DRIVER Alex Summers has challenged himself to a top-10 finish in this season’s MSA British Hillclimb Championship.

The 21-year-old, who lives in Tenbury Wells, is ninth in the standings after 14 rounds of this term’s competition.

Hillclimb is a tradition in the Summers family – Alex’s mum Lindsay and dad Richard both compete in the sport.

Alex’s dad’s grandfather raced at Shelsley Walsh in 1919 and his father, Bill, started competing in 1958.

“It’s a sport that’s very much in the Summers’ blood,” said Alex, who finished fourth in his class at Doune, Scotland, last weekend.

The former Moor Park pupil achieved his maiden British Championship run-off victory at Shelsley Walsh in June last year as he finished 13th overall.

“If you can finish in the top 10, you are recognised in the sport,” said Alex. “If you finish in the top 10 you get to carry the number the next season on your car.

“The most enjoyable venue is Gurston Down because of the lap speeds and the sport is a lot of fun - I know people who hillclimb well into their 70s.”

The former Hereford Cathedral School pupil started out in a go-kart, made from an old lawn mower, when he was around six years old.

He has been competing in Hillclimb for the last five years and last month clocked up 135mph at Loton Park.

Alex is studying a masters degree in mechanical engineering at Bath University and is just about to complete a one-year placement with McLaren.

“It’s a massive privilege to work at McLaren and I am very fortunate they gave me a year’s industry placement,”

said Alex.

The next two rounds of the British Hillclimb Championship are at Harewood on July 7 and 8. Orleton’s Scott Moran is the current British champion and is top of the leaderboard with 129 points. Alex, with 29 points, is ninth.

“Scott Moran is a great local driver and has been the man to beat for a number of years,” said Alex.

“He’s a very good family friend. He’s a smashing chap and very helpful.”

Alex added: “My aim is to finish eighth or ninth this season and that’s the challenge I have set myself. Finishing eighth, ninth or even 10th would be great.”