZEOD’ which was the first car to compete a fully electric lap at Le Mans via Garage 56 to Aston Martin Championship wins in GTE class in 2014, 2017 and 2020, it’s all about pushing the edges of technology and innovating to move the species on. By nature, technical innovation is exciting and that’s what interested me in Team BRIT. “With the team’s innovation, disabled drivers can be as competitive as able-bodied drivers, if not more so, by removing the barriers to entry and that’s what I think is really interesting.

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“Could a disabled person be the next F1 star? Yes, if they’re good enough. Racing is predominantly about spatial awareness and reaction speed. Having no legs or no use of your legs shouldn’t matter if you have the brain to distil the information. You shouldn’t make excuses for disability, you need to innovate to have no disadvantage and to help realise potential.” It’s this experience and influence across the sector that Andy now hopes will help the team with its move forward towards the Le Mans goal. One of the main hurdles to overcome will be the millions required in funding to get to the start line, but Andy believes the team has an incredible advantage in the fight for sponsorship.

Andy comments, “We need to get to the day when the big teams are complaining that the hand controls are giving us an unfair advantage. That’s the day you have to look forward to. Thankfully, we’re seeing more disabled athletes becoming well known in their own right, through championships such as the Paralympics, but I think that competing at the greatest race in the world, in one of the few events where disabled athletes and ablebodied athletes could compete against each other is a real levelling. For the first time, rather than being elitist, racing could become that levelling sport.”

“It’s a money sport, but the team can and must use its perceived ‘disadvantage’ as its advantage. More and more people and businesses want to be seen to be doing the right thing and here is an opportunity which is clearly just that. It’s become harder to secure sponsorship as you need to demonstrate how you’re helping awareness of a brand, and being on the side of a car is no longer enough. With Team BRIT, we have an advantage, something that differentiates us.” One of the first actions to support the team has been to directly contact the ACO, the governing body behind Le Mans, to share his belief and support in what the team is trying to do. He explains, “One of the reasons I’m helping Dave with his communication with the ACO is because I truly believe that having a confirmed entry to Le Mans will be a true showcase for the sport, demonstrating where disabled drivers can compete equally. Dave doesn’t want a Garage 56 entry and I agree with this, as this is not a level playing field. We can go out there and demonstrate that whether it’s someone who is paraplegic or autistic, there is no unfair advantage, it is equal. Getting that entry won’t be easy but I’m up for the fight, and we’ll get there.” ‘Getting there’ will make history – no other all-disabled team has raced at Le Mans. Just how important could this be for the industry?

Dr Andy Palmer CMG is the latest in a series of high-profile ambassadors for Team BRIT 13

IMPACT REPORT So you know we do a lot of racing, you know we run a racing academy to help disabled drivers get into motorsport….. but…..do you know just how far our impact reaches? Pretty far! Since the team was established in 2015, our reach has continued to grow and we have made real changes to the lives of individuals and to the wider industry.

Team Founder Dave Player explains, “We’re more than just a racing team. We’re an organisation that is 100% committed to opening doors to racing for disabled people. That can be through supporting people to get their racing licence, developing technical solutions for client’s cars, welcoming people to our academy, or completing races.

No. of Disabled Drivers Gained Race Licence

No. of Races Completed

2010

CHAMPIONSHIPS ENTERED FUN CUP BMW 116 TROPHY BRITCAR ENDURANCE BRITCAR TROPHY

No. of Disabled People Attended Track Day Experiences

27 151

140

SINCE

“Seeing these impacts makes our work worthwhile and this is only the tip of the iceberg. We’ve achieved so much in a short space of time, and we’re only just getting started.”

