Glenroy Sinclair, Assignment Coordinator

Matthew Mair's fourth-place finish in the Rotax Senior Finals at last weekend's Florida Winter Tour (FWT) championship, held in Ocala, United States, was the highlight of Jamaica's performance at the international go-kart championship.

Competing among 40 other karters, the 15-year-old Mair finished sixth in the pre-final race and then improved his position in the finals.

Jamaica's talented 12-year-old Colin Daley finished eighth in the Rotax Minimax final, while seven-year-old Mark Anthony Eaton finished 12th in the Rotax Micromax final.

Phillip Myers did not make the trip due to illness.

There are reports that several of the Jamaicans developed mechanical problems and that impacted on their performance.

"Matthew is a naturally talented driver," said his father Mikey Mair, who spoke to The Gleaner from his home in Miami, United States, yesterday.

He said his son, who was born in Miami, has already completed several driving courses at the Skip Barber Racing School in the United States and is now ready to represent Jamaica in any international karting event.

The Skip Barber Racing School is known for producing many top class drivers.

Matthew Mair, who is still attending high school in Miami, has a brother in Jamaica, Mario, who also races go-kart at the Palisadoes International Raceway, Kingston.

The FWT, was used to sharpen the youngsters who are gearing up for the Rotax World Championship later this year.

Last night, the Jamaica Karting Association (JKA) hosted its 2007 awards and presentation ceremony at the Palisadoes International Raceway.

This will be followed by the JKA's third championship race meet scheduled to take place at the track.

Selected results from the Ocala meet: Marc Anthony Eaton Rotax Micromax Finals -12th; Colin Daley Jr - Rotax Minimax Final 8th; Thomas Issa - Rotax Minimax Finals - 20th; Joel Jackson - Rotax Senior Final - 20th.