JAKE Knighton is the 50cc under-9 Queensland champion for 2024, only two years into his MotoX career.
When Local Ipswich News first spoke to Jake, he had just made his first state podium, with the Camira local taking third place in round two of the Honda Sunshine State Mx series at Mx Farm in Gympie.
Last weekend, he took the trophy after an intense battle at Queensland Moto Park, Coulson across three days and five rounds.
“I’ve been training really hard and working on my weaknesses,” Jake said.
“It was finally good to put it all together and come out on top.”
The young star of the future is not afraid to be straight- forward when it comes to his goals.
“I want to get into the Junior Development Series and win that,” he said.
“But my big goal is to win the Australian title next year.”
When it comes to getting stronger and more competitive, he has a strong role model on the track.
“I look up to Jett Lawrence – because he is fast, has great technique and he is an Aussie.”
Jake recently joined up with Gavin Heggs, coaching out of Twist It Moto, with results from the partnership showing on the track.
“We noticed the natural talent of young Jake Knighton around the tracks about a year ago,” Mr Heggs said.
“Jake is dedicated with grit and determination.
“It has been a privilege to work with him on his technique, skill development, and more recently with extra pushes for high intensity, and speed on the track which is something that he has naturally shown his potential for.
“We are grateful for the strong heart, professionalism, and representation across his racing that he gives Twist it Moto, as well as hope to continue our relationship with Jake and his family moving forward towards Junior Australian titles and more.
“We believe he can achieve whatever he sets his sights on next with his bright future ahead.”
Jake will now compete in the 2024 Motorcycles R Us/KTM Junior MX Development Series run over four rounds with round one at Roma District Motorcycle Club on September 14 to 15.
