NGK Spark Plugs is very well known in the motor racing world as a key supplier to many F1, World Rally and MotoGP teams. It also plays an important role with thousands of amateur motor racing enthusiast who rely on the advanced plugs to give them an edge on track.

A good example of this is Stephen Laing who has enjoyed a long and successful amateur racing career specialising in sprint events and hill climbs, most recently at the wheel of his Caterham R500 and Lotus Exige. Now aged 68, Stephen has been involved in racing since his teens having been introduced to it by his father and a local Young Farmers’ Club in Norfolk where he was brought up.
Stephen started racing in a Mini Pick-up and competed in various cars in Autocross and Rallycross events in the 60’s and 70s with good success. He moved on to Catherham and Lotus cars after a break from the sport, concentrating on sprints and hill climbs.
A chance meeting with former NGK Spark Plugs MD Jim Hughes, who lives in the same Norfolk village, put Stephen in touch with Tim Howes, NGK’s Deputy General Manager. Stephen says, “Tim was exceedingly helpful and I started using the Iridium plugs in the Exige.  I have to say they made a noticeable difference straight away. The car ran much better and I wouldn’t use anything else now. They are so reliable, and have helped me keep winning.”
Jim Hughes says, “Stephen is a great example of how enthusiasts can still enjoy the thrill of competition whatever their age. The cost of competing in amateur racing is not as expensive as many people might think. At NGK, we are delighted that we can help people compete in motorsport at grass roots level as well as at the very pinnacle of international sport with F1.”