Announcing our December Bright Young Spark, Courtney Ward!

Powering up ‘Generation MX5’

Courtney Ward is helping create the platform for the MX5 Club’s future!

Where does your passion for classics come from?

My love for cars has definitely become my way of life. My grandfather was a brilliant mechanic, so naturally my dad followed suit with a passion for cars and detailing; I've grown up around it. I've never been apart from the MX-5 - my dad bought it just 6 months from new so it has been a member of the family for 25 years I couldn't imagine it any other way.

Classic MX-5 dream car?

It has always been an aspiration to own and restore a Mk1 Berkeley (special edition), which would be more of a reality if it wasn't for lack of space. I'd love to be able to drive it alongside the car I've grown up with and continue the legacy of such an acclaimed sportscar.

The MX-5 to myself, and many others, is far more than just a car. From the way they drive to the way they unite so many of us, they're a perfect introduction to the classic car community. Once driven, no other classic roadster quite compares in my opinion. The MX-5 has become one of the family.

So, what about the club?

The MX-5 Owner's Club has been a significant part of my life since the age of 10. The people I have met are more like family to me and I have also taken on roles within the club. I feel strongly about being able to give back and share this experience with others. It is a true community for petrolheads; seeing it bring together thousands of drivers is such a joy.

'The club is my second family'

How did club life start?

Following the passing of my grandfather, I started attending more events with my Dad, which brought the feeling of being so much closer to the both of them but also gave me a second family. This reinforced my love for the cars and the classic car industry. My Dad became area coordinator, which is where I began to help on runs we'd organise and marshalling at national events. At the age of 15, I began judging at Spring/National rallies following on this, I began representing the club on stands at NEC shows and helping to restore cars over the course of a weekend at the PC Restoration Show.

What does the future hold?

I took on the role of being a voice for younger members within the including making my own development – a dedicated 'Generation MX-5' section in the magazine and social media platform. Growing up in the Club, I have always felt seen and supported, essential for young women.

I think demonstrating this community spirit is crucial.

Why should you win BYS?

It is a privilege to be a finalist alongside such talented young people. I want to develop my existing skills further and apply this to my roles in the club. I want to restore another MX-5 and start offering workshops teamed with local businesses for MX5OC. The opportunity to translate my passion into work and better my skills practically, both with cars and writing about them, would be a dream.

The Lancaster Insurance Bright Young Sparks initiative supports young people who are striving to join the classic world – whether by working in it or simply enjoying it as a hobby. In the run up to the Practical Classics Classic Car and Restoration Show in March 2024, we will be celebrating the stories of six ‘Bright Young Sparks’ – as nominated by you!

The six finalists will each win: £250 to go towards tools or classic kit, plus two tickets to the PC Resto Show in March 2024 and will be in the Lancaster newsletter and in PC, plus being in with a chance of winning an industry taster week with specialists. Visit Bright Young Sparks (lancasterinsurance.co.uk) to find out more!