Daley dreams of Formula One
Published:Monday | September 13, 2010 | 12:00 AM
Jermaine Lannaman, Gleaner Writer
Colin Daley Jr says it was a thrilling experience for him to overcome an asthmatic condition and the flu to finish third at the recent Pan American go-kart race meet in Miami, Florida.
Regarded as one of the brightest driving prospects in the country, 13-year-old Daley Jr. who one day hopes to become a Formula One driver, was overcomed with sickness shortly before his first race at the meet.
Unable to breath properly, he proceeded to use a nebuliser to help clear his lungs, and after doing so went on the track.
Seventh spot
In his first race, which was a qualifier for the pre-final, after falling behind, he returned to claim seventh spot. In the pre-final, he pulled off an amazing upset to claim pole position.
He then went on to the grand final and after experiencing technical difficulties with his kart, fell behind.
Daley recovered, however, to place third in the race
It is not the finish though that earned the teen most kudos.
"It was a thrilling experience as it was hard for me to drive and be as competitive as I was before. However, in the end, despite me having challenges with breathing, I was able to pull through," said Daley Jr.
"My dream is to become a Formula One driver. If not Formula One, I would like to become a professional race car driver.
"However, my focus right now is my studies and preparing for my CXC exams, " the St George's College third former added.
Fourth international appearance
One of 500 athletes in the world and the only one in the English-speaking Caribbean who is sponsored by Red Bull, Daley Jr's finish was his fourth international podium appearance since the start of the year.
He finished second twice and emerged champion once in the previous races.
Daley also finished 12th out of a pool of over 50 drivers at the prestigious US Grand Nationals in Indiana, while competing at a Rotax Junior level event.
Daley Jr's next race is expected to be this weekend where he plans to feature in one of several Jamaica Karting Association races at the Palisadoes International Raceway.