Each week we are speaking to our 2019 Champions and ask them some all important questions to see what makes them tick.
This Week is 2019 IAME Cadet Top Rookie – Ethan Jeff-Hall
How did you get started in the sport?
I was on a family holiday in Guernsey when I first drove a kart, they were coin operated and quite slow by Motorsport UK Bambino and Cadet standard but I was only 2 years old. Every time we went on holiday I asked to go on the karts and started to watch a lot of karting videos on YouTube. This continued until I was 5 years old when my parents finally gave in to my continual pestering and took me to Manchester Daytona. 9 weeks after starting at Daytona I broke the indoor track record and went on to set the lap record a total of 10 times before the staff suggested I try outdoor karting.
After passing my ARKs test at the Three Sisters Circuit, my first MSA Race as a fully-fledged cadet was at Rowrah in October 2016. I finished 7th in that one but took the prize for top novice. I went on to win all 5 of my novice races, came 13th in NKF and won the MBKC Rookie Cup.
What was the highlight of your ‘Rookie’ title winning year?
There were so many highlights from the season but the standout memory for me was my podium finish where I placed 3rd in round 9 of the Championship at Wigan, the day before my 11th birthday.
What was your low point last season?
As for many competitors, the low point for me was being disqualified from a very wet and difficult Round 11 at Whilton Mill. I felt I had driven a great race finishing 7th on track and only exceeded track limits when pushed wide into Ashby. The disqualification ultimately cost me 4th Place in the Championship and by just 1 point, but it did spur me on to improve and finish 4th in Round 12 the next day.
Why do you enjoy competing in Karting and the BKC?
Racing Britain’s top drivers on several challenging tracks has to be the ultimate challenge for any driver. It is the perfect opportunity to improve your race craft and finding those last few tenths of a second in pace.
What’s your favourite circuit?
I have a real passion for GYG. I spent several winters and off season testing at GYG and there was plenty of wet testing too.
Who has been your toughest rival?
I try to see every other driver on the grid as my competition, I don’t focus on any one particular driver as a rival. When pressed for an answer, I would say one of my best friends from karting was an inspiration and probably my toughest rival that I shared the track with, especially after plenty of racing and test days together – 2019 Motorsport UK Champion, Harley Keeble.
When we do get underway, what are your hopes for the new season?
I have my sights firmly set on the ultimate result, my aim is to be the 2020 British Cadet Champion and showcase the OTK Chassis.
Due to the delayed start to the season what are you planning on doing with this unexpected time off from racing?
I’m trying to maintain good health and race fitness whilst concentrating on school work and friendships both in and out of motor sport.
We wish Ethan and everyone in the BKC well. Stay safe and look after each other. We will be back in action before you know it #StayOnTrack