AMBASSADORS

Liam Lawson was the Tony Quinn Foundation’s first Ambassador. Racing abroad since the age of 15, Liam’s career has progressed through Formula 4 in Australia and Europe, to FIA Formula 3 and Formula 2, before competing in Super Formula in Japan. In 2023, he stepped into the role of reserve driver for both Red Bull Racing and AlphaTauri, gaining valuable experience at the highest level of motorsport.

Liam made his Formula One debut with AlphaTauri during the 2023 season, stepping in for Daniel Ricciardo after Ricciardo suffered a hand injury during practice for the Dutch Grand Prix. Across five races, Liam quickly impressed the Formula One paddock with his speed and composure, scoring his first F1 points at just his third start at the Singapore Grand Prix. Despite returning to reserve driver duties in 2024, he remained firmly within the Red Bull Racing programme and continued building momentum towards a full-time seat.

In October 2024, Liam secured his first full-time Formula One drive with the newly rebranded Visa Cash App RB Formula One Team for the 2025 season, becoming the first Tony Quinn Foundation Ambassador to reach Formula One full-time. Just months later, in December 2024, Red Bull Racing announced Liam would be promoted to Oracle Red Bull Racing for the opening rounds of the 2025 Formula One World Championship alongside reigning World Champion Max Verstappen.

After beginning the 2025 season with Oracle Red Bull Racing, Liam returned to Visa Cash App Racing Bulls following the opening two Grands Prix. The move provided an opportunity for continued development within the Red Bull system, and throughout the remainder of the 2025 season Liam continued to showcase his speed, resilience, and growing maturity against some of the world’s best drivers.

Now into the 2026 Formula One season, Liam continues to cement himself as one of New Zealand’s brightest motorsport talents. Competing full-time on the Formula One grid, he has continued gaining valuable experience, delivering strong midfield performances, and further establishing his reputation as a determined and highly capable driver on the world stage.

"It's a privilege to be part of the TQF and I'm extremely grateful for the support they've given not only me but so many drivers from New Zealand. I was honoured to be the first international recipient of TQF support and I enjoy the opportunity to catch up with Tony, Josie and the team whenever I'm back home, especially at Highlands which is my favourite race track in the world. I also enjoy meeting the members and taking people on hot laps."

Louis began karting at just six years old and quickly rose through the ranks to become New Zealand’s most successful age-group karter by twelve - securing more national titles and series wins than any young driver before him. He made his open-wheel debut in Formula First in 2020, before stepping up to Formula Ford the following year, where he immediately impressed - taking pole position on debut and claiming two victories in his second outing.

In 2022, at just fourteen, Louis earned a coveted seat in the British F4 Championship. Despite missing the opening rounds due to age restrictions, he finished fourth overall, with two race wins and twelve podium finishes. He also added the UAE F4 Trophy Champion title to his list of achievements.

Louis returned to British F4 in 2023, capturing the championship title, before going on to win the GB3 Championship in 2024 - becoming the youngest-ever debut race winner in GB3 history and the first driver since Ayrton Senna to secure back-to-back British titles.

In 2025, Louis graduated to the Formula 3 Championship, where his rookie season featured a record-breaking weekend at the Hungaroring, storming through the field to gain 29 positions across two races. With the support and backing of the Tony Quinn Foundation, Louis will return to Formula 3, competing with PREMA Racing for the 2026 season, as he continues his climb toward his goal - Formula 1.

The Tony Quinn Foundation awarded Louis $100,000 grant to support his 2026 campaign in the Castrol Toyota Formula Regional Oceania Trophy (CTFROT).

Backed by the Tony Quinn Foundation, Louis returned to FIA Formula 3 with PREMA Racing for the 2026 season and has continued to build momentum against some of the world’s best young drivers. Earlier in the year, Louis also starred in the Castrol Toyota Formula Regional Oceania Trophy in New Zealand, finishing third overall in the championship and securing the Tasman Cup as the highest-placed Kiwi driver. As one of New Zealand’s brightest rising stars, Louis continues to strengthen his reputation as a future Formula One prospect.

It's an honour to represent a foundation that is deeply committed to helping young Kiwi drivers turn potential into performance. Being part of the Tony Quinn Foundation goes beyond financial backing — it’s an opportunity to draw from the knowledge, experience, and vision of Tony Quinn and the trustees, who have helped shape so many Kiwi racing journeys. I’m truly thankful for their belief in me and their support towards my 2026 FIA Formula 3 campaign, as I chase the dream that’s fuelled me since the age of six — Formula 1.

Louis Sharp

The Tony Quinn Foundation awarded Louis $100,000 grant to support his 2026 campaign in the Castrol Toyota Formula Regional Oceania Trophy (CTFROT).

Ryan Wood

Ryan Wood’s rise through the motorsport ranks has been nothing short of meteoric. Hailing from Wellington, New Zealand, Ryan first made his mark in karting before quickly transitioning to car racing, where his raw speed and race craft set him apart from the outset. After dominating in Formula Ford, he made the jump to the Toyota 86 Championship in 2021–22, where his breakout performances – including multiple race wins and blistering pace – signaled the arrival of one of New Zealand’s brightest young talents.

In 2023, Ryan made his international debut in the Porsche Carrera Cup Australia, stunning the paddock with an extraordinary rookie season that delivered six race wins, multiple pole positions, and a top-three finish in the championship. His success earned him a coveted opportunity with the Walkinshaw Andretti United Supercars team, where he now competes full-time in the Repco Supercars Championship.

The Tony Quinn Foundation was proud to announce Ryan Wood as the recipient of a $40,000 grant to contest 2026 Castrol Toyota Formula Regional Oceania Trophy (CTFROT) – the premier category of the Repco NextGen NZ Championship.

Returning to New Zealand’s top-tier single-seater series, Ryan delivered a standout campaign, finishing 5th overall, highlighted by multiple podium finishes and strong race pace throughout the series.

