Kyan Davie says finishing third in his rookie ITM New Zealand Formula Ford season massively exceeded his expectations.
The 16-year-old was one of the youngster drivers in the field. He only began racing cars three years ago.
Davie claimed top-three results in four of the first six races this year. He then scored a 23rd, tenth and 12th in the Formula Ford Festival to seal third spot in the national championship.
The former speedway racer admits finishing on the series podium was originally an ‘unrealistic’ ambition.
“Finishing third in the championship honestly initially felt unrealistic,” Davie told Velocity News.
“Transitioning to Formula Ford was a step up from anything else I had driven before.
“My on-track and off-track maturity has grown in a big way. So, I am super proud to be third in my rookie year.”
A big part of Davie’s success in his debut season was his consistency.
He reached the chequered flag in each of the nine races this season, ensuring he continued to add to his points tally every race.
Now, Davie is eager to return for a second season with the target of challenging for the championship trophy.
The 2021/22 championship is set to return to the Speedworks Events fold, which should mean more rounds at more circuits around the country.
“Next season we do plan on doing another season of Formula Ford,” he said.
“I want to take what I have learnt this season and hit the ground running for this coming season and do the best I can.
“This coming season should be fantastic with returning to Speedworks.
“I’m also looking forward to see the new rookies coming into the class.”
This year’s New Zealand Formula Ford title was awarded to James Penrose, who beat Matthew McCutcheon in a thrilling final race in Christchurch.
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