Joseph Burton-Harris
JBH 32
Latest News
JBH extends his lead at Pro-tour Round 4 15 April 2013
JBH's 3rd place at Newcastle allows him to extend his Rotax Australian Pro-Tour championship lead...Read More
Joseph Burton-Harris gets up close with the real thing 18 March 2013
View the Photos from Keith McInnes Photography
JBH WINS Pro-tour Round 3 4 March 2013
Joseph Burton-Harris races to the WIN in an action-packed final at Round 3 of the Rotax Australian Pro-Tour championship...Read More
Joseph Burton-Harris joins the Fujitsu 'Cool' Driver Program in 2013 26 Feb 2013
JBH has the great honor of being offered a place in the 2013 Fujitsu 'Cool' Driver program. The program created by Fujitsu General and the Velocity Management Group is a world leader in the development of young talented drivers. As well as financial rewards the program includes education on fitness; diet; lifestyle; psychometric strength and visualization just for starters.
"This program is the only youth education and development program of its kind in Australia. Combined with the infinite support given by Birel Kartsport Australia; RK Karts Australia and my European team Peter Kalman Motorsport, I could not have possibly imagined this level of education and experience in 2013. Its all about how much you learn; what you learn and how quickly you learn while I am a junior. The Fujitsu 'Cool' driver program represents everything a young driver needs and I am very fortunate to have this opportunity." commented Joseph Burton-Harris
Fujitsu General (Aust) Pty Limited the corporate genius behind the program, is one of the leading suppliers of air conditioning products in Australia. It has the envious position as being "Australia's Favorite Air". Fujitsu General recognizes the importance of successful organisations supporting the community and assisting those less fortunate. They fulfill this promise within the motorsport arena in a variety of ways. While the 'Cool' driver program focuses on youth they will be highly visible in the V8 Supercar Series 2013 with Garry Rogers Motorsport's Holden Commodore VF of Alexandre Premat and kiwi Scott McLaughlin. Scott is an example of Fujitsu's commitment to youth development in supporting this young talent transition from karting to debut in the V8 series at aged 16years in 2010.
The Velocity Management Group is a specialist Motorsport marketing and management consultancy firm managed by Chris Jewell. Velocity's vision is to work with companies; teams and drivers to develop lasting partnerships and build brand recognition.
On behalf of his family and team JBH would like to thank Fujitsu General and the Velocity Management Group for providing this opportunity to develop his career further and the careers of other up and coming talent. In this difficult economic climate the work of these organisations within motorsport and the community at large deserves loud applause.
Read more information on:
The 'Cool' Driver Program 2013
Fujitsu General
Velocity Management Group
Birel Kartsport Australia and RK Karts Australia
JBH - keep up to date on the latest news
Joseph Burton-Harris extends his lead in the Australian Rotax Championship
Round 2 of the Australian Rotax Pro-Tour Championship in Melbourne produced some outstanding quality racing from the Junior Max drivers allowing JBH to extend his lead at the top of the table...Read More 28 Jan 2013
Birel Motorsports Italy signs Joseph Burton-Harris for 2013 in Europe
Birel Motorsport has signed Joseph Burton-Harris to lead their European Junior Rotax program in 2013. Ronni Sala (Birel Motorsport CEO) met JBH whilst at the Rotax World Finals in Portugal 2012...Read More 14 Jan 2013
Congratulations JBH - Top Ten Finish in Rotax Worlds 2012
Joseph Burton-Harris truly outperformed his engine finishing 9th in the Rotax Worlds 2012.
"This week has been the most challenging of my career. By the time Rotax agreed to replace my motor, there were NO Junior engines left. All of them had been given out to other competitors. This made a top 20 finish unlikely, let alone top 10. My team of Ben George (R360); Amazing Mike from Yorkshire and Brian Harris (Super Dad) worked extremely hard to squeeze every rpm out of the engine using sprockets and setup. I just drove as hard as I could. I was taken out many times during the week resulting in the 2nd Chance Heat. Finishing 3rd in the rain on slicks to qualify for the Finals was a highlight. My heart goes out to Thomas Randle and 35 others who didn't make the Finals Day. It wasn't talent that decided for many but high levels of contact and the engine raffle.
