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Ladner kart racer representing Canada at world event in Italy

Kieran Hartley headed back to the Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals for the second straight year

Ladner kart racer Kieran Hartley will be representing his country for the second straight year at the 20th edition of the Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals, this time at the Circuito Internazionale di Napoli in Sarno, Italy.

The Grade 6 student at Sacred Heart earned the trip to Europe by capturing the Mini Max Class at the Western Canadian Karting Championship, held over three weekends —  in Chilliwack, Regina, and Edmonton —  during the summer. 

Hartley was not only the overall champion but won all three races.

A year ago at the Grand Finals in Brazil, he finished the final in the top half (17 of 36), competing against racers as old as 13 and was sitting fifth at one point of the race. It was a performance that helped earn him Canadian Karting News’ Young Driver of the Year.

His hopes and expectations are greater this year having experienced and performed on the world stage in 2018. His goal is to crack the top 10 and would love to make the podium as he once again is the youngest driver for Canada and is very much looking forward to being back with the best in the world.

There are a total of 10 drivers on Team Canada for the Rotax Grand Finals which will take place Oct. 19-26. There will be 360 kart racers from about 60 nations racing for the title in six categories.

Hartley’s 2019 season also includes leading his club championship, being perfect in the first six races; finishing first in qualifying, pre-final race and in the final.

He also captured a Winter Cup race and two club races in Edmonton.