HAMPSHIRE racing starlet Brody Crockford has followed in his father’s tyre marks after completing his debut MiniGP50 Motorcycle British Championship in spectacular style.

The 11-year-old from Blackfield in the New Forest finished an eye-catching campaign with a pole position, a new lap record and a race triumph in the final round of the competition at Mallory Park in Leicestershire.

His on-track exploits mirrored those of his father, John Crockford, who is a former British Superbike rider, of 15 years ago.

The Applemore College student finished 6th overall in the championship, with lack a of winter testing meaning he started the season on the back foot.

But he steadily increased his pace throughout the year, chasing down the lap record and was very confident going into the last round.

He said: “From the first time I exited pit lane, I immediately felt comfortable but had no idea I would go on to get pole, fastest lap and win on my first time on a big bike circuit.

“My father completed the same ‘gentleman’s set’ as it is known, 15 years ago at the same track.”

John completed the same feat at the iconic circuit in 2001 when he rode for the factory backed Crescent Suzuki squad on the Suzuki GSXR1000 in the British Superstock series.

“Brody has been working hard all year on his riding and it all came together for the last round” said proud dad, John.

“We couldn’t complete any pre-season testing due to my work commitments, so he was always going to be a step behind the main title contenders.

“But he remained focussed, put in the effort and took to the larger circuit like a duck to water.

“We are so proud of what he achieved.”

For 2017, Brody will go up a class and will race in the Cool FAB Racing MiniGP70 Championship, the top tier in the schoolboy British Championship series, aboard the CPE Motosport backed Metrakit GP70.

“I am made up after my win at Mallory and cannot wait until next season.” said Brody. “I would like to thank CPE Motorsport and all sponsors for their continued support and am looking forward to a successful 2017 season which starts in March with pre-season testing in Spain”.