2017 World Motorsport Symposium

OBR at the WMS 2017

Over November 30th and December 1st, Oxford Brookes Racing were invited to join some of the best and brightest minds in industry at the World Motorsport Symposium held at the IMechE in Westminster, London. Over the two-day event, the team were able to attend a variety of inspiring and informative talks given by the likes of Ulrich Baretzky, Gilles Simon, Chris Aylett, Jon Iley, Willem Toet, Andy Cowell, Douglas Campling, and many other influential figures in motorsport. The symposium raised important questions surrounding the future of the sport, which is an invaluable discussion as budding engineers.

The team with Terrance on day 2 of the WMS 2017

Getting Involved

Members of the audience including students from Oxford Brookes University and University of Wolverhampton were invited to join the VIP panel for discussions in their specialist fields. Our very own Floris van Silfhout and powertrain lead Kyle Hey took the opportunity to take part in discussions from right in the hot seats.

Floris (2nd from right) engaging in discussion on the VIP panel, joined by a student from the University of Wolverhampton

(L-R) Ricardo Market Sector Director Steve Sapsford, Manager of Engine Design LMP1 for Porsche Motorsport LMP Thomas Kraemer with Oxford Brookes Racing’s powertrain lead Kyle Hey

Sharing Our Voice

Towards the end of each talk, the floor was opened up for questions and we are happy to say that Oxford Brookes Racing were definitely not shy! The team were able to aim their burning questions directly to the VIP panel and get some real, honest answers – producing some of the most colourful and dynamic discussions of the day.

Business Development Manager Joe Jones voicing his question to the panel

Media Manager Chris Shawe participating in the discussion

Representing Our University

Another important aspect of these special events is the opportunity to promote our wonderful university. We were able to share information about the excellent facilities and fantastic equipment at our disposable back in Wheatley that enable us to continue working hard on Formula Student.

Oxford Brookes University stand at the IMechE

F1 aerodynamics expert Willem Toet taking some time to chat with Joe

Terrance sitting pretty, as usual

Acknowledgements

We would like to take this opportunity to thank Race Tech Magazine and the Institution of Mechanical Engineers for their hospitality and for a wonderful two days in such a prestigious environment for motorsport. The team and Terrance had an absolutely fantastic time, and we are heading back to Oxford with a boost for the Formula Student season ahead.

Words by Sophie Jamieson

Photos courtesy of Kimberley Media