Oliver Webb
Professional racing driver Oliver Webb will be swapping his wheels for trainers when he next takes to the Silverstone track.
For Webb has vowed to run three laps of the famous race circuit to raise money for Stoke-on-Trent charity Caudwell Children.
The 21-year-old racing prospect hopes to raise more than £1,000 for the charity be completing the half marathon challenge.
And it will be no easy feat for Oliver who still suffers from ligament damage suffered in a crash last year.
Webb told StaffsLive: “Last year at the Indy500 weekend my knee and ligaments were damaged which makes it harder to run, so the half marathon will be a good challenge.
“But I’m determined to do it. When I first got introduced to the charity and saw some of the amazing work they did, I was just inspired and I wanted to help in whatever way I could and use my contacts so I could help.”
It’s not the first time Oliver has helped with the charity.
“I’ve attended Karting events as the face of the event for the charity twice and given away prizes at both their Butterfly Ball and this year at their Diamond Ball, but the half marathon will be a lot harder,” he added.
After this challenge, he aims to get back to building on his promising 2012 which saw him compete in America’s Indy Lights in the Lucas Oils racing car for Sam Schmidt Racing.
The Manchester-born racer said: “Last year went really well, we had a good year. It was our first ever in the USA, learning Oval racing for the first time. I also lived out there full time, so it was just a great experience.
“Indy lights was fantastic, it was just great to race in amazing cities around the USA, and the way of life out there was very easy going and fun.
“Sam Schmidt Motorsports are a great family to be involved with and to have the top sponsored Lucas Oils racing car was a privilege.”
2013 could be a massive year for the promising youngster as he is competing in the World Series by Renault 3.5, with current champions Fortec, in what is the feeder series for the F1.
“I just can’t wait to get the 2013 season started, it’s a massive year and whatever happens this year will determine my future.”
Trudi Beswick, chief executive of Caudwell Children, said: “We are extremely grateful for the support we receive from Oliver, and his commitment to Caldwell Children.
“Oliver has lots of friends and supporters from his exploits on the track and I would urge all of them to support his latest challenge and get behind the fundraising.”
Oliver’s Silverstone challenge takes place this Sunday March 3.
To sponsor Oliver, and help raise money for Caudwell Children, visit www.justgiving.com/oliwebb123 .
