Patch Tyre Equipment Returns as title sponsor of Junior MINI Challenge

Clane based garage equipment supplier Patch Tyre Equipment have renewed their association with the Mondello Park run Junior MINI Challenge race series.

Launched in 2022, the series, for drivers ages 14-17 runs the MINI R50 Cooper or ONE models. In a standard state of tune and running a control exhaust and control championship ECU, they produce around 120bhp. They run on a specific spring and a standard spec shock absorber and this, allied to the use of the TOYO 888 trackday tyre, makes them an idea machine for young drivers to hone their skills before graduating to some other race series.

Mondello Park will once again support the series with some exclusive MINI Test Days at the venue, subsidised entry fees, and the Junior MINI Scholarship- an initiative where young drivers attand the venue and are assessed on track, as well as on a Simulator (by Digital Motorsports) and at a media interview. At the end of the day, a winner will be announced and they will receive the use of a Junior MINI Challenge car for the year, as well as all entry and test fees. Second place on the day will receive free entries for the season at Mondello Park, should they decide to join the series and third place will receive free ICCR testing at Mondello Park.

David Travers (above)was in inaugural winner of the scholarship in 2022 and, using the Mondello Park, he went on to win the Championship after some fantastic battles with highly rated karter Codey Keogh. Others to try the cars out included young karter Holly Dunnion, who went well on a one off drive in 2022 and joins the series full time in 2023. Another new addition is World Tillotson Karting Champion Reuben Kernohan, who makes the transition to motor racing after a sterling junior karting career.

Brian Matthews, Patch Tyre Equipment :”We are delighted to be back on board for season two of the Junior MINI Challenge. This class will produce plenty of young talent and who knows, we might even discover the next international star driver among the ranks. We are looking forward to bigger grids and great racing in 2023.”

Based in County Kildare, but covering the entire country, Patch Tyre Equipment have  built their reputation since 1993 on their range of quality products, their expertise, service and the support they provide to their customers. Established in 1993, Patch Tyre Equipment is a 100% Irish family run business.