Caterham has launched ‘The Academy Racer’, a six-part video series which will give viewers a look behind the scenes at the UK’s leading amateur racing championship - the Caterham Academy.

Caterham alumni and presenter Samantha Parker will front the series as it documents her journey throughout the season, from pre-season testing and preparation to races and matters off-track.

The Caterham Academy - established in 1995 - is a unique championship exclusively for novice drivers. So far, over 1,300 drivers have competed in the series, and Parker who has a 20-year association with Caterham, aims to pave the way for others, especially women, who want to become racing drivers.

Dutch Barn Orchard Vodka will sponsor Parker’s Caterham Academy car and the car will feature a ‘Dutch Barn’ shade of blue in its livery for the 2024 season.

Parker said: “Being part of the Caterham Academy this year as a racer, while doing my motorsport presenting will be a challenge, but it’s one that I am more than ready to take on, and I know I’ll have the support of the Caterham team along the way.

“We have racers who are of all ages and backgrounds competing this year, and it’s inspiring to be able to go on this journey with them this season.”

Episode 1 of The Academy Racer is available to watch here.

words: Mike Booth
pictures: Caterham Cars