In 2026, Ryan continues his full-time campaign in the Repco Supercars Championship with Walkinshaw Andretti United, while also gaining additional high-performance racing mileage through selected endurance and international programmes as part of his ongoing development.

To be back supported by TQF is a really cool opportunity. Feels like a full circle moment to be back racing a Toyota in NZ with TQF backing. Really excited for the opportunity!

Ryan Wood

To be back supported by TQF is a really cool opportunity. Feels like a full circle moment to be back racing a Toyota in NZ with TQF backing. Really excited for the opportunity!

Callum’s motorsport journey began in Auckland, where a first drive in a friend’s kart quickly sparked a passion for racing. After winning multiple karting titles across New Zealand, he transitioned into car racing at just twelve years old, later claiming both the Formula Ford and Toyota 86 national titles - becoming the youngest driver to achieve the feat.

‍
In 2019, Callum moved to Australia to compete in the Australian Formula Ford Championship, where he became the youngest race winner in the category’s 50-year history. He later shifted his focus toward GT racing, impressing in Porsche Sprint Challenge Australia before earning a full-time drive in Porsche Carrera Cup Australia with Earl Bamber Motorsport in 2022.

‍
After winning the 2022 Tony Quinn Foundation Shootout, Callum received a $70,000 Tony Quinn Foundation grant to support his Castrol Toyota Formula Regional Oceania Championship campaign, where he finished runner-up with three wins and nine podiums.

‍
Across 2023, Callum enjoyed standout success on both sides of the Pacific - winning the Porsche Carrera Cup Australia Pro title and dominating the Formula Regional Americas Championship with thirteen wins from eighteen races.

‍
Those performances earned him a move to Indy NXT in the United States for 2024 and 2025, where he established himself as one of New Zealand’s rising international talents with multiple podium finishes and strong championship results.

‍
For 2026, Callum returns to Porsche machinery, joining Porsche Carrera Cup North America with JDX Racing as a Tony Quinn Foundation Ambassador, as he continues building toward his long-term goal of competing in the IMSA SportsCar Championship and the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

The Tony Quinn Foundation has really changed my career in ways that I never thought possible. From barely racing in 2020/2021. To 2 full seasons of IndyNXT with their support the whole way. Without my introduction to the TQF, which happened during the HD Academy test days in the pouring rain, none of this would be possible. There's no way I would be racing in America without their continued financial support. But also teaching me how to improve my off track duties. This teaching has helped me put together a 2026 program with a lot of potential. Although though the INDYCAR dream hasn't worked for now. I am so lucky to have their continued support in 2026, and I will be working as hard as I can to bring them the results we should have achieved in IndyNXT.

Lucas McGill started racing karts at the age of 13, and made an instant impression, quickly establishing himself as one of the top competitors in New Zealand karting.

In 2025, just four years into his karting career, he won the NZ National Sprint Championship in Rotax Max Lights, under the Dan Connor Racing team, along with achieving several podiums including in the Rotax Max Challenge. After only four years of racing, and already at the top of New Zealand karting, Lucas began setting his sights on a transition into cars. He attended a few days at the Hampton Downs Racing Academy, and stood out as a talent, earning a spot in the 2025 Tony Quinn Foundation GR86 Shootout.

Lucas was a standout in the TQF GR86 Shootout competition, recognised for his talent and potential, both on and off the track. The shootout, which was held in wet conditions for the first time, made it especially challenging for the drivers. Lucas impressed, topping the qualifying simulation in his very first time driving a race car in the wet, as well as delivering a mature stint in the race simulation. Off the track, the trustees were impressed by his commercial understanding of motorsports, and his first-class presentation skills.

Subsequently, he was awarded a $54,000 Tony Quinn Foundation support package towards his debut campaign in the 2025/26 Bridgestone GR86 Championship, marking a significant step in his progression into car racing.

In his debut season in the Bridgestone GR86 Championship, Lucas continued to build momentum throughout the 2025/26 campaign, showing strong adaptation to touring car machinery and consistent improvement across the season. He finished 14th overall in the championship.

Being a part of the Tony Quinn Foundation is a huge privilege, and I feel very honored to be given the opportunity to represent the foundation as an ambassador. The 2025 TQF GR86 Shootout prize will provide me with incredible support and financial backing to kick start my transition from karts into car racing. It will give me a great chance to improve my performance, both on and off the track, and working with such an amazing group of trustees is going to be very beneficial for my motorsports career. I am super proud to be a TQF ambassador and am beyond thankful to all the trustees for their support towards my 25/26 Bridgestone Toyota GR86 Campaign.

Lucas McGill

Lucas McGill started racing karts at the age of 13, and made an instant impression, quickly establishing himself as one of the top competitors in New Zealand karting.

Tom Bewley

Tom Bewley grew up in Havelock North where his passion for motorsport began at a young age. He spent much of his formative years competing in karting events across the country, quickly building a reputation as a determined and capable young driver.

During his karting career, Tom twice earned the opportunity to compete in Italy at the Karting Grand Finals - a valuable international experience that exposed him to some of the world’s best emerging talent and further sharpened his racecraft on the global stage.

Transitioning into car racing, Tom stepped into the competitive Toyota 86 New Zealand Championship, where he contested two seasons. In just his second year, he claimed the championship title - a breakthrough achievement that marked him as one of New Zealand’s most promising young drivers.

In 2025, Tom took the next step in his career by competing in the Porsche Sprint Challenge Australia. Despite an up-and-down season filled with new challenges and steep learning curves, he demonstrated resilience and speed, ultimately finishing third overall in the championship.

Now, Tom sets his sights on 2026 with a major opportunity ahead, stepping up to Porsche Carrera Cup Australia with Earl Bamber Motorsport and the support of Porsche New Zealand - a significant milestone as he continues his progression toward the top levels of international GT racing.

