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Bedford Heights Karting Driver Flies the Flag in National Kart Cup
The Dunkeswell Raceway in Devon recently witnessed a promising performance from up-and-coming Bedfordian karting talent, Charlie Ephgrave, 16. Supported by Bedford Heights, Ephgrave competed in the latest round of the National Kart Cup, a championship regarded as a vital stepping stone for aspiring single-seater motor racing drivers.
A Prestigious Championship
The National Kart Cup unfolds over six rounds at various circuits across the UK, offering junior and senior classes. This prestigious championship is seen as a crucial platform for young drivers looking to carve out a career in professional motor racing.
Commendable Performance at Dunkeswell
Sponsored by Bedford Heights, Ephgrave is participating not only in the National Kart Cup but also in the Kimbolton Championship. At the Dunkeswell Raceway in late June, he demonstrated commendable skills and determination in a crowded field.
Ephgrave, driving for Team Airkart, was easily identifiable thanks to the striking green Bedford Heights branding. Competing in the Junior Rotax class, he performed admirably in the three heats, securing 10th, 7th, and 9th positions, which were sufficient to qualify for the 'A' final.
Challenges and Positives
Despite an early collision with a fellow driver that prematurely ended the race for Ephgrave in the final, there were numerous positives to take away. The young driver showed great promise throughout the heats and remains optimistic about the upcoming rounds in the championship.
"Dunkeswell was a new track for me and overall it was a very promising weekend with great results in the heats. By the end of Friday practice we were setting quick times, putting me in a great position for Saturday," Ephgrave said.
"I had an excellent start in heat 3 gaining places and making moves in the race to finish 9th, which meant we achieved three top 10 finishes in the heats," he added.
Looking Ahead
Although a mechanical failure thwarted his chances in the final, Ephgrave remains undeterred and is eagerly looking forward to his next race at the Kimbolton circuit in Cambridgeshire this coming weekend (13 and 14 July).
The teenager's commitment to his sport is evident, having still managed to compete despite the pressures of his GCSE exams, which caused him to miss the first two rounds of the championship.
You can follow Charlie Ephgrave's progress this weekend and in future rounds here.
