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.

It's a cause that I care deeply about, having grown up without any role models I could identify with… I want to help change this so that no one ever has to hide who they really are, has to grow up feeling alone or scared, limiting their vision of what is possible in life because of how they were born.

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

If Martin attacks the challenge like she has the transition from hillclimbing to circuit racing, and transgender rights, then don’t bet against her making it to the World’s greatest sportscar enduro.

Jack Benyon, Autosport Magazine

This is only the beginning for Charlie Martin. Her dreams are big, but her ambition to conquer her goals is even bigger.

Elizabeth Werth, Jalopnik

Visit GoCharlie website

Telegraph Le Mans article

Michelin Le Mans Cup website