Liam Lawson to Offer Charity Hot Laps in Unique Supercar Experience

Liam Lawson, the talented driver for the Racing Bulls Formula 1 team, will host a charity event at Highlands Motorsport Park on December 23, 2023. Lawson is set to offer exhilarating hot laps in a V12-powered Aston Martin Vulcan, which is the only one of its kind in the southern hemisphere. Valued at approximately $4.2 million when purchased by Highlands owner Tony Quinn in 2016, this unique supercar will be the centerpiece of the charity auction benefiting the Breast Cancer Foundation NZ.

Three lucky participants will have the chance to experience a ride in the Vulcan, with one of these rides being auctioned off. Shaw and Partners Financial Services will donate the funds that would have been raised through the auction, ensuring that all proceeds go directly to the charity. Lawson will also conduct 20 hot laps in a Lamborghini for motorsport enthusiasts, with tickets priced at $400 each, which are expected to sell out quickly.

The initiative aims to raise funds for breast cancer research, a cause particularly close to the heart of Josie Spillane, the chief executive of Highlands. Spillane lost her close friend, former journalist Louise Scott-Gallagher, to breast cancer earlier this year. She expressed her gratitude for Lawson’s involvement, stating, “Ordinarily, getting a hot lap in either the Vulcan or with a Formula 1 driver would be near impossible, but we’re thrilled to make it work for a great cause.”

Lawson, who is a long-time supporter of the Tony Quinn Foundation, emphasized his commitment to giving back. “I caught up with Josie and TQ in Singapore and in passing said that I’d love to drive the Vulcan,” Lawson said. “Josie didn’t even let TQ respond—it was an immediate yes.” He noted the importance of supporting initiatives that benefit the community, especially when he is back in New Zealand.

The event promises not just thrilling rides but also opportunities for motorsport fans to engage with Lawson. Spillane mentioned that there would likely be chances for attendees to take selfies with the driver or get autographs, adding an extra layer of excitement to the day.

Ah-Leen Rayner, chief executive of the Breast Cancer Foundation, shared her enthusiasm for Lawson’s involvement in the charity effort. “The chance to experience an exhilarating lap with Liam in a supercar is a truly once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” she stated. “Every dollar raised will directly support breast cancer patients through their greatest time of need. With nine women diagnosed with breast cancer in New Zealand every day, we are so grateful to the teams at Highlands and Shaw and Partners for initiatives like this that can drive real change.”

The hot laps event not only highlights Lawson’s prowess as a driver but also serves as a vital fundraising effort for a cause that impacts many lives. As the date approaches, anticipation builds for an exhilarating day at Highlands Motorsport Park, blending speed with the spirit of charity.