Sixteen-year-old Jos Bardell began his karting career when he was just eight-years-old, and the past year has seen him competing in the F.A.T Karting League.
A talented young kart racer from Milton Keynes has earned his place at the World Finals of the F.A.T Karting League Pro Championship, but he needs the support of his community if he is to make the trip to California next month.
His hard work paid off when, on November 16, he cemented his invitation to the World Finals.
But the excitement has been tinged with sadness – the invitation to compete stateside came just as Jos' mum was made redundant. Jos' father, Neal, lives with a painful neurological condition meaning he is unable to work.
Acutely aware of his family circumstances, Jos previously told his parents that, should he make the cut, he wouldn’t take up his place in the finals.
“That was so heartbreaking to hear,” Claire said, “We know that motorsport is an incredibly expensive career, and this could be the closest he ever gets to his dream. If there’s any way we can make it happen for him, we will.
“We’re so proud of what Jos has achieved. He’s worked so hard and truly deserves this experience,” Claire added.
The family set up a Go Fund Me page, which has so far raised more than £1,400 – enough to cover a third of the trip’s costs.
Now, with his slot at the finals confirmed, they’re hoping to raise the rest of the money from family, friends, motorsport fans and local businesses.
“We’ve been overwhelmed by the generosity of our friends and family so far. Now, we need to look further afield. Any local businesses who are kind enough to support Jos will get a big shout-out!”
You can support Jos’ efforts by donating to https://gofund.me/54bbacfa1
Follow him on social media at: @josbardell_racing (TT) / @jos_bardell_racing (instagram)
