Injury can’t slow Drew - From the Central Coast Advocate

Drew, 15, of Matcham, secured the biggest win of his career when he took out the Junior Clubman category at the Australian Karting Association national titles at Cameron Park Raceway, Newcastle, last month.

He said the victory was “overwhelming”.

“It was very emotional and all such a blur,” Drew said. “It has given me confidence and the belief I can compete with the best in Australia.”

Drew had to work hard for the win, after qualifying ninth in the 30-kart field.

He finished with a fifth, second and a Did Not Finish in the heat races, to start off fifth in the pre-final, where he was able to get to the lead early and take the win.

Even though he started from pole position, Drew didn’t lead the final from the race start, instead falling to second then third early.

But he was able to hold his nerve and stick to his race plan to secure the win.

“My friends and family had come out to watch me in the final, so as the other karts started to fall away, it gave me confidence to try and pass them and pull away for the win,” he said.

The victory was all the more impressive given that Drew was competing with a fractured wrist he had sustained one week earlier.

Rather than take all the credit, Drew was quick to thank his supporters, especially his family and CRGKarts.

Drew is the latest Central Coast nominee for the NewsLocal Junior Sports Star of the Year award, which is sponsored by Rebel Sport.