PLANNED CHAMPIONSHIPS BRITCAR TROPHY BRITCAR ENDURANCE BRITISH GT LE MANS CUP EUROPEAN LE MANS SERIES LE MANS 24 HOUR

OTHER RACES: SILVERSTONE 24 HOUR • SPA 25 HOUR • ASTON MARTIN LE MANS FESTIVAL eTEAM BRIT DISABLED SIM RACERS

E-SPORTS

eTEAM BRIT ONLINE CHAMPIONSHIPS ORGANISED

3-8

SIM CENTRES WITH HAND CONTROLS

RACES PER SERIES

PERSONAL SIMS WITH HAND CONTROLS

ADAPTIVE SOLUTIONS CREATED

RACE CARS FITTED WITH TEAM BRIT HAND CONTROLS Hand controls for karts

Hand controls for car

Hand controls for sims

Roll cage for easy access

Hand controls for tetraplegics

McLaren 570S GT4

CHAMPIONSHIP STATS CHAMPIONSHIP WINS ASTON MARTIN V8 VANTAGE GT4

BMW 118i

BMW M240i

VW POLO GTi

WORLD RECORD HOLDERS for karting with hand controls

CUPRA MAZDA MX5 S2000 RALLY CAR POLARIS PZR

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+200

Injured veterans that have raced karts

FASTEST LAPS

Plus 2x Third Place Finishes

CUSTOMER CARS FITTED WITH TEAM BRIT HAND CONTROLS BMW 116 (X2) F2 STOCK CAR BMW M3 (X3) SEAT LEON

RACE WINS & PODIUMS

FIA GRADED DISABLED DRIVERS Bronze & Silver

24 HR KART RACES COMPLETED

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4 1

DRIVER OF THE DAY

Clinical study & 3 year phd published In medical journal

KART TRACKS OFFERING HAND CONTROLS

“Often there is little time between sessions for meaningful video/data analysis. I credit the speed to validate and accurately define areas for time gain with VBOX and Circuit Tools software to be a major part of many Poles and Race Wins.” Jason Hart

Racing Driver and Coach

vboxmotorsport.co.uk

ASPIRING PHOTOGRAPHERS GET THE CHANCE OF A

LIFETIME

When we recruited new rookie Chris Overend, little did we know that he would bring with him the most exceptional photography expertise and a team of young aspiring photographers, keen to support our work. Chris is a teacher in photography at Solent University, having worked as a fashion photographer for years before his disability prevented him from carrying out this work. When we told Chris about our plans to unveil our McLaren in October 2021, he immediately offered to help by taking the incredible photographs we needed to share our news. In an added surprise, he also brought along three of his students to help him on the various studio and location shoots, offering

them valuable experience, whilst providing us with stunning imagery. Joseph Hocking and Abby Rawlings, 3rd year students at the university studying a BA in fashion photography, joined Chris and our team at a unit at Dunsfold Aerodrome, home of our HQ. The team turned the unit into a makeshift studio and captured fantastic images of the car, and our British GT drivers, Bobby Trundley and Aaron Morgan. Next, they had the incredible opportunity of visiting the McLaren

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Technology Centre in Woking where we were granted exclusive access to use the stunning location in front of the centre, surrounded by a lake. Finally, they came along to the launch event at the Leadenhall Building in London to snap away at the event which saw staff and colleagues from Brit Insurance and nearby businesses, along with our guests and sponsors, enjoy the unveiling of the new pride in our fleet. Graduate Elspeth Clark also joined the London event to support the students.

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“The whole event became really special for me, not only as a new member of the team seeing the incredible car that my fellow drivers have progressed to driving, but as a proud teacher seeing my students working.”

Chris Overend explains: “I first met Joe and Abby in 2019 and it was clear they were both into their cars and racing, something I don’t see in students studying that course very often, so we got on very well right from the beginning. “As technical instructors, we train the students to be professionals in lighting and camera operation, both on location and in the studio. We also teach them postproduction skills. Part of their course is about seeking out practical, real work experience, so the timing was perfect to get them involved with a one-of-a-kind shoot. Elspeth had excelled in her course when she was with us, so I knew she’d do a great job for us at the London launch.

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been the most inspirational and educational weeks I’ve had whilst attending university. Being able to meet and spend time with the team was one of my favourite parts. Everyone made me feel welcome from day one. I learnt so much from them and they were all inspiring in different ways. “One big highlight for me was to sit in Aaron’s and Bobby’s McLaren GT4. This whole experience only increased my passion for motorsport and taught me that anything is possible if you put your mind to it. “I am very grateful for the opportunity I was given and for meeting such amazing people.”

working and capturing such fantastic imagery for the team.” Abby said: “The weeks working alongside Chris for Team Brit have

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TeamBRITRacing

Joe said: “I found the experience amazing - to be able to meet the drivers and find out about how everything works, how the team worked together and I loved seeing all the anticipation for the McLaren unveiling. Was a fantastic experience to be involved in and I feel very privileged to have been a part of it.”

TeamBRIT

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SPONSOR FOCUS

remium watch brand Christopher Ward is one of the latest major partners to get behind the team.

