TRAVELLING at speeds of up to 41 miles per hour is not a hobby for every five-year-old.

But Jacob Beacroft from Sarisbury Green wouldn’t change it for the world.

Jake is one of the youngest children to compete in the Bambino Kart Club National Championships at just five years of age.

The Sarisbury Green Infant School pupil has been go karting since July this year and has travelled the country including competing in competitions.

Jake said: “I like going flat out and over taking!

“My favourite tracks are the little track in Whilton, and the ones at Scotland and Wales.”

When competing at the Llandow track, South Wales, Jake made the top 10 despite being one of the youngest competitors there.

He competes with other children aged between five and seven.

The school-boy’s kart can reach top speeds of 41 miles per hour and he trains on a Wednesday at Ambition Motorsport from 4pm-7pm.

Coach Paul Janes said: “Jake has shown great promise after conducting coaching sessions with us at Ambition Motorsport, the after school tuition courses at the circuits we organise Jake to attend are very beneficial in his development.”

Next year, Jake is off to Spain for the BKC Circuito Karting Carmillos Winter Cup in February.

Jake’s parents have estimated that karting for their son will cost them £30,000-£40,000 a year.

Jake and his parents are currently looking for sponsors to help him progress through his coaching and competitions.

Dad Matt Beacroft, 39, added: “Yes, it is dangerous, but I guess it,s more dangerous waking him home from school.

“All of the tracks are regulated and there are engine restrictions.

“Everything is checked each time he races and he even wears a fire proof suit.”

Since new-born, Jake has watched karting and been around people who take part in the sport.

His dad and his uncle, James Beacroft, have taking part in karting for a number of years.

This year, James came second in the go karting British Championships in his class Rotax 177.

After only a few months of karting, Jake aspires to be a Formula 1 driver.

He said: “My favourite driver is Lewis Hamilton.”

The current Formula 1 star also started his career at about the same age as Jake racing karts.

Jake has to wear protective gear when driving including a body and chest protector, boots, an all-in-one suit, a neck brace, armoured gloves and a helmet.