Nine-year-old Partington rides to state karting glory

NINE-YEAR-OLD Arthur Partington has capped off a dream year on the track, racing off with the 2025 Geelong Kart Club Championship and the Australian Auto-Sport Alliance (AASA) state title.

Partington is proving to be one to watch in the karting world, taking out the awards in the cadet 9s and novice categories respectively.

The Geelong Kart Club Championship was won off the total amount of points from the year’s races, with Partington’s consistency earning him the award.

“I felt really proud of myself,” he said.

“Last year, I only won about three races, and this year I’ve managed to achieve the championship, so it makes me really proud.

“It’s a dream come true.”

For the AASA state title, Partington had to win his way to the award on a busy day of racing last month.

He claimed a blue plate for the win, a highly sought-after piece of silverware that indicates his skill on a national level.

“It was really good, because some new kids came and I made a few friends,” Partington said.

“I was really proud and happy. It was the best thing that’s ever happened in my life.”

Partington had to choose between getting into go karting or motorbiking, choosing the former and never looking back.

“My first couple of races, I came around fifth and sixth, but since then I’ve just been getting better and better,” he said.

“I get to go at high speeds, race other people – it’s honestly just so much fun!”

After a successful year, Partington has set his sights on becoming an international racer as he continues his career.

“My goals are to be known around the world and to make it to F1, F2 or F3,” he said.

Partington thanked his parents, his friend Tyler and the Geelong Kart Club for his support.