Inside MX-5 Cup: 18-Year-Old Noah Harmon Wins 2024 Scholarship Shootout

Inside MX-5 Cup: 18-Year-Old Noah Harmon Wins 2024 Scholarship Shootout

By Michael Anderson

November 28, 2024 at 03:47 AM

Noah Harmon, an 18-year-old racing talent from Toronto, has won the prestigious Mazda MX-5 Cup Scholarship Shootout, securing a fully funded ride for the 2025 season. This marks his second attempt at the competition, building upon valuable experience gained from participating in six races during the 2024 Whelen Mazda MX-5 Cup.

Racing driver celebrates with trophy

Racing driver celebrates with trophy

Starting his racing journey later than most, Harmon began karting at age 14 after a casual visit to a rental kart track with his father. Despite his late start, he quickly proved competitive in Florida state competitions and national events.

His progression to race cars came after just two years of karting, beginning with the Lucas Oil Racing School and eventually moving to Spec Miata racing with BSI in 2023. In 2024, he advanced to Spec MX-5 with Greenwood Motorsports while also competing in select MX-5 Cup races, achieving a notable fourth-place finish at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta.

Key achievements:

  • Second place in Spec MX-5 class at 2024 SCCA National Championship Runoffs
  • Fourth place finish in MX-5 Cup competition
  • Successfully balanced multiple racing programs simultaneously

The 2025 season will mark Harmon's first full-season campaign in a single championship. With support from Street Side Classics and mentorship from industry professionals, he's well-positioned to maximize this opportunity in professional sports car racing.

When reflecting on his victory, Harmon emphasized how his previous year's Shootout experience and increased familiarity with the MX-5 Cup car were crucial factors in his success. This scholarship represents not just a personal achievement but the culmination of three years of focused effort toward this specific goal.

Harmon will make his full-season debut at Daytona International Speedway in January, transitioning from spectator to competitor at a venue that helped inspire his racing aspirations.

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