Brody Crockford has made his mark on the junior motorcycle road racing scene by finishing the 2017 season as runner-up in the Cool FAB Racing MiniGP70 British Championship.

The 12 year-old Applemore College student built on his success from last season in the GP50 class, to become a regular podium finisher in the top tier class of the junior ranked eight-round series, and be a title contender going into the last round at Rowrah, Cumbria.

“This season has been amazing!” said Brody.

“My confidence has grown throughout the year and found I was soon battling at the front.

“I have worked hard on my weaker points to be consistent and fast in all types of conditions and this enabled me to be in the fight for the title at the end.”

The championship was wrapped up after the first race at Rowrah, but a bold move on the last turn on the final lap of race two secured the runner-up spot.

“It was a bit of a lunge up the inside to be honest, but I knew it would stick as I had lined it up a few laps before – I had to take a deep breath though!” he added.

In addition to racing in the British championship, Brody was invited to the British Talent Cup at Silverstone during British MotoGP week – a race series that will run alongside selected rounds of British and World Championship events from 2018.

“It was a really intense day riding a 250 Honda, a bike I’d never even sat on before, against the best teenagers in the country!” continued Brody.

“It was a great experience and although I rode well, it wasn’t enough to convince the selectors to put me through. I was disappointed, being at the youngest age for selection, but have another three years to try.”

Brody’s father, ex-British Superbike racer John Crockford, said: “This year has been a fantastic season for Brody to continue learning the trade.

"He’s worked hard and showed true determination and focus to be at the sharp end throughout - but most of all, he really enjoyed the racing! Both his mother and I are really proud of what he has achieved.”

Brody will leave the junior ranks in 2018 to progress on to larger, more powerful motorcycles on the UK’s main circuits.

“Next year will be a massive learning curve for Brody,” continued John.

“All the circuits will be new to him, the physical and mental demands of racing larger motorcycles at higher speeds will be a challenge, but there will be no pressure to allow him to progress at his own rate – he just needs to stay safe and enjoy himself!”

Brody added: “I cannot wait for next year! We are not 100% sure which bike or championship we are competing with, as details have not yet been confirmed, but I am hoping it will be a support series for British Superbikes.

“I’d like to thank CPE Motosport and all my sponsors for their continued support and hope we have another great season together.”

For more information find Brody Crockford #55 on Facebook.