Being an ambassador for the Tony Quinn Foundation has been a really special experience for me. From my perspective, the foundation does an incredible job of helping young Kiwi drivers take the next step toward international racing across many forms of motorsport. What stands out most is the level of experience and support behind it. The people involved have deep knowledge of both New Zealand and international motorsport, and that guidance is invaluable. The scholarships go far beyond financial support. Along with funding, the foundation provides important off-track tools like social media and personal development training, which have helped me grow as a driver and as a person. Most importantly, the foundation feels like a family. The support is genuine, constant, and personal, and I feel very grateful to be part of something like this. We’re incredibly lucky in New Zealand to have Tony Quinn put together a foundation that creates real opportunities for young drivers.

Season 2024/25

Liam was the Tony Quinn Foundation’s first Ambassador. Racing abroad since the age of 15, Liam’s career has progressed through Formula 4 in Australia and Europe, to FIA F3 and F2, and then to Super Formula in Japan. In 2023, he took on the role of reserve driver for both Red Bull Racing and AlphaTauri, gaining valuable experience at the highest level of motorsport.

Liam served a short stint in Formula One at AlphaTauri during the 2023 season, substituting for Daniel Ricciardo after the latter sustained a broken bone in his hand while practicing for the Dutch Grand Prix. He competed in five rounds, impressing the paddock with his performances, and achieved his first points in Formula One at his third race, the 2023 Singapore Grand Prix. Despite his strong showing, he returned to his reserve driver role for 2024 but remained a key part of the Red Bull Racing ecosystem.

In October 2024, Liam Lawson secured his first full-time seat in Formula One with the newly rebranded RB (formerly AlphaTauri), marking a significant milestone in his career. This achievement made him the first Tony Quinn Foundation Ambassador to reach F1, a testament to his hard work, perseverance, and the support of those who have backed him along the way.

Liam’s rise continued in December 2024 when Red Bull Racing announced him as their new driver for the 2025 season, partnering with reigning world champion Max Verstappen. His promotion to one of the most competitive teams on the grid is a testament to his talent and dedication.

In the 2025 F1, after two Grand Prix's racing for Oracle Red Bull Racing, Liam was transferred back to Visa Cash App Racing Bulls.

In the 2025 F1, after two Grand Prix's racing for Oracle Red Bull Racing, Liam was transferred back to Visa Cash App Racing Bulls.

In 2022, Callum was announced the winner of the Toyota Racing Series TQF Shoot-out receiving $70,000 towards his debut in Toyota Racing Series.

The 20 year old Kiwi is the 2023 Porsche Carrera Cup Australia champion and the 2023 Formula Regional Americas Champion.

In 2024, Callum moved from New Zealand to America to race full-time in the 2024 INDY NXT Championship with HMD Motorsport, thanks to Honda Racing US, Giltrap Group, the Tony Quinn Foundation and Tasman Motorsports Group.

In 2025, is competing in his second season of the INDY NXT by Firestone series, having transitioned to Abel Motorsports for this year. In his rookie season in 2024 with HMD Motorsports, Hedge delivered a strong performance, securing a fourth-place finish in the championship standings, including a podium finish with a third place at Detroit.

We look forward to seeing how Callum goes in INDY NXT in 2025.

“Being a part of the Tony Quinn foundation for me means more than just the money. It's the guidance, contacts and support network that the foundation and its trustees provide to you that make it so much more valuable than just the funding. The Hampton Downs NZ Racing Academy is such a great and unique way to find the talent and guide them to reach their fullest potential. The shootout day was amazing and I can't wait to improve both on and off the track using the guidance/advice from the trustee's. I look forward to becoming the best racing driver that I can and representing Tony and his team to the best of my ability.”

In 2022, Callum was announced the winner of the Toyota Racing Series TQF Shoot-out receiving $70,000 towards his debut in Toyota Racing Series.

The 20 year old Kiwi is the 2023 Porsche Carrera Cup Australia champion and the 2023 Formula Regional Americas Champion.

We look forward to seeing how Callum goes in INDY NXT in 2025.

In 2021, he made his debut in the New Zealand Formula Ford Championship, finishing eighth. The following year, in 2022, he improved to third place in the championship.

In 2023, Liam competed in the Formula Regional Oceania Championship (formerly Toyota Racing Series) with M2 Competition, securing three podiums and finishing fourth overall. Later that year, he moved to Japan to race in the Formula Regional Japanese Championship with Sutekina Racing Team, becoming the first foreign driver to win a race in the series. He finished the season as the runner-up, with three victories to his name.

In 2024, Liam raced in the Formula Regional Oceania Championship once again after winning the Tony Quinn Foundation Shootout, receiving $70,000 to go towards his campaign.

He claimed three wins, including victory in the prestigious New Zealand Grand Prix, and finished second in the championship. That same year, he made the move to America to compete in the USF Pro 2000 Championship with TJ Speed Motorsports. He secured his first win at Indianapolis Motor Speedway and multiple podiums, finishing fifth overall in the standings.

In 2025, Liam has stepped up to the INDY NXT by Firestone series with HMD Motorsports, making his debut at St. Petersburg. This marks another major milestone in his career as he continues to progress toward the top levels of international motorsport.

We look forward to seeing how Liam performs in INDY NXT in 2025.

FOLLOW ON FACEBOOK

"Being apart of the Tony Quinn Foundation is much more important to me than just receiving the prize package. The opportunity for me to learn from the wealth of knowledge and expertise that Tony Quinn and all of the trustees have to offer is significantly more valuable for my development on and off the track to become a professional race car driver. I am super proud and honoured to be a TQF ambassador and am thankful beyond words to Tony and the trustees for their support towards my 2024 CTFROC campaign."

Liam Sceats

In 2021, he made his debut in the New Zealand Formula Ford Championship, finishing eighth. The following year, in 2022, he improved to third place in the championship.

In 2024, Liam raced in the Formula Regional Oceania Championship once again after winning the Tony Quinn Foundation Shootout, receiving $70,000 to go towards his campaign.

