RL Racing Departments Jack McCarthy is targeting a top three finish in the 2013 Euro Max Challenge after a competitive maiden outing in the annual curtain raiser to the international Rotax season (9/10 Feb).McCarthy, who finished 8th overall in the Super One Mini Max championship last season, made an impressive bow in both international competition and the Junior category.The 12-year old quickly adjusted to the cut and thrust of the faster kart and the fast Andalucian circuit.He did really well, said Steve Armstrong, owner of RL Racing Department. Jack had never seen Campillos before, so for him to qualify 7th-fastest overall and then run strongly in the heats - whilst learning all the time - shows what potential he has.

11th, 10th and 14th place finishes in his three heats saw McCarthy qualify for the pre-final grid in 11th place.

It proved to be a tough race, but Jack stuck to the task in hand and battled to an eventual 13th place at the chequered flag.

When you get to the finals, you tend to find the racing becomes even more brutal and Jacks inexperience showed. He drove extremely well but his lack of international race craft prevented a higher finish, observed Armstrong.

Buoyed by the 2008 Euro Max champions coaching and advice, Jack went on to cross the line in 10th place in the final.

Im delighted. Finishing 10th out of 34 and at his first attempt shows his potential. He loved the whole experience and coped well with the hard, fast action on track. At times it overwhelmed him a little, but the racing did seem harder this year. It used to be a little gentler and less aggressive, but thats how we race in the UK, so over the coming season, I dont see why we shouldnt be targeting entry into the Rotax Grand Finals with a top three finish in the Euro Max Challenge. Jack will drop back into Mini Max at home and I think he has what it takes to go for the Super One title.

For more information about racing with RL Racing Department, call Steve today on 07843 586 416