Altrincham Grammar School race into national schools karting final after becoming North West champions

Thu 16 May 13
Altrincham Grammar School - North West Champions of the BSKC

A talented team of karters from Altrincham Grammar School are delighted to have won the North West regional final of the British Schools Karting Championship (BSKC) 2013.

Zubair Hoque, 16, who was part of the BSKC Championship winning team in 2011, Harry MacDonald, 17, and Ben Macauley, 16, will go forward to the national final of the BSKC on 16th June, where they will have the chance to battle it out for the crown of British national karting champions.

As the sun made an appearance from behind the clouds at the Three Sisters karting track in Wigan on 17th April, there was little that could stop the boys. The champions put in an astonishing performance on the race track with five podium places, including two wins and a second place. Their speed secured them first place against Emrys School, who were their closest competitors.

Eddie Hall, teacher at Altrincham Grammar School, said: “It is a fantastic win for the boys. If they carry on driving like this, there is a real chance that Altrincham Grammar School could become BSKC national champions, which we achieved in 2011.”

Zubair Hoque from the team said: “We were really pleased with the result of the regional final. After missing out on becoming BSKC 2012 champions by a tenth of a second last year, we have been very focussed on increasing our times on the track. We have worked really well together throughout the competition.”

Over 1600 boys and girls from schools across the country are competing in the BSKC this year, enabling both seasoned and novice karters to experience the thrill of motor racing while representing their school.

The lucky winners of the 2013 national final will be given a VIP tour of the McLaren Technology Centre, which houses cars that have been used by Formula 1 racing legends, including Mika Hakkinen and Lewis Hamilton. The champions will also see the 145 metre long wind tunnel where engineers are able to test the performance of their cars.

Mark Turner, Championship Manager at the BSKC, said: “It’s great to see Altrincham Grammar School return for the third year running to our national final. The BSKC continues to be a great platform for talented karters like these to demonstrate their driving skills and fly their school flag.

“Karting was the first step that most of today’s Formula 1 racing stars took into the exciting world of motor sport. By offering schools a simple route to karting, the BSKC has helped make it more accessible to children of varying abilities and encouraged young talent into the sport.

“The benefits of involvement go far beyond experiencing a new sport. Students rave about how participation in karting has improved their confidence and motivated them to work harder in all aspects of their school life. It has been particularly useful for students studying engineering, maths or physics who can apply a lot of what they learn on the track to their work in class.”

The BSKC is the largest schools karting competition in the country. It offers schools a cost-effective way to introduce students aged 13 to 18 to karting as all equipment and karts are provided by the local participating circuit. The students just need to turn up and drive.

PosTeamPointsComment
1 Altrincham A 96  
2 Emrys 90  
3 Altrincham B 87 1 win
4 Stainburn School A 87 1 x 2nd
5 CROMPTON HOUSE 80 1 x 2nd
6 Abbotsholme School A 80 2 x 4th
7 St Helens College 79  
8 St Edmund Arrowsmith A 77  
9 SGS H 62  
10 SGS J 58  
11 SGS A 55  
12 St Edmund Arrowsmith B 52  
 

 

Campbell College on fast track to success following win at Northern Ireland karting regional final

Fri 10 May 13
The podium at Nutts Corner for the Northern Ireland Final

Three students from Campbell College in Belfast will be travelling to England this summer to go wheel-to-wheel with the best school karting teams in the UK. This follows their win at the Northern Ireland final of the British Schools Karting Championship (BSKC) 2013.

Following their success, Jack McConnell, 17, James Phillips, 16, and Aaron McCutcheon, 15, will go forward to the national final of the BSKC at Whilton Mill, Northamptonshire, on 16th June, where they will have the chance to battle it out for the crown of BSKC champions 2013.

On a sunny day with occasional showers, the winning team raced their way to success on the karting track following four podium place finishes at Nutts Corner kart circuit on 25th April. The team, who got off to a slow start in the first two rounds, fought back against nine of the best young karting teams from across the region to achieve a second place followed by three wins.

Peter Campbell, teacher at Campbell College, said: “This win is the result of a real team effort – from both the winning team and a second trio of karters from Campbell College. All six boys love racing and have been rooting for each other throughout the competition. It is great that the BSKC provides a platform for pupils who want to compete in karting while representing their school. The school is really pleased with the boys’ achievement.”

