Featured Driver – Ben Thompson
It was never our intention to introduce karting into our lives but when a friend offered Ben an old S60 comer cadet Kart we thought it would be “ just a bit of fun” not realising where it would end up, the cost or the time involved.
It was mid 2008, Ben was nine years old at the time, the kart had sat in the garage for a few months without any interest until eventually we took it to Teesside and after a shakey start Ben began to find his feet and really enjoyed it. After a few more visits we decided to enter the November Teesside Sprint where we finished last but that didn’t matter we were hooked.
A conversation with Bob Shipman and other’s about cost and reliability led us to consider different Cadet options and we decided to change to a Honda Cadet Kart. We bought a Project One chassis and RPM engine returned to Teesside in December and finished second. We also started racing in the Warden Law Club Championship, Ben’s confidence and desire to compete grew, Karting by now was a big part of our lives.
In January 2009 Ben passed his ARKS test and competed in his first MSA race at Teesside, since then he has raced at Fullbeck, Larkhall, Rowrah, GYG, and Woobwell in the NKF championship where he has finished in second place overall including pole position in qualifying at GYG and a front row start for the final at Larkhall, collecting 24 trophies throughout the year so far and also achieving the Honda Cadet lap record at Teesside, plus currently holding third place and 1st Honda in the Warden Law Championship.
We never thought Ben would take to karting like he has but it has given him something to focus on and allowed us to spend some quality time together although as in all sports it has its highs and lows. Jill, Bens Mam, is very proud of his progress and he has her 100% support although she finds it difficult to watch him on track (without airbags, seatbelts and speed limits).
Throughout our short time in karting we have received endless help and support and made many new friends, Ben himself wants to thank everyone who has helped make his introduction into this sport easier, safer and happier.
Ian, Jill and Ben Thompson
