The British Open Championship – better known as the O Plate – is one of the biggest and most prestigious events on the UK karting calendar. Held at the iconic PF International Circuit, it attracts the very best drivers from across the UK and beyond. The competition is fierce, the grids are stacked, and the margins are razor thin.
Team TBKART took on the challenge with a mix of strong pace, promising moments, and lessons to take forward. Here’s how our drivers fared across a weekend of top-level racing.
Lewis Sumner: A weekend of pace and potential
Lewis showed fantastic pace throughout the weekend, consistently running at the sharp end of the grid and holding position in the top six during his heat races. In the final, he was on for a strong result but unfortunately slipped back following a post-race penalty, leaving him with less than his pace deserved. Nonetheless, Lewis continues to prove he has what it takes to challenge with the best in the country.
Riley Bishop: Fast, focused, and fighting through setbacks
Riley’s weekend was packed with promise, delivering top-five pace in the heats and looking like a real contender. However, in the super heat, another driver launched over his kart, damaging the radiator and compromising his chances. Despite the setback, Riley fought hard and showed the kind of resilience and outright speed that sets him apart.
Harry Hurst-Grover: A learning experience in elite company
The level of competition at the O Plate is unlike anything else, and for Harry, the weekend proved a valuable experience. While the results may not have reflected the effort, the chance to compete among the UK’s elite is all part of the journey. Lessons learned, confidence gained.
Elliot Foster: Tough weekend, lessons banked
For Elliot, the O Plate weekend was a steep learning curve. With some of the hardest racing seen all season, it was a chance to see where improvements can be made and to understand what it takes to compete at the very top. The potential is there – it’s all part of the process.
TBKART: Built for the big stage
While the final results might not have told the full story, the TBKART chassis once again showed its pace and potential, with drivers running consistently at the front against the strongest fields in the country. The O Plate is a test of not only speed, but mental strength, mechanical reliability, and adaptability – and this weekend proved why TBKART belongs at the highest level.
We move forward with optimism, experience, and the determination to come back stronger.
SPONOSR SPOTLIGHT - FORCE MOTORSPORT
Power, performance, and partnership – that’s what Force Motorsport brings to Team TBKART. As one of our trusted technical partners, Force Motorsport helps us extract every ounce of potential from our engines. Their expertise, responsiveness, and commitment to excellence make them an essential part of our race weekend success.
At events like the British Open, where marginal gains separate contenders from champions, Force Motorsport ensures we’re operating at peak performance. Whether it’s engine tuning, diagnostics, or trackside support, their presence gives our drivers the confidence to push harder and go further.
To find out more about what Force Motorsport can do for your karting performance, visit them on social media or speak to the team at your next event.