The Pre-final repaid my team with a great result, starting 31st and finishing 13th. During the final I made it to 7th only to get hit off again and have to make my way back to 9th. As all sports people will say "getting out of the gate slow makes for a tough weekend" and this was true. We fought as hard as we could, all of us, and despite our disappointment at not being on the podium, we should really be happy with a Top Ten given our engine and the week we have endured." Joseph Burton-Harris post race comment
Congratulations must also go to James Golding in Juniors who started the final in Pole position from Victoria. He eventually finished 7th and proved the talent really does run deep in Australia. Overall, Australia finished 3rd in the Nations Cup, solidifying their 1st last year in 2011.
Anyone got 1,000 rpm???
Joseph Burton-Harris has qualified 29th out of 72 following major engine technical difficulties. The engine has not been able to exceed 12,200 rpm while his team mates are reaching 13,200rpm with the same sprocket and setup. On such a fast large circuit this is a major disadvantage. The sector times in the tight twisty sections puts JBH in the top 3 drivers, however, on the straights he cannot even keep up in a tow.
The policy of NO ENGINE CHANGE was enforced on Team JBH from the outset, however, Rotax did change the electrics; the ring inside the motor and then the ignition timing. There has been some small gain however, not enough to prevent a challenging Qualifying.
This is a reminder that with all the good intentions, engine parity is an enormous challenge in these events with many competitors suffering both in Rotax and in the Academy Trophy/U18 Championships with a similar format. As a driver all you can do is be professional and battle on as hard as you can.
JBH miraculously topped the time sheets on lap 2 of Qualifying to finally finish 12th in his group - 5 tenths off P1. This is quite an achievement given the circumstances. "The Birel kart itself is handling great thanks to Ben George (R360); Superstar Mike and Brian Harris. It is simply lacking straight line speed." commented JBH after Qualifying
Others have suffered with similar issues. Harry Webb, despite achieving better lap times than Joseph in practice, did receive a new engine just before Qualifying and entered the Qualifying paddock after the allocated time to qualify P2. His post-Qualifying comment "We have had engine issues and they have finally been fixed as proven by my Qualifying time".
All we can do is be the true Australian battler and fight on. Joseph will be sticking with his motto from Winston Churchill "If your going through hell - just keep going". Lets hope he survives the inevitable incidents Lap One from P15 in Heat One and allow his driving to shine through to a top 10 finish.
Thank you again to RK Australia; Team Australia for providing the data to support JBH's unsuccessful requests for a new motor; and all Joseph's supporters who have been calling and cheering for him no matter what.
JBH has major technical issues in Portugal
After Two Practice Sessions, JBH is having major technical issues in Portimao Portugal. During Practice One and Two the engine was 300rpm less on the top end than his competitors resulting in a 0.5sec then 1.0sec slower lap times than the leaders. During Practice Three, after adding 4 extra teeth to the Sprocket, the top end only increased 50rpm and it struggled to get off the corner. JBH slowed to over 2 seconds a lap behind the leaders in 36th place. The problem is worsening.
The administration has a "NO Change" engine policy prior to Qualifying. The Rotax Tech Team have agreed to change all electrics and look through the engine for any failing parts before Practice Four. A final decision on the engine will be made following this test.
Motorsport certainly provides a roller-coaster of emotion and this week is no exception. All JBH Supporters hope that a resolution is found. If not, there is always the next race...Right??
The Greatest Kart Raffle of the year is finally here!
Team Australia including Joseph Burton-Harris has arrived in Portimao, Portugal for the Rotax World Finals 2012. Today is the day all the karts and engines are raffled to each entrant. The signature event is what makes this World Championship so special as every entrant draws a number that allocates them to a go-kart and 1 engine. Each kart and engine has been tested to achieve homologation and standardization to try to make this World class event all about the talent of the karter and not their budget or equipment. The Junior Max class races the Birel Chassis; Senior Max races Sodi; DD2 races the Mach1 chassis and DD2 Masters the Haase chassis.
Each entrant has 4 practice sessions of 15 minutes each to familiarize themselves with their new kart and engines starting Monday. Competition starts with Qualifying on Wednesday 28th November 2012 at 12.55pm for Junior Max. Follow the Countdown to Qualifying here.
Qualifying includes only ONE 15 minute session for each class. TWO Heat races of 7 laps for Juniors and 11 laps for all other classes decides the Pre-final grid. There is a Second Chance Heat from which 4 entrants will advance to the Pre-final to make a final grid of 36 karters. FINALS day commences Saturday 1st December with a Pre-final of 11 laps for Juniors and 14 laps for all other classes. The FINAL is 18 laps for Juniors and 21 laps for all other classes.
