KIT CAR CLUB CLEANS UP

For the team members of The Hives junior car race team, Team Pollinator, it was a case of the early bird catches the worm, heading out for Gateshead International Stadium at 5am to compete in the Greenpower Goblin event.

Going head-to-head with 30 other teams, they sailed through scrutineering, where they were put through their paces by the Greenpower judges who quizzed the team on issues such as car design and materials.

After a well-earned breakfast, it was time for the slalom challenge. With its tight twists and tricky turns, the team gave it their all, clipping a few cones along the way but still pulling off some impressively fast times

The next event was the drag race in which each member of the team won their race, made more impressive as this was Team Pollinators first event racing together against more experienced teams who have competed many times before!

Following a quick lunch, Team Captain Amelia made the tough decision as to who would be running in the knockout sprint races. Racing over a 400m track, four cars set off around the course at the same time with the winning car progressing to the next round.

Step forward Jacob. Taking an early lead on the first lap, he was able to hold on to that lead and even extend it throughout the first round.

Next up was Morgan who started off brilliantly, heading into an early lead and leaving all the other teams behind as she brought it home for Team Pollinator.

In the final round and feeling no pressure Tommy tenaciously took the controls. Holding the inside line (and his nerve) down the start straight he deftly took the advantage on the first bend and sticking to the team strategy of powering full on through the lap, managed to stay out in front, inevitably bringing home the win! Capping off a truly inspiring team effort was the team captain herself, Amelia who push started all the sprints, ensuring everyone got off to a flying start.

After the obligatory photos and celebrations, it was time to hand out the trophies. In all Team Pollinator won an amazing 4 awards including; first place in the sprints, third place in the drag races and Greenpower Greenest Bodywork Award for their flax and plant resin body, with the team’s own sunflower design.

A huge thank you to the Greenpower team for putting on such a brilliant event, and a massive congratulations to Team Pollinator for their innovation, teamwork, and incredible performance. The Hive is so proud of everything you achieved, you definitely put the power in Pollinator!