Hugh, 12, ready to take racing career up another gear

A Lynn youngster is ready to take his sporting career up another gear as he aims to make his mark on the national karting scene.

Hugh Hobson, 12, only stepped into a kart three years ago but is now competing for the Sodi UK factory team as he continues his remarkable rise on the track.

“For me, this year has been about gaining experience and entering lots of different competitions and championships at various different levels,” said Hugh, who hasn’t looked back since first visiting North Pickenham back in 2020.

Hobson, a pupil at the King’s Lynn Academy, added: “I started at my local karting centre in for fun. I got faster and faster until I was the fastest there and I wanted to take it to a more competitive level.

“I joined the Club100 Championship and then moved over to SODI Vitesse a year later.

“Competing in the Kart Masters GP against some of the best racing drivers in the UK was a huge highlight of my career. Going forward, I would like to start off my junior career strong and of course win races.”

The Year 8 pupil takes inspiration from F1 drivers Niki Lauda and George Russell while his favourite race venue is the Paul Fletcher International Track in Grantham.

He has already overcome the setback of having to rebuild his original engine while the youngster’s driving talents were soon recognised by karting academy Sodi Vitesse, who have seen the likes of Charles Leclerc, Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly progress through their ranks.

Sodi Vitesse competes in events throughout the UK and Europe within various classes, including the Ultimate Karting Championship.

Combining racing with his everyday life has been tough, but the Lynn speedster has had the full support of his school, his parents and fellow drivers.

Hobson said: “My school have been very supportive and understanding when I have to take time off to attend driver training each week.

“Because I enjoy it so much, racing is a big part of my everyday life, and I couldn’t imagine not doing it.

“Two drivers who have helped me with tuition and knowledge along the way are Lucas Blantford who also races for SODI, and Harry Freeman.

“Every weekend I’m racing somewhere or another, so I don’t get much free time, but that’s a sacrifice I’m willing to make to further my career.”