Charlie Robertson’s preparations for the 2012 motor racing season were significantly boosted at the Autosport International Show in Birmingham on Friday, 13th January, after being revealed as one of the newest intake to join the prestigious MSA (Motor Sports Association) Academy programme.One of just 10 drivers from national car racing invited into the Academy for 2012, the 15-year-old from Surrey is the youngest of the group – confirmation, if it were needed, of the high regard in which he is held in the sport after just a single season in the Ginetta Junior Championship.Being part of the MSA Academy will enable Charlie to benefit from first class coaching throughout the coming year from a range of industry experts working with the sport’s governing body, with development sessions aimed at assisting career progress off-track and on-track performance.“I’m delighted to have been invited into the MSA Academy, it’s a huge honour and means a great deal to me – it’s the perfect start to 2012”, said Charlie, “Being able to benefit from guidance and coaching from the MSA is a real boost ahead of the new season and can only help me progress my career. I’m very proud to be representing the MSA Academy this year.”Although the Whyteleafe-based youngster hasn’t yet confirmed his racing plans for 2012, it’s widely expected he’ll return to the Ginetta Junior Championship for a concerted title bid having proven himself a true revelation in the category in his very first season last year.Arriving in cars with an excellent karting pedigree, Charlie is rightly seen as one of motor racing’s most promising young prospects. Achieving multiple race wins and podiums in his debut season on his way to the Vice-Champion’s position in the driver standings, including the distinction of being the youngest ever winner of an MSA regulated car race, the teenager is set for a very bright 2012.During the annual Ginetta Awards evening held in Birmingham yesterday, Charlie received his runner-up trophy from the 2011 campaign. He joined Ginetta Cars Chairman Lawrence Tomlinson, Ginetta Junior Championship co-ordinator Max Gregory, 2011 title winner Seb Morris and third place finisher George Gamble.

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