2016 CIK-FIA Best-of: Bradshaw, the first British winner of the Academy Trophy

For his second participation in the CIK-FIA Karting Academy Trophy, the Briton Callum Bradshaw dominated the Competition reserved for young talents aged 13 to 15 from around the world, competing on one-make karts. Although he was one of the oldest of the 2016 vintage, Callum has not least demonstrated great maturity for a driver who ultimately doesn’t have a long experience of Competition.

Callum, how has your short career in Karting gone so far?
– In fact, I started Karting fairly recently compared to some of my competitors. I started racing only in 2012, at Whilton Mill, the nearest track to my home. I first raced in the Cadet category, then X30 Junior from last year with some success. I also participated in the British Karting Championship in OK-Junior this year.

Was the second season in Academy difficult for you?
– For sure my experience in 2015 was helpful, but the equipment had changed with the arrival of Exprit / Vortex / Vega. It is always difficult to fight on equal terms, especially as the top level is excellent because they are the best representatives of each country. It really is the driving that makes the difference. Depending on the circuit, we know from testing if one has the speed and if we will be able to aim for victory.

The season started well for me as I won in France and I would have been able to in Portugal too, without an incident which delayed me. With the win and the 2nd place, I had an interesting lead into the final round in Sweden. Fortunately, as I was far enough ahead during Qualifying Practice. I gave the maximum to do well on the final finish line to honour my victory in the Trophy. I am particularly proud to have won the CIK-FIA Karting Academy Trophy for Britain, with the support of the MSA, because this is the first time that a Briton has won. I am very happy to have won the place offered by OTK Kart Group for the CIK-FIA World Junior Championship in Bahrain.

What are your long term plans?
I’m attracted to car racing, but it is a question of financial resources. Meanwhile, I think I’ll move to X30 Senior, an established category in Britain. I don’t have the budget to compete in OK for an international season with a good team. But then I see myself moving to the KZ category.

Info CIK-FIA / © Photo KSP