Thirteen-year-old Australian go-karter Chris Hays yesterday met with Vodafone McLaren Mercedes F1 driver Lewis Hamilton at the team’s headquarters in the UK.
Yesterday’s meeting forms part of a mentoring program for Chris, organised by Vodafone as an extension of its Vodafone McLaren Mercedes sponsorship. The program began when the rising star first met his F1 hero at the 2007 Australian Grand Prix in March.
Lewis, who was runner-up in the 2007 F1 drivers’ championship, spent several hours speaking with Chris about driving technique, nutrition and training. Chris also had the opportunity to go behind the scenes of one of the world’s top Formula 1 teams and see the preparations underway for the 2008 season.
Chris believes that Lewis is the best young driver in the world. “Lewis has achieved so much already. He told me that the only way to reach the top in motorsport is through practice and hard work. He really inspires me to keep chasing my dream to make it in motorsport, ” said Chris.
Lewis started out in go-karting himself and is a huge believer in the importance of nurturing young talent in motorsports.
“Like Chris, I knew from a young age that all I wanted to do was drive cars. This year I’ve had the privilege of meeting young, passionate children from around the world – who I hope to encourage and inspire, ” said Lewis.
Throughout the year Chris has also received mentoring with TeamVodafone’s Jamie Whincup – who is currently third in the Australian V8 Supercars drivers’ championship.
Vodafone is Title Sponsor and Official Mobile Partner of both Vodafone McLaren Mercedes team and TeamVodafone.
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