WORLE Community School student Sam Stephens has had a brilliant start to the karting season at Dunkeswell Kart Racing Club, gaining his first podium place in the Minimax class.

WORLE Community School student Sam Stephens has had a brilliant start to the karting season at Dunkeswell Kart Racing Club, gaining his first podium place in the Minimax class.

Twelve-year-old Sam got off to a flying start on the Saturday practice day at the Mansell Raceway near Honiton, setting his personal best lap time.

The weather was changeable on the Sunday race day and it was difficult to decide tyre choices. Sam performed well in the heats and showed his skills have improved immensely since moving from Honda cadets to the Minimax class.

In the final, Sam was fourth on the grid and drove an impressive race in difficult conditions. After three laps, there was a heavy downpour and Sam showed great skill and tenacity in keeping his kart on the track.

He was rewarded with a deserved second place on the podium with last year’s Minimax champion at Dunkeswell taking first place.

Thanks go to Team Traxxion and for support from Worle Autos, Barber Co and Demon Tweeks. Any further sponsorship however small, would be much appreciated. All enquiries by e-mail to deb.stephens@sky.com