Jack, one of the winning team, said: “Winning the competition to become Northern Ireland champions was a great buzz for all of us. We have worked really hard in the lead up to the competition and have enjoyed being able to compete in a sport we are all passionate about.”

Over 1600 boys and girls from schools across the UK are competing in the BSKC this year, enabling both seasoned and novice karters to experience the thrill of motor racing while representing their school.

The lucky winners of the 2013 national final will be given a VIP tour of the McLaren Technology Centre, which houses cars that have been used by Formula 1 racing legends, including Mika Hakkinen and Lewis Hamilton. The champions will also see the 145 metre long wind tunnel where engineers are able to test the performance of their cars.

Mark Turner, Championship Manager at the BSKC, said: “Congratulations to the Campbell College team for making it through to the national final again. It is great that the BSKC is providing an opportunity for schools across the UK to get involved in this thrilling sport.

“Karting was the first step that most of today’s Formula 1 racing stars took into the exciting world of motor sport. By offering schools a simple route to karting, the BSKC has helped make it more accessible to children of varying abilities and encouraged young talent into the sport.

“The benefits of involvement go far beyond experiencing a new sport. Students rave about how participation in karting has improved their confidence and motivated them to work harder in all aspects of their school life. It has been particularly useful for students studying engineering, maths or physics who can apply a lot of what they learn on the track to their work in class.”

The BSKC is the largest schools karting competition in the country. It offers schools a cost-effective way to introduce students aged 13 to 18 to karting as all equipment and karts are provided by the local participating circuit. The students just need to turn up and drive.

PosTeamPointsComment
1 Campbell College A 96  
2 Belfast Royal Academy A 91 Highest result: 2 wins
3 Campbell College B 91 Highest result: 2 x 2nd
4 CAI A 87  
5 Regent House D 81  
6 Belfast Royal Academy B 80  
7 Regent House A 77  
8 Regent House E 75  
9 Regent House C 58  
 

 

Winton Community Academy students are South West karting champions

Thu 09 May 13
The podium at Thruxton for the SW Regional Final

A team of three students from Winton Community Academy in Andover have taken the chequered flag, triumphantly winning the South West Regional final of the British Schools Karting Championship (BSKC) 2013 on Sunday 21st April.

Due to their ages, it was the last opportunity for the students to take part in the competition, which is aimed at school children from aged 13 to 18 years. The determined team, Nigel Carter, 18, Luke Clark, 18, and Lee Galpin, 18, battled it out successfully against 35 other teams from schools across the region.

Following their success, the team will go forward to the national final of the BSKC, where they have the chance to compete for the crown of British champions 2013.

Martin Ashworth, a teacher at Winton, said: “It was a fantastic day and the boys did really well to come first. They clearly put a lot of thought and effort into each race. The BSKC is a fantastic opportunity for students to get into motor sports in a fun and competitive way.”

Nigel Carter, one of the team, added: “We knew that racing against the best teams in the region would be a challenge but we were focussed on achieving first place throughout the competition. We work well as a team and we made sure that we shared experiences after each race to prepare for the next one.”

Over 1600 boys and girls from schools across the country competed in the BSKC this year, which enables both seasoned and novice karters to experience the thrill of motor racing while representing their school.

The lucky winners of the 2013 national final will be given a VIP tour of the McLaren Technology Centre, which houses cars that have been used by Formula 1 racing legends, including Mika Hakkinen and Lewis Hamilton. The champions will also see the 145 metre long wind tunnel where engineers are able to test the performance of their cars.

Mark Turner, Championship Manager at the BSKC, said: “We extend our congratulations to Winton Community Academy on their success and look forward to seeing how they do in the final in June.

“Karting was the first step that most of today’s Formula 1 racing stars took into the exciting world of motor sport. By offering schools a simple route to karting, the BSKC has helped make it more accessible to children of varying abilities and encouraged young talent into the sport.

“The benefits of involvement go far beyond experiencing a new sport. Students rave about how participation in karting has improved their confidence and motivated them to work harder in all aspects of their school life.

It has been particularly useful for students studying engineering, maths or physics who can apply a lot of what they learn on the track to their work in class.”

The BSKC is the largest schools karting competition in the country. It offers schools a cost-effective way to introduce students aged 13 to 18 to karting as all equipment and karts are provided by the local participating circuit. The students just need to turn up and drive.

