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Mazda6 to revive F1 celebrity challenge

Matthew Cowdrey and Anna Meares with the Mazda6

Those who marvel at the periphery of Grand Prix week will have lamented the loss of the Celebrity Challenge around Albert Park this year. So we can only imagine their delight at today’s announcement telling the world the celebrity race is back!

So far the choice of celebs centres around over-achieving athletes, with olympic cyclist Anna Meares and paralympian Matthew Cowdrey confirmed. They will be joined by Britain’s own olympic cycling legend, Sir Chris Hoy.

Their weapon of choice? A diesel-powered Mazda6. We imagine panel beaters around Melbourne will be pleased for the practice they will be given on repairing the new Mazda sedan.

Speaking at today’s press conference Meares said: “I’ve always dreamt of being involved in car racing. Much like cycling, it is such a technical and mentally draining sport and I have the greatest respect for Formula 1 drivers.

“It’s also not very often that I get a chance to race against Sir Chris for bragging rights.”

[Source: Australian Grand Prix]

3 replies on “Mazda6 to revive F1 celebrity challenge”

Will be interesting to see what control mods have been worked on by Mazda for Matt Cowdrey, his left arm stops at the elbow which would make driving a standard control car in a race difficult. It’s a good opportunity for them to show off their ability to make their cars equally accessible to drivers with disabilities.

It reminds me of a story I heard from a sport teacher in Adelaide a few years ago. Back then Matt Cowdrey was competing and winning on an equal level at national-level junior swimming meets. It was common for swimmers and coaches from the other states to start whispering to each other in confusion when this kid pulled off his jacket to reveal only half an arm, and then after being beaten by him to be laughed at by every single South Australian present there!

Anna Meares and Chris Hoy had better start practicing a little of how to turn to the right, it’s not something they would be used to as track cyclists! It’s a good thing they didn’t invite Victoria Pendleton, if she drove like she rode against Meares in the final at the Olympics she would take shortcuts and take out the other competitors.

Is this going to be the first diesel race ever at Albert Park?

They need to get Tom Browell back to teach them how to drive!! Best celebrity race driver by a long distance!

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