We look forward to seeing how Liam performs in INDY NXT in 2025.

Chris White began racing karts at the age of 9, quickly establishing himself as a standout competitor at a national level. After transitioning to the Mazda Racing Series, Chris made an immediate impact — winning the South Island Championship and finishing second in the North Island Championship during his rookie season. In his second season, he claimed the South Island and National titles, finished second again in the North Island Championship, and secured 13 race wins and 20 podiums.

In 2024, Chris stepped up to the Toyota GR86 Championship as a rookie and impressed from the outset. He won the Tony Quinn Foundation GR86 Shootout, earning a $54,000 scholarship towards his campaign, and went on to finish 5th overall in the championship, claiming the prestigious Rookie of the Year title.

Recognised for both his talent and potential, Chris was named a 2025 Tony Quinn Foundation Trustees’ Choice Prize recipient, alongside GR86 Champion Hugo Allan. As part of the award, Chris will have the opportunity to race in the Monochrome GT4 Australian Championship, driving a Toyota Supra GT4 Evo — and sharing the grid with Tony Quinn himself. Each driver will contest an initial round, with potential for further opportunities based on their performance both on and off the track.

FOLLOW ON FACEBOOK

"I am proud and honoured to be part of the Tony Quinn Foundation. I am looking forward to working with the TGF learning from Tony, Dan, Greg, Steve and Josie. It is definitely going to help open doors and advance my career opportunities. Working with these guys and the team is going to be an invaluable experience. I have a lot to learn and with the help of the TQF. I’m looking forward to reaching my goals of furthering my career and being an ambassador for the foundation and representing the brand to the best of my ability."

Zack Scoular is a New Zealander currently residing in Dubai, UAE. He began karting at the age of 8 and has spent the past 12 months transitioning to single-seater racing, competing in Formula 4 and most recently, Formula Regional machinery.

Zack has raced at the highest levels of karting in the UAE and Europe. He was one of two drivers selected by Yas Heat Racing Academy to compete in his rookie Formula 4 season in the UAE and later went on to contest the ROKiT British Formula 4 Championship.

In late 2024, Zack won the Tony Quinn Foundation Castrol Toyota Formula Regional Oceania Championship (CTFROC) Shootout, earning a $70,000 scholarship towards his 2025 CTFROC campaign. Racing as a rookie in New Zealand, Zack impressed with pole position and a race win in his debut weekend, going on to finish second overall in the highly competitive championship.

Following his standout CTFROC performance, Zack now heads to Europe to make his debut in the Eurocup-3 series with Palou Motorsport — a significant next step in his young career.

Zack is proudly supported by the Tony Quinn Foundation and continues to represent New Zealand on the international stage.

Visit Instagram

“I am delighted with the opportunity to compete and win the Tony Quinn Foundation shootout. Being an Ambassador of TQF is an absolutely privilege. I am proud to represent New Zealand and be recognized with so many other successful New Zealand drivers. The support TQF provides for New Zealand drivers is unmatched globally. I would like to thank Tony and the TQF Trustees who have all shown their personal commitment to help me succeed in my ambitions.”

Zack Scoular

Following his standout CTFROC performance, Zack now heads to Europe to make his debut in the Eurocup-3 series with Palou Motorsport — a significant next step in his young career.

Zack is proudly supported by the Tony Quinn Foundation and continues to represent New Zealand on the international stage.

Hugo Allan is New Zealand-based race car driver and high-performance coach with a background that spans real-world motorsport and simulator racing.

In 2022, he won the Rookie Championship in the Toyota 86 series with International Motorsport, securing two race wins.

In 2023, he tested the FT-60 with Toyota and was selected for the Porsche Carrera Cup Asia Talent Pool, gaining valuable experience in both the 991 and 992 Cup cars.

Throughout 2024, he focused on building long-term relationships and strengthening his foundation to return to racing. That work paid off as he stepped back into the GR86 series for the 2024/25 season with incredible support and went on to win the championship.

Hugo and Chris White won the 2025 Tony Quinn Foundation Trustees Choice Prize, an incredible opportunity to race in the Monochrome GT4 Australian Championship, piloting a Toyota Supra GT4 Evo alongside Tony Quinn himself. They will each compete in one round initially, with potential for additional rounds based on their performance both on and off track.

Alongside racing, he continues to coach a range of drivers in both simulator and real-world environments. Coaching has helped Hugo grow as a driver too, reinforcing fundamentals, sharpening his technical approach, and keeping him fully immersed in the sport even while off-track.

His ultimate goal is to become a Supercars driver. Every race, every opportunity, and every bit of work off-track is focused on that target. He is fully committed to not just reaching Supercars, but earning his place there and building a long-term career competing at the highest level.

Visit Facebook

"Off the back of winning the GR86 Championship, the Tony Quinn Foundation played a pivotal role in helping me take the next step in my career. Their support created a pathway for me to move forward and compete in the Australian GT4 Series, where we secured a podium on debut. That opportunity wouldn’t have been possible without TQF’s belief in me and their commitment to backing Kiwi talent on the rise. My goal is to race in Supercars, and with the foundation’s help, I feel one step closer to making that a reality. Their involvement goes far beyond financial support, they open doors, create connections, and genuinely care about helping drivers build sustainable, long-term careers in motorsport. I’m proud to be part of what they’re building."

Hugo Allan

Hugo Allan is New Zealand-based race car driver and high-performance coach with a background that spans real-world motorsport and simulator racing.

In 2022, he won the Rookie Championship in the Toyota 86 series with International Motorsport, securing two race wins.

In 2023, he tested the FT-60 with Toyota and was selected for the Porsche Carrera Cup Asia Talent Pool, gaining valuable experience in both the 991 and 992 Cup cars.

