NASA JUNIOR ADVANCEMENT LETS DRIVERS UNDER 16 COMPETE.
9/17/2002 - NASA Program Gives Young Drivers A Chance.
"NASA Junior Advancement Program"

Recognizing the vast amount of driving talent found in karting, NASA (National Auto Sport Association) has announced a program that will allow an experienced driver the opportunity to move up to a modern open-wheel car, even if that driver is 14 or 15 years old. "Karting drivers can be any age, but there seems to be a trend towards younger drivers having a lot of experience, running up front, showcasing an extraordinary amount of talent and promise, then left with no-where to go." Says Jerry Kunzman, Executive Director for the National Auto Sport Association.

"We are very interested in opening up the opportunity for advancement in the sport for these younger drivers," continued Kunzman. "These drivers are mostly under the age of 16 years old. An age where other sanctioning bodies do not let them compete based solely on a date on a calendar, and not on experience. NASA is changing that." NASA calls this program, "The NASA Junior Advancement Program."

To be sure, there are restrictions, and not every young driver will be accepted. Provisions in NASA's rules will allow qualified drivers under the age of 16, under some special circumstances, to race in NASA events. This is an amazing opportunity and privilege for minors under 16. With the privilege, comes responsibility. "There are special circumstances that permit us to do this," Kunzman stated. He continued, "One of which, is my personal approval on a case-by-case basis. That approval can be revoked if the skill level or maturity displayed on and off track is not high enough."

Kunzman seems to feel that there is no reason why a multi-year kart champion or even a non-champion with some years of good clean racing under his/her belt, can't move up to racing cars.

Formula TR 1600 the perfect car for the driver on the move.

Although this opportunity extends to all classes in NASA, it is the Formula TR 1600 that drivers will be most interested in. "I am very pleased to be working with the Formula TR series. With the Formula TR 1600, we have a perfect car for drivers coming out of karting to use." said Kunzman.

Steve Henry, Series Director says "The 1600 was designed to be the link between karting and Formula Renault in Europe. We thank Jerry and NASA for letting us participate in the Junior Advancement program, it's a perfect fit for us. The 1600 is a modern carbon fiber formula car that let's a driver use the skills learned in karting while moving up."