PosTeamPointsComment
1 Wintonians 96  
2 Plymouth College A 96 Highest result: 2 wins then 2nd
3 Sir Thomas Rich's A 96 Highest result: 2 wins then 3rd
4 Kingdown A 93  
5 Sexey's A 89  
6 Writhlington 88  
7 Kingdown C 87  
8 Bridgwater College A 86  
9 Wheels - Churchill A 85  
10 Team Thornden 84  
11 Kingdown B 83  
12 The King's School B 82  
13 South Dartmoor Community College 81  
14 Uffculme School B 79  
15 Clarendon A 77  
16 Dyffryn Taf School A 76 Highest result: Win
17 Dyffryn Taf School B 76 Highest result: 2nd
18 TBGS A 76 Highest result: 4th
19 Winton Racers A 74  
20 Sexey's C 72  
21 Kingdown D 69  
22 Clarendon G 68 Highest result: 3rd
23 Winton Racers B 68 Highest result: 5th then 6th
24 BSCS 68 Highest result: 5th then 7th
25 Cullompton A 66  
26 Crickhowell High School A 63  
27 Carter Karting A 59 Highest result: 4th
28 Milton Abbey A 59 Highest result: 5th
29 Winton Racers D 53  
30 Team Hardye 52 Highest result: 2nd
31 Tiverton High School 52 Highest result: 2 x 9th
32 Clarendon B 52 Highest result: 2nd
33 Sparsholt College A 45  
34 Sir Thomas Rich's D 44  
35 Milton Abbey B 37  
36 Milton Abbey G 0 Did not attend
 

 

Debenham High School have high hopes for national karting success following East of England regional win

Tue 07 May 13
Debenham High School BSKC East of England Champions

Celebrations are taking place at Debenham High School in Suffolk after three students won the East of England regional final of the British Schools Karting Championship (BSKC) 2013.

Following their success, Kye Springfield, 15, Charlie Machin, 14, and Cameron Hallett, 14, will go forward to the national final of the BSKC in Whilton Mill, Daventry, on 16th June where they have the chance to battle it out for the crown of British champions.

On a chilly day with sunny spells, the winning team raced their way to success at Red Lodge circuit near Bury St Edmunds on 27th April. The team fought off close competition from Skegness Grammar School and Thomas Gainsborough School to secure two wins and three podium places in the six sprint races.

Victoria Sandall, teacher at Debenham High School, said: “The performance at the regional final was of a very high standard and there was excellent driving all round. The boys raced brilliantly against the other teams to secure their win. We are very proud of this fantastic achievement and have high hopes for them at the national final.”

Kye, one of the winning team, said: “We had great fun at the regional final and were absolutely delighted to have won. There was some tough competition on the day but the three of us worked really hard together to achieve this result.”

Over 1600 boys and girls from schools across the country are competing in the BSKC this year, enabling both seasoned and novice karters to experience the thrill of motor racing while representing their school.

This will be team member Charlie Machin’s second time in the national final and he’ll be hoping to improve on the school’s 25th place from last year.

The lucky winners of the 2013 national final will be given a VIP tour of the McLaren Technology Centre, which houses cars that have been used by Formula 1 racing legends, including Mika Hakkinen and Lewis Hamilton. The champions will also see the 145 metre long wind tunnel where engineers are able to test the performance of their cars.

Mark Turner, Championship Manager at the BSKC, said: “Well done to Debenham High School for making it to the national finals. It is great that young karters, like Charlie, are making it through to the final stages of the competition. It is proof of what a great platform it can be for talented students to get involved in this exciting sport.

“Karting was the first step that most of today’s Formula 1 racing stars took into the exciting world of motor sport. By offering schools a simple route to karting, the BSKC has helped make it more accessible to children of varying abilities and encouraged young talent into the sport.

“The benefits of involvement go far beyond experiencing a new sport. Students rave about how participation in karting has improved their confidence and motivated them to work harder in all aspects of their school life. It has been particularly useful for students studying engineering, maths or physics who can apply a lot of what they learn on the track to their work in class.”

The BSKC is the largest schools karting competition in the country. It offers schools a cost-effective way to introduce students aged 13 to 18 to karting as all equipment and karts are provided by the local participating circuit. The students just need to turn up and drive.

