A RACING driver from Wokingham has returned to his former school to share his story and inspire students to believe in the impossible.
Bobby Trundley, who has autism, went back to Berkshire College of Agriculture (BCA) in Maidenhead to talk to students and staff about his role with Team BRIT, the world’s only competitive team of all disabled racing drivers.
The 25 year old was diagnosed with severe autism as a child.
It had a major impact on many parts of his life, including his self-confidence, but during his time at BCA, where he studied a motorsport engineering qualification, he was supported by specialist tutor for inclusion, Luke Dexter.
Bobby and Luke were reunited during an event to mark UK Disability History Month, when Bobby returned to his former college.
He said: “It was so nice to head back to the college to see Luke and update him on what’s been happening with Team BRIT, but also to chat with current students.
“Some of them are massively into motorsport, just like me, and others have additional learning needs, so need a bit of extra support in the way I was helped.
“I hope that by telling them how motorsport has made such a difference to my life, and how I’ve come so far in my own self development and confidence, I can show them that anything is possible with the right people behind you.
“ I hope this event will get people thinking about how disabled people face challenges in many aspects of life, but also how many doors are now open to amazing opportunities.”
Mr Trundley began karting at 10 years old, and is now the world’s highest-ranked autistic racing driver.
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When he visited his former college, he brought with him the McLaren 570S GT4 he had raced in the British GT Championship.
Students looked around the impressive car, checked out the specialist hand controls and also heard from the team’s principal Mike Scudamore.
Former tutor Luke, said: “It was great to see Bobby and to learn how far he has come in such a short space of time.
“Seeing Bobby deliver a captivating talk to around 150 students was truly inspirational.
“The power and impact of his words were undeniable, and I have no doubt that his talk will serve as a catalyst to inspire others to pursue their dreams.”
The visit was organised in partnership with one of the team’s sponsors, specialist motor insurance broker Adrian Flux.
UK Disability History Month this year runs from Thursday, November 14 to Friday, December 20.
For information, visit: teambrit.co.uk/drivers/bobby-trundley, ukdhm.org, and bca.ac.uk
