Jayden from Boksburg is SA’s new karting world champion
Twelve-year-old Jayden Els flew the country's colourful flag highest in Italy recently as he was crowned world champion following his victory in the Rotax Mini Max Grand Finale.
The event took place between October 18 and 22.
The Laerskool Baanbreker learner starred throughout racing week in Italy, but was caught out by tough conditions in the penultimate race on Friday, subsequently beginning the final race on Saturday in 10th position.
From there, however, the young star had the race of his life.
From his starting position, he moved to fifth position by the end of the third lap before taking the lead in lap six in the 12-lap final. He maintained his lead before running away with the win to be crowned champion.
Canadian Thomas Nepveu and Finland international Nurmi Tino rounded off the top three.
Els competed in the open race for karters aged between eight and 13 during the Rotax Max African Open earlier this year, which he won. This secured his seat for the Rotax World Finals he has just won.
The Rotax Max Grand Finals are considered to be the biggest karting world tournament comprising the best drivers from around the globe, racing on the most even playing field, making the winners legitimate world champions.
Now at only 12 years of age, Els has earned his place among the country’s world champion legends.
His team manager is racing icon and current rally SA champ, Leeroy Poulter.
Els was one of 13 members who qualified to represent SA at the world finals. –
@SabeloBoksburg