Follow Team Australia: (Race#)
Junior Max (72 Entrants): Joseph Burton-Harris (#118); James Golding (#133); Thomas Randle (#157)
Senior Max (72 Entrants): Pierce Lehane (#241); Joseph Mawson (#246); Daniel Rochford (#258)
DD2 (61 Entrants): Kyle Ensbey (#323); Jason Pringle (#345); Troy Woolston (#368)
DD2 Masters (61 Entrants): Brent Coghlan (#418); Hamish Leighton (#434); Jose Ruiz (#449)
JBH's 3rd place at Newcastle allows him to extend his Rotax Australian Pro-Tour championship lead...Read More
Joseph Burton-Harris gets up close with the real thing 18 March 2013
View the Photos from Keith McInnes Photography
JBH WINS Pro-tour Round 3 4 March 2013
Joseph Burton-Harris races to the WIN in an action-packed final at Round 3 of the Rotax Australian Pro-Tour championship...Read More
Joseph Burton-Harris joins the Fujitsu 'Cool' Driver Program in 2013 26 Feb 2013
"This program is the only youth education and development program of its kind in Australia. Combined with the infinite support given by Birel Kartsport Australia; RK Karts Australia and my European team Peter Kalman Motorsport, I could not have possibly imagined this level of education and experience in 2013. Its all about how much you learn; what you learn and how quickly you learn while I am a junior. The Fujitsu 'Cool' driver program represents everything a young driver needs and I am very fortunate to have this opportunity." commented Joseph Burton-Harris
Fujitsu General (Aust) Pty Limited the corporate genius behind the program, is one of the leading suppliers of air conditioning products in Australia. It has the envious position as being "Australia's Favorite Air". Fujitsu General recognizes the importance of successful organisations supporting the community and assisting those less fortunate. They fulfill this promise within the motorsport arena in a variety of ways. While the 'Cool' driver program focuses on youth they will be highly visible in the V8 Supercar Series 2013 with Garry Rogers Motorsport's Holden Commodore VF of Alexandre Premat and kiwi Scott McLaughlin. Scott is an example of Fujitsu's commitment to youth development in supporting this young talent transition from karting to debut in the V8 series at aged 16years in 2010.
The Velocity Management Group is a specialist Motorsport marketing and management consultancy firm managed by Chris Jewell. Velocity's vision is to work with companies; teams and drivers to develop lasting partnerships and build brand recognition.
On behalf of his family and team JBH would like to thank Fujitsu General and the Velocity Management Group for providing this opportunity to develop his career further and the careers of other up and coming talent. In this difficult economic climate the work of these organisations within motorsport and the community at large deserves loud applause.
Read more information on:
The 'Cool' Driver Program 2013
Fujitsu General
Velocity Management Group
Birel Kartsport Australia and RK Karts Australia
JBH - keep up to date on the latest news
Joseph Burton-Harris extends his lead in the Australian Rotax Championship
Round 2 of the Australian Rotax Pro-Tour Championship in Melbourne produced some outstanding quality racing from the Junior Max drivers allowing JBH to extend his lead at the top of the table...Read More 28 Jan 2013
Birel Motorsports Italy signs Joseph Burton-Harris for 2013 in Europe
Birel Motorsport has signed Joseph Burton-Harris to lead their European Junior Rotax program in 2013. Ronni Sala (Birel Motorsport CEO) met JBH whilst at the Rotax World Finals in Portugal 2012...Read More 14 Jan 2013
Congratulations JBH - Top Ten Finish in Rotax Worlds 2012
Joseph Burton-Harris truly outperformed his engine finishing 9th in the Rotax Worlds 2012.
"This week has been the most challenging of my career. By the time Rotax agreed to replace my motor, there were NO Junior engines left. All of them had been given out to other competitors. This made a top 20 finish unlikely, let alone top 10. My team of Ben George (R360); Amazing Mike from Yorkshire and Brian Harris (Super Dad) worked extremely hard to squeeze every rpm out of the engine using sprockets and setup. I just drove as hard as I could. I was taken out many times during the week resulting in the 2nd Chance Heat. Finishing 3rd in the rain on slicks to qualify for the Finals was a highlight. My heart goes out to Thomas Randle and 35 others who didn't make the Finals Day. It wasn't talent that decided for many but high levels of contact and the engine raffle.