Founded in 2004, it was the world’s first online premium watch brand and brings idiosyncratic English design together with Swiss watchmaking expertise. A new model programme will launch this year and is described by the brand as “the most exciting ever”, starting with the exquisite new Aquitaine Collection in May. Around the same time, the team will be announcing something major that will move the awareness of the Christopher Ward brand in an entirely new sphere.

UNIQUELY YOURS Christopher Ward has a loyal following of customers proudly wearing a Christopher Ward timepiece, bearing their own unique brand or logo. To date, they’ve partnered with over 200 organisations across the globe, so whether you’re in the military, emergency services or a member of a club, a tailor-made CW watch stamped with your logo is something you can treasure for life. Personalising one of their iconic Swiss-made watches, the Christopher Ward design team works with you to add any emblems, mottos and colours you require – so your timepiece tells not just the time, but your unique story. Find out more about this one of a kind service at www.christopherward.com/bespoke-watches Speaking about the partnership with team BRIT, Christopher Ward CEO and Founder Mike France said: “Some decisions in business are more difficult than others. Deciding to support Team BRIT ranks among the easiest we have ever had to make. Le Mans is the teams audacious long-term goal but as a new sponsor we are just as excited about this year’s programme and will be pit-side at every opportunity.”

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LET’S GET SOCIAL Every year, we see some impressive stats when it comes to growing our media reach. Our dedicated PR Manager Lucy Sheehan works to get our story in front of more and more audiences each year, landing coverage across print, broadcast and digital channels. Now, we’re focusing on growing our wider media team and have recruited two new social media managers to work on our thriving social media channels. Meet the newest additions to the Team BRIT crew:

MARIA BRIGHT

NICK EMMERSON

THE STATS

Social Media Manager

Maria has been involved in motorsport for most of her life, with it being engrained in her family. She started racing at the age of 10 in NatSKA and has since gone on to compete in the British Kart Championships.

Nick developed a keen interest in motorsport from the age of 8 when he watched Schumacher’s red Ferrari on TV, which spurred his interest in pursuing a career in motorsport. That lead him to study a Master’s degree in digital media production and working with Formula 1 and Team BRIT.

Maria’s has a passion for motorsport and diversity within the industry and has been part of ‘Females in Motorsport’ for over a year, as well as working for Planet F1 which has moulded her desire to work in the media and digital side of things. Aside from work, for the past couple of years, she has been studying journalism at The University of Central Lancashire and is due to graduate in July 2022. Maria aims high, just like us at Team BRIT, and hopes to make a breakthrough to work long-term in the motorsport industry. Maria said: “I wanted to be involved with Team BRIT for what they are: changing motorsport & changing lives. When you listen to the drivers’ stories, you realise how much strength and courage it has taken them to get to this point, which is why I was eager to help showcase the team. “I am so proud to work with such an inspiring and motivational group of people. Team BRIT is changing motorsport for the better and it is incredible experience to be part of.”

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Nick said: “Being visually impaired, I was keen to get involved with Team BRIT. Since I was young, I’ve wanted to show that being disabled doesn’t hold me back. This personal link with the team and their goals is why I feel so connected to the team. It’s both motivating and inspiring. I know that we can share this inspiration with more people. All whilst showing that our disabilities aren’t going to stop us doing what we love. That’s the part of my role that I enjoy the most.”

4O% increase in the number of daily tweet impressions January 2021 vs January 2022

63.5% increase in the number of accounts engaged with on Instagram November 2021 vs February 2022

3OO% increase in the number of engagements on Facebook January 2021 vs January 2022

Lucy connects with journalists across a range of print, broadcast and online titles throughout the year, sharing every aspect of our story across a range of audiences. Last year’s highlights included features on ITV Tonight, BBC’s the One Show and BBC Click and articles in Autosport and the Daily Telegraph to name but a few. Our sponsor Kantar Media supplies us with the stats we need to show the reach and value of this work.

MEDIA REACH 2O21

Value

People Reached

£872,579.00

146,292,829

Internet

£219,352.00

8,285,419

Printed

£83,739.82

1,201,645

Totals

£1,175,668.82

155,779,893

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TeamBRITRacing

TeamBRIT

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RACING TO SUCCESS ON THE VIRTUAL GRID It’s all systems go for eTeam BRIT as plans for expansion continue in 2022. Drivers James Hall, Sandro Ballesteros, Max Spooner, Mike Tyler and Martin Buchan took part, completing an incredible 796 laps in the team’s BMW M4 GT3, finishing in an outstanding 5th place. The team was also the highest finishing BMW in its split.

