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Fastest in town

13/ 8/2008

MEET Oliver Hawksworth, the fastest 11-year-old in Littleborough.

Most weekends Oliver, of Hollingworth Lake, can be found hurtling round a racetrack at speeds of up to 70mph.

The Hollingworth High School pupil, who is based at the Daytona indoor karting centre in Manchester, is one of the North West’s leading young go-karters.

In 27 races he has achieved 24 podium finishes.

Last season he finished second in the Daytona In Kart indoor championship.

Next year he plans to step up to the British Karting Championships - the contest in which F1 driver Lewis Hamilton made his name.

Dad David said: "Oliver loves the fact that no-one else can do what he does, and it gives him a bit of kudos at school.

"It is about the adrenalin rush. The way he flies round the track I sometimes think he is a few sandwiches short of a picnic.

"But it is not just about racing, it is also about discipline and focus.

"I am a bit of a petrol head myself, and I think that’s where he got it from.

"I never got the opportunities he is getting, and I am happy to support him whatever he does."

Mike Yau, general manager at Daytona Manchester, said: "As well as being a great driver Oliver possesses all the qualities needed to succeed in the world of motor racing, dedication, determination, personality and the confidence to succeed."

Oliver, who next season will be driving for Hawk Racing, a team set up by his dad, is searching for sponsors. If you can help him, visit www.hawkracing.co.uk