Qualifying:
Last weekend, 14-year-old racing driver James Kell from Castleford took to the track at Three Sisters for the fourth round of the UKC with high hopes and promising pace. Qualifying started strong, with James showcasing impressive speed right up there with the top 10, holding POLE for several laps. However, after catching up to a pack of karts, the defensive driving from others hindered his chances of securing a prime starting position. Despite his efforts, James ended up qualifying in P22.
Heat 1:
In Heat 1, James demonstrated solid lap pace but opted for a bottom-end gearing setup. This decision, while strategic, unfortunately left him stuck in the pack, unable to make significant moves at the end of the straights. Starting from P21, James fought hard and managed to finish in P17, showing resilience and determination.
Heat 2:
Heat 2 was a rollercoaster of emotions for James. With incredible pace and a fiery determination, he made bold and aggressive moves, rapidly climbing up the ranks and making up 8 places. However, after being shunted in the rear, his bumper came loose, resulting in a technical flag. Due to the sun shining onto the digital board and its placement, James missed the technical and black flags resulting in a disqualification from the heat. Whilst he continued to race he was once more shunted from the rear, loosing all the ground he had made up, and ironically re securing the rear bumper into the frame!
The digital board was subsequently moved for the remainder of the meeting. Despite the setback, James’s performance was nothing short of spectacular, showcasing the possibilities that lay ahead of him.
(c) copyright Stu Stretton Media
Superheat:
Starting from the very back of the grid in the Superheat, James had no realistic chance of reaching the A final. Nonetheless, he approached the race with a positive attitude and a focus on having fun. Demonstrating exceptional speed and skill, James climbed all the way up to to P18. However, he eventually got caught in traffic as drivers ahead defended their positions fiercely.
Conclusion:
Despite the challenges and setbacks, James’s performance last weekend at Three Sisters was a testament to his talent and tenacity. His pace was consistently within the top 10, proving he has what it takes to compete at the highest level. This leaves James in a respectable 37th overall from 109 entrants, despite missing a round while competing at The Kart Championship, where he has been confirmed as the VICE CHAMPION (read about that here). Each race provided valuable lessons and experiences that will undoubtedly fuel his growth as a driver. Keep an eye on this young star as he continues to rise through the ranks, showcasing the spirit and determination of a true racer.
Winning the XKART Scholarship has been a game-changer for me. It provided a fully funded season in The Kart Championship for 2023, where I finished 18th, and continued support in 2024, helping me become VICE CHAMPION in the UK’s toughest category, Junior Rotax.
This opportunity allowed me to focus on developing my skills and competing at a higher level without financial worries. The personalised coaching and hands-on experience have been invaluable in refining my techniques and strategies.
I’m incredibly grateful for this support and excited to continue my motorsport journey.
YOU COULD BE THE NEXT WINNER!
Use code KELL10 for a 10% discount on SCHOLARSHIP REGISTRATION to experience the same top-tier quality and performance that helped me excel.