2:23pm Saturday 16th May 2009
WHILE most 14-year-olds are playing football and computer games, Aaron McClure has been getting behind the wheel of a Formula 1000 specification Nissan Micra rally car.
Qualifying to drive in the Junior 1000 Rally Championship has not been easy.
Aaron has had to complete three Autotests and obtain signatures to prove that he had completed each event and shown good car control skills.
He then had to pass a British Association of Rally Schools test, as does anyone wanting to drive on Stage rallies.
Next he faced an F1000 entry test, which looks at the understanding of theory and driving before letting teeangers loose in a car.
All his free time has been spent working in the garage with dad Paul, Trevor Smith, Gary Rigg and other enthusiasts to ensure the car was ready for its first competitive outing at Three Sisters Kart Circuit in March.
The car is prepared to the same specification as any other Stage rally car.
It has been completely strengthened, the brake and fuel lines put inside the car, a full safety cage fitted in, a fire extinguisher plumbed in and up-rated seats and six-point seats belt added.
This is all done to conform to the required standard to be issued with an MSA logbook and the Championship regulations.
"I really appreciate all the help and support I have received,” said Aaron. “It has been overwhelming. Now It’s down to my driving and Trevor’s instructions.
“Oh and Mum, don’t worry, I’m not going to go that fast," says Aaron with a huge grin on his face!
After two rounds of the Championship, Aaron and Trevor were lying eighth in the Championship.
Aaron expressed huge thanks to everyone who has helped him out at the garage.
He has personal sponsorship from Wild Cat Marine, K.J. Gibbons and Kirkby Lonsdale MC under their member’s sponsorship scheme and help with tyres from A. I. Harrison.
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