19/09/2005
NEWS STORY
A1 Team Canada made its debut today at Silverstone with a test before the first race on the A1 Grand Prix calendar later this week. With only days before the first round the team is facing the challenge of being ready for Friday when the teams put their cars to the test in official practice before the A1 Grand Prix of Nations, Brands Hatch, Great Britain this weekend.
The Seatholder for the team is the Canadian businessman Wade Cherwayko. Over the last fourteen years, Mr. Cherwayko has been active in negotiating, developing and financing a number of projects including the acquisition, financing, exploration and development of several onshore and offshore oil and gas assets internationally. He has also acted as a geological consultant for a number of oil companies with operations in Canada, the United States and South America.
The team will be operated by John Village Automotive Limited – Team JVA - which has a successful track record, including wins and titles in Formula 3000. Sean McIntosh, current Formula Renault UK Championship title contender, has been chosen to drive in the test today and for the races at Brands Hatch.
Sean McIntosh is an acknowledged young Canadian talent. His recent history includes a full season in the Fran-Am 2000 North American Pro Series followed by an invitation from British-based Team Firstair to compete in the Formula Renault UK Championship. His efforts were rewarded by winning the series inaugural ‘Graduate Cup’ Championship for rookie drivers in 2004 and to date he is a front runner and title challenger with his impressive record including four consecutive wins.
Wade Cherwayko: "The whole programme is very exciting. The nation versus nation concept combined with the equality of the cars will make for great racing. On top of that it’s a fabulous business opportunity. Of course there’s the element of Canadian pride – there are absolutely no F1 teams in Canada so it’s great to give Canada the opportunity to follow a national team."
Sean McIntosh: "It’s a very late call-up and very exciting. I’ve had a good season battling for the championship in Formula Renault and it’s going to be fantastic to drive for my country."