Go Karting National Finals
Riley Phillips, Harvey Lawrence and Will Ford all made it through to the National Karting Finals this weekend at Whilton Locks. Representing Sidcot School, they were one school out of twenty seven, all bringing three competitors to their team. The boys had a tough fight to earn their place in the national finals and knew they had to race well to reach their goal of a top 10 place!
Will kicked things off for the team starting on the grid in 13th, but fought his way quickly, cutting through the inside of the second to last corner and ending 9th! This started the group off positively and it was Harvey to race next. With a fast group placed ahead of him from the start he had a difficult job. Beginning in 10th place, being forced off the track on lap 1 and being dealt one of the slowest karts there, Harvey gallantly raced his way up to 8th place. Following this Riley had his first race of the day. Starting in poll position and comfortably ending in first, he gave the team a strong sense of hope.
After the break, the engines had been filled and cooled, making way to Will’s 2nd race. He had to start in a tough 15th position but took the corners like a pro, and used the speed of his kart to take up positions up the first straight. Will managed to climb a massive 7 places in just an 8 minute race! Harvey’s 2nd race was up next and again he got a fast, competitive race and was shunted off the track twice early on, which set him back a few places, but again he managed to climb the ranks and gain a few places before the race was over. Finally Riley’s last race began. Being placed 4th in the fastest race of the day was a difficult task. He took it in his stride, held his position and took the group on the 2nd lap. Riley didn’t stop there, he used his skill and experience of the track and sped away from the pack, eventually lapping the last placed driver and ended in 1st position!
The day ended with Sidcot placing an incredible 9th position out of 27th. Each racer playing their part enormously in gaining places and impressive times during the day. The boys should be very proud of how they performed on the day and flying the flag for Sidcot School at such a prestigious sporting event!
Fabia Carney
Graduate Intern