“Re-branding has been the first step in redefining our vision as a team, building on the strength and profile of our sister team, Team BRIT. Martyn Brisdion first met us when he came along to Team BRIT HQ for an open day last year with his 10-yearold son Hadley, a keen sim racing fan who has cerebral palsy.

The team is about to move into the The team has also recently “Now, Martyn has brought his IVRA HyperX GT Sprint Championship welcomed creative graphic and skills and experience in graphic alongside its participation in Gran digital designer Martyn Brisdion to and digital design to help us build Turismo. IVRA is one of the our brand. As our profile biggest names in the iRacing continues to rise with the community. “Re-branding has been the first success of our drivers and our championships, we know step in redefining our vision as Work continues to push this will help cement eTeam forward with the team’s aim a team, building on the strength BRIT as one to watch on the to compete in the official sim racing circuit, whilst also and profile of our sister team, virtual Le Mans 24 hour encouraging other disabled race, and soon, the team will Team BRIT.” sim racers to get in touch to announce Season 4 of its find out more. GT Challenge, sponsored by VBOX SIM. Details and information on how to enter will be announced in the coming weeks. The current season 3 concludes at Imola on February 7th. View live timing via Pitwall Live and full broadcast coverage via Simsport Solutions. In January, the team competed in the iracing.com Daytona 24-hour race. 49 teams took to the virtual grid for a full 24 hours of racing.

the team, who has re-vamped the team’s branding. This is the start of major work over the coming months to elevate the team’s brand as it continues to progress in the world of sim racing.

“Stay tuned for more information on Season 4 of our GT Challenge coming soon.”

eTeam BRIT Manager Max Spooner said: “Things are moving really fast for us as a team at the moment as we look to further professionalise the team, grow our team members and continue to welcome more sim racers into our organised races.

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Inspired Business Media

Upcoming Summits

HEAD COACH PLANS FOR SUCCESS Jamie Falvey is a long-term Team BRIT family member. A driver in 2017, he went on to forge a successful solo racing career before returning to provide ad hoc coaching services to the team. Now, he’s joined the team for the year as driver coach and has recently taken on the role of team manager, leading on race preparation, administration and logistics for our races. Here, Jamie gives us the inside scoop on his plans and priorities for getting the drivers race-ready this season. Tell us about your coaching priorities for the year ahead I want the drivers to be focused and accountable going forward. The team has got to a stage where the only thing limiting its performance, is how drivers and team members personally respond to the challenges ahead. The management team has done its role in securing the funding required and building the infrastructure to compete across three championships. All these things are in place, so now it’s crucial that everyone pulls together and plays their part. Even one weak link just won’t work. Coaching for performance is reasonably straight forward but having the right attitude makes it even simpler. The right ‘reflective’ attitude is key otherwise seeing improvements on the track is next to impossible. What will the timetable of coaching look like for the drivers this year? We’ll be bringing together a mix of inputs and opportunities for the drivers both on and off the track. We plan to get drivers to each circuit they’ll be racing on at least twice and making the absolute most of our test days. Now that we’ll have four cars running throughout the year, and

three out on some weekends, my colleague from Century Motorsport, Gus Burton, who is a current GT4 champion will be supporting me in some of the coaching sessions and this is a real bonus for us. He couldn’t be a more perfect subject matter expert and he’s a great role model for all our drivers. Aside from the track – I’m working on pulling together a schedule of online training opportunities, getting everyone to log in together, building in some sim racing and learning from each other. The drivers will also be expected to focus on their fitness and nutrition alongside their day-to-day commitments. It’s really important that we don’t overwhelm drivers with this, however. They don’t have access to the time, resources and infrastructure of a professional driver, but there are simple fitness routines that can be followed that will make all the difference when it comes to racing. How much of a step up is British GT for the drivers and the team? It’s a massive step up – everything about the championship, which is led by SRO, is on another level. The championship is widely regarded as the top-level domestic GT series in Europe, maybe even the world and features the highest number of manufacturer-contracted professionally, backed drivers. There is a lot of manufacturer support for teams because they want to win races. That means that the level of driver and the level of competition is extremely high and the races are less forgiving. We certainly won’t be given any allowances because of who we are and we certainly wouldn’t expect them. Bobby & Aaron have a big step up to British GT, Aaron & Luke move up to GT4 racing and our rookies race for the first time. What can each of the drivers do to prepare for this?