Season 2023/24

Originally from Palmerston North, now living in the Hawkes Bay I have raced karts since I was 6 years old, my main wins are 4 Zealand championship titles, 4 Australian State Championships (VIC/NSW/QLD), Also was the 2022 Australian champion, Numerous North Island & Regional Titles.

In November of 2022 I was lucky enough to represent NZ at the Rotax Max world finals in Portugal. Achieving what I can in karts, I'm now moving forward with my racing career and moving into cars with a very open mind and taking it step by step.

"I feel very privileged and honored to be apart of the Tony Quinn Foundation, this a great kick start into my car racing journey, I'm eager to work with the foundation to improve my performance both on and off the track, working with such knowledge in the racing community is only going be beneficial. Being able to give back to the foundation by attending academy days and passing knowledge that I have and will learn over my season racing onto other young up and coming drivers is an exciting prospect. I cant wait to get on track and repay the faith the foundation has in me in my first rookie season of Toyota 86 racing."

Liam will receive continuing support from the Tony Quinn Foundation for this season.

Racing abroad since the age of 15, Liam’s career has progressed through Formula 4 in Australia and Europe, to FIA F3 and F2 and Super Formula in Japan.

He is currently serving as a reserve driver for Red Bull Racing and RB Formula One Team.

Liam will receive continuing support from the Tony Quinn Foundation for this season.

Racing abroad since the age of 15, Liam’s career has progressed through Formula 4 in Australia and Europe, to FIA F3 and F2 and Super Formula in Japan.

He is currently serving as a reserve driver for Red Bull Racing and RB Formula One Team.

Liam Sceats won the 2023 Tony Quinn Foundation Shootout, receiving $70,000 to go towards his 2024 Castrol Toyota Formula Regional Oceania Championship campaign.

In Liam’s 10-year stint in Go Karts, he came away as a 4x National Event champion and was a representative for New Zealand competing in Italy and Australia.

At age 15, Liam stepped up to Formula Ford where he came away as the New Zealand Formula Ford Class 2 Champion and was selected into the prestigious Elite Motorsport Academy.

Liam sits 2nd in the Formula Regional Japanese Championship with the focus of being crowned as champion at the final round in late November 2023. Liam aims to have a highly successful campaign in the upcoming 2024 CTFROC season.

‍

FOLLOW ON FACEBOOK

Liam Sceats

Liam Sceats won the 2023 Tony Quinn Foundation Shootout, receiving $70,000 to go towards his 2024 Castrol Toyota Formula Regional Oceania Championship campaign.

In Liam’s 10-year stint in Go Karts, he came away as a 4x National Event champion and was a representative for New Zealand competing in Italy and Australia.

At age 15, Liam stepped up to Formula Ford where he came away as the New Zealand Formula Ford Class 2 Champion and was selected into the prestigious Elite Motorsport Academy.

‍

The McElrea name in South Island motorsport stretches back three generations but Hunter is the first of his family to make headlines in international motorsport.

Hunter first received financial support from the TQF towards his 2022 Indy Lights campaign and the TQF has continued to support Hunter through his 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 seasons.

Hunter won the Australian Formula Ford title before moving to America where he successfully competed in USF200 and Indy Pro before stepping up to Indy Lights.

In 2024, McElrea planned to compete in the IMSA Endurance Cup with TDS Racing in the LMP2 category. The year began strong, with a second-place finish at the 12 Hours of Sebring. The highlight came in July when McElrea debuted in IndyCar after a successful test with Dayle Coyne Racing, securing a drive in the challenging Toronto Street race.

Click here to watch Hunter's latest updates on his season so far.

View Callum Hedge Drivers Profile here.

"I am very proud and lucky to be supported by the TQF. What they are doing for young kiwi drivers like myself is second to none. I’m not sure there is any programme like it globally. I can’t thank Tony and all trustees for their belief and generous support. I plan to represent them in the best way possible on my journey to INDYCAR!"

Hunter McElrea

The McElrea name in South Island motorsport stretches back three generations but Hunter is the first of his family to make headlines in international motorsport.

Hunter first received financial support from the TQF towards his 2022 Indy Lights campaign and the TQF has continued to support Hunter through his 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 seasons.

Hunter won the Australian Formula Ford title before moving to America where he successfully competed in USF200 and Indy Pro before stepping up to Indy Lights.

Click here to watch Hunter's latest updates on his season so far.

Rianna O'Meara-Hunt is in the early stages of her car racing career but has been involved in motorsport from a very early age. Karting from the age of 8 and has competed and won titles all over New Zealand both in Sprint and Superkart racing formats.

Rianna raced for multiple years in Australia where she was privileged to create history for women at the age of 16 by becoming the first ever junior woman to win a state title at an Australian Rotax Pro Tour event. She also competed successfully in Europe, representing NZ at the Rok Cup World Finals. After a year of racing, Rianna was selected as one of nine drivers from over 100 worldwide applicants and won ‘The Heart of Racing’ shootout which was for a full time seat in their Aston Martin Vantage GT4 for 2023.

VISIT WEBSITE

"I feel very proud to be an ambassador for the Tony Quinn Foundation. I’m looking forward to accessing the wealth of knowledge and experience that the foundation offers. Importantly I am excited about the platform such a successful and well organised team provide, allowing me to play a role assisting other young kiwi motorsport drivers get closer to their goals. What a privilege it is to be able to share @Highlands - Experience the Exceptional through my role as their first female pro driver and also to assist at the Hampton Downs NZRacing Academy. I’m looking forward to progressing these roles and seeking new opportunities for others well into the future."

Callum was announced the winner of the Toyota Racing Series TQF Shoot-out in November 2022, receiving $70,000 towards his debut in next year’s Toyota Racing Series.

The 20 year old Kiwi is the 2023 Porsche Carrera Cup Australia champion and the 2023 Formula Regional Americas Champion.

In 2024, Callum is moving from New Zealand to America to race full-time in the 2024 INDY NXT Championship with HMD Motorsport, thanks to Honda Racing US, Giltrap Group, the Tony Quinn Foundation and Tasman Motorsports Group.

