A scholarship will help Martin Boyle compete at Formula Ford single seater motor racing.
Twenty fiver year old Martin Boyle from Ballymoney, County Antrim is the first recipient of the Irish Driver for Britain and Europe Scholarship sponsored by the Royal Irish Automobile Club (RIAC).
Martin Boyle was selected as the most promising young Irish racing driver of 1978. Under the scholarship, he receives a free car, a brand new Crossle 35F built in Hollywood, County Down by constructor John Crossle. The award also includes equipment from Road and Racing Accessories of London, a free engine from David Minister of Minister Engines, and tyres and lubricant from Irish Dunlop and Duckhams. The overall prize is worth over £9,000.
Martin Boyle received the car from David Kennedy, the Dublin driver who's already made it to the big time.
Martin Boyle car will compete in races in England in the Formula Ford class this year where Irish drivers have dominated recently.
David Kennedy explains the idea for the scholarship came as a way to offer support and direction for young Irish people trying to make a name for themselves in motorsport. Last year, he presented the idea of the scholarship to the RIAC. The award will now offer Martin Boyle the opportunity to pursue a career in motor racing.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 9 January 1979.
