Formula One Fulham
by Hammersmith and Fulham Press Office
26/11/2008
Move over Lewis Hamilton, Frank Williams and Flavio Briatore – There is a new Formula One motor racing team in town and this one hails from Fulham!
But unlike McLaren, Williams and Ferrari, Jetstream F1 has no multi-million pound budget and no celebrity pop star girlfriends in tow.
In fact, the team comprises five pupils from Henry Compton School who are taking part in a nationwide competition called F1 in Schools.
This engineering competition sees pupils do everything that a real life Formula One team might do, from designing and building a car to creating a team name and identity and of course racing their supercar.
The idea of the project is to get students familiar with modern technologies such as Computer Aided Design and Computer Aided Manufacture.
Under the leadership of Design and Technology teacher Ben Sanders, the five strong Henry Compton team, consisting of Deepash Hosadurg, Shen Yue, Reece Lawler, Nima Abbasabadi and Qais Fazeli are well on the way towards racing their dream machine.
But the team is keen to hear from local businesses who may be able to offer sponsorship that will help them to take part in national and international competitions.
Ben Sanders said: “F1 in Schools really is a fantastic initiative. It teaches the pupils all about manufacturing skills and gives them a real insight into the industrial world. This project also encourages teamwork and nurtures business and research skills.
“The five pupils involved are doing a great job but we really could do with the help of local businesses. Running a motor racing team, even at this level, is very expensive. In return for sponsorship, businesses would see their name emblazoned on our car and if we get far in the competition, it really could be a lucrative deal.”
Cllr Antony Lillis, cabinemt member for community and children's services, said: "This sounds like a wonderful project and I wish the Henry Compton team all the best. I am sure they will pick up lots of useful tips that will help them in later life."
Jetstream F1 will be competing in the regional finals of F1 in Schools in Greenwich on 11 December. If they qualify, they will then enter national fianls in Birmingham in 2009.
If you are interested in sponsoring Jetstream F1 call Ben Sanders on 020 7381 3606
