Meet farm boy vying to swap sheep shearing for F1
A 12-year-old racing driver who helps shear sheep on his family's farm will attempt to become a world champion next month.
Tom, from Louth, in Lincolnshire, has the nickname "The Farmer" and is preparing to represent Team UK at the Grand Finals in Bahrain after qualifying for the global competition in September.
The boy, whose mum said he was fuelled by steak, chips and milk, has already won 70 trophies since being introduced to karting at the age of eight.
"I normally help with the sheep and driving the tractors around the farm. It builds up my muscles, which helps me in my sport," he said.
Tom's parents, Sally and James, will travel with their son to the Middle East on "an immense journey" to become world champion.
"To get to Bahrain, it's a dream. We're so proud of him. He loves his animals, tractors, anything with an engine," Sally said.
"When we're going out to race, he loves his steak and chips and a pint of milk.
"We're often asked if we have a cow tethered up outside, the amount of milk he drinks. It keeps his bones strong and has kept him racing."
Tom was signed by Strawberry Racing in 2023 after being spotted by the team while racing at PF International Circuit at Brandon near Grantham.
James said: "He started at an old Lancaster base at Woodthorpe. He just rocketed from there. Every waking hour he's thinking about karting and racing."
Tom is inspired by current Formula One driver Lando Norris and said he wants to follow in his footsteps.
"Most of the Formula One grid started in karting and won world finals. I just need to do the same."
The Grand Finals in Bahrain are from 29 November to 6 December.
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