NINE- year-old Welsh kart racer Henry Hales produced a sensational performance at the prestigious Shenington Kart Club Super Prix, securing the coveted E Plate and the title of English Champion after a weekend of racing.

Competing in the highly competitive IAME Waterwsift Restricted Cadet class, Henry dominated proceedings from the outset. He qualified on pole position, won both qualifying heats on the road and set a new Shenington track record of 49.14 seconds underlining the pace he had throughout the event.

The weekend was far from straightforward. In Heat two, an engine issue leaving parc fermé caused the kart to become heavily oiled, forcing Henry to start from the back of the grid.

Refusing to give up, he produced one of the drives of the weekend, carving his way through the entire field.

On the final lap and final corner, he made a bold move up the inside to take the lead. Contact between the karts resulted in a five-second penalty, denying him the official heat victory despite crossing the finish line first.

Undeterred, Henry lined up for the all-important Super Prix Final determined to put things right. Displaying impressive race craft, speed and composure beyond his years, he worked his way up to the front once again to claim the Super Prix Victory, earning his place alongside some of the sport’s most prestigious names engraved on the famous trophy.

As well as lifting the E Plate, Henry returned home with a boot full of prizes including karting apparel, an F1 LEGO set and a brand new set of tyres to support his racing season.

The victory marks Henry’s fourth consecutive championship win, including two clean sweeps, extending his lead in the Shenington Kart Club Championship and reinforcing his status as one of the championships standout young talents.

Racing as a privateer without the backing of a major team, Henry credits much of his performance to the outstanding engines supplied by Shox, saying he loves “the mega power” they provide. He also praised Shenington Kart Racing Club for everything it does to support grassroots motorsport and provide fantastic racing opportunities fornyoung drivers. He also extends he appreciation to Haberdashers’ Monmouth School for their continued support.

Henry said: I’m really enjoying my karting journey. Winning the Super Prix and becoming English Champion is amazing, especially with the new track record. Thank you to everyone who has supported me, especially Shrox for the incredible engine and Shenington Kart Racing Club for putting on such a brilliant event.

Henry hopes to inspire more young people into grassroots motorsport and would love to share his journey with others. People can follow his racing adventures, behind-the-scenes content and championship progress on his social media channels (Henry Hales Racing) as he continues chasing success on circuits across the UK.

Prizes were presented by Ella Stevens from the F1 Academy.