Young Melton karter on track thanks to June Roper Sports Trust

The Melton karter was selected to receive a grant from the June Roper Sports Trust, set up last year in memory of Hamilton Tennis Club’s first female club captain who played and coached tennis and badminton here for more than 68 years.

Chase has grown up watching his dad Henry race and was given an introductory lesson to karting for his sixth birthday.

Shortly after his first lesson, henry’s long-term sponsors Clifton Garage agreed to help buy the youngster his first kart, a Honda GX160, capable of a top speed of 55mph.

The accelerator was restricted to around half-power at the start, but after tuition and monthly testing with his dad and grandfather, Andy, the kart has been de-restricted and he is building up speed.

Due to his age, Chase will not be able to race until next year when he enters the Honda Cadet Championship at Stretton, and if all goes to plan Chase hopes to enter the national Super 1 Karting Championship when he is eight.

The six-year-old is keen to repay the trustees for their faith, and already has his own website - ChaseSharpe.com

Henry, who will be racing again in the MG Cup series in July, said: “I can’t believe how Chase has picked up the whole karting thing; he is focussed, dedicated and I’m so proud of him.

“When he is on track, you can see has the speed and I have no doubt, if he wants it, he will be a future motorsport champion.”