Penrose is Castrol’s man

James Penrose has topped Castrol’s search to be next year’s New Zealand Grand Prix ambassador and will compete for the brand in a fully supported Toyota FT-60 in this February’s big race.

The 25-year-old was confirmed as the winner following a rigorous evaluation process, which saw candidates assessed on a variety of on-track and off-track abilities concluding in individual interviews. 

He also, therefore, becomes the first driver to be officially confirmed as an entry for the 2022 NZ Grand Prix.

Callum Crawley emerged from the process a narrow second in the overall evaluation and, in an additional move, has been awarded a $15,000 prize to go towards securing him a seat in the big race.

An initial application list of 66 drivers was refined to a short-list of seven in November. All had to demonstrate raw speed, a strong track record and ambassadorial skills required by one of the sport’s major sponsors. 

Candidates were also assessed across a broad range of off-track variables, including generating social-media engagement.

Penrose, who is the current National and South Island Formula Ford champion and a multiple title holder in karts, excelled in all areas. However, it was his conviction and passion to progress his career that caught the judging panel’s attention.

“In the final review of some phenomenally talented young drivers, James was just what we were looking for,” says Jan Willink, Castrol’s brand and product manager.

“We were amazed with the overall quality calibre of applicants. Picking a single winner from such a deserving field was a greater challenge than anticipated, but James’ authenticity and genuine ambition to take his career to the next level convinced us that we want to be part of that journey with him too.

“We now move to the next stage with James. He’ll be testing again and working with us as we build towards a reveal of the car livery for the GP. We cannot wait to see James in a long and successful line of New Zealand drivers to carry Castrol colours.”

Penrose, pictured, of Rangiora, says: “I knew, like all the drivers, that I had a shot at winning, but it’s amazing to have been selected by Castrol to represent them in the grand prix.

“They’ve gone the extra mile to make this happen and I’m determined to deliver on the faith they have shown in me.

“When you see who was on the shortlist, let alone on the bigger 66-strong application list, I know the opportunity could have easily gone to another driver such was the quality in that group. It’s exciting for me to be the guy selected to race in these iconic colours.”