Click here to watch Callum's latest updates on his season so far.

View Callum Hedge Drivers Profile here.

Callum was announced the winner of the Toyota Racing Series TQF Shoot-out in November 2022, receiving $70,000 towards his debut in next year’s Toyota Racing Series.

The 20 year old Kiwi is the 2023 Porsche Carrera Cup Australia champion and the 2023 Formula Regional Americas Champion.

Click here to watch Callum's latest updates on his season so far.

Season 2022/23

Liam will receive continuing support from the Tony Quinn Foundation for this season.

Racing abroad since the age of 15, Liam’s career has progressed through Formula 4 in Australia and Europe, to FIA F3 and F2.

Liam’s TQF grant announced in January 2022 assisted towards the financial cost of his second season of Formula 2 competition.

This year, the TQF has announced they will continue to support Liam as he switches to Super Formula in Japan for the 2022/23 season.

As a Red Bull Junior driver, Liam has risen through various European racing categories to be on the edge of Formula 1 breakthrough and retains his role in 2023 of being the official test and reserve driver for both the Red Bull and Alpha Tauri teams.

"To race and live in Europe requires not only a racing budget but also the ability to support all of the other costs associated with living and training in the UK. The grants from the TQF have allowed me to continue supporting myself while I strive to reach Formula 1. I enjoyed the opportunity to have time with Tony when I was back in NZ, and I always love spending time at my favourite track in the world, Highlands. We're very lucky to have the TQF in New Zealand and I'm grateful for the support and proud to be one of the Ambassadors."

Liam will receive continuing support from the Tony Quinn Foundation for this season.

Racing abroad since the age of 15, Liam’s career has progressed through Formula 4 in Australia and Europe, to FIA F3 and F2.

Liam’s TQF grant announced in January 2022 assisted towards the financial cost of his second season of Formula 2 competition.

This year, the TQF has announced they will continue to support Liam as he switches to Super Formula in Japan for the 2022/23 season.

The McElrea name in South Island motorsport stretches back three generations but Hunter is the first of his family to make headlines in international motorsport.

Hunter received financial support from the TQF towards his 2022 Indy Lights campaign and the TQF will be continuing to support Hunter through his 2022/23 season.

Hunter won the Australian Formula Ford title before moving to America where he successfully competed in USF200 and Indy Pro before stepping up to Indy Lights.

Hunter’s goal is to race in the American-based Indy Car championship.

Click here to watch Hunter's latest updates on his season so far.

Hunter McElrea

The McElrea name in South Island motorsport stretches back three generations but Hunter is the first of his family to make headlines in international motorsport.

Hunter received financial support from the TQF towards his 2022 Indy Lights campaign and the TQF will be continuing to support Hunter through his 2022/23 season.

Hunter won the Australian Formula Ford title before moving to America where he successfully competed in USF200 and Indy Pro before stepping up to Indy Lights.

Hunter’s goal is to race in the American-based Indy Car championship.

Click here to watch Hunter's latest updates on his season so far.

Ryan has received a grant from the Tony Quinn Foundation to support him in his journey to become a V8 Supercar driver.

Ryan looked destined to continue racing a Porsche in Australia this year before the Walkinshaw Andretti United V8 Supercar team announced they were returning to the Super2 development series this year, creating an opportunity for Wood to change direction and follow his dream.

The step-up to Super2 also increased the amount of support Wood needed and the Tony Quinn Foundation trustees added their support to bring the opportunity together for him to race the full 6-round calendar.

“I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone at TQF and highlands for giving me this opportunity to represent them on the world stage in 2023. It’s such a privilege to have support by Tony and everyone at TQF next year to help progress into the next step of my career. It’s great to have support by so many people in NZ and to now have the TQF behind me is going to make a huge difference in my career.”

Ryan Wood

Ryan has received a grant from the Tony Quinn Foundation to support him in his journey to become a V8 Supercar driver.

Callum was announced the winner of the Toyota Racing Series TQF Shoot-out in November 2022, receiving $70,000 towards his debut in next year’s Toyota Racing Series.

Callum was a race winner in Porsche Carrera Cup in Australia and most recently, the round winner on the streets of the Gold Coast.

Prior to his Porsche GT3 racing in Australia for the past two years, Callum is a former Toyota 86 and NZ Formula Ford champion among other racing successes.

Click here to watch Callum's latest updates on his season so far.

Callum was announced the winner of the Toyota Racing Series TQF Shoot-out in November 2022, receiving $70,000 towards his debut in next year’s Toyota Racing Series.

Callum was a race winner in Porsche Carrera Cup in Australia and most recently, the round winner on the streets of the Gold Coast.

Prior to his Porsche GT3 racing in Australia for the past two years, Callum is a former Toyota 86 and NZ Formula Ford champion among other racing successes.

Click here to watch Callum's latest updates on his season so far.

William won the Toyota 86 Racing TQF Shoot-out in November and received $37,500 towards his debut in the Toyota 86 championship.

Already committed to the Toyota 86 series, William has driven his own car at two endurance events so far in the lead-up to the shoot-out.

The Blenheim kart racer will soon be heading to Portugal to represent New Zealand in the Rotax worlds.

Click here to watch William's latest updates on his season so far.

Testimonial from William 2024

"The past two years of my many years of Motorsport have been the best, receiving the Tony Quinn Foundation Scholarship in my first year of car racing gave me the best start possible going into a strong 86 field.

The Support and guidance all throughout that year was exactly what I needed, everything from the social media updates to the media training from Greg Rust. I couldn't have asked for a better group of people around me.

My Second year of Toyota 86 had a lot more success, tied for most round wins and having most pole position awards proved it. I had confidence, I had public speaking down packed and I knew I had the whole package to succeed. Almost all of that came from the help of TQF.

