It’s my dream to drive at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, not just as a racer, but as a trans woman trying to push the boundaries of LGBT visibility in a male dominated sport.

No transgender competitor has ever driven on the full 8.5 mile course at Le Mans (it’s only setup for this race once a year), and this is what I'm about to do in June during PRIDE month for my next race supporting the 24hr of Le Mans in the Michelin Le Mans Cup. I will be making history, and doing something significant to help raise awareness & acceptance for trans athletes and the LGBT community in sport.

I'm working as an ambassador for LGBT charities (Stonewall & Athlete Ally) to blaze a trail and break down barriers, and making history at Le Mans during PRIDE will be an incredible achievement.

When we are seen & accepted as our true selves, no matter where, it sends out a powerful message. That’s why I believe that visibility is the key to creating real change, and why I'm doing everything I can to use my profile within motorsport to try and create positive change in the World.

Sadly I've had a setback with sponsorship, which means there is currently no way I will be able to drive at this race without some help from the people who believe in me and the work that I'm doing. I need to raise £ 50,000 by the beginning of June as the race week begins on the 10/6/19. I don't like asking for help, but this is a truly unique situation and the chance to do something that will gain positive exposure on a global scale, and so I'm asking anyone who stands with me to please help in any way.

If you are able to help, even by sharing this story & video, I would be so grateful - this is about making history, and doing something that can inspire other people to be themselves & live authentically without limitation or fear.

Thank you

Jack Benyon, Autosport Magazine

Elizabeth Werth, Jalopnik

Visit GoCharlie website

Telegraph Le Mans article

Michelin Le Mans Cup website