Young Elliot Paterson, from Crieff, already has his sights set on later life as he took the next step in becoming a full time racing driver at Knockhill last week.
The Perthshire youngster has already been a Karting Champion, but at Knockhill he successfully passed his Junior A.R.D.S test (Association of Racing Drivers School) and now holds a Junior Motor Sport Association Race Licence, allowing him to compete in the highly competitive Ginetta Junior Championship in 2012. The Championship is for 14-17 year olds and is the youngest race category in the UK, visiting prestigious venues such as Silverstone, Brands Hatch and Elliot’s home track Knockhill as part of the British Touring Car package which will be in Fife on August 25th / 26th next year.
Knockhill Event’s Director Stuart Gray said “there is no doubting Elliot’s potential as a racer. The instructor comments were exceptional and there is no doubt that Elliot will be mixing it with Britain’s best the moment he takes to the track”.
Elliot’s father Russell said “From the moment Elliot could walk, he eats, sleeps and breathes Motorsport and we are delighted that the Ginetta Junior opportunity is happening in 2012. He has been a Champion is every discipline so far and the Ginetta’s are a recognised first rung up the motor sport ladder. It will be a learning year in 2012, and hoping for some strong performances along the way to build up knowledge and racecraft.
The Ginetta Juniors race throughout the UK and our home event at Knockhill will be a highlight I’m sure.”
Elliot is pictured here with his 2012 race car, an 1800cc Ginetta Junior G40 sports car, capable of approximately 130mph.