Speedy Harris Beech fast tracked to glory

Harris Beech, from Alveley, wants to continue his impressive progress after a strong first year in the series.

The nippy 12-year-old claimed four third places as he went on to finish fourth in the championship, a feat all the more notable for the fact that, this time a year ago, he was yet to sit on a bike.

Dad Richard said: "It wasn't until last February that Harris tried out one of the Mini GP bikes for the first time, so his progress has been quite rapid.

"I went to a race meeting, saw the minibike race and thought it might be something he wanted to try out.

"He had no prior experience but really enjoys it. There is definitely some natural talent in there."

Were Richard not so modest, he might claim some of his son's ability had been passed through the genes after his own racing career in the Formula 400 Clubman series.

Even so, there is no question that watching his dad in action as a youngster helped nurture Harris' interest in motor sport.

Richard said: "He would only have been around five when I was racing but even then it gives them a taste for the sport.

"It is quite common. We all had families watching us and the kids would get the chance to look around the paddock and feel part of it all. They get interested in it that way.

"All the kids look up to the best in the world, like Valentino Rossi or Marc Marquez. Those guys themselves started on minibikes and this is a chance for the young lads to emulate their heroes.

"They have to start somewhere and this sets them on their way."

Though his race career may be at a very early stage, reaching the top of the sport is now Harris' ambition, according to his dad.

"That is what he wants do, what he talks about," continued Richard. "Obviously he is very young but getting into the British Superbikes or Moto GP is what he dreams of."

The MiniGP UK championship, which has the support of British Superbike veteran Michael Rutter, is open to youngsters aged between nine and 14.

Run by British Mini Bike Road Racing, it features 10 rounds taking place on outdoor karting tracks across the country.

Racers compete on 140cc bikes, which have a maximum speed of 70mph and operate on the same performance levels to ensure the racing comes down to the skills of the riders.

Since watching Harris compete last season, Richard has now taken an even greater interest with helping to run this year's series.

He said: "It's exciting. We had a strong year last year and we are hoping to do well this time.

"It goes without saying that compared to other sports, motor sport can get very expensive but this is a relatively cheap way to get involved.

"The races are competitive and most importantly of all, it's lots of fun too."

For more information visit www.minigpuk.co.uk or www.britishminibikes.com.