Topping off a great year it was an honour to receive the Kiezen award from Toyota Gazoo Racing New Zealand. I know this shows that my principles, morals and high level of achievement have been noticed by a leading world wide brand. I can't wait to represent New Zealand on an international Level!!

It is a privilege to be a part of the TQF as a past recipient of the scholarship. I have so many goals I need to tick off in the near future. Im seeking support on my journey to the top of Motorsport."

“I feel very proud and excited to be an ambassador for the Tony Quinn Foundation. To be a part of such a successful and well organised foundation that helps young kiwi motorsport drivers get closer to their huge goals is just awesome, as you know they have your back all the way. It's also a great feeling knowing that so many other talented racing drivers have come through the foundation and have gone on to achieve their goals and dreams. This is also what I hope to do and being an ambassador for the Foundation is not only a great opportunity to be part of something bigger but is also an awesome pathway in my chosen career.”

William Exton

William won the Toyota 86 Racing TQF Shoot-out in November and received $37,500 towards his debut in the Toyota 86 championship.

Already committed to the Toyota 86 series, William has driven his own car at two endurance events so far in the lead-up to the shoot-out.

The Blenheim kart racer will soon be heading to Portugal to represent New Zealand in the Rotax worlds.

Click here to watch William's latest updates on his season so far.

Testimonial from William 2024

Tom was a finalist in the Toyota 86 Racing TQF Shoot-out and although he didn’t win, the TQF Trustees were so impressed with his performance that he was awarded $10,000 towards the upcoming Toyota 86 season.

A karter from Blenheim, Tom has won multiple New Zealand titles and has attended the world karting championship twice.

Tom has recently transitioned from karting to cars, with his ultimate goal being to race cars at a top level and make racing his career.

Click here to watch Tom's latest updates on his season so far.

“I’m super excited and honoured to be part of the Tony Quinn Foundation. This is a great opportunity for me to learn from the best in the business, to be able to get advice and support from all the experience within the foundation is going to be amazing. I will be giving it my best this season on and off the track to do the TQF proud.”

Tom Bewley

A karter from Blenheim, Tom has won multiple New Zealand titles and has attended the world karting championship twice.

Tom has recently transitioned from karting to cars, with his ultimate goal being to race cars at a top level and make racing his career.

Click here to watch Tom's latest updates on his season so far.

Bree has received a grant from the Tony Quinn Foundation to make her debut in next year's Toyota Racing Series, setting her up to become just the seventh female driver to compete in New Zealand's premier single-seater class.

Bree also won the North Island Formula Ford Series title in 2021/22 and with it, the opportunity to test a Toyota Racing Series FT50 single seater.

The opportunity to test a FT50 single seater was part of a $60,000 prize pool that the North Island Formula Ford Series received from the Tony Quinn Foundation, which is spread amongst pole awards and travel incentives throughout the series.

Click here to watch Bree's latest updates on her season so far.

“To be a part of the Tony Quinn Foundation is an awesome opportunity for me as a young driver, they support my ambitions of being a professional race car driver as a career. The TQF has opened up so many opportunities along the way so far for me being able to succeed in this sport as my career.”

Breanna Morris

Bree also won the North Island Formula Ford Series title in 2021/22 and with it, the opportunity to test a Toyota Racing Series FT50 single seater.

Click here to watch Bree's latest updates on her season so far.

Brock won the 2023 Toyota 86 New Zealand championship and was also announced as the winner of the Triple Eight V8 Supercars Test - Trustees Choice.

Brock’s motorsport journey started when he was 6 in Go Karts. At the age of 14 he made the transition into race cars, starting in the BMW e30 championship.

Brock’s next event will be in the ADAC GT4 Germany series at the Nurburgring.

"Thanks to the Tony Quinn Foundation, I was selected to be the recipient of a major prize at the end of the 2023 Toyota 86 season. This prize was selected by the Trustees for a driver who showed overall sportsmanship, resilience and charisma. The prize was a test in the Gen 3 Camaro with Triple 8 Race engineering. There was also a driver training day prior with Shane van Gisbergen. It's been a dream to drive a Supercar for as long as I can remember and to have legends like SVG and Lowdnes out there helping me on the day made it even more special".

Brock Gilchrist

Brock won the 2023 Toyota 86 New Zealand championship and was also announced as the winner of the Triple Eight V8 Supercars Test - Trustees Choice.

Brock’s motorsport journey started when he was 6 in Go Karts. At the age of 14 he made the transition into race cars, starting in the BMW e30 championship.

Brock’s next event will be in the ADAC GT4 Germany series at the Nurburgring.

Season 2021/22

Liam is the inaugural recipient of the TQF grants for New Zealand drivers competing at an international level.

Racing abroad since the age of 15, Liam’s career has progressed through Formula 4 in Australia and Europe, to FIA F3 and F2.

Liam’s TQF grant announced in January 2022 assisted towards the financial cost of his second season of Formula 2 competition.

As a Red Bull Junior driver, Liam’s sights are set firmly on F1. He tested successfully with Alpha Tauri in December 2021.

Liam is the inaugural recipient of the TQF grants for New Zealand drivers competing at an international level.

Racing abroad since the age of 15, Liam’s career has progressed through Formula 4 in Australia and Europe, to FIA F3 and F2.

Liam’s TQF grant announced in January 2022 assisted towards the financial cost of his second season of Formula 2 competition.

As a Red Bull Junior driver, Liam’s sights are set firmly on F1. He tested successfully with Alpha Tauri in December 2021.

The McElrea name in South Island motorsport stretches back three generations but Hunter is the first of his family to make headlines in international motorsport.

Hunter received financial support from the TQF towards his 2022 Indy Lights campaign.

Hunter won the Australian Formula Ford title before moving to America where he successfully competed in USF200 and Indy Pro before stepping up to Indy Lights.

Hunter’s goal is to race in the American-based Indy Car championship.

Hunter McElrea

The McElrea name in South Island motorsport stretches back three generations but Hunter is the first of his family to make headlines in international motorsport.

