HOMESTEAD, Fla. (Nov. 12, 2024) – Mazda Motorsports once again demonstrated its commitment to developing the next generation of racing talent, awarding a total of $500,000 in scholarships at the 2024 MX-5 Cup Shootout and the 2024 Spec MX-5 Shootout. These two events, held at alongside each other at Homestead-Miami Speedway, showcased a deep pool of promising drivers aspiring to professional racing careers. With opportunities to secure coveted scholarships and join one of the most respected development programs in the industry, finalists faced intense competition, with judges evaluating not only speed and skill but also adaptability, data analysis, and coachability.

Harmon, Meza, and Speed Shine at MX-5 Cup Shootout

Noah Harmon of Orlando, FL, emerged victorious at the 2024 MX-5 Cup Shootout, claiming the top $150,000 scholarship prize to compete in the 2025 Whelen Mazda MX-5 Cup presented by Michelin. Helio Meza from Houston, TX, took home the $100,000 runner-up scholarship, while Ashlyn Speed from Arlington, TX, was awarded the Mazda Women in Motorsport Initiative Scholarship, also valued at $100,000, for her MX-5 Cup campaign.

The selection process was rigorous, requiring finalists to excel in data interpretation and respond effectively to coaching.

“I say it every year, but this year’s MX-5 Cup Shootout finalists keep getting more and more impressive,” said Jonathan Applegate, Senior Manager, Mazda Motorsports. “For both Noah and Helio, we’ve watched them take all the right steps to get where they are and grow as drivers. It’s a proud moment for everyone at Mazda. And for Ashlyn, we’re thrilled that Whelen Engineering saw the same potential in her as we do and will take her under their wing as part of the Whelen Motorsports family next year.”

The 2025 MX-5 Cup season will kick off at Daytona International Speedway in January, where these new stars will make their mark.

Two Scholarships Turns to Three

The 2024 Spec MX-5 Shootout was equally competitive, with Vinnie Meskelis, Joey Andrews, and Emy Kissick being named to the Mazda Factory Club Racing team, each earning a $50,000 scholarship. Originally, Mazda Motorsports had planned to award only two scholarships, but the high level of talent led to the surprise addition of a third recipient. Emy Kissick’s selection makes her the first female to receive a scholarship to join the Mazda Factory Club Racing team in Spec MX-5.

Each recipient’s package includes a full arrive-and-drive season in Spec MX-5 for 2025, with participation in both the SCCA Super Tour and the SCCA National Championship Runoffs. This robust support demonstrates why Mazda’s grassroots racing program is one of the most respected in the industry.

Justin Cornelison, Series Manager for Spec MX-5, shared his enthusiasm: “I’m incredibly proud of our three scholarship recipients—Joey, Vinnie, and Emy. They have earned their spot on the factory team, and I look forward to seeing them develop into professional racers. It’s thrilling to be a part of their next step in their racing careers.” Cornelison also praised Harmon and Meza, who transitioned from Spec MX-5 to secure scholarships in the MX-5 Cup: “I’m just as excited to see Noah and Helio earn top spots in the MX-5 Cup Shootout this year. It’s a testament to how Spec MX-5 is the perfect place to develop as a racer, and we look forward to continuing to support all drivers who come through the greater Mazda grassroots program.”

The success of the three new factory drivers coming from Spec Miata backgrounds, along with Harmon and Meza following in the footsteps of past Spec MX-5 competitors like Westin Workman, Nathan Nicholson, Nate Cicero, and Thomas Annunziata, demonstrates the strength of the Mazda racing ladder. These drivers’ journeys underscore how Mazda’s grassroots program develops talent, providing a clear path from beginner to pro.