THIS year promises to be an exciting one for a young motorsport sensation from Hyde.
Thomas Rathbone competes in the Global Karting League series, an all-electric kart series founded by former Formula One engineer and director Rob Smedley, famous for his time with the Ferrari team during their dominant years with seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher.
Thomas has previously been champion at the Bambino class (aged six to nine) and has since moved into the Cadet class (aged nine to 12).
But the taste of success has not been deterred since he stepped up in class and competition.
Thomas kicked off his 2024 season with an impressive second-place finish in the Global Karting League O Plate round at Whilton Mill in Northamptonshire.
“Racing with a team backed by Rob, who has excelled at the very top level in motorsport, is a fantastic foundation for Thomas at such a young age,” said Thomas’s proud dad Gavin Rathbone.
“To also be learning and competing in electric karts just adds to his development, given the direction that motorsport is heading in for a sustainable future”.
Thomas will be bidding to be the Cadet Light Champion as he takes on the nine-round GKL National Championship, and it’s been a great start to the season with his first podium finish in Cadets.
Thomas’s first championship round will take place at Shenington circuit in Oxfordshire in March.
“Motorsport is renowned for being an expensive sport to compete in and we are extremely grateful for the support and backing that Rhino Events provide in their sponsorship,” Gavin added.
“They believed in his passion and ability from just seven years old and supported him ever since but, as Thomas’s career continues, we are always in need of more support and therefore we would be delighted to hear from any companies who would be open to supporting Thomas.”