South African Teen Racing at Legendary French Race Track

Teenager Ewan Taylor is representing South Africa in Le Mans at an awesome international karting event this weekend at the legendary Le Mans racetrack.

The 17-year-old will be racing in the IAME International 2015 which takes place at the historic race track.

Ewan is one of 33 international drivers taking part in the X30 shifter class (which includes a top speed of 160k/h, 0 to 100 – quicker than an F1, 175cc engine, slick tyres and 6-speed gear box).

Ewan’s inclusion in the race is made even more special by the fact that his dad, a former South African karting champion, raced at Le Mans in the ’80s.

His father, Barry Taylor, believes that mastering this type of kart is a great grounding for future racing stars.

Qualifying took place on Thursday evening and Ewan placed 9th in a top 10 of factory drivers (professional paid drivers) which Ewan is not!

According to his sister, Maxcine Taylor, “He is determined to do well…and will do his best to make his nation proud.”

After booking his tickets to France a couple of weeks ago, Ewan wrote on Facebook: “It’s that time of year again to take my SA flag and fly it high…3rd international event for me in my career – first in Italy at the Rok world finals then the super nationals XI in Las Vegas...3rd time lucky maybe???.”

He said it’s “going to be a dream come true to be right next to the famous Le Mans circuit and to be representing SA exactly where my dad did back in the 80’s. LETS GO RACING!!!”

Ewan’s first race today will be at 16:00 and the second race shortly after that. Finals are tomorrow.

The races will be broadcast live on YouTube :