PosTeamPointsComment
1 Debenham High School A 89  
2 Skegness Grammar School A 86  
3 TGS B 85  
4 Sharnbrook 81  
5 Netherhall Racing 80  
6 HBK A 78  
7 Stowupland B 74  
8 Aldenham School A 73  
9 Skegness Grammar School B 71  
10 The Centre School A 66  
11 SHS B 60  
12 Farlingaye A 57  
13 Paston Sixth Form College C 49  
14 Aldenham School B 37 1 Driver
 

 

Royal Grammar School celebrate becoming North East champions in national schools karting competition

Wed 01 May 13
Royal Grammar School & Durham Johnston School

A team of three students from the Royal Grammar School in Newcastle are celebrating their victory at the North East Regional Final of the British Schools Karting Championship (BSKC) on Tuesday 23rd April.

The teenagers, Jonny O’Neill, 16, Freddie Winter, 14 and James Baker, 14, emerged triumphant by putting in a strong performance in each of the six sprint races at Warden Law circuit in Sunderland.

On a beautiful sunny day, the three boys secured the top place with two wins and an impressive five podium finishes.

The students now have the opportunity to continue their successful run in the BSKC 2013 national final at Whilton Mill, Northampton, on 16th June 2013. Here they will race against the best young karters from around the country to battle it out for the coveted title of overall BSKC national champions 2013.

Roddy Mackay, PE Teacher at Royal Grammar School, said: “The boys did so well against the other talented school karting teams. BSKC is a great event to be involved in and provides an exciting opportunity for school children to experience competitive motorsport – this is ‘sport for all’ and a fantastic event.”

Jonny O’Neil, one of the team, said: “It was a very close competition, particularly between the schools in the top three positions, but we’re pleased to have put successful tactics into place to win. It was a really fun and enjoyable day and we cannot wait until the final in June.”

Over 1600 boys and girls from schools across the UK are competing in this year’s competition, which is enabling both seasoned and novice karters to experience the thrill of motor racing while representing their school.

The lucky winners of the national final will be given a VIP tour of the McLaren Technology Centre, which houses cars that have been used by Formula 1 racing legends, including Mika Hakkinen and Lewis Hamilton. The champions will also see the 145 metre long wind tunnel where engineers are able to test the performance of their cars.

Mark Turner, Championship Manager at the BSKC, said: “Congratulations to the Royal Grammar School team on their win. With students from 13 to 18 years old competing against each other, it is proof that age does not hold back the younger teams from doing well. I look forward to seeing how the team does in the national final.

“Karting was the first step that most of today’s racing stars took into the exciting world of motor sport. By offering schools a simple route to karting, the BSKC has helped make it more accessible to children of varying abilities and encouraged young talent into the sport.

“The benefits of involvement go far beyond experiencing a new sport. Students rave about how participation in karting has improved their confidence and motivated them to work harder in all aspects of their school life. It has been particularly useful for students studying engineering, maths or physics who can apply a lot of what they learn on the track to their work in class.”

The BSKC is the largest schools karting competition in the country. It offers schools a cost-effective way to introduce students aged 13 to 18 to karting as all equipment and karts are provided by the local participating circuit. The students just need to turn up and drive.

PosTeamPointsComment
1 RGS 95  
2 Durham Johnston School 93  
3 Cramlington C 91  
4 NDA A 84 Highest result: Win
5 Sunderland College A 84 Highest result: 3rd
6 Walbottle Campus 81  
7 Red House School A 78  
8 Cramlington D 75  
 

 

Hull youth project rev their way to success at national karting regional finals

Mon 29 Apr 13
BUMP winning team

Six boys, who attend the Bransholme Urban Motor Project (BUMP’s) in Hull, are celebrating after a tenacious performance that secured them the top two places at the Yorkshire & Humber regional final of the British Schools Karting Championship (BSKC) 2013.

Following their success, the two teams of three will go forward to the national final of the BSKC where they have the chance to battle it out for the crown of British champions.

The winning team displayed their talent on the karting track following three wins out of six races at Pole Position Karting in Leeds. Connor Rouse, 18, Max Welsh, 18, and Ryan Colley, 17, put in a bold performance against 10 of the best young karting teams from across the region.

Wayne Beacock, Youth and Support Community Support Worker at BUMP’s said: “We are so proud of the boys who worked very hard to come first. The objective of BUMP’s is to use karts to engage young people in a positive and aspiring environment. BSKC is a great opportunity for all our students to put their skills into practise and they always look forward to taking part. To win a regional final is a huge accomplishment for them.”

