Shanaka Pursues Formula One Dream

For many elite sportsmen and women, success appears to come easily. Their skill level can make the most difficult tasks look incredibly simple. However, the journey to reach the very top level is always incredibly challenging, requiring dedication, determination and commitment over a prolonged period of time. Motor racing is a prime example, with drivers first having to learn their trade in karting before progressing to the glitz and glamour of Formula One.

Year 11 pupil Shanaka Clay holds aspirations to race in Formula One, a dream shared by thousands of young karters around the world. In the last 18 months, however, Shanaka’s efforts on the European junior racing circuit are beginning to show that the dream could become a reality.

Clay’s first major breakthrough came in 2013 when he won the prestigious Belgian Max Challenge. Having qualified in second, Shanaka took the lead early on and remained in front for the entire race to claim victory. With over 30 drivers on the grid, this was a hugely impressive achievement; even more so given that all karts have the same ‘Rotax Max’ engine, meaning the race outcome is purely determined by driver skill. Beating local favourite Max Timmermans was particularly satisfying, with the rivalry set to continue over the coming years.

In 2014, Shanaka joined Clay Pigeon Kart Club in Dorchester. On his debut at the Dorset circuit, the Shiplake star battled from the back of the grid past 15 competitors to top the podium. More excellent performances earned Shanaka the 2014 junior championship title. The next steps for Shanaka will be to move on to senior karting and Formula Ford. He hopes to utilise his connections with Mobil 1 back home in Sri Lanka. The oil giants currently sponsor Clay and this will hopefully open doors into the higher racing classes in the future.

Shanaka shares the same mechanic who guided Jenson Button through his early karting career, and hopes this omen will stand him in good stead to follow in his idol’s footsteps all the way to World Championship glory. Spectators have even commented that they share a similarly smooth driving style, with little steering movement.

Orchard Housemaster Mr Adam Mallins commented: ‘Shanaka’s achievements are hugely impressive and should not be underestimated. Karting does not receive much press coverage in this country but is very popular in Europe. If Shanaka continues his current rate of progress, he stands a very good chance of pursuing a long-term career in motor racing.’