Since PH's very own RacingPete dipped his toe into the world of Caterham R300 racing, we've been taking a bit more of an interest in the marque's various challenges.
The Academy in action - racing is always close
Since 1995, one of the best - and most cost-effective - ways for aspirant novice racing drivers to get some experience under their belts has been to enrol in the Caterham Academy series.
As a follow up to Pete's R300 story, Caterham has tipped us a wink that time is running out for anyone who wants to join the grid for the 2010 Academy series, with less than 10 places remaining.
In case you're not familiar with the concept, since 1995, the Caterham Academy has introduced more than 700 people to motor racing - taking them through the race license process and their first season of racing in sprints, hillclimbs and track events.
Despite the current recession, a surge of interest in the £17,995, one-make motorsport starter package has seen slots fly as novice racers sign up, they tell us.
It's not hard to see why, as the price includes a fully road-legal car, tuition and a full season of racing. You don't even have to budget much for consumables like brake pads and tyres, as being so light they hardly get through anything.
The cars usually have a strong resale value too, although most entrants opt to keep them to either move up a class or for road/track day use.
Hmm... tempting, isn't it?
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