Dream come true for Cebu karting prodigy William Go

(Ticks one thing off bucket list with first championship title in Europe)

CEBU, Philippines —  Decorated Cebuano karter William John Riley Go once again made his countrymen proud with his breakthrough triumph in the tough European racing circuit.

The 14-year-old Go basked in the glow of championship glory on European soil for the first time after reigning supreme in the Super ROK category of the South Garda Karting ROK Super Finals in Lonato, Italy over the weekend.

“My dream became a reality - my first champion win in Europe!,” a jubilant Go wrote on his Facebook page. “Ever since I was racing locally in the Philippines, being able to compete in Europe, the home of the best of the best in karting was always in the bucket list. When I was finally given the opportunity to do so, I knew becoming victorious in the continent was extremely challenging due to the amount of talent and experience in the grid.”                

“Nevertheless, I decided to keep dreaming for that champion win since there was no harm in doing so anyways. Over the weekend, I managed to achieve this dream of mine and was awarded the pole position, fastest lap, and champion for the ROK Super Finals in the Super ROK category. I entered the race with no expectations since I am fairly new to the senior grid so this win was truly unexpected,” the Zanchini Motorsports mainstay continued.

Go navigated the 20-lap race in 16:12.687 to outsmart Andorran star Alexandre Machado (16:17.806) by an impressive five seconds, and almost 10 seconds ahead of third placer Daniele Federici (16:21.940).

Go’s sterling performance earned him praise from no less than his proud coach Davide Fore, who is a first-hand witness to all his efforts and sacrifices.

“Amazing work this year from the first day we start in January together until today. A big step is done. We still need to work hard to be better and improve your experience. Proud of you, from the Philippines to come here in Europe at this level is really complicated for many reasons, just in 10 months you do a fantastic job. Congratulations my friend,” commented Fore.

Despite the success he gained,  Go said it was not a perfect weekend after all.

“In fact, it was a bit of a crazy ride. During the different heats, I had mixed feelings for each one since my position was constantly changing due to certain racing incidents. However, as the final race began, I tried to give it my all. Trying to overtake the other racers was tricky due to their superb skills and experience. But with enough patience and determination, I made a move and pulled away on the 16th lap of the race. I kept my focus and managed to cross the finish line as champion.”

Grateful as ever, Go then thanked all those who, in one way or another, have greatly contributed to his most recent success.

“There was a surreal amount of joy from myself and everyone who supported me. This one of a kind milestone would not have been possible without my family, my team: Zanchi Motorsports, my mechanic: Lazzaro Ferri, my coach: Davide Fore, my engine builder: Miliziano Engines, my companion: Marthny Milano, and the Lord. I would also like to congratulate the other racers who won and my fellow Filipino racers for a job well done. Truly a one of a kind experience that motivates me to keep moving forward to reach my dreams despite how ambitious it may seem!” Go ended.