The Pre-final repaid my team with a great result, starting 31st and finishing 13th. During the final I made it to 7th only to get hit off again and have to make my way back to 9th. As all sports people will say "getting out of the gate slow makes for a tough weekend" and this was true. We fought as hard as we could, all of us, and despite our disappointment at not being on the podium, we should really be happy with a Top Ten given our engine and the week we have endured." Joseph Burton-Harris post race comment
Congratulations must also go to James Golding in Juniors who started the final in Pole position from Victoria. He eventually finished 7th and proved the talent really does run deep in Australia. Overall, Australia finished 3rd in the Nations Cup, solidifying their 1st last year in 2011.
Anyone got 1,000 rpm???
Joseph Burton-Harris has qualified 29th out of 72 following major engine technical difficulties. The engine has not been able to exceed 12,200 rpm while his team mates are reaching 13,200rpm with the same sprocket and setup. On such a fast large circuit this is a major disadvantage. The sector times in the tight twisty sections puts JBH in the top 3 drivers, however, on the straights he cannot even keep up in a tow.
The policy of NO ENGINE CHANGE was enforced on Team JBH from the outset, however, Rotax did change the electrics; the ring inside the motor and then the ignition timing. There has been some small gain however, not enough to prevent a challenging Qualifying.
This is a reminder that with all the good intentions, engine parity is an enormous challenge in these events with many competitors suffering both in Rotax and in the Academy Trophy/U18 Championships with a similar format. As a driver all you can do is be professional and battle on as hard as you can.
JBH miraculously topped the time sheets on lap 2 of Qualifying to finally finish 12th in his group - 5 tenths off P1. This is quite an achievement given the circumstances. "The Birel kart itself is handling great thanks to Ben George (R360); Superstar Mike and Brian Harris. It is simply lacking straight line speed." commented JBH after Qualifying
Others have suffered with similar issues. Harry Webb, despite achieving better lap times than Joseph in practice, did receive a new engine just before Qualifying and entered the Qualifying paddock after the allocated time to qualify P2. His post-Qualifying comment "We have had engine issues and they have finally been fixed as proven by my Qualifying time".
All we can do is be the true Australian battler and fight on. Joseph will be sticking with his motto from Winston Churchill "If your going through hell - just keep going". Lets hope he survives the inevitable incidents Lap One from P15 in Heat One and allow his driving to shine through to a top 10 finish.
Thank you again to RK Australia; Team Australia for providing the data to support JBH's unsuccessful requests for a new motor; and all Joseph's supporters who have been calling and cheering for him no matter what.
JBH has major technical issues in Portugal
After Two Practice Sessions, JBH is having major technical issues in Portimao Portugal. During Practice One and Two the engine was 300rpm less on the top end than his competitors resulting in a 0.5sec then 1.0sec slower lap times than the leaders. During Practice Three, after adding 4 extra teeth to the Sprocket, the top end only increased 50rpm and it struggled to get off the corner. JBH slowed to over 2 seconds a lap behind the leaders in 36th place. The problem is worsening.
The administration has a "NO Change" engine policy prior to Qualifying. The Rotax Tech Team have agreed to change all electrics and look through the engine for any failing parts before Practice Four. A final decision on the engine will be made following this test.
Motorsport certainly provides a roller-coaster of emotion and this week is no exception. All JBH Supporters hope that a resolution is found. If not, there is always the next race...Right??
The Greatest Kart Raffle of the year is finally here!
Team Australia including Joseph Burton-Harris has arrived in Portimao, Portugal for the Rotax World Finals 2012. Today is the day all the karts and engines are raffled to each entrant. The signature event is what makes this World Championship so special as every entrant draws a number that allocates them to a go-kart and 1 engine. Each kart and engine has been tested to achieve homologation and standardization to try to make this World class event all about the talent of the karter and not their budget or equipment. The Junior Max class races the Birel Chassis; Senior Max races Sodi; DD2 races the Mach1 chassis and DD2 Masters the Haase chassis.
Each entrant has 4 practice sessions of 15 minutes each to familiarize themselves with their new kart and engines starting Monday. Competition starts with Qualifying on Wednesday 28th November 2012 at 12.55pm for Junior Max. Follow the Countdown to Qualifying here.
