The inaugural season of the Jamie Chadwick Series has concluded, marking a watershed moment for female participation in motorsport. Launched in partnership with Daytona Motorsport, the series has dramatically increased the number of young girls engaging with karting across the UK. The statistics are staggering: a 1900% surge in competitive karting participation, a 400% rise in casual karting, a 700% jump in endurance racing entries, and a 200% increase in first-time karting experiences for girls. Over 450 girls have been introduced to the sport through the series, solidifying its position as the UK’s largest all-female karting initiative. This overwhelming success underscores the series’ effectiveness in breaking down barriers and fostering a more inclusive environment for aspiring female racers.
Beyond simply boosting participation numbers, the Jamie Chadwick Series has cultivated a supportive community centered on mentorship and encouragement. Founding the series was a deeply personal endeavor for Chadwick, driven by her own experiences navigating the predominantly male world of motorsport. The series provides a structured pathway for young girls to enter the sport, offering everything from free introductory sessions to competitive races and exclusive mentorship programs. This holistic approach addresses the multifaceted challenges girls face, including financial constraints, logistical hurdles, and the often-intimidating culture of motorsport. By creating a welcoming and supportive atmosphere, the series empowers girls to discover their passion for racing without feeling pressured or marginalized.
The series culminated in a celebratory championship event at Daytona Milton Keynes, where Lily Jeffs and Rhianna Purcocks emerged victorious in their respective categories. Their prizes include a fully-paid test in advanced karting machinery and a year of mentorship from Chadwick herself. This emphasizes the series’ commitment to not just introducing girls to the sport but also nurturing their talent and providing them with tangible opportunities for advancement. The mentorship component is a cornerstone of the program, as Chadwick believes that guidance and support are essential for young drivers to navigate the complexities of motorsport.
Chadwick views grassroots karting as the bedrock of motorsport development, recognizing its critical role in creating a more accessible entry point for aspiring racers. She understands that traditional pathways into motorsport can be prohibitively expensive and logistically challenging, particularly for young girls. The Jamie Chadwick Series actively tackles these obstacles by offering free karting events, such as those held on National Women’s Day, and by providing structured programs that gradually introduce girls to different levels of competition. This approach removes the financial burden and the intimidation factor often associated with motorsport, allowing girls to explore their potential without significant upfront investment.
Looking towards the future, Chadwick is brimming with enthusiasm for expanding the series. She envisions broadening its reach to new tracks and regions, potentially including international expansion, particularly in the U.S. Plans are also underway to introduce a junior racing category for girls aged 8 to 12, further solidifying the series’ commitment to long-term development and creating a pipeline of future female racers. This ambition reflects Chadwick’s unwavering belief in the importance of early intervention and providing opportunities for girls of all ages to discover the thrill of motorsport.
Beyond her work with the series, Chadwick is also embarking on an exciting new chapter in her own racing career. She has been announced as part of Genesis Racing’s LMP2 program for 2025, which includes a highly anticipated debut at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Chadwick relishes the challenges of endurance racing, emphasizing the strategic thinking, teamwork, and unwavering determination required to succeed in this demanding discipline. Her participation in the prestigious Le Mans race is a testament to her own dedication and talent, and it serves as an inspiring example for the young girls she mentors. As Chadwick balances her own racing aspirations with her commitment to fostering the next generation of female drivers, she continues to be a powerful force for positive change in the world of motorsport.
