Building on the success stories of drivers such as Callum Hedge and Ryan Yardley, the CareVets Scholarship is back for 2025, offering aspiring racers a chance to compete in the inaugural Toyota 86 Trophy Series this year!
A single-day shootout on March 31st at Hampton Downs will determine the recipient. This comprehensive assessment will evaluate both on-track driving skills and off-track attributes crucial for a professional racing career.
The winning driver receives the keys to a Toyota TR86, fully prepared for all four rounds of the new series. Support includes the invaluable services of an experienced mechanic and engineer, maximizing the driver’s performance throughout the racing season. The winner will only be responsible for entry fees, operational costs, and any necessary repairs.
Applications are now open and close sharply on Friday, March 21st. Prospective applicants must submit a photograph and a current motorsport CV detailing their racing experience.
Eligibility requires New Zealand citizenship, an age of 25 or under, and participation solely at grassroots levels. Grassroots categories include karting, stock cars, speedway, club rallying, and accredited MSNZ series such as Mazda, BMW, Formula Ford, and Formula First. Applicants must also hold (or be eligible for) a current, relevant motorsport license reflecting their grassroots experience.
A judging panel will review all entries received by March 21st. The top eight candidates will be invited to the scholarship shootout day, subject to a $500 entry fee.
The Toyota 86 Trophy Series offers a sustainable and competitive platform for the popular Toyota TR86 model, serving as a vital entry-level winter series. Aspiring racers may find this a stepping stone to the GR86 Championship and beyond.
The series will visit three exciting circuits: Hampton Downs (May, HRC Finale weekend), Taupo International Motorsport Park (June, Taupo Winter Series), Manfeild Circuit Chris Amon (early July), and a final round back at Taupo Motorsport Park in late July.
To apply, head to: https://www.toyota.co.nz/toyota-racing/gr86-championship/carevets-scholarship-application/
2025 Toyota 86 Trophy Series Calendar:
| Round 1 | 9-10 May 2025 | Hampton Downs (NZIGP Finale) |
| Round 2 | 21-22 June 2025 | Taupo International Motorsport Park |
| Round 3 | 5-6 July 2025 | Manfeild Circuit Chris Amon |
| Round 4 | 26-27 July 2025 | Taupo International Motorsport Park |
Header Image: Andy Kruy
