A new rising star is set to take on the Probite Junior British Rally Championship (BRC), as 18-year-old Sam Mason steps into the hotly contested category in 2025 driving a Peugeot 208 Rally4.
Perhaps unusually, Mason’s backstory does not come from a motorsport-led family or background. It simply began at Shelsley Walsh Hillclimb, just 20 minutes from home when the young driver headed to a meeting one weekend. But from there, he has quite literally followed the ladder of progression to a tee, with his pathway growing into a remarkable journey through the rallying ranks.
“Hillclimbs actually formed my first introduction to motorsport, which seems to be an unusual catalyst in the rallying world,” he says.
The fascination with rally cars grew, culminating in a defining moment at age 11 while attending the 2017 Wales Rally GB. Inspired by the sport’s speed and skill, the dream of getting behind the wheel of a rally car was born.
At 13, the journey began in earnest with a full rally experience day at Phil Price Rally School, where Mason outpaced even the attending BARS candidates. The spark ignited, leading to early competition success in Autotests in 2021, winning class championships and building a strong foundation in car control and precision.
Graduating to the Junior F1000 series brought more success, with victory in the English Trophy. Progress continued with a step up to the R2 class in the Welsh Forest Championship, where he claimed the title.
The BTRDA series in 2023 offered further growth, with strong performances despite challenges like balancing A-level exams. The following year saw Mason take maximum points in the BTRDA Silver Star, the first time a front wheel drive car had won a round of the category since 2018.
Now, the focus shifts to the Junior BRC, a stepping stone to even greater opportunities in rallying. He will be joined by regular co-driver James Seymour.
“Every step has been a learning experience, and I’m excited to take on the Junior BRC,” he said. “It’s a chance to measure myself against the best young talent in the UK and keep chasing my dreams.”
Keep an eye out for the next chapter of this incredible journey!
Image credit; Motion Media Wales