Qualifying includes only ONE 15 minute session for each class. TWO Heat races of 7 laps for Juniors and 11 laps for all other classes decides the Pre-final grid. There is a Second Chance Heat from which 4 entrants will advance to the Pre-final to make a final grid of 36 karters. FINALS day commences Saturday 1st December with a Pre-final of 11 laps for Juniors and 14 laps for all other classes. The FINAL is 18 laps for Juniors and 21 laps for all other classes.
Follow Team Australia: (Race#)
Junior Max (72 Entrants): Joseph Burton-Harris (#118); James Golding (#133); Thomas Randle (#157)
Senior Max (72 Entrants): Pierce Lehane (#241); Joseph Mawson (#246); Daniel Rochford (#258)
DD2 (61 Entrants): Kyle Ensbey (#323); Jason Pringle (#345); Troy Woolston (#368)
DD2 Masters (61 Entrants): Brent Coghlan (#418); Hamish Leighton (#434); Jose Ruiz (#449)
View Live Video of the race action
View Live Timing
View the Latest Photos
Countdown to Qualifying
Receive Updates about Team Australia and JBH32
View Live Timing
View the Latest Photos
Countdown to Qualifying
Receive Updates about Team Australia and JBH32
Joseph Burton-Harris WINS in Rotax Australia Pro-Tour Round 1 in Canberra after losing a chain in the Qualifying and starting all heats LAST.. Read More...View Cooper Photography Photos
Joseph Burton-Harris; RK Karts Australia and R360 crowned NSW State Champions 2012 A fantastic result after his recent return from France and joining Team RK in Australia...Read More View the latest Photos
JBH announce 4 new sponsors for the 2012-2013 season Xzuit Racing Apparel has been providing high quality; unique karting apparel to the karting community since qualifying for the CIK-FIA Homologation test in 2003. Team JBH is very excited to be wearing such impressive and distinctive apparel during his upcoming race year in Australia and Europe including a full range of on-track and pit lane apparel.
Glenn Powles Design is well known within the karting world producing creative; totally unique stunning imagery to display on your kart. GPD has been transforming the look of karts since 2008 and Team JBH would like to thank GPD for their commitment to produce some energetic and exclusive sticker kits for both Australia and Europe.
Joseph Burton-Harris needs constant connection to the world through his Mobile Phone SIM while in Europe. Global Mobility Group provides mobile communications for hire with 20 years' experience in the mobile communications industry. BlackBerry; Voice and Data SIM cards are available for hire to travellers going to over 100 mobile networks around the world. Dont worry about unnecessary data and roaming charges or over-priced calls - instead, hire a local SIM card and pay local prices while you are in Europe; America or Asia. Contact the sales team on 1300 791 033 or sales@globalmobilitygroup.com.au to find out how Global Mobility Group can provide a solution for you.
Flight Centre at Westfield Parramatta have been providing Joseph and his team with the most outstanding fares to fly overseas and around Australia. Contact this fantastic team of travel experts on 133 133.
These new sponsors join a fantastic team of existing sponsors including Sydney Sports & Exercise Physiology who manage Joseph's fitness and physical development. Their role is to apply science in preparing him for his current karting demands as well as ensuring his body is strong and healthy into his future career.
Lastly, Team JBH wish to thank System Integration Partners and BlackBerry for their ongoing financial support including providing Playbooks to the CIK Stars of Karting Series in 2012 as well as providing JBH with the latest in BlackBerry technology.
Thank You to all these sponsors for their support of Joseph Burton-Harris; Team JBH and Karting Australia in 2012-2013.
Joseph Burton-Harris joins RK Karts Australia for the 2012-2013 Australian Rotax Season
Leading Australian junior driver Joseph Burton-Harris has today announced he will be joining with the RK Karts Australia team for his campaign over the coming 12 months.
Burton-Harris, who will represent Australia in the Rotax Max Challenge Grand Final in Portugal during November, will make his debut aboard the Birel-made product at New South Wales State Championships to be held in Coffs Harbour on September 29/30.
After testing the RK Kart recently, Burton-Harris is delighted with the characteristics of his new chassis and looking forward to the new era.
“The RK Kart seems to suit me very well as it has phenomenal front grip and an ability to ride the curbs and bumps typical of an Australian circuit. I am very confident that we can succeed with the team,” said Burton-Harris.
“During a recent test at Dubbo following the Rotax Nationals I was able to go faster than my pole time, which is great .
