Jack Barlow concluded his maiden season in the Junior Rotax category by finishing 4th overall in the British Super 1 Championship at Three Sisters near Wigan, last weekend (9/10 October). The Strawberry Racing driver was also the highest-placed rookie.

In a close-fought timed qualifying, Barlow recorded the ninth-fastest lap, but went far better in his two preliminary heats – taking 3rd and 2nd respectively.

This put him on the second row of the grid for the penultimate final of the eight-round series and after 22 laps of the fast, exciting Lancashire circuit he took the chequered flag in 3rd position.

In the opening laps of the title-deciding main final, a pulsating battle developed between Barlow and a small group of other drivers, who relentlessly chased each other over the undulating ribbon of tarmac.

He eventually settled for a fine 5th and said: “That was great. I really enjoyed the weekend. The racing was hard but fair and to end the championship with another trophy and finish in the points as top rookie is fantastic. I am very grateful to everyone at Strawberry Racing. It is thanks to their hard work, the brilliant Tony Kart EVR chassis and skill of Steve Ogden my engine tuner, that I have been able to get such a good result. Next year, I want to challenge for the overall championship.”

Although the Super 1 series has drawn to a close, Jack is still one of the title-protagonists vying for the Formula Kart Stars championship, which reaches its conclusion at Ellough Park near Beccles this weekend (16/17 October). He currently lies 2nd in the points table and says: “It won’t be easy but I will give it my best shot. Ellough is known for producing exciting, close racing and I hope that works to my advantage. We’ll just have to see!”