Parent FAQs

In 2021 we had three drivers join us from the USA and in a trickier year than most, rather than flying in and out, they came to the UK to live. With a busy year of testing and few long breaks between races this has been a great solution for the guys, but of course, it left parents - initially - a little panicked about how it would all work.

We love welcoming drivers from overseas but understand that it can be a big decision for families. Therefore, having talked with our driver’s parents this year, we’ve formulated some frequently asked questions below, to help you with any queries you might have if you’re thinking of joining the Ammonite family. 

What is Formula Ford and why is it a good next step? 

Formula Ford began in the 1960s and has been going strong ever since. It is a single seater championship and it is a great next step for those looking to move on from karting. It teaches drivers the basics when it comes to driving, giving them a competitive environment to learn and develop before moving on in their career. The circuits in the UK are among the best in the world to hone a drivers craft and the amount of testing and race day experience is massive, meaning that drivers can learn a tremendous amount in a very short period of time.

What is the team set up? 

Andy is the team owner and is the main contact for the drivers and their parents. He heads up the set up with apprentice Matt alongside full time. The team then has extra help at events in the form of extra mechanics, chef Sue, photographer Steve and Rianna, who takes charge of the website and social media. You can read more about our team members on the Our Team page. 

Where will the drivers stay when they come over?

In 2021 our drivers stayed in an airbnb in Brackley, where the team is based and we (Andy and Rianna) live. The house is in the town centre and close to lots of amenities and only a 15 minute walk from our house. It is in fantastic condition and if we have drivers from abroad again we would use, if possible, this house. However, if it isn’t available, there are lots of other airbnbs in the town and we would ensure the drivers find somewhere that they are happy with and is still close to us and the local facilities. During race weekends and track days the drivers and all team members stay at hotels close to the circuits.

What’s in Brackley? Are there lots of facilities?

Brackley is a small characterful town, packed with lots of amenities and nestled within beautiful countryside. There are three large supermarkets, a couple of little ones, some great independent shops and restaurants as well as a gym and swimming pool. It’s also only a ten minute drive from Silverstone. 

Do they need a car?

As mentioned there are plenty of facilities in Brackley that are in walking distance as well as buses to various larger towns such as Bicester (505 Bus) and Banbury (500 Bus). Bicester and Banbury also have train stations that can take you to various other places including London, which is just around an hour via train from both of these places. Drivers are of course welcome to have a car whilst they are here, but we will make sure they can get to all the circuits with us, so it would be more for their own leisure rather than as a necessity. 

What is provided for the drivers?

We provide everything they need during the National Championship race events. Breakfast and lunch are included and we do offer dinner in the evening at a small additional charge (£5 a night). However, drivers are more than welcome to make their own dinner arrangements. There are also plenty of snacks and drinks on hand to keep up their energy over the event! For smaller events and testing we provide breakfast, lunch and snacks but are unable to offer drivers dinner in the evening. During the rest of their time in the UK, outside of events, they are responsible for making their own dining arrangements.

When does the season start and finish?

We encourage drivers to get in as much pre season testing as possible to get used to the car and various circuits, especially if they are coming straight from karting. This normally starts mid-February. The National Formula Ford Championship runs from April - October, with a race every 4 weeks or so. There are then other smaller club races scattered between these throughout the year. The Walter Hayes Trophy and Formula Ford Festival are additional races, like the club races, and normally take place the last weekend of October and the first weekend in November. They conclude the Formula Ford season. 

If you have any other questions please don’t hesitate to drop us a message and we’ll be more than happy to help!