preparation time and support as we can, on our simulator and through our coaching and test days. Getting out on track for the first time this year will be key and will help us see any areas we need to focus on. For our new rookies, the biggest thing we can do is encourage the good whilst also outlining where we need to make some changes. They have to be enjoying what they’re doing and I’m pretty obsessive about that! To be honest, if they’re not enjoying it, I’ll take I personally, so I’ll be making sure I give them all the tools they need. If they have an open attitude and are willing to learn, I know they’ll love every second. Andy and Luke are both experienced enough to know how racing works. Luke is a real dark horse and he’s better behind the wheel than he realises so I’m excited to see this. Andy needs to carry on improving as much as he was towards the end of last season and they’re going to be a good driver pairing. Bobby and Aaron need to go into their races fully understanding the change in landscape but must not let this overwhelm them. They are solid drivers who more than proved their skill last year and they deserve to be there. What are your predictions for the season? I think we’ll see some overall wins from James and Chris in the BMW M240i. The McLaren will podium at least once and Luke and Andy will have a very strong season with multiple podiums if they work well together. Tyrone, Paul and Anji will be in the BMW 118i and if they work hard, I know they’ll be more than competent on track by the end of the season. It’s going to be a belter of a season and I can’t wait to be in the middle of it.

We’ll be giving the drivers as much

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JOIN US TRACKSIDE IN STYLE We can’t wait to welcome fans, guests and sponsors to our races this season. We’re offering official Team BRIT partners a selection of premium events, giving you access to the best possible experience in the most exclusive venues across British GT, The British Endurance Championship and the Britcar Trophy.

WHAT’S INCLUDED: All Team BRIT hospitality packages include the following as standard:

• • • • • • • • •

Unbeatable venue locations with views of the circuit Parking A knowledgeable team host VIP accreditation and lanyard Shared race day programmes if published Team gift Tours of the pits and paddock Chances to meet the drivers Catering, drinks and additional activities (see location details below)

This year, there will also be a unique event in June for the launch of the new Hilton Garden Inn at Silverstone. This will include hospitality with the chance to watch the Aston Martin in the British Endurance Championship on Saturday, a chance to join the team for dinner in the evening and stay at the hotel ahead of hospitality to watch

the BMWs racing in the Britcar Trophy Championship on the Sunday. Team Commercial Director Mike Scudamore said: “Our hospitality events are some of the most important days of the year for us and something we all look forward to. “Put simply, we wouldn’t be here without our sponsors. Having the opportunity to welcome them to some of the most impressive locations at iconic tracks across the country is a real privilege and the feedback we receive is resoundingly positive. “What better way for our sponsors to see the impact of their support than by coming along to our races, visiting the garages and seeing the hive of activity over a race weekend, and of course seeing the faces of our drivers, full of adrenaline after they finish a stint on track. “We hope that many of our partners will be able to join us with their staff, colleagues and guests this year. If you’re interested in hospitality options at any events that are not listed here, we can provide premium access to shared hospitality with our partners.” For more information and to book, email mike@teambrit.co.uk.

12 March BRDC CLUBHOUSE SILVERSTONE

What’s Included:

• • • • •

British Endurance Championship Aston Martin V8 Vantage

18 March FOGARTY MOSS CENTRE OULTON PARK

•

2 Course buffet lunch Afternoon Tea Complimentary soft and alcoholic drinks throughout Exclusive use of the ground floor and access to the roof terrace Try your hand on our Vesaro simulator with hand controls 1 x 2hr race

£165+VAT per person

What’s Included:

• • • • •

Morning coffee & breakfast rolls Two course lunch Afternoon tea & cakes Pay bar in operation 2 x 1hr races

£110+VAT per person Intelligent Money British GT McLaren 570S

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8 May BROOKLANDS SUITE SILVERSTONE

What’s Included:

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Intelligent Money British GT McLaren GT4

15 May PIT LANE SUITE SNETTERTON

£150+VAT per person

What’s Included:

• • • • •

Britcar Trophy BMW M240i & BMW 118i

Hot breakfast rolls and pastries Two course lunch Afternoon tea & cakes Complimentary soft and alcoholic drinks throughout 1 x 3hr race ‘The Silverstone 500’

Morning coffee & breakfast rolls Two course lunch Afternoon tea & cakes Complimentary soft and alcoholic drinks throughout 2 x 50min races

£140+VAT per person

18 June HILTON GARDEN INN SILVERSTONE What’s Included: Hospitality, hotel and full event details including pricing to be released in due course British Endurance Championship Aston Martin Vantage

