Our community is one that is powered not just by motors but also passion, and this enthusiasm can be used to help refocus minds in a positive direction. In the case of Paul Sweeney, motorsport became the perfect antidote to the manosphere that he feared was steering his son Jaydon away from fulfilling his potential.
At the age of 12, Jaydon was diagnosed with ADHD. “Like many young people with ADHD, he found traditional school life difficult and struggled with concentration, behaviour and fitting into a standard classroom environment,” says Paul.
“During his teenage years there were a number of challenges, including him mixing with the wrong crowd at times,” continues Paul. “We regularly received phone calls from school regarding behaviour and focus issues.”
To address the situation, Paul looked for a positive and structured environment into which Jaydon could channel his energy, adrenaline, and need for stimulation. “Jaydon has always loved mountain biking and karting, activities that require quick reactions, focus and intensity,” Paul says. “Motorsport felt like a natural fit.”
Last year Jaydon qualified for his Motorsport UK race licence at Anglesey Circuit with the support of an instructor, which in turn helped to build both his confidence and direction.
“Since then, we’ve bought a Mazda MX-5 to use for driver development, and together we’ve completed trackdays at Donington Park along with drift training days at Oulton Park,” adds Paul. “The aim has always been to allow him to gain experience in a safe and controlled environment before eventually moving into wheel-to-wheel racing. We have chatted to other Mazda drivers and I’m sure he will come out of his shell the more we do it – I’m impressed how he’s taken it all in his stride, to be honest.”
Further direction has been provided by a long-term goal of father and son competing together in the Citroën C1 Endurance Series, giving both a shared focus and precious family time. “Motorsport has become much more than just driving cars,” explains Paul. “It’s about discipline, responsibility, preparation and teamwork.
“In June this year we’ll also be returning to Anglesey Circuit for another trackday where Jaydon will have the opportunity to drive my BAC Mono on circuit. It’s an ultra-lightweight single-seat performance car with characteristics very similar to a Formula-style race car, so it will be another major step in his driver development and confidence on track.”
Jaydon’s motorsport experience has also meant that he has passed his driving test and is enjoying the freedom of being out on the road over the past few months. Paul says that he is “looking at completing his motorcycle Compulsory Basic Training and potentially getting involved with trial bikes and other motorsport-related activities in the future.
“For us, motorsport has provided a positive outlet, structure and direction. It gives Jaydon a safe environment to channel the adrenaline and stimulation that naturally comes with ADHD, while also giving us quality time together travelling to circuits, working on cars and building memories together.
“We’re incredibly proud of how far he’s come and the confidence and maturity he’s developed through motorsport.”
You can read about how families across the UK are discovering motorsport as a powerful way to connect, compete and create lasting memories in this month’s Revolution magazine here – and find out about how under-18s can get started in motorsport here. The next edition will include a feature on how our community can provide a positive influence on mental health.
Find your community using our Club Finder tool here and click here for a list of organisations that can assist with mental health