Le Mans family values home and abroad
The countdown to the Le Mans 24 Hours 2010 is fast reaching its climax and it’s time for me to travel to France in search of that fourth win.
While winning is the focus for me and Highcroft Racing, Le Mans also presents us with a valuable opportunity to continue the team’s efforts to battle against malaria. Instead of Highcroft’s usual Patrón title sponsor branding, Malaria No More will be the primary signage on the side of the car in France with the aim of raising funds to combat the disease which kills a child in Africa every 30 seconds.
This is a cause close to my heart, as a Special Ambassador to Malaria No More UK, while the team’s 2009 Miles to End Malaria campaign raised more than $63,000 to provide bed nets for families in Africa.
The scope of Le Mans and potential world stage to spread Malaria No More’s message is huge. The event attracts more than 230,000 spectators and the race is broadcast in 170 countries – last year a cumulative television audience of 105 million tuned in. I hope, with Highcroft’s efforts, vital funds can be raised to save lives during Le Mans.
The money we raise will make a difference to the survival of generations of families in Africa.
For me, my family is the most important thing. They are incredibly supportive of what I do. My kids have grown up with me doing Le Mans every year and my racing in general. My wife Lisa comes from a racing background as well so she obviously understands that type of commitment.
I couldn’t give the commitment I need to or get the most out of racing if I didn’t have that type of support.
It allows me to focus on the job in hand. Last year I wasn’t happy about my own preparation as there was a lot of stuff going on before Le Mans which I allowed to get on top of me. This year I decided not to let that happen so I am putting the shutters down to block everything out, as I know what I need to do at Le Mans and that means full focus leading up to the race.
So just knowing what my family means to me brings a special relevance to my role with Malaria No More UK and to Highcroft’s dedicated support.
For just £5/$10 an entire family can be protected against this preventable disease. Race fans throughout the world can join Highcroft Racing’s Miles to End Malaria pledging pit crew online at www.milestoendmalaria.org. There will also be an ebay auction giving fans the chance to buy memorabilia from the race, from ourselves, other teams and drivers, to raise more money for the cause.
For further information about Malaria No More UK, check out www.malarianomore.org.uk.
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