Motorsport: Kiwi karting prodigy Jacob Douglas aiming for the top

Kart racing has been the breeding ground for some of the world's greatest drivers and a Christchurch teenager Jacob Douglas has just claimed a New Zealand-first in the sport.

Picked from the best 12-14-year-old drivers from more than 40 countries, Douglas is off to compete in Europe in May.

"I'm really excited," said Douglas. "It's different to what I've done before.

"I'm keen to make everybody proud.

A two-time national champion, he's raced overseas before - including a win last year in Thailand. 

He's the first Kiwi to make the cut for the Karting Trophy academy series in Italy and Germany.

Douglas, who's in his first year at high school, doesn't lack for ambition either.

Karting is the launch pad for many of the world's best, including Kiwi Scott Dixon and Lewis Hamilton, whose feats he's looking to replicate.

"I'd like to make a career out of it - drive Formula One or Supercars. That would obviously be my dream."

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