Start Your Engines: Henry’s Go-Karting Journey

We are always excited to discover inspiring stories involving young individuals!

This blog post is from Henry, a recent Achievement Award winner who has a passion and talent for go-karting!

About Me

Hi, my name is Henry Greenwood and I am 12 years old and live in Havering, Greater London.

My Achievement Award

I was really honoured to receive the Jack Petchey Achievement Award this year. My teachers at The Campion School in Hornchurch nominated me for the award in recognition of my achievements in go-karting and for inspiring other kids my age in the local community.

Henry holding his awards and trophies from his karting wins.

My Go-Karting Journey So Far

Go-karting is my favourite sport and I have been racing for about three years now. I race in a variety of competitions, with the highlight this year being Club100, which is a national championship. I won my first ever major final in May at Whilton Mill Racetrack in Northamptonshire. It was an amazing day and one of the highlights of my racing career to date.

Henry racing over the finish line holding a chequered flag , and a sign above him saying 'Henry Greenwood All Star Champion'.

Last year, at my home track in Brentwood, Essex, I won the Allstars Cup competing against 60 of the best young drivers in southern England, and at Buckmore Park in Kent, I won my first outdoor championship, being crowned the Junior Pro Summer Champion.

I’m currently ranked second in the UK and among the top 50 globally in the Sodi World Series, and if I can maintain this position at the end of 2024, I’ll get the opportunity to race in Europe, which would be an amazing experience.

My Superpower

Something a lot of people don’t know about me is that I was born with autism. Autism is sometimes referred to as a ‘hidden disability’ and it affects different people in different ways – that’s why it’s officially called autism spectrum disorder.

But far from being a disability, I see it as a superpower, especially when it comes to go-karting and studying at school. I can focus my mind on small details and it helps me to turn in consistent performances, especially on the racetrack.

Go-Karting

Go-karting is really competitive in the UK and all of the current Formula One drivers started out racing karts. Lewis Hamilton, Lando Norris and George Russell all raced tracks I race at now across the country, which is pretty exciting.

The karts I race can reach speeds of 60mph, which is an adrenaline rush. The racing is intense and competitive. Sometimes it can feel a bit like the Wild West on track!

Henry competing in a go-kart numbered 21, with two karters racing to catch up with him.

Before every race, I study the track in detail and try to memorise all of the braking points, apex points (the part of the corner you to want to hit to be fast) and acceleration points off each corner. This way, I can drive the shortest and fastest route, reducing my lap times and ensuring I’m on pace compared to other racers.

I do get nervous before big events but I love the competitive aspect of racing, as well as the friends I have made along the way, who all have similar interests to me.

My Advice

For anyone reading this who might be interested in karting, I’d suggest visiting your local track first for a fun session. There are plenty of options available. You could even try indoor karting, which is a great entry point to the sport as the karts are less powerful and easier to handle than some of the outdoor karts.

Lastly I’d say the one big lesson karting has taught me is that if you put your heart into something and have a passion, you can achieve anything you want. Remember there are no barriers to stop you from doing what you love.

Be yourself and try your best and good things will come.

A close-up shot of Henry with his helmet, the reflective visor covering his eyes.