Some of the country’s most talented motorsport drivers were put through their paces at the New Zealand Elite Motorsport Academy in Dunedin last week.

The one-week camp, held at the Otago Sports Academy, is the first part of a world-renowned 12-month development program.

Motorsport NZ President Deborah Day said the camp not only prepares top young drivers but also world-class drivers for the big stage.

“Being able to drive and having natural talent is one thing, but here we aim to take it even further and push them even further,” he said.

One of the eight people selected for the Class of 2024 was 16-year-old Jacob Begg. He said many athletes plan to go abroad next year to pursue their ambitions.

“We will be living on our own, so being able to cook and take care of ourselves is very important.”

At the camp, riders learn a range of skills including nutrition, cooking and fitness, and are also prepared for the elements with simulator work in a heat chamber set at 42C.

Academy trustee David Turner said the modern driver needed to be able to excel off the track.

“We need to go back to the days of living in the back of your van, with the Bruce McLarens, the Denny Hulmes and the Paul Radisichs.

“Stop pampering and get back to the hardening that will make you a better person.”

He said there are “someone to watch” among the 2024 graduates.

“We’ll definitely see a few of those eight guys in the headlines in the next three or four years.”

Previous graduates of the academy include Hayden Paddon, Earl Bamber, Brendon Hartley, Emma Gilmour and Shane van Gisbergen.