Stokes shines at academy
Rally driver Jack Stokes has been named as the winner of the Bruce McLaren Trophy for 2025 after emerging as the standout performer during a week-long motorsport camp.
The trophy is awarded to the leading athlete from the Elite MotorSport Academy of New Zealand’s annual camp that features training, workshops and challenges in Dunedin.
The annual academy, run in partnership with the Otago Academy of Sport, puts selected young drivers through a development programme covering fitness, nutrition, mental skills, media training, sponsorship and team building.
Stokes, 23, from Rangiora, was rewarded after demonstrating excellence across all areas of the camp, showing determination, leadership and a strong willingness to learn.
“It’s a real honour, to be honest. I wasn’t expecting it at all,” said Stokes, pictured.
“The week’s been really challenging but also really rewarding. We’ve had a lot of different activities, workshops, from lots of different facets of being an athlete.
“I think my biggest takeaway this week has just been becoming an all-round athlete. And there are so many other facets that will contribute to the driving performance. It’s not just about how fast you can put your right foot down and how fast you can go around the corner.”
Deborah Day, MotorSport New Zealand president, says Stokes epitomises what the elite academy is all about.
“His work ethic, attitude and all-round performance during the camp week made him a worthy recipient of the Bruce McLaren Trophy,” she adds. “We look forward to seeing his continued progression in the sport.”
Stokes was joined on the podium by circuit racers Cameron Hill and Corban Sprague, who claimed second and third respectively.
Organisers say all three impressed across the week with their professionalism, growth and performance in practical and theoretical components.
As part of the academy programme, all graduates will now embark on a tailored 12-month follow-up programme designed to further support their development and career progression.
Their progress will be assessed throughout the year, with the overall Elite Motorsport Academy Class of 2025 winner to be announced at the MotorSport New Zealand Awards Evening in May next year.
