If, like us, you’re harbouring dreams of becoming a professional racing driver then you are in luck because Nissan GT Academy is back for 2012.
This year’s competition, the fourth in the GT Academy series, will allow gamers to compete in online competitions inspired by Gran Turismo. Once the racing wheat has been separated from the online chaff, an elite shortlist will go on to compete at a real life race camp at Silverstone race circuit.
The ultimate prize for one lucky racer is a whopper. No, not a greasy burger — the chance to take part in an intensive driver development programme that could lead to a career as a professional racing driver, starting with a seat in the Dubai 24 Hours in January 2013.
GT Academy is an unusual route into top-level motorsport, but it is a viable one. Previous winners, Lucas Ordonez, Jason Tresson, Jann Mardenborough and Bryan Heitkotter are all currently competing in full race programmes for Nissan in three of the world’s top endurance racing series. Mardenborough, the most recent winner, is currently taking part in the Blancpain Endurance Series, while Ordonez, who won in 2008, will be aiming to win the 2012 Le Mans 24 Hour race, having come second in 2011.
The competition is free to enter. All you’ll need is access to a PlayStation 3 that’s connected to the PlayStation Network, with which you can download a free copy of the GT Academy qualification challenge (you don’t need a copy of Gran Turismo). Those who don’t have a PlayStation 3 can enter by attending one of a series of live GT Academy events.
The event is open to anyone over the age of 18 holding a full driving license. Full terms and conditions can be found on the GT Academy web site.
So what are you waiting for? Fire up the PS triple and burn some rubber!
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