Colm Blackburn Sponsored by Sweeney’s Garage in Formula Vee
Sweeney's Garage Proudly Sponsors Colm Blackburn in Formula Vee
Sweeney’s Garage is thrilled to announce our sponsorship of Colm Blackburn, a distinguished driver in the Formula Vee class. This partnership marks an exciting chapter for both Sweeney’s Garage and Colm as we join forces to support his racing career and celebrate his remarkable achievements.
Colm Blackburn: A Champion Racer
Colm Blackburn began his racing journey in 2012 in the Formula Vee class and quickly made his mark by winning the Rookie C championship. His talent and dedication propelled him to win the Intermediate B championship in 2013 and the National A championship in 2017. Colm is notably the only driver to have won all three championships, a testament to his skill and perseverance.
In 2018, with the support of Sweeney’s Garage, Colm transitioned to Formula Ford, making an impressive debut with a 7th place finish at the Martin Donnelly Trophy Event at Kirkistown. His journey continued at the Formula Ford Festival at Brands Hatch, although he faced challenges that prevented him from qualifying for the final race. Colm has also competed in the BOSS class at Mondello Park but remains deeply passionate about racing in the Formula Vee class, where the competition is intense, and the community is supportive and welcoming.
The Leastone JH004: Colm's Racing Machine
Colm races in a Leastone JH004, a car crafted by Paul Heavey, the mastermind behind the Leastone series. This car, equipped with a 1600cc VW air-cooled engine, is designed to meet strict regulations, ensuring fair competition. Weighing only 400kg, the Leastone JH004 exemplifies the precision and performance essential for success in Formula Vee racing.
Formula Vee: The Heart of Irish Motorsport
Formula Vee, introduced to Ireland in the mid-1970s, has grown into the most popular and competitive single-seater racing class in the country. It remains an affordable entry point for aspiring racers, with over 40 members in the association and 20-30 regularly competing. The cars are built using standard VW parts, including engines, gearboxes, axles, and brakes, making them cost-effective and accessible.
The Formula Vee cars, despite their standard configurations, achieve impressive performance, reaching speeds up to 180 km/h. These vehicles can lap tracks like Mondello Park faster than some high-end sports cars, showcasing their remarkable capabilities.
The Legacy and Community of Formula Vee
Formula Vee has a rich history, originating in America in the 1950s and producing future world champions like Niki Lauda and Emerson Fittipaldi. The class remains active globally, with racers such as Brendon Hartley beginning their careers in Vee cars. In Ireland, the prestigious Emerson Fittipaldi Trophy commemorates the legend’s time in the class, adding a layer of heritage and honor to the competition.
Supporting Colm Blackburn
At Sweeney’s Garage, we recognize the importance of nurturing talent and fostering a supportive community. Our sponsorship of Colm Blackburn aligns with our values and commitment to excellence. We are proud to support Colm as he continues to make strides in his racing career, embodying the spirit of determination and passion that defines Formula Vee.
As we embark on this exciting journey with Colm, we invite our customers and the wider racing community to join us in cheering for him. Stay tuned for updates on Colm’s progress and upcoming races. Together, we look forward to a thrilling season filled with speed, strategy, and sportsmanship.