BUMP's, part of the Hull City Council’s Youth Development Service, provides young people who have personal and social issues the opportunity to experience a range of motor based learning activities to increase their self-esteem and improve their employability skills.

Connor, one of the winning team, said: “We have done extremely well to get this far. We were focussed throughout the six races, ensuring that we did not let any distractions get in the way. We are very thankful to everyone at BUMP’s for providing us with this exciting opportunity.”

Over 1600 boys and girls from schools across the country are competing in the BSKC this year, enabling both seasoned and novice karters to experience the thrill of motor racing while representing their school.

The lucky winners of the 2013 national final will be given a VIP tour of the McLaren Technology Centre, which houses cars that have been used by Formula 1 racing legends, including Mika Hakkinen and Lewis Hamilton. The champions will also see the 145 metre long wind tunnel where engineers are able to test the performance of their cars.

Mark Turner, Championship Manager at the BSKC, said: “Congratulations to the BUMP’s team for making it through to the national final. It is great to see teams from youth projects doing so well in the competition. Their success at the regional final is proof of how engaging karting can be for young people.

“Karting was the first step that most of today’s Formula 1 racing stars took into the exciting world of motor sport. By offering schools a simple route to karting, the BSKC has helped make it more accessible to children of varying abilities and encouraged young talent into the sport.

“The benefits of involvement go far beyond experiencing a new sport. Students rave about how participation in karting has improved their confidence and motivated them to work harder in all aspects of their school life. It has been particularly useful for students studying engineering, maths or physics who can apply a lot of what they learn on the track to their work in class.”

The BSKC is the largest schools karting competition in the country. It offers schools a cost-effective way to introduce students aged 13 to 18 to karting as all equipment and karts are provided by the local participating circuit. The students just need to turn up and drive.

PosTeamPointsComment
1 Bumps A 91  
2 Bumps B 87  
3 Whitcliffe Mount B 86  
4 King James A 85 1 x 2nd, 2 x 3rd
5 Ermysted`s Grammar School 85 1 x 2nd, 1 x 3rd
6 Whitcliffe Mount C 83  
7 King James B 77  
8 Ecco A 76  
9 Armthorpe Academy 68 1 x 5th
10 Bumps D 68 2 x 6th
11 Lady Manners School 63  
 

 

Kenilworth School pupils celebrate success at British Schools Karting Championship Midlands regional final

Fri 26 Apr 13
5 teams go through to the BSKC National Final

Three skilled students from Kenilworth School delighted both their parents and teachers by winning the British Schools Karting Championship (BSKC) Midlands regional final on Friday 19th April.

The Kenilworth team, Adam McConville, 16, Ryan Stevens, 15, and Spencer Olds, 13, were top of the leader board following a close-fought battle in six sprint races against some of the best school karting teams in the Midlands.

Despite the blustery weather, the boys put in a consistent performance securing three second places and a total of four podium places on the day at Daytona Circuit in Milton Keynes.

The students now have the opportunity to continue their successful run at the BSKC 2013 national final at Whilton Mill, Northampton on 16th June 2013. Here they will race against the best young karters from around the country to battle it out for the coveted title of overall BSKC national champions 2013.

Mark Stevens, Ryan Stevens’ dad, said: “It was great for the team to come back this year and improve on Kenilworth’s third place last year. The three of them make a great team and work really well together. It was a close race but their win was well deserved.”

Ryan Stevens added: “We really enjoyed the race and competing against other talented karters. We are all passionate about karting so it’s a very proud achievement to win the regional final while representing our school.”

Over 1600 boys and girls from schools across the UK are competing in this year’s competition, which is enabling both seasoned and novice karters to experience the thrill of motor racing while representing their school.

The lucky winners of the national final will be given a VIP tour of the McLaren Technology Centre, which houses cars that have been used by Formula 1 racing legends, including Mika Hakkinen and Lewis Hamilton. The champions will also see the 145 metre long wind tunnel where engineers are able to test the performance of their cars.

Mark Turner, Championship Manager at the BSKC, said: “Well done to Kenilworth School who came back this year fighting for first place at the Midlands championship. It is also interesting to note that four of the top five teams came from our events run by Mr Karting in Leamington Spa. Clearly their experience there enhanced their performance at the regional final.

“Karting was the first step that most of today’s racing stars took into the exciting world of motor sport. By offering schools a simple route to karting, the BSKC has helped make it more accessible to children of varying abilities and encouraged young talent into the sport.

