John White (left) claimed this year’s 85cc two stroke and 150cc four stroke big wheel state titles for 12 to 15 year olds, edging out another local, Jack Lyas.

“It was so close throughout the whole year, I was lucky to score enough points to win the title,” John said.

The six round event was hard fought, and with two of the six rounds held at Victor Harbor’s Day Road track, White was thrilled with his result.

“To win was a great feeling.”

The 13 year old Inman Valley youngster believes that consistency was the key to winning the title.

“I finished all the rounds and was very consistent, whereas other riders may win one round and not finish in another.”

In only his second year of racing, John puts all of his interest in the sport down to his father, David White.

“I couldn’t do any of this if it wasn’t for my dad, he has been great,.”

“Sometimes he is up all night working on my bike so it could be competitive.

“He is my mentor and mechanic.”

John also stated that his winning race number, 159, has a special significance.

“My dad’s number was 189 and I have two mates 179 and 169, so there’s a pattern.”