- Chris Jones is a graduate of the University’s international business and management programme
- The team comprises two professional drivers and two amateur drivers, including Chris and his father
- They will be competing in the Barcelona 24h in September as a warm-up for next season.
An Aston University alumnus will be competing in the renowned 24h Series racing events across Europe, working with Venture Innovations.
Chris Jones, who graduated with a BSc in international business and management from Aston University in 2015, and his team will be racing their Mercedes AMG GT4, a car that recently secured a class victory in the British Endurance Championship 2023.
Venture Innovations, alongside its sister company Venture Engineering, is recognised for its extensive capabilities ranging from historic car restorations and design & fabrication solutions to EV conversions and prototype builds. Many of its team members have been involved in international motorsport successes, particularly in the realms of sportscar and GT racing, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the race circuit.
As a warm-up for the next season, the team will also be participating in the Barcelona 24h event this September. The team comprises two professional drivers and two amateur drivers, including Chris and his father.
Chris said:
“Studying at Aston University has been a significant part of my journey.
“My brother also studied at the University, so Aston has a close place in our hearts.
“We also had friends at the University who studied engineering and were involved in building race cars during their time there.
“The education and experiences we gained have been invaluable in shaping our careers.”
Kerrie Holland, Executive Director of Alumni Relations and Development at Aston University, said:
“Everyone at Aston University wishes Chris and the team well in their upcoming races, culminating in the 24h Series.
“Chris’ involvement in the 24h Series highlights the diverse paths that Aston University alumni take and the heights they can achieve.
“His participation in such a prestigious racing series underscores the University's commitment to fostering talent that excels in various fields.”
For more information on the 24h Series and to follow the progress of Chris and Venture Innovations, please visit 24h Series website.
- Notes to Editors
About Aston University
For over a century, Aston University’s enduring purpose has been to make our world a better place through education, research and innovation, by enabling our students to succeed in work and life, and by supporting our communities to thrive economically, socially and culturally.
Aston University’s history has been intertwined with the history of Birmingham, a remarkable city that once was the heartland of the Industrial Revolution and the manufacturing powerhouse of the world.
Born out of the First Industrial Revolution, Aston University has a proud and distinct heritage dating back to our formation as the School of Metallurgy in 1875, the first UK College of Technology in 1951, gaining university status by Royal Charter in 1966, and becoming The Guardian University of the Year in 2020.
Building on our outstanding past, we are now defining our place and role in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (and beyond) within a rapidly changing world.
For media inquiries in relation to this release, contact Sam Cook, Press and Communications Manager, on (+44) 7446 910063 or email: s.cook2@aston.ac.uk
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