Formula Ford began at Brands Hatch in England in 1967 and has become an important international formula for the development of young talent. It is an essential formula for young drivers commencing motorsport or kart drivers progressing through the system - as well as being affordable for all. The first Formula Ford championship ever held in the UK, was won by an Australian, Tim Schenken, new CAMS Motor Racing manager.

WORLD CHAMPIONS
Nine World Formula One Champions learnt their racecraft in Formula Ford - Emerson Fittapaldi, James Hunt, Jody Scheckter, Nigel Mansell, Damon Hill, Ayrton Senna, Jacques Villeneuve, Mikka Hakkinen and Michael Schumacher. Many current and former Formaula One drivers also began their careers in this category.

THE NEW ZEALAND CONNECTION
The first New Zealand Formula Ford Champion was David Oxton driving an Elfin 600 in 1972. Many Formula Ford series winners have been successful in other formulae including Craig Baird, Ashley Stichbury, Scott Dixon, Leroy Stevenson, Fabian Coulthard and Jonny Raid.

South Island Formula Ford Champions include Jason Richards, Brent Collins and Daniel Gaunt. Other well known New Zealand drivers who have competed successfully in Formula Ford include Ken Smith, Dave McMillan, Paul Radisich, Greg Murphy, Simon Wills, John Crawford, Andy Neale and Ross Stone.

David Oxton is a former New Zealand Grand Prix winner and 5 times New Zealand Gold Star single seater champion.

Scott Dixon has had a successful career since graduating from Formula Ford - Australian Formula Holden champion, Indy Lights champion, Indy Racing League champion.

Formula Ford cars comply with a strict set of rules, designed to control costs and ensure the cars are as equal as possible so that driver skill becomes the major factor in achieving success.

CHASSIS
Tubular space frame construction, built within maximum dimensions. Exotic materials are prohibited. The aim is to maximise torsional rigidity and minimise weight whilst maintaining high safety levels.

TYRES
A grooved racing tyre is used for the best grip under all weather conditions. The type and brand of tyre is specified.

ENGINE
The mormall aspirated Form 1600 "Kent", four cylinder engine with crossflow head, is used and tuned to around 105 bhp. Components and measurements are sepcified to provide similar performance.

SUSPENSION
Full racing car suspension designs are utilised to give maximum tye grip at various speeds. Chassis balance is adjustable, controlled by damper, spring and anti-roll bar combinations.

GEARBOX
Limited to four forward gears. Ratios can be changed to suit various circuits and conditions.

BRAKES
Four wheel disc brakes have independent front and rear activation, with adjustable bias.

SAFETY
Include chassis requirements, roll over hoop, foot protection and material specifications.

AERODYNAMIC DEVICES
Not permitted. Down force is limied to the combination of chassis design/set-up and trye grip, together with gravity.