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MICHAEL WAKEFIELD
FOUNDER & MANAGING DIRECTOR
Michael started go karting at the age of eight. By the age of 14 he became a works driver for a leading go kart manufacturer, competing in a number of World and European championships. In 1989 Michael won the Spanish go kart Championship.
Michael moved to the UK single seater Formula Vauxhall series in 1991, competing in the Junior and Senior series of the Formula. Michael is proud to be working within motorsports; his motorsports heritage and biomechanics knowledge puts him in a unique position to support our team of scientists.
PROFESSOR JOANNA WAKEFIELD-SCURR
ADVISOR
Joanna undertook her PhD in Sport Biomechanics and is now head of Biomechanics at the University of Portsmouth, home to a leading laboratory in the UK. Joanna has devoted her career to optimising Biomechanics in Sport and is now able to apply this knowledge to the world of motorsports.
DR. NEAL SMITH
ADVISOR
Neal is the current Head of Biomechanics, Performance Analysis & Sports Therapy at the University of Chichester, UK; and was the previous Vice-President of Awards for The International Society of Biomechanics in Sports. Neal has worked across a number of sports attempting to optimise athlete’s performance, whilst reducing their likelihood of injury. He has previously also been involved with driver cockpit design/ergonomics in Formula 1.
DR. PENNY HUDSON
ADVISOR
Penny completed her PhD in Biomechanics from the Royal Veterinary College London in 2011. After this she worked as a postdoctoral researcher for year before taking up the role of Senior Lecturer in Sports Biomechanics at the University of Chichester. Her research interests span both sports performance and clinical biomechanics disciplines where she utilises various biomechanical data to both improve performance and quality of life. She currently supervises a number of PhD and MSc projects in these areas.
MIKE FARLEY
HEAD OF SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT
Mike has over 17 years experience developing data driven application for the public and private sectors. Working with Motorsport Biomechanics has been the perfect way to mix his IT skills with his passion for motorsport.
DR. SIMON AUGUSTUS
ADVISOR
Simon recently completed a PhD in Sports Biomechanics, and currently works as a Technical Lead and Associate Lecturer in Biomechanics at the University of Chichester. His research has focussed on developing optimal methods for processing biomechanical data and analysing movement patterns to inform coaching and training practices. He has worked with athletes and clients across different settings (e.g. sport and occupational) to help improve performance and reduce injury risk.
DR. NICOLA BROWN
MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS
Since it’s inception Nikki has been integral in the planning, development and implementation of Motorsport Biomechanics marketing and PR strategies. Nikki has years of experience with web development and social media, as well as a passion for motorsports. Nikki has a great understanding of the science behind Motorsport Biomechanics having completed her PhD in the area of Sports Science.
DR.CHRIS MILLS
ADVISOR
Chris obtained his PhD in computer simulation modelling of sport. He is now a Principal Lecturer at the University of Portsmouth and has provided Sports Science support to numerous athletes over the years. Chris is a keen sportsman himself and recently competed at the World Masters Championship where he won a Silver medal for Pole Vault!
KIERAN AUSTIN
ADVISOR
Kieran is a PhD student and Associate Lecturer at the University of Chichester, where he previously completed an MSc in Sport Biomechanics. His thesis aims to utilise a multidisciplinary approach to evaluate head injury risk within youth football players, combining elements of biomechanics, biochemistry, and performance analysis. He also has a keen interest in the use of biomechanics to enhance strength and conditioning practices.
JULIAN WAKEFIELD
HEAD OF BIKE RACING
Julian has 40 years' experience with motorcycles and motorcycle racing. He had a successful career in the city whilst continuing with his passion of motorcycles and racing. He currently spends his downtime offroad motorbiking internationally in places like Baja California, Mexico and the Western Sahara and is a scrutineer with the British Superbike Series.
Copyright Motorsport Biomechanics 2023.
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