“The benefits of involvement go far beyond experiencing a new sport. Students rave about how participation in karting has improved their confidence and motivated them to work harder in all aspects of their school life. It has been particularly useful for students studying engineering, maths or physics who can apply a lot of what they learn on the track to their work in class.”

The BSKC is the largest schools karting competition in the country. It offers schools a cost-effective way to introduce students aged 13 to 18 to karting as all equipment and karts are provided by the local participating circuit. The students just need to turn up and drive.

PosTeamPointsComment
1 Kenilworth School A 91  
2 King Alfred's A 84 1 x win
3 Southam College B 84 1 x 2nd
4 Southam College A 82 1 x win, 1 x 2nd
5 Heart of England 82 1 x win, 1 x 3rd
6 Princethorpe A 82 1 x 2rd
7 Prince Henry's B 81  
8 Cedars Upper School B 79  
9 Stowe School B 78  
10 Cooper School 76  
11 John Masefield A 66  
12 Bartley Green School 64  
13 NSB A 58  
14 JEM motorsport 54  
15 Magdalen College School B 52 1 x 4th
16 MCS A 52 1 x 6th
17 Prince Henry's A 47  
18 charnwood college B 46 1 x 7th
19 JFC A 46 2 x 9th
20 KE Aston 43  
21 Prince Henry's E 43  
22 JFC C 42  
23 East Leake Academy 36  
24 KBA B 31  
25 Shire Oak Academy A 28  
26 Danetre And Southbrook Learning Village A 26  
27 South & City College A 0 Did not attend
 

 

Edinburgh College become Scottish champions by winning the British Schools Karting Championship region final

Mon 22 Apr 13
BSKC Scotland Final at Knockhill Kart Circuit

Three talented students from Edinburgh College drove their way to success at the British Schools Karting Championship (BSKC) Scottish final on Tuesday 16th April.

The team of three boys, Michael Weddell, 18, Michael Boyd, 18, and Ryan Smith, 18, have been crowned Scottish champions of BSKC 2013 following a tough sprint to the finish.

15 of the best school karting teams from across Scotland battled it out at Knockhill circuit in Fife after earning their places at the regional final following success at 8 semi-finals events held north of the border. Despite the strong wind and occasional showers, the Edinburgh College team made a sterling effort to secure first place following two wins and five podium places on the day.

The students now have the opportunity to continue their successful run at the BSKC 2013 national final at Whilton Mill, Northampton on 16th June 2013. Here they will race against the other regional champions and best young karters to battle it out for the coveted title of overall BSKC champions 2013.

Michael Weddell, one of the team members, said: “Being 18, this is our last chance to represent Scotland and our school in the BSKC so we were really determined to do our best. The race was incredibly close, and we went head-to-head with some of the most talented young Scottish karters, but we pulled together on the day to ensure that our tactics on the track would secure us the winning position.

“We are proud to win the Scottish title as famous motor racing drivers like Franchitti and di Resta began their motor sports careers in karting.”

Over 1600 boys and girls from schools across the UK competed in this year’s competition, which has enabled both seasoned and novice karters to experience the thrill of motor racing while representing their school.

Mark Turner, Championship Manager at the BSKC, said: “There was a lot of excitement among all the teams who competed in this year’s Scottish regional final. They did extremely well given the rather difficult weather conditions. Edinburgh College should be very proud of their success. It is great to see teams coming back again and improving on their performance from the previous year.

“Karting was the first step that most of today’s racing stars took into the exciting world of motor sport. By offering schools a simple route to karting, the BSKC has helped make it more accessible to children of varying abilities and encouraged young talent into the sport.

“The benefits of involvement go far beyond experiencing a new sport. Students rave about how participation in karting has improved their confidence and motivated them to work harder in all aspects of their school life. It has been particularly useful for students studying engineering, maths or physics who can apply a lot of what they learn on the track to their work in class.”

The BSKC is the largest schools karting competition in the country. It offers schools a cost-effective way to introduce students aged 13 to 18 to karting as all equipment and karts are provided by the local participating circuit. The students just need to turn up and drive.

Overall Results of Scottish Final.