“There is no doubt that I want to build on my success this year and I believe the RK Kart is the perfect kart to help get me there. Jaxon Evans has had great success and pace with the RK30 chassis this year in Junior Rotax and is moving into Seniors with the team.
“I’m very excited to step up for RK in the Junior Category and expect to be a front runner commencing with the NSW State Titles next week.
Burton-Harris and engineer Ben George are confident Joseph can build on his success in Australia and Europe.
With Ben George soon to depart for Europe where he will run the R360 Europe team, Chris Schofield from R360 Australia will be engineering Burton-Harris throughout the 2012/2013 race season. The pair is excited to be working with the RK brand that has such a long track record of success through the Birel Parent Company.
Finals Day at Salbris France for Euromax Pierce Lehane starts 3rd and JBH starts 22nd after a 2nd; 7th and DQ.
Great Videos to watch
Video Interviews with Pierce; Joseph Burton-Harris; Team Hungary; Strawberry Racing; Other JMAX drivers Thomas Preining AUSTRIA and Ryan Anderton UK all here
Finals Day at Salbris France for Euromax Round 3
Pierce Lehane starts 3rd after some great Heat race wins and JBH starts 22nd after the race of the day to finish 2nd; 7th and a DQ...Read More
Qualifying shows Lehane back on top and JBH a DSQ for a technical infringement...Read More
JBH and Pierce Lehane find their feet quickly at Euromax Round 4 in France
Joseph Burton-Harris and Pierce Lehane have set some great times in Practice Day 1 for the 4th Round of the Euromax Challenge in Salbris, France...Read More
Euromax Round 4 is next in Salbris France for JBH
JBH leaves for France on Friday giving him a much needed 2 day rest before he is on track for Round 4 of the Euromax Challenge...Read More
Joseph Burton-Harris receives his ticket to the Rotax World Finals 2012 in Portugal
Following the Rotax Nationals 2012 final results, JBH received his ticket to the most coveted prize in JMAX...View Ticket
Burton-Harris 2nd at Rotax Nationals 2012
Joseph Burton-Harris secures his Rotax World Finals 2012 place by finishing 2nd in the JMAX Rotax Nationals 2012...Read More
Electrical gremlins ends Joseph Burton-Harris' CIK Stars of Karting campaign in 2012 The dream to end the CIK Stars of Karting 2012 series with a victory was shattered by electrical gremlins causing a DNS for Final 2 at Eastern Creek...Read More
Joseph Burton-Harris secures his World Championship place in 2012 Rotax Pro-tour Round6 at Warwick enabled JBH to secure his Worlds place in Portugal November 2012...Read More
Video Highlights of KF3 at Ipswich JBH #32 takes 2nd place in both finals putting Exprit firmly on the podium again...View Video Here
Burton-Harris claims another P1 at CIK KF3 Stars of Karting Round 3 17 June 2012
JBH qualified P1 at Ipswich in Round 3 of the CIK Stars of Karting series...Read More
JBH has a P1 1 1 1 1 1 at the Rotax Max Australia Pro-Tour Round 5 3 June 2012
Joseph Burton-Harris was unbeatable at the latest round of the Australian Rotax Max Challenge...Read More
Joseph Burton-Harris has fun at Glan-Y-Gors, Wales 19 May 2012
Joseph Burton-Harris was able to spend one more day in the Formula K Junior Rotax kart at the scenic Glan-Y-Gors in Wales. Teams from all over were testing prior to the British Rotax Championship Round 2 (25-27 May). JBH had the great opportunity to get to know Protrain Racing, the British Formula K Rotax team and spend one more day with the Formula K kart.
After a warm-up issue on the Sunday at Wackersdorf caused irreparable damage to his kart, ending his progress, Joseph wanted on more day in this kart to see what he could have achieved. It was a cold damp day among the scenic hills and sheep but JBH was fast. From the first session he pulled some of the fastest times of the day. Both JBH and Protrain were extremely happy with the speed and look forward to an opportunity arising in the future where they may be able to work together again. "The kart felt amazing, handling beautifully. The times were fast and I really enjoyed meeting the Protrain guys. A big thanks to Gary, Ed and Martin for making the day happen." commented Joseph Burton-Harris
JBH has committments in Australia to complete this year, however, he is hoping to be back in Europe at the end of the year for a series of events. Joseph would like to thank Ben George, for making the connection to Europe happen; Ed Brand for his help at Formula K Europe and ProTrain; and Gary Chapman at Protrain Racing for a fantastic test day.
