A PRUDHOE schoolboy named number one in the North-East for karting has progressed to national level racing.

Ethan Head, 13, was crowned North East IKR Champion 2021 in January and has now - finally - been presented his trophy.

The Prudhoe Community High School pupil is now racing nationally and recently placed 12th against 93 other hopefuls from Lands End to John O'Groats.

On receiving his trophy, dad Michael Head, of Serenity Bathrooms of Prudhoe, said: "He was really really proud and so honoured to earn it - especially after his first season.

"It's early days. The main thing is he enjoys it, he's safe and he's found something that he's got a talent at."

Ethan is now racing against karters he once admired on Youtube.

"The kart's quicker and it means all his breaking points are different", added Michael. "As they go up each class, it's a totally different drive. 

"There are no weak drivers anymore, they are all very good, very experienced and there's a lot more of them on the grid. With him racing new tracks up against different people, he's going to learn from them.

"He just loves it so much; he lives and breathes it. If he does well this season, that then leads to British level - that's the ultimate best of the best."

Ethan, who visit first visited an indoor rental track in 2017, is mentored by a British champion, an ex-British champion and a world number 2 at Hunter Motorsport.

He is seeking sponsorship for televised races. Anyone who can help should contact: michael@serenitybathroomsprudhoe.co.uk

READ MORE: https://www.hexham-courant.co.uk/news/19842638.prudhoe-community-high-school-pupil-ethan-head-named-north-east-ikr-champion-2021/