The world of Formula 1 has always been able to offer surprises and special gestures, but this time – off the track – reality has overcome the wildest imagination. The protagonist of this strange and beautiful story is the Aston Martin team and in particular the Software Developer George Crawford, who has chosen to undertake a truly special and extreme challenge, for a very noble cause. Crawford in fact took part in the London Marathon, held on 3 October 2021, disguised – literally – as Lance Stroll, the British team driver. In fact, the employee of the Silverstone team showed up at the start of the 42 km and 195 meters fully dressed up, complete with the Canadian driver’s helmet, gloves, overalls and boots. The helmet, for example, was the one used by the Montreal rider in the race triptych at Spa, Zandvoort and Monza.
Not all heroes wear capes. Some wear race suits. 💚
This weekend George Crawford, Software Developer at @ AstonMartinF1, will attempt a @GWR, as he sets out to complete the @LondonMarathon dressed head-to-toe in @lance_stroll‘s race gear.
– Aston Martin Cognizant F1 Team (@ AstonMartinF1) October 2, 2021
The goal of this initiative, which Crawford explained in an interview published on the English team’s social channels, was to raise funds for Mind UK, a charity that deals with the sensitive issue of mental health. The attempt to enter the Guinness Book of World Records. To do this, the time to beat was 4 and a half hours. Chrono that the Birmingham native has managed to improve significantly, covering the expected distance over time – extraordinary considering the race with which it was made – of 3 hours and 58 minutes. To ‘complete’ the work Crawford also performed a ‘quote’ by Daniel Ricciardo at the end of the race, drinking from his own shoe to celebrate the result. With his attempt, the Aston Martin software developer raised a total of over 3,600 euros in donations.
This one might even be too much for @danielricciardo…
Anyone for a marathon shoey? 🙈 pic.twitter.com/BBWxY3Xflo
– Aston Martin Cognizant F1 Team (@ AstonMartinF1) October 4, 2021