Toyota’s young kart star Morgan McColl is on the verge
achieving a lifetime ambition of racing in Europe.
It is hard to believe that the softly spoken, almost shy, 15-year old Klerksdorp resident has been racing for almost a decade. When Toyota and long-time motor sport partners Castrol started the successful Castrol/Toyota Development programme in 2004 Morgan was one of the first drivers to be signed.
It is hard to believe that the softly spoken, almost shy, 15-year old Klerksdorp resident has been racing for almost a decade. When Toyota and long-time motor sport partners Castrol started the successful Castrol/Toyota Development programme in 2004 Morgan was one of the first drivers to be signed.
Since those early days in the Cadet class he has worked his way to the front of very competitive fields and always flown the flag proudly no matter what the result. Entertaining and hard fought victories have been celebrated with enthusiasm, so much so that he’s become a celebrity in his hometown.
Currently leading the Northern Regions Junior Rok championship by a narrow seven point margin, he has been invited to compete in the Rok World Cup in Italy.
The event takes place at Lonato, Italy from 12-16 October and the Junior Rok class is regarded as one of the most competitive classes of kart racing and he will be up against 96 other hopefuls. Toyota’s former kart world champion and multiple South African motorsport champion Leeroy Poulter will accompany him to Italy.
What makes McColl’s achievement particularly remarkable is the amount of dedication he and his father Robbie have shown over the years. Living in Klerksdorp means there are very few testing opportunities as a visit to his nearest track means a round trip of some 300km.
Other drivers in the Castrol/Toyota Development squad have also had good results.
Aged only six Goitsimang Ramogale is the youngest driver in the team and currently holds second place in the Cadet class of the Northern Regions kart championships. His elder brother, Lehlohonolo aka ‘Lucky’ recently stepped up to the Mini Rok class from the Junior GP ranks and despite the fact that he’s up against established stars, he’s acquitted himself well and is already looking for a top 10 position.
Now in its eighth year, the Castrol/Toyota Development programme is regarded as the most successful in South African motorsport.
STORY BY TOYOTA
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