TEENAGER Charlie Robertson confirmed his potential as one of Britain's best young drivers by clinching his first car racing title on Sunday.
The 15-year-old from Whyteleafe took the British Ginetta Junior Championship title at Brands Hatch Grand Prix Circuit in some style.
He took his 13th podium of the season and set a fastest lap of the race in the final round on Sunday – having provisionally secured the title the day before.
In dreadful conditions, the Caterham School pupil capped off his second year in cars with a typically impressive performance in round 20, finishing just 0.4 seconds shy of the win.
Although he could have chosen to sit out the final round, Robertson – cheered on by 30 VIP guests – was determined to compete and end the year on the podium as champion.
He had led race two by a very comfortable three seconds before a mid-race safety car period.
But when racing resumed for a last lap sprint to the flag, a nudge from rival Sennan Fielding put Robertson wide at Druids Hairpin.
He sensibly remained in second though, knowing the title was secure.
"I didn't really mind what happened in that race to be honest, I just took things easy and didn't want to risk anything," said Robertson.
"As soon as I saw Sennan [Fielding] on my back bumper into Druids, he gave me a little tap, which wasn't a fair move, but it wasn't worth fighting it – I didn't want to get involved in any incidents, so I was happy enough with second.
"To end the year as champion is overwhelming, I couldn't have asked for any more.
"To finish the year on the podium with the title won is a fantastic feeling and a big reward for the team as well who have worked so hard all season and given me a great car."
He added: "I've got to say a big thank you to my sponsors, Investigo and Ria Capital Markets, and my mum, dad and family – I couldn't have done it without their support.
"I also want to thank the guys at HHC and also everyone at Ginetta, I've had two fantastic years in Juniors and learnt a huge amount."
Beginning round 19 on Saturday from third on the grid, he was shuffled back to fourth and then slipped to fifth on lap two behind Fielding. He brilliantly retrieved fourth though on lap three with a sensational pass into Dingle Dell.
Trying everything to break into the top three, he had to settle for fourth, but increased his championship lead to put the title out of reach. From pole on Sunday, Robertson saw off an early challenge by Pepe Massot. By the end of lap one he was 1.8 seconds clear.
Robertson now turns to his single-seater graduation next year in the BRDC Formula 4 Championship where he will compete once again with HHC Motorsport.