HIS INTENSIVE preparation for the upcoming GSAT examination has kept him away from the practice sessions at the go-kart track, but 10-year-old Thomas Issa remains focused and hungry for racing.

And the Sts Peter and Paul Preparatory School student could spring some surprises at next Sunday's race meet. His father, Christopher, recently purchased some equipment ( two chassis) to fine-tune his son's karts.

When he takes the track next week, he will be challenging long time rival Colin Daley Jr, who according to reports, turned in a good performance at the Florida Winter Tour race meet, held in Miami last weekend. The other competitor in the Rotax Mini-Max Class is William Myers.

Because of long list of contestants in the 80cc Class, the event has been transformed into a stellar affair.

"No one man is going to dominate this class," said Sam Law, the father of the defending champion, Jonathan.

A report on the Jamaica Karting Association website about the previous meet, speaking specifically to the 80cc Class described the atmosphere in race meet number one.

"There were no words to describe the events of this class. Kids wanting to have fun, being super competitive, meeting expectations of parents are sure to bring about spills and thrills. So said so done! This was the largest class of the day with an 11-kart grid. Jonathan Law (defending champion) quickly made his mark and let everyone know why he is the champ."

The report further said: "With clear air this kid is FAST. Marc Anthony Eaton, Justin Sirgany, Joshua Sirgany have all clearly been tested over the break and the championship looks to be a nail-biter."