Fothergill claws Leopard Lights

CIAN Fothergill just eclipsed his mate Johnny Grother to take out the Leopard Light class of the Queensland Karting State Titles at the weekend and was a corner away from adding the Clubman Light crown to his achievement.

In the extremely crisp climate of Warwick, it was one-two Gladstone across the line in the Leopard Light class final, with the duo splitting the races two wins apiece, but it was national champion Fothergill who prevailed.

In the final of the Clubman Light, Fothergill had to be content with a third-place finish after being taken out.

He’d been shaping up for some fast racing and was stoked about having the number one plates on for the first time after winning the two national titles in Perth recently.

"I was racing really well and both karts were singing," he said.

"I pretty much thought I’d be coming away with two wins in the two classes."

Qualifying in both finals on poll and nearly taking both was a highlight for the reigning CIK Pro Light champion, who now sets his sights on round for of the national CIK series in Eastern Creek next month.

A Gladstone contingent including Craig Butler, father Keith, Denis Butler and Jason Faint entered different classes at the state titles and had differing results.

Travis Martin’s performance in the Leopard Heavy was worthy of note, as he took it right up to his rivals in the category.

His driving was exceptionally competitive and while not making the podium, he excelled in the class and was at the top of his game.

In the rookies class, young drivers Josh Rogers, Francis Dunnett, Jack Bussey and Connor Smith had excellent pace in the qualifying races, but as the meet wore on the experienced karters from down south proved to be too fast.

The weekend’s racing was an ideal preparation for the up-and-comers, as they look towards the Queensland Closed Titles to be held here in Gladstone in September.