[T]he University of Cumbria’s sport and physical activity department’s links with M-Sport Bentley have been strengthened further after an invitation by the team’s principle to assist with a 24hr race in Spa, Belgium.
Sports therapy lecturer Adam Smith and third year Ba (Hons) sport rehabilitation student Alan Kay gained fantastic experience working with the elite motor sport team. The pair spent 5 days with the team preparing for and completing the 24hr event where they made sure the drivers were in the best physical condition possible to complete the gruelling event. Former World Rally Championship driver and M-Sport Bentley Team principle Matthew Wilson was delighted with the contribution and would like greater involvement in more events for next year’s championship
“The guys were superb and settled in very nicely assisting with lots of different tasks as and when required,” Mr Wilson said. “The drivers were delighted with the level of professionalism and treatment they received and we’ll certainly look to involve them again.”
Senior lecturer in coaching and sport performance Jeff Thorpe has worked hard to develop the relationship over the last few years and is excited about the future possibilities.
“M-Sport Bentley are a professional motor racing team that employ hundreds of people and we are delighted they’d like us to be a part of the teams’ development by ensuring the drivers are in the best physical condition possible,” Jeff said. “The opportunity for a UoC student and member of staff to travel with them to Spa was enthusiastically received and we hope one of many more in the future.”