PosTeamPointsComment
1 Edinburgh College 95  
2 Madras 92  
3 Hutchesons' B 91  
4 Heriot's D 89 2 wins
5 Ewart A 89 2 x 2nd
6 Eastwood High School A 85  
7 Morrisons Academy 83  
8 St Columba's School A 80  
9 Ewart C 74  
10 Lockerbie Academy C 73  
11 Lockerbie Academy G 70  
12 Mackie C 67  
13 Ewart E 65  
14 Heriot's F 61  
15 Heriot's E 56  
 

 

The Bishop’s Stortford High School crowned British Schools Karting Championship 2013 London & South East champions

Tue 26 Mar 13
The podium at the London & SE Regional Final

Three dynamic students from The Bishop’s Stortford High School (TBSHS) are celebrating having taken the title of London & South East Regional Champions in the British Schools Karting Championship (BSKC) 2013.

32 teams from 25 schools competed in the regional competition, which took place at Buckmore Park karting circuit in Kent on Saturday 23rd March. On a freezing cold day with light snow, Joe Wiggin, 17, George Garrett, 14, and Jamie Rushworth, 13, from TBSHS battled it out to secure first place following four wins and six podium places.

The students now have the chance to fight for the overall British champions’ title against winners from nine other regions across the UK at the BSKC 2013 national final at Whilton Mill on 16th June 2013.

Joe Wiggin, one of the team members, said: “We are thrilled with our win on Saturday. Although I am an experienced karter, this is the first year that my team mates, George and Jamie, have karted. They listened to my advice about what tactics to employ on the track and it just all came together on the day. It just goes to show that you don’t have to have been karting for years to make an impact.”

The win is the school’s second regional final win in three years.

Darren Neesam, Science Teacher at TBSHS said: “The school is so proud of the boys coming out on top against some tough competition. The age difference of the students in this team shows you do not need to be the same age to work well together. There is a real buzz in the school about motor sports now and we have our own karting club so the BSKC is a very exciting date in the school’s calendar. It is a great opportunity for schools to participate competitively in motor sports so that more kids can get involved.”

Over 1600 boys and girls from schools across the country are competing in this year’s competition, which has enabled both seasoned and novice karters to experience the thrill of motor racing while representing their school.

If the students make it all the way and are crowned winners of the national final in June, they will be given a VIP tour of the McLaren Technology Centre, which houses cars that have been used by Formula 1 racing legends, including Mika Hakkinen and Lewis Hamilton.

Mark Turner, Championship Manager at the BSKC, said: “Despite the cold temperatures, it was great to see such enthusiasm and commitment from all the schools involved in this regional final. The team from TBSHS had an amazing run of results scoring 99 points out of the maximum 100. They should be extremely proud of this achievement and I look forward to seeing them again at the national final in June.”

“Karting was the first step that most of today’s Formula 1 racing stars took into the exciting world of motor sport. By offering schools a simple route to karting, the BSKC has helped make it more accessible to children of varying abilities and encouraged young talent into the sport."

“The benefits of involvement go far beyond experiencing a new sport. Students rave about how participation in karting has improved their confidence and motivated them to work harder in all aspects of their school life. It has been particularly useful for students studying engineering, maths or physics who can apply a lot of what they learn on the track to their work in class.”

The BSKC is the largest schools karting competition in the country. It offers schools a cost-effective way to introduce students aged 13 to 18 to karting as all equipment and karts are provided by the local participating circuit. The students just need to turn up and drive.

Overall Results of London & South East Regional Final.

PosTeamPointsComment
1 TBSHS A 99 4 wins, 1 x 2nd & (3rd dropped)
2 DPHS supported by Sytners Mini 91  
3 St George's A 89  
4 Barnet & Southgate College A 86 1 win, 1 x 2nd
5 Campion A 86 1 win, 1 x 3rd
6 Reed`s School A 86 1 x 2nd, 1 x 3rd, 2 x 4th
7 Leigh Academy A 86 1 x 2nd, 1 x 3rd, 1 x 4th
8 Warden Park Academy 85 So close to qualifying!
9 Barnet & Southgate College B 84  
10 Caterham School Karting A 82  
11 Emmbrook Karting A 80  
12 Langley Park A 79  
13 TBSHS B 75  
14 OPGS D 71  
15 Leigh Academy B 70  
16 The Bulmershe School A 68  
17 Ranelagh A 66  
18 Hampton School 64 1 x 5th
19 Bushey A 64 1 x 6th
20 OPGS A 63  
21 Paddington Academy 61  
22 HALLIFORD B 59  
23 Leigh Academy H 52  
24 Bushey B 48  
25 Slough & Eton A 47  
26 Marlborough D 42 2 x 10th
27 Kingsdale Foundation School B 42 1 x 10th, 1 x 12th
28 Ranelagh D 42 1 x 10th, 1 x 13th
29 Slough & Eton D 41  
30 RES 39  
31 tideway thunder A 38  
32 Phoenix A 33  
 