Final Practice over - Qualifying in 1hr at the Rotax Euro Challenge in Germany...
09-13 May 2012 Rotax Euro Challenge - Round 2 - Wackersdorf, Germany
Joseph Burton-Harris and Pierce Lehane both brought their A game to Qualifying today in Germany qualifying P2 in both classes.
Pierce qualified 2nd by 1 thousandth of a second with 51.047 to Charlie Eastwood from ProTrain driving a Formula K on 51.046. "Qualifying first is always better but at least I have P1 for most of the heats" commented Pierce
JBH qualified 2nd with 51.828 to Janneau Esmeijer from France in an Intrepid. "The Formula K kart was fantastic. I tried hard to get a draft as there can be as much as 2 tenths but I just couldn't find a draft partner. Instead I decided on the last lap to give it one last try and grabbed the 51.828. Most of the competitors here tested last weekend while I was flying over so I feel the Formula K Europe team and I have really achieved today. Thanks to Ben George at R360 for his help over this year and giving me this opportunity, as well as Brian Harris for the financing. Thanks to Peto my Engineer and Martain (Chief Engineer) for their great setup" explained Joseph.
Heats start tomorrow with rain and freezing temperatures, so at least the Australians have a chance to miss some of the mayhem starting P1 in the ABCD system for 2 out of 3 heats. We all wish them the best of luck and hope they enjoy the immense achievement they have attained today.
Next Race
Heats starts with Juniors at 10.50am and Seniors at 9.40am (Berlin +1 GMT).
Follow the schedule by clicking here
Follow live timing by clicking here
Photos click here
Video click here
Final Practice over - Qualifying in 1hr at the Rotax Euro Challenge in Germany...
09-13 May 2012 Rotax Euro Challenge - Round 2 - Wackersdorf, Germany
Joseph Burton-Harris and Pierce Lehane have pulled top 10 times in final practice at the Rotax Euro Max Challenge Round2 in Wackersdorf, Germany. The track conditions are very unusual for Germany, with temperatures hitting 32c. Imagine 160 drivers using a minimum of 3 sets of new tyres in practice and some 6 sets, with 32c today and 28c yesterday. The track is HOT and STICKY. Hence the times are as much as 1sec slower than last year.
Pierce is in Group3 for the Seniors which is the last group to Qualify in around 1/2 an hour. Joseph is in Group1 for the Juniors qualifying in around 2 hours. All groups are randomly drawn by computer. It is tough for JBH as he has been in Group1 all weekend and following the much stickier D2 Senior tyre. Once JBH and Group1 clean up the sticky track, Group2 has been consistently 1 tenth quicker.
Both Pierce and Joseph have shown their talent here proving Australia can compete with some outstanding driving. Pierce is loving the front brake and has shown some of his best driving ever here in Germany.
Joseph is the fastest in the 5 man Formula K Europe Junior team which is an enormous achievement in itself. The team are happy with his direct tight driving style.
It all changes tomorrow with a min of -1c and max 14c which is a slightly more expected temperature for Wackersdorf (near Munich) in Germany. Rain 3mm is expected so it will all begin again tomorrow.
For now - good luck to both the Australian talents shaking it up with the big boys of Europe.
Next Race
Qualifying starts with Juniors at 5pm and Seniors at 3pm (Berlin +1 GMT).
Follow the schedule by clicking here
Follow live timing by clicking here
Formula K and JBH team up for the Rotax Euro Challenge Round 2 in 2012...
09-13 May 2012 Rotax Euro Challenge - Round 2 - Wackersdorf, Germany
Joseph Burton-Harris has teamed up with the renowned Formula K Europe team in Junior Max for the upcoming Wackersdorf round of the Euro Challenge in what will be an exciting weekend for the upcoming 14 year old. To be the best driver you need to race the best and the Rotax Euro Challenge represents the elite drivers in Europe coming together to battle it out.
Whilst finishing regularly at the front in Australia, it really is taking the next step for JBH to take his achievements to date and apply them in this fantastic opportunity. "I feel I am ready to put myself into this outstanding field and see how I measure up. My results in Australia have been great, my fitness and health is ready for any challenge. My GCSE O levels in the UK don't start until May 15th so I am ready to have the experience of my life with this superb team."...visit Rotax for more information...for live timing click here
Sydney Sports & Exercise Physiology join the JBH Sponsorship team...
