Dean on the fast track to stardom

DEAN Gray has racing in his blood.

His dad is North West 200 winner Paul Robinson, his late grandfather Mervyn was a member of the legendary Armoy Armada and his great uncles were none other than Robert and Joey Dunlop.

The 17-year-old Ballymoney lad has big plans to follow in his illustrious family members’ footsteps.

The difference is though, Dean intends to write his name into the history books on four wheels rather than two.

“The bikes never really appealed to me,” the Coleraine Inst pupil told Times Sport.

“I prefer karting and it is a lot safer. Besides I think if I’d taken up bikes my mum would have killed me!”

Tearing around a race track at speeds in excess of 100mph while sitting just inches from the ground is not for the faint-hearted either.

Dean is in his first season in the sport and has so far taken part in six races in the 125cc class.

While still very much learning his trade, Dean is confident he has what it takes to seal podium finishes in the not too distant future.

His hero is Formula 1 former World Champion Lewis Hamilton, who also started his career in karting.

It can be an expensive sport to participate in and Dean relies on step-dad Ian Thompson, mum Sharon and his part-time job in Subway, Ballymoney to finance his on-track exploits.

He has welcomed anyone who would like to sponsor him to get in touch.

The number to call is 07708680999.