So, this is a thing that happens.
Mazda gives away a full ride in the Playboy MX-5 Cup series. They've been doing this since 2007. There are 18 finalists this year, and to be eligible, all you have to do is win a recognized club race championship in a vehicle with a Mazda engine. (They word it as such because formula cars.)
If you're one of those, you can compete in the Club Racer Shootout, which is like an all-star race for the club ranks. Win, and you get a stepping stone to pro racing.
There's a PR and business element to it, too. Being a pro racer often involves a lot of glad-handing and managing relationships as well as culling sponsors, so you have to give a presentation.
The race goes down November 12th at Buttonwillow.
Any of you guys have a shot at it next year?