Hunter received financial support from the TQF towards his 2022 Indy Lights campaign.

Hunter won the Australian Formula Ford title before moving to America where he successfully competed in USF200 and Indy Pro before stepping up to Indy Lights.

Hunter’s goal is to race in the American-based Indy Car championship.

Rowan won the recent Toyota 86 New Zealand championship for the second year running, and with it the inaugural TQF supported Triple Eight V8 Supercars Test drive.

Rowan started racing when he was 18 years old but only got serious about motorsport in his mid-twenties.

On his way to winning back-to-back Toyota 86 championships, Rowan won the NZ Formula First title twice and a Mazda RX8 series.

Rowan would like to compete in a 12-hour endurance race in a GT3 as a co-driver in Australia.

“Tony Quinn's contribution to New Zealand motorsport over the years has been very evident and provided many pathways for the incredible talent we have in this country. To win the Toyota 86 championship and be rewarded with a Supercar test with Triple Eight Engineering was simply a dream come true. Surrounded on the day with legends such as SVG, Craig Lowndes and Jamie Whincup and seeing them in my rear vision mirror will be a memory I will never forget. I am incredibly lucky to have had this opportunity and I thank the TQ Foundation and look forward to watching those come through the ranks with his support.”

Rowan Shepherd

Rowan won the recent Toyota 86 New Zealand championship for the second year running, and with it the inaugural TQF supported Triple Eight V8 Supercars Test drive.

Rowan started racing when he was 18 years old but only got serious about motorsport in his mid-twenties.

On his way to winning back-to-back Toyota 86 championships, Rowan won the NZ Formula First title twice and a Mazda RX8 series.

Rowan would like to compete in a 12-hour endurance race in a GT3 as a co-driver in Australia.

Matthew won the inaugural Toyota 86 Racing TQF Shoot-out and with it, received $30,000 towards his Toyota 86 Racing campaign.

A young speedway star and a top Formula Ford racer, Matthew now makes the switch from Formula Ford single-seater racing to saloon car racing.

Prior to the first round of the upcoming season, Matthew has only driven the Toyota 86 when taking part in the Hampton Downs NZ Racing Academy.

Matthew is aiming to be dubbed ‘Rookie of the Year’ in the Toyota 86 championship to receive the prize drive at Bathurst.

“Thank you so much to the Tony Quinn Foundation for both the financial support and the mentorship that I received this past season. The Tony Quinn Foundation was a major part of me being able to compete in the Toyota 86 Championship. I am looking forward to continuing working with the Tony Quinn Foundation and building on the momentum from last season. Plans for the coming season are being finalised and I look forward to another exciting year ahead.”

Matthew McCutcheon

Matthew won the inaugural Toyota 86 Racing TQF Shoot-out and with it, received $30,000 towards his Toyota 86 Racing campaign.

A young speedway star and a top Formula Ford racer, Matthew now makes the switch from Formula Ford single-seater racing to saloon car racing.

Prior to the first round of the upcoming season, Matthew has only driven the Toyota 86 when taking part in the Hampton Downs NZ Racing Academy.

Matthew is aiming to be dubbed ‘Rookie of the Year’ in the Toyota 86 championship to receive the prize drive at Bathurst.

Liam was a finalist in the inaugural Toyota 86 Racing TQF Shoot-out and although he didn’t win, the TQF Trustees were so impressed with Liam’s performance that he was awarded $5,000 towards his upcoming Formula Ford campaign.

Liam won the Kartsport NZ North Island Sprint Championship (Rotax Junior class) in 2019 and then made the transition to Formula Ford where he placed third in the Formula Ford Manfeild Winter Series.

"The Tony Quinn Foundation supported me with my Formula Ford Campaign in 2022. I am extremely grateful to have had their support behind me which allowed me to progress in my aspiring Motorsport career. Being presented this amazing opportunity to be one of the many upcoming kiwi drivers that are being supported by the TQF means a huge deal to me. The TQF has helped me immensely on and off the track with the opportunities I have been presented by the foundation and its trustees."

Liam Sceats

Liam won the Kartsport NZ North Island Sprint Championship (Rotax Junior class) in 2019 and then made the transition to Formula Ford where he placed third in the Formula Ford Manfeild Winter Series.

Hayden was a finalist in the inaugural Toyota 86 Racing TQF Shoot-out and although he didn’t win, the TQF Trustees were so impressed with Hayden’s performance that he was awarded $5,000 towards his upcoming Formula Ford campaign.

Hayden won the Formula First Manfeild Winter Series in 2020.

"I am humbled to have been selected as one of the first ambassadors for the Hampton Downs NZ Racing Academy supported by the Tony Quinn Foundation. Having the Tony Quinn Foundation support me on my motorsport journey is an honour. The TQF continues to help me and other motorsport drivers advance their motorsport careers both locally and on an international stage."

Hayden Bakkerus

Hayden won the Formula First Manfeild Winter Series in 2020.

Zac won the South Island Formula Ford Series title in 2021/22 and with it, the opportunity to test a Toyota Racing Series FT50 single seater.

The opportunity to test a FT50 single seater is part of a $60,000 prize pool that the South Island Formula Ford Series received from the Tony Quinn Foundation, which is spread amongst pole awards and travel incentives throughout the series.

Zac wants to take his success to a national level and is aiming to win the next national title. Zac would also like to move into tin-top racing soon.

“The Tony Quinn Foundation and the travel fund helped me and my team to travel across New Zealand to compete in the South Island and National Formula Ford Championships. The fund significantly reduced the travel costs for us, creating incentive and ease to compete in both Championships.”

Zac Christensen

Zac won the South Island Formula Ford Series title in 2021/22 and with it, the opportunity to test a Toyota Racing Series FT50 single seater.

Zac wants to take his success to a national level and is aiming to win the next national title. Zac would also like to move into tin-top racing soon.