- Jan 9, 2018
- 2 min read

A 7-year-old Formby schoolboy heads to Dubai to race in the O-Plate

A 7-year-old Formby schoolboy will be racing in the Dubai O-Plate on 19th January, that is, go-kart racing. The event sets local talent up against international drivers for top honours of becoming Dubai O-Plate Champions on the world renowned circuit.

Connor Scarisbrick, who goes to Trinity St Peters in Formby has been racing competitively since he was 5 years old in the Bambino class. This amazing young man is in two local Indikart championships at both Hooton Park in Ellesmere Port and three sisters in Wigan where he finished 2nd in both, missing out by just a couple of points. Connor also set the lap record at Burscough indoor track which was faster than adults!

Connor competed last year in the 2017 National BKC Championship, racing at tracks in England, Scotland and Wales with the 2018 season also including Northern Ireland.

Connors dad, Paul Scarisbrick, who is a mechanic said: "Connor actually loved motorbikes. To start with and he rode his first motorbike at 4 years-old, but we felt a little more comfortable with him driving 4 wheels, so we got him a quad bike and would have days out as a family with his quad and our adult quad. We then took him to Daytona in Manchester for sessions in a go-kart to see if he liked it, which he did. There is a great deal of discipline required and the rules with flags etc are followed very seriously, as is the race and respect value."

"Racing go-karts nationally is something that Connor loves to do. He races and practices at weekends or in school holidays, for those races further away, we will drive straight from school on a Friday. He’s been granted authorised time off for Dubai by the school who are very supportive."

"Connor races at speeds of up to 50mph. He wears full safety such as rib/neck and fully homologised clothing and helmets. He competed in the London cup which was televised on Motorsport TV on Sky but, unfortunately he had engine issues on the day which resulted in a 12th place overall finish. He will be competing on the 19th January in the Dubai Oplate which he is really excited for. He has made great friends from all over the country and loves winning trophies."

Connors family are looking to see if any local businesses are interested in sponsoring him this season as it’s an expensive and self funded sport. If any businesses are interested, they should contact Paul Scarisbrick on Tel: 07841917453 or message Connors Facebook page. You can sponsor anything from a pair of gloves to an engine.

You can find out more on Connor's Facebook page 'Connor Scaz 28' which also shows more pictures and a few videos.

Good Luck in the Dubai O-Plate Connor, Formby will be rooting for you!