The novice-based championship has been gently introducing enthusiasts into the world of motor sport since 1995. Its simple, low-cost entry into racing means the traditional 56-strong Academy grid is always a sell-out before the end of the preceding summer.

Yet demand for a place in the 2009 series has been so strong that Caterham is providing 28 extra places – 8 of which have already been taken.

Starting from £17,995* (GBP), the race package includes everything needed to compete in a full season of thrilling Seven racing. The dedicated Caterham Motorsport team organises every aspect, leaving only the enjoyment of competition for the competitors.

The Caterham Academy uses the popular 1.6 Ford-engined Roadsport model; a car punching out an impressive 227 bhp-per-tonne and capable of hitting 0-60 mph in just 5.9 seconds. To ensure a fair and level playing field, every car features an identical specification and are regularly checked to guarantee so.

Continuously on hand for advice and support, the Caterham Motorsport team prepares every competitor; walking them through the process of passing their ARDS race licence test before a series of seminars and exclusive test days, which teach participants advanced driving skills and how to get the best from the car according to chassis set-up.

From April to October, Academy drivers are eased into racing with a series of timed hill climb and sprint events before being pitched against each another on four circuit races, held at popular UK race tracks.

The road legal specification (UK) of the Caterham Academy car remains a strong draw for those seeking competitive racing whilst simultaneously experiencing the thrill of Seven ownership on the road, between events and when the season ends.

For those who get truly bitten by the racing bug, only slight modifications are needed to Academy cars to be eligible for the Roadsport B class - the next step in the established Caterham Motorsport ladder.

From £17,995* (GBP), the Caterham Academy package includes:

Caterham 7 Roadsport (1.6 125 bhp)	A complete road-legal (UK) car for self-assembly (factory built option available at extra cost)
Technical Seminar	Hints and Tips on building a 7
Set-up day	Learn how to set it up for racing
ARDS Test	Get a racing licence (UK)
All licence, entry and registration fees	Caterham take the pain out of motor sport
“Car Control Clinic” Day	Hone your handling skills in your 7
3 x championship speed events	Start the season with sprints and hill climbs
4 x championship circuit races	Race head to head on the circuit

Caterham Academy Roadsport 125 Specification:

• 125 bhp Ford Sigma engine, 5-speed gearbox
• Full road-legal trim (UK)
• Wet sump oil system
• 13” Caterham Motorsport wheels
• Adjustable suspension spring platforms
• Avon CR322 treaded tyres
• Full race roll-cage
• Plumbed fire extinguisher
• 6 point race harness
• Electrical master cut-off switch
• Fuel tank protection

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