 

Top McLaren Prize for the Next Generation of Formula 1 Stars

Mon 22 Oct 12
BSKC 2012 Champions, Caterham School, at the McLaren Technology Centre

The winners of the largest schools karting competition in the UK, the British Schools Karting Championship (BSKC), will be rewarded with a once-in-a-lifetime VIP tour of the McLaren Technology Centre, the place where McLaren’s Formula 1-winning cars are designed and built.

The prize for the 2013 champions has been provided once again by Vodafone McLaren Mercedes. “At Vodafone McLaren Mercedes, we’ve long supported ways for young people to learn about, understand and break into motorsport,” said Team Principal, Martin Whitmarsh. “The British Schools Karting Championship is a great way to encourage older school children to engage in a competitive racing environment without the financial burdens that accompany the sport at all levels. As such, we’re pleased to once again be able to offer a tour of the McLaren Technology Centre to the winners in 2013.

The winning team will be given a behind the scenes look at one of the most advanced factories in the world and some of the greatest race cars driven by racing legends including Ayrton Senna, Mika Hakkinen and Lewis Hamilton.

The champions will have the chance to see inside McLaren Racing, where the Vodafone McLaren Mercedes Formula 1 cars are designed and built, and then visit the astonishing 145 metre long wind tunnel where the performance of the cars is measured.

The BSKC is open to students aged 13 to 18 and is a cost effective way for schools to offer karting as a sport as teams do not need their own kart or equipment. Teams of three can simply arrive-and-drive at one of 66 participating karting circuits located across the country.

Mark Turner, Championship Manager at BSKC, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Vodafone McLaren Mercedes for offering such an inspirational experience to the winners of this year’s championship. McLaren drivers like Lewis and Jenson began their careers karting in the UK and it’s fitting that the victors will have an insight into where a career in motor sport can lead, whether it is as a driver or engineer.

To register for the BSKC, schools and racers should visit www.bskc.co.uk/register before the end of December 2012.

 

 

BSKC 2013 Registration now open - Competitive motorsports within reach for schools

Mon 24 Sep 12
The top 3 teams on the podium from the BSKC 2012

The top 3 teams on the podium at the BSKC 2012 Final

Schools across the UK can give their students the chance to race in the coveted British Schools Karting Championship (BSKC) 2013 by registering to participate from today. Teams that pay their entry before 31 October receive a discount that keeps the entry cost at the 2011 level of only £45 per student.

Now in its seventh year, the BSKC offers students aged 13 to 18 the opportunity to take part in an exciting, nationwide knockout karting competition that does not require previous experience, equipment or substantial expense. Any school, academy or college can enter the BSKC in teams of three by registering at www.bskc.co.uk/register

Mark Turner, BSKC Manager, said: “The competition was created to make competitive karting more accessible to schools. The BSKC appeals to students from different backgrounds and allows all abilities to take part. Since its launch in 2006, the BSKC has enabled students who are not interested in traditional sports to experience a highly engaging team sport and unleash a new talent. It has also allowed those who are already involved in karting to share their love of the sport with others at their school.”

Caterham School team with McLaren MP4-27 (left to right - Ben Dillon, Ivan May-Jones & Alex Jobson)

Caterham School team with McLaren MP4-27(left to right - Ben Dillon, Ivan May-Jones & Alex Jobson)

10 new kart circuits have already been added to the 2013 competition and the hope is that this will rise to over 15 before long. This should mean that schools have better access than ever before to race in the BSKC. As well as the overall BSKC champions, 10 regional champions will also be crowned for teams competing in London & South East, South West, East of England, Midlands, North East, North West, Yorkshire & Humber, South, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

The total cost of entry for the BSKC is £150 for a team of three students (£50 per driver). This includes the use of all equipment, a practice session and entry into the local heats and regional finals if the teams make it that far. However, if teams sign up before 31 October they can race for the same price as 2011 as the championship is offering early birds a £15 discount.

For more details please check out www.bskc.co.uk there is a weath of info about the championship and how to get involved! You can also follow them Facebook and Twitter @karting_bskc

 

 

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