P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Gavin Ward grew tired of losing a private battle. Years later, those losses would become a gift to his colleagues at the Arrow McLaren IndyCar team. On the outside, the Red Bull Formula 1 race engi…
After experiencing years of private battles and struggles with anxiety, Gavin Ward’s losses turned into a valuable lesson for his colleagues at Arrow McLaren IndyCar team, where he serves as the team principal. Despite his success as a race engineer in Formula 1 and IndyCar, Ward’s internal turmoil was a constant challenge that came to a breaking point during the 2019 Indy 500, when he faced a panic attack, a first in his life.
Feeling unable to share his struggles due to fear of being seen as weak, Ward battled through anxiety attacks silently, even as he helped lead Josef Newgarden to his second IndyCar championship. Eventually, Ward sought help through counseling and coping techniques, which not only helped him personally but also made him a better race engineer, enhancing his decision-making skills under pressure.
Reflecting on his journey, Ward realized the importance of seeking help and opening up about mental health challenges, acknowledging that it ultimately made him stronger and more resilient in his role. Despite his initial reluctance to share his struggles with his team at Team Penske, Ward’s experience highlights the significance of addressing mental health issues openly and seeking support when needed for personal growth and professional development.
