Hays takes home Stars of Karting trophy in Melbourne - From the GC Bulletin

GOLD Coaster Chris Hays took the next valuable step in his motorsport career when he clinched the pro gearbox class in the Castrol CIK Stars of Karting Series in Melbourne at the weekend.

Hays entered the round second in the championship chase to Kyle Ensbey, but had closed the gap to a single point heading into Sunday’s final day of competition.

When Ensbey came together with reigning champion Tyler Greenbury in the opening final, it all but ended his championship hopes. Greenbury was excluded from the race for his part in the incident.

From there Hays went on to win both 27-lap encounters to secure the Pro Gearbox (KZ2) championship and collect the $10,000 winner’s cheque, which will be put towards an international CIK event.

The victory was also great reward for Hays’ Yatala-based mechanic Jon Targett, who has long been recognised as one of the best karting brains in the world.

Hays’ name will also be etched on the Jon Pizarro perpetual trophy.

‘‘This is just an amazing feeling,’’ said Hays.

‘‘It’s been a tough battle all year but it’s great to have come out on top. I can’t thank Vodafone enough for their continued support, Jon Targett, Adam Graham from Energy Corse Australia, and my dad for everything he has put in to get me this championship.

‘‘You never like to see a championship rival on the sidelines like Kyle was in the opening final, but in the end we still showed that I had the speed to get the job done.’’

Finishing second behind Hays was Melbourne pair Lee Mitchener and Matthew Wall.

Melbourne’s Adam Hughes’ took out the Pro Light (KF1) title for JAM Racing to clinch the James Courtney perpetual trophy.

Canberra’s Cameron Hill entered the final day of the Pro Junior (KF3) with an insurmountable lead before signing off with a pair of victories.