Jono Lester

Jono Lester, born on December 8, 1989, is a professional racing driver hailing from Palmerston North, New Zealand. A third-generation racer, Jono's family has deep roots in New Zealand motorsport, notably his grandparents who established the Manfeild circuit. Unlike many drivers who begin with karting, Jono started his racing career in Formula Vee at the age of 13, later transitioning to Formula Challenge, HQ Holdens, and the North Island Endurance Series. He secured the 2014 Formula Challenge Summer Series title.

Since 2012, Jono has been a professional competitor in GT and touring car championships across the Asia-Pacific region. He's achieved considerable success, racking up over 300 race starts, with 38 wins, 107 podiums, 38 pole positions and 41 fastest laps. He has raced in series such as the Thailand Super Series, Intercontinental GT Challenge, Super GT, and Asian Le Mans Series.

Lester's career highlights include winning the NZ Endurance Championship in 2013 and the NZ Time Attack Championship from 2007-2009. In 2015, driving a Ferrari 458 for Trass Family Motorsport, he achieved five pole positions in the Australian GT Championship. Off the track, Jono is known for his engaging personality and has also worked as a motivational speaker.