Northern Ireland clubs show support to Motorsport UK’s Ukraine fundraising campaign

Wednesday 22 June 2022

The Northern Ireland motorsport community have shown their support towards Motorsport UK’s Ukraine fundraising campaign, providing donations and messages of support.

On behalf of the UK motorsport community, Motorsport UK launched a fundraising campaign in May to purchase an armoured ambulance in solidarity and support of the Federation Automobile d’Ukraine (FAU).

Motorsport UK Clubs and Members are invited to make a donation to the campaign HERE.

The Association of Northern Ireland Car Clubs (ANICC) kindly donated £2,000, with Ballynahinch & District Motor Club and Ulster Rally both putting forward £1,000 each. Ulster Automobile Club contributed £500 with £250 provided by Dungannon Motor Club.

Wilson Carson, Chairman of the ANICC, commented, “I am delighted that the motorsport clubs of Northern Ireland are supporting the Motorsport UK campaign to purchase an armoured ambulance which supports the Ukrainian ASN and is endorsed by the Ukrainian Ambassador. ANICC set the standard and individual car clubs are encouraged to donate as they feel appropriate.”

Grace King, Dungannon Motor Club Secretary, said, “Dungannon Motor Club (DMC) is proud to support the Motorsport UK Ukraine Appeal to purchase an Armoured Ambulance in support of our Ukrainian motorsport colleagues. The club is also planning a fundraising event in August with all funds raised being handed over to the fundraising campaign.”

Robert Harkness, President of Northern Ireland Car Clubs, said, “The Ulster Rally, and all motorsport, relies on our ambulances to mitigate against the risks in our sport. In Ukraine their ambulances and their crews are at risk and everyone in motorsport here should help them through the Motorsport UK scheme. The NIMC are pleased to have been able to do so.”

With a target of £100,000, Motorsport UK will donate the money raised to the Ukrainian Embassy who have agreed to use it to purchase a Pinzgauer Ambulance, a 6 x 6 vehicle with the highest levels of armour to deflect sniper attacks, IED’s and artillery shrapnel.

The vehicle will be produced by the UK based Venari Group, a manufacturer of special vehicles, and delivered to Ukraine.

How can you get involved

Up and down the UK, motorsport events are coming thick and fast. From Trials and AutoSOLO’s to Navigational Rallies and Touring Assemblies, there’s plenty coming up with Motorsport UK’s 700+ clubs actively preparing and delivering great motorsport for competition and RS Clubman licence holders.

Clubs and individuals are invited to contribute to Motorsport UK’s fundraising campaign in support of Ukraine. There are so many ways to raise money for this campaign and help likeminded motorsport enthusiasts in Ukraine.

  • At your next club social, organise a Charity Race Night or a Quiz Night and take the bragging rights
  • Hold a Sweepstake for your club racing event or for any motor racing event whether that’s BTCC, F1 or W Series
  • Hold a Charity Auction at your next club event

Click here to donate.

Whether you want to swap your four-wheels to run, cycle and skydive or knit, sing and bake, it’s all for a great cause.