A huge congratulation goes to Henry F in Ōrongomai for his amazing achievement at the National Sprint Championships were held at his home track, Kartsport Canterbury, over Easter weekend. Henry won the final, crowning him with a national title as cadet NZ1.

Henry races as part of the WKS Kartstore team Halswell and competes in the cadet class. The event, which is normally split over three days, was run over one day per class to allow for possible COVID restrictions. During the course of the day, Henry raced 1 x 8 minute qualifying round, 3 x 12 lap heats, and 1 x 18 lap pre-final. Accumulative points from the heats and pre-final gave Henry a starting grid position of P3 for the 24 lap final. It was a hard day of racing in the wet and windy conditions, but a great test of character.

To make his achievement even more remarkable, Henry only started karting 18 months ago. For the last six months, he has been dreaming of a spot on the podium at the National Sprint Championships and worked hard to develop his race craft by putting in hours of practice and race time at events.

He has been fortunate to have great coaches and mentors who have both competed on the world stage. Tiff Chittenden and Matt Hamilton have taught Henry invaluable lessons both on and off the track about competing in a sport at national level and the power of believing in yourself.

Naturally competitive by nature, Henry is looking forward to more challenges. His love for the sport is evident and he has made some wonderful friends along the way. Being able to shake the 'champagne' bottle and spray it on fellow drivers on the podium was an exciting highlight for Henry!

Great work Henry! We are all proud of you.