TOPEKA, Kan. (Jan. 10, 2020) – Nominations and applications are now open for the 2020 Wendi Allen Scholarship Fund (WASF). Submissions may be completed through a new form that allows for both nominations and applications, opening the opportunity for ladies to express specific interest in pursuing a National Solo Season. Nominations can be submitted through February 10th through the form here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/7CXGWRK
Named and established by the family of Wendi Allen, the scholarship honors the multi-time National Solo Champion who loved the SCCA® Solo® community. The fund gives back to the sport by helping young women become more successful drivers and contributing members of the Club.
Three recipients this year will each receive $1,500 to support their travel to Tire Rack National Solo events and the Tire Rack Solo Nationals Championship. Additionally, the SCCA will waive entry fees for scholarship recipients to all Tire Rack National Solo events attended during the year, as well as work with the Solo community and commercial partners to seek out other forms of support for the recipients, such as driver training, mentoring, products and logistical assistance.
In 2020, Mazda will again supply the funding for one scholarship winner who competes in a Mazda vehicle. David Cook, business development manager for Mazda Motorsports, said, “The drive to aid worthy competitors in pursuing their dreams is a pivotal principle for Mazda Motorsports. We are honored to again work with the Sports Car Club of America to support the Wendi Allen Scholarship, and look forward to seeing how the recipients shine this season.”
The other two scholarship recipients, driving any car in any class, will be funded by the SCCA Foundation. Jeff Jacobs, Vice President of the SCCA Foundation, said donations can be made any time through the Foundation webpage (www.sccafoundation.org/donate) with contributions designated to support the Wendi Allen scholarships. In addition, the Foundation will be holding future fundraising drives specifically in support of the scholarship fund.
“The SCCA Foundation is proud to be part of this terrific program initiated by the generosity of Wendi and Mark Allen,” Jacobs said. “After having the opportunity to co-drive at Solo events for nearly a decade with Wendi and Mark, I am personally pleased the Foundation continues to honor Wendi's memory with these scholarships.”
A Selection Committee, consisting of championship caliber women Solo drivers, is tasked with considering the merits of those nominated by SCCA members, and making final selections. While this scholarship fund is specifically directed to the three annual recipients, it is a key part of a broader SCCA initiative to involve more women in the sport of Solo and the Club.
Photo Credit: Perry Bennett