28 Apr 2012 Sydney, Australia
The fantastic consultants at Sydney Sports & Exercise Physiology have offered Joseph Burton-Harris their Athletes Sponsorship program applying their science and knowledge to ensure Joseph's young developing body remains strong and healthy to achieve his racing goals.
SSEP look after Australian Olympic Divers; Triathletes; Track Athletes however Joseph is their first venture into applying the science to Motor-Sport. JBH is very excited to continue working with Dean McNamara and his colleagues in ensuring his fitness is managed to prevent injury and maximizes the development of his young body. As SSEP will tell you, the exercises you do may seem simple but the science behind choosing the right exercises at the right time in the right amount is very complex...visit SSEP for more information
JBH claims the drive of the day on Finals Day..36th to 9th...
29 Apr 2012 Rotax Pro-Tour - Round 4 - Wodonga, VIC
Joseph Burton-Harris started the final in 36th place after a first lap incident in the Pre-final caused him to be rear of field. Many came to the fence to see what JBH would do from the back and what a show he put on. From 36th to 9th on a track many told Joseph was a no-passing track was pure entertainment...Read More
Finals Day at CIK Round 2 and JBH is starting on the Front Row...
20 Apr 2012 CIK KF3 Stars of Karting - Round 2 - Newcastle, NSW
Finals Day at the CIK Round 2 and Joseph Burton-Harris starts front row after surviving multiple first lap incidents..Read More
7th was a good fight back in the Queensland State Titles...
4 Apr 2012 Queensland State Titles - Gladstone, Queensland
After Joseph sustained damage during the heats, there was a good fight back to 7th...Read More
Stunning Second for Burton-Harris in SA CIK KF3 Stars of Karting...
26 Feb 2012 CIK KF3 Stars of Karting - Round 1 - Bolivar, South Australia
Joseph Burton-Harris, in only his second year in CIK KF3, claimed TWO hard fought Second Place wins at Bolivar in South Australia. The suffocating heat of South Australia forced the Exprit frame, Joseph and his Engineers to work at their absolute limit...Read More
A Tough Day at the Office - but points in the bag...
27 Jan 2012 Rotax Pro-Tour Round 2 - Todd Rd, Melbourne
The toughest weekend so far in Joseph's career, but still draws out the points at Todd Rd, Melbourne...
The Sparco Suit Won the Day!!
20 Jan 2012 Top Guns Oakleigh - VIC
Joseph Burton-Harris was introduced to what many racers say is the most technical kart track in VIC. Joseph had never seen the track before the race, despite most competitors claiming Oakleigh as their home Victorian Track. Added to this challenge was the race format - Qualifying; 2 Finals only - racing commencing at 5pm. This night racing is unlike any other Junior event run on the Australian calendar.
After 3 practice sessions only, Joseph qualified 3rd in Night 1 just 1 tenth off the pole sitter. Race 1 and 2 proved that contact was going to be a big factor at this track - resulting in Joseph coming back through the field to finish 6th in both races. The night racing proved that local knowledge was critical as many of the local drivers found time in the colder; slippery conditions.
Night 2 was always going to be better as Joseph had now been on the track for a total of 8 sessions. With many drivers choosing to put on new tyres after only completing 2 races in Night 1 - Joseph proved that an interstate driver with no Oakleigh experience can do it - qualifying POLE P1 with old tyres - at a 41.801sec lap time - regaining 1.5 tenths back to 2nd place.
Race 1 and 2 again showed contact was a deciding factor resulting in Joseph being hit on the right rear and driven over the top of, ending the evening with no radiator; exhaust or spark plug left on the Exprit.
Joseph crash tested his brand new Sparco Exprit race suit and WOW what an amazing product. Other drivers who have had karters drive off their body have ripped their suit and legs open; cut arms and yet Joseph was only left with bruised ribs and a very black burnt stripe from his right shoulder right down to his right knee. This is due largely to this amazing Sparco suit. They are worth every $!
Thank you to Ben George and R360 for providing fantastic support in the setup of the Exprit as well as Troy Farley Race Engines for a competitive engine. Oakleigh Go Kart Club, in particular Malcolm McClellan, provided a well run and enjoyable event - thank you to all the volunteers and club participants.
For more information on Oakleigh Go Kart Club - click here
