BOY racer Jake Packun is in pole position for a career in motor sport as his impressive karting season continues writes Chris Hall

Hot on the heels of a strong victory at the Rowrah Kart Racing Championship, Edgworth 12-year-old Jake returned to the same Cumbria circuit last weekend to clinch a top-20 finish in the latest round of the British Championship.

The 18th-placed finish could actually have been much greater but for an overzealous competitor forcing him off the track in a badly-judged overtaking maneouvre, which left him to start the final from back in 24th position on the grid.

Now with two rounds left in the national champoionships, the next being at Wigan's Three Sisters circuit on August 18, Jake lies in a respectable 22nd position.

But, despite sitting some 16 places higher than last year, father Ray claims his son has much greater success in his sights.

"We were absolutely gutted about the result," he said.

"We were all set for our best grid position ever when he was taken off the track by a lad who was going too fast. We were really hoping to break into the top 15 in the table with this race but he's definitely doing a lot better than last year and coming along nicely.

"I want him to end up having a career in motor sport but at which level, I'm not sure. Most of the best Formula One racers start off in karting so it's a great start for him."