Alonso supports go-karting talent at the 'Vodafone Spain Go-karting challenge'

As earlier reported by F1technical, Vodafone McLaren Mercedes driver Fernando Alonso took part in the "Vodafone Spain Go-Karting Challenge", in collaboration with the Catalan Motoring Federation, in which some of Spain's budding go-karters competed. Vodafone organised this event to offer young budding go-karting talents the chance to fulfil their dreams and meet their idol.

The event consisted of a race around the Kartodrom Catalunya track. Fernando offered advice and tips before the race to the 10 children who competed and drove a few demonstration laps of the track himself in a go-kart. He started the race and welcomed back the winner at the finishing line. The three finalists received trophies from Fernando, with the remaining participants receiving a prize for taking part in the race. After the award ceremony the 10 participants asked questions to their hero.

The winner was Pedro Hiltbrand from Palafolls, Barcelona, whose trophy was handed over personally by Fernando, as well as Alex Riberas from Barcelona who came second and Mikel Azcona from Falces, Navarra, who came third. The remaining participants also received a prize for their participation in the race. After the awards ceremony, the 10 children asked their hero questions and listened to his advice and anecdotes. Also, Fernando announced that the winner will receive a garage tour of the Vodafone McLaren Mercedes team at the Cataluña racetrack.

Fernando Alonso: "As everybody knows, I started my career in karting and being here today with these children, who are hoping to fulfil their dreams and get into Formula 1, has been very stimulating and has brought back many memories. I hope that the time we spent together and the advice that I have given them has given them encouragement to carry on striving in what is a difficult sport, and go on to realise their dreams".