Bicester schoolboy secures win at karting championship

Year 5 pupil Ryan Saund, from Glory Farm Primary School in Bicester, took home the top spot at the Whilton Mill Karting Academy Cadet Championship after securing pole position and delivering strong performances in all three heats.

Ryan, who only began karting in April last year, said: “It felt really, really good, but it was really tricky to complete because the other drivers were really competitive.

“What went well was I managed to defend first from pole position, and I managed to keep a good lead and keep consistent with fast lap times.

“I believe it was because of all of the hard work I have been putting into my karting over the past few months, especially when visiting other circuits.”

Ryan started karting after enjoying the video game Gran Turismo 7 and trying go-karting in real life.

He now trains at least three times a week with his coach, focusing on race skills and kart mechanics.

His parents are incredibly proud and are his biggest supporters.

His school marked the win with a congratulatory post on Facebook, stating: “Ryan in Year 5 won his first championship race over the weekend. He had 3 really dominant heats and followed that up with a dominant performance in the final. Well done Ryan!!”

Ryan’s goal now is to win the remaining six races of the season and take the overall championship.