Hayden Paddon and Scott O’Donnell appointed to Elite MotorSport Academy Trust

Hayden Paddon and Scott O’Donnell have been appointed as trustees of the MotorSport New Zealand Scholarship Trust, the trust that oversees the world-renowned Elite MotorSport Academy of New Zealand.

Paddon, a legend of New Zealand rallying, WRC event winner and seven-time New Zealand Rally Champion, is also an Elite MotorSport Academy class of 2006 graduate, adding an invaluable perspective to the Trust’s stewardship.

O’Donnell, a current MotorSport New Zealand Board member, long-time motorsport supporter and experienced business leader, brings deep governance and commercial expertise to the Trust.

“We’re delighted to welcome Scott and Hayden to the Trust,” said MotorSport New Zealand President and Chair of the Trust, Deborah Day.

“Scott’s governance acumen and unwavering support for the sport, combined with Hayden’s elite athlete experience and global profile, will further strengthen the Academy’s ability to identify and develop New Zealand’s next generation of motorsport stars.”

“The Academy played a pivotal role in my career, said Paddon.

“I’m excited to give back and help ensure young Kiwi drivers have the opportunities, skills, support and pathways to succeed, both in and out of the car.”

O’Donnell also praised the Elite Academy’s success and looks forward to being a part of its future.

“New Zealand punches above its weight in world motorsport,” O’Donnell said.

“The Academy’s approach that combines performance, professionalism, and all the other key skills that an athlete needs, on and off track, sets our young drivers up for success. I’m proud to support the trust’s mission to help nurture the next generation of elite drivers.”

O’Donnell and Paddon join existing trustees Deborah Day, Alastair Wooten and Lyall Williamson. Together, the Trust will continue to guide the Academy’s strategy, partnerships and long-term sustainability.

Since its inception, the Elite MotorSport Academy of NZ has produced more than 160 graduates, including many of New Zealand’s biggest names in motorsport. The programme is internationally recognised for its comprehensive approach to developing athletes’ physical conditioning, mental skills, technical knowledge, media capability and career professionalism.

The new trustee appointments come after David Turner and Richard Giltrap resigned from their positions. MotorSport New Zealand sincerely thanks both Turner and Giltrap for their service and significant contributions to the Academy’s ongoing success over their respective terms.