19 June HILTON GARDEN INN SILVERSTONE What’s Included: Hospitality, hotel and full event details including pricing to be released in due course Britcar Trophy BMW M240i & BMW 118i

11 September MSV CENTRE BRANDS HATCH

What’s Included:

• • • • • •

Intelligent Money British GT McLaren 570S

/TeamBRIT

/TeamBRITRacing

Exclusive suite with access to the roof terrace Morning coffee & breakfast rolls Two course lunch Afternoon tea & cakes Pay bar in operation 1 x 2hr race

£110+VAT per person

TeamBRITRacing

TeamBRIT

LOOKING GOOD! Designs for this year’s official teamwear and race suits, featuring branding from our fantastic partners and sponsors have been approved and are looking great. Team sponsor IMB Racewear is providing us with top of the range polo shirts, jackets and hoodies, which will soon be available to buy via our website and Facebook page. Racewear specialists Freem are manufacturing bespoke race suits for each of our drivers, featuring team and personal sponsor branding.

Team BRIT Polo Shirt 2022 Team BRIT Jacket 2022

There’s no question over who will be seen as the top dressed team this year! Get your hands on your very own Team BRIT teamwear at www.teambrit.co.uk

Front

Back

Experience the thrill of the track with world leading racing hand controls for disabled drivers. New COVID-19-compliant packages • • • • •

Half-day sessions Top UK circuits Professional coaching and instruction Top of the range simulator Track time with video de-brief

To find out more email info@teambrit.co.uk *Motorsport UK Covid regulations mean instructors cannot join a client in a car and garage numbers are limited. Clients will therefore drive on track independently with regular coaching feedback.

FIVE QUESTIONS with... Team BRIT Driver Chris Overend How are you getting ready for your first full season on the track? I’m spending a lot of time practising all the tracks on the calendar on my at-home simulator which is so beneficial as I can get a good understanding of the track layout before we do our first test days. I also have a similar hand control system to the race car now, and I need to be able to drive as instinctively as possible with it, something Dave was really urging me to develop off-season. I have to thank Paul Fullick for his time in helping develop and manufacture the paddles as they are so close to the real thing. I’m hoping to start playing wheelchair tennis again once it warms up a bit, it’s excellent cardio exercise which is crucial for endurance racing plus it’s great fun! What will be the biggest challenge as a new racing driver? As a new driver, a big challenge will be making sure I’m on pace from track to track, learning how to cope with changing conditions that really only come from experience. I’m hoping that before long I’ll have this experience by the bucketload. Giving the right feedback on car setup is crucial for getting the most out of the car, so again as a new driver, I’ll still be learning this. Going for those overtakes will be a big step when it comes to it and I’m relishing the challenge. What do you think will be your strength when it comes to team racing? I love working in a team, I love sharing knowledge and I really thrive in a team environment. My biggest strength will probably be what I considered by biggest weakness, which is anxiety - anxiety to make the corner, bring the car back in one piece and deliver solid results for the team, our sponsors and my teammate James. It drives me to be better every lap, every single time I get strapped in. It’s something I wasn’t expecting to be an asset.

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/TeamBRITRacing

What are you predicting for the season ahead? Honestly, I’m excited about the prospect of the unknown, but I think we will have a strong season, we have all the ingredients for it to happen, great car, great crew, great support, great teammates. It should be epic. What do you to relax outside of race prep and working? Maybe I’m showing my age here, but I really like gardening! We bought a house in 2020 and have really enjoyed watching it change throughout the seasons. My favourite thing to do after work is just to sit in the garden and listen to the birds and see who comes to visit, we’ve counted dozens of different species. Identifying all the different plants has been a great bonding experience with my grandma who loves giving me tips. It’s been a steep learning curve though! I also really enjoy a bit of gaming on my pc when I get the time, mainly strategy games. I love sim racing on GT Sport and Assetto Corsa Competizione, all while listening to music which is another big passion for me. I also love watching motorsport - BTCC, F1 and the WEC are my favourites.

TeamBRITRacing

TeamBRIT

The sound of obsession At Christopher Ward our designers are a little, well, obsessive. Take the C60 Trident Pro 600 as proof. So determined were the design team in England to get the ‘click’ of the rotating dive bezel just right, they secretly recorded other brands’ bezels for reference. Then sent the recordings to our brilliant Swiss engineers – and told them to do their best. The result is a bezel with a click that beats all other brands, bar one: Rolex. Next time, we’ll go one better.

christopherward.com