We are thrilled to share the success of the recent event, Setting Purple Sectors, hosted by F1 Commentator Chris McCarthy in aid of Young Epilepsy. This unique event brought together some of the best drivers, sim-racers, and broadcasters from the world of motor racing for an unforgettable evening.
Held on Tuesday, 12 November, the event was streamed live on Tiltify from Simply Race in Milton Keynes. It featured 15 teams, 15 rigs, and 15 famous team leaders who competed in a 2-hour endurance race. The live stream was a hit, with each team battling it out to cross the finish line first. Viewers were treated to interviews with famous drivers, YouTubers, and commentators, and had the chance to bid on signed T-shirts and other prizes.
The event aimed to empower young people with epilepsy "Set Purple Sectors" by inspiring them to follow their dreams. Chris McCarthy, who was diagnosed with epilepsy in his teens, shared his inspirational story of remaining in motorsport, not as the driver he always dreamed of being, but instead as a leading commentator, presenter, and broadcaster across F1, F2, and many more. Chris hoped to inspire other young people with his own experience of the impact of epilepsy on his life and, along the way, raised money for Young Epilepsy with some help from his very special guests.
A key highlight of the event was seeing the Young Epilepsy team taking to the virtual track, with careful mentorship from their own team leader, Will Dendy. For some of the young people that took part, this was their first time behind the wheel, while others were solids professionals having sim-raced many times before. Creating an inclusive and welcoming experience to all with opportunities to learn and connect was a key goal of the event and the feedback from the young people and their families that took part shows that Setting Purple Settings achieved that.
We received heartfelt feedback from one of the parents, Jo, who shared:
“I'm in bits at home! What an incredible opportunity to have had this evening, an amazing experience and for my boy with so little confidence to speak out like that, we owe you and the YE team SO much!
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reaching out back in January, he was at his lowest point, as were we. Very much hoping tonight will inspire him and build on his new found confidence to get more involved in sharing his journey and awareness.”
The event was a great success, with over £12,000 raised so far. It's not too late to head to the Tiltify page to purchase gifts for yourself or friends and family, where 100% of the purchase will go to charity. You can also check out the stream on YouTube.
