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Jonathan began his motorsport career in 1999
at the age of 8 competing in the formula cadet class, which
covers an age range of 8 to 12.
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In his fifth year the decision to move up to
a junior class was determined by his weight. Potentially 2003
would have been Jonathan’s best year in the cadet class, but
with a minimum weight restriction of 95kg this will be exceeded
sufficiently to affect performance due to the relatively low
power output from the engines.
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After successfully testing a Formula Rotax
Minimax, during the winter of 2002/2003, Jonathan was entered in
the major events for 2003, which included the National Stars of
Tomorrow series, British Open Championship at Shenington and
Kartmasters. In addition he continued his association with the
local Hunts Kart Racing Club, which races at Kimbolton.
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The Formula Rotax Minimax class is for
competitors aged 11-16 and uses adult sized chassis and powerful
watercooled 125cc Rotax engines, which are restricted for
this class. There is however a significant jump in power and
cornering speed compared to the Cadet class.
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As soon as he turned 13 Jon moved up to the
Formula Junior Rotax class for 13 – 16 year old drivers,
competing at club, national and international level.
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Having raced karts for 6 years Jonathan
decided that he would like a new challenge. A visit to Brands
Hatch for the final round of the Aprilia RS125 Superteens
Championship gave him a taste for road racing.
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Just in case he did not take to bikes, it was
decided to combine karting and bike racing in 2005.
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A pair of Aprilia’s were obtained during the
winter and Jon managed to learn to ride a motorcycle at 2 wet
and cold practise days at Llandow in Wales in Feruary.
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Following a steady start at Brands Hatch in
March, Jon made rapid progress throughout the year with
substantial improvements in his lap times and race results to
finish 15th overall in the championship.
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He
will concentrate fully on road racing for 2006, with high hopes
of competing for top honours in both the Aprilia RS125
Superteens and ACU Star Championships.