Racing ahead: Driven Douglas knows a degree is the formula for success
DOUGLAS Crosbie has raced ahead of the pack after gaining the A-levels needed to pursue his dream of a career in Formula One.
The 18-year-old racing driver, from Willaston, near Nantwich, now plans to take a degree in motorsport engineering at Oxford Brookes University.
He gained A-levels in maths, physics and chemistry at Malbank School and Sixth Form College, Nantwich, after fitting his driving commitments around his studies.
Douglas, who has his own racing car, said: "I didn't spend that much time racing when it came up to exams. But I was doing revision at one race day, which was just before my exams."
The teenager competes in the Formula Ford national championship, which takes him to venues across the country, from Oulton Park to Brands Hatch. He also won the North West championship at 17.
He said: "I do about 15 races a year. I won the class championship and came third overall last year.
"I first got into racing when I was eight. I did kart racing for seven years and then progressed to racing cars.
"I drive single-seater racing cars with a Ford engine. They are a lot different to your average Ford Fiesta. The top speed is about 135mph."
Douglas is aiming for a career as a Formula One engineer, rather than in the driving seat.
He chose his A-level subjects with the motorsport degree in mind and has already found his scientific background useful for racing.
"It's the engineering side I'm interested in," he said. "It's how to make the car faster. I've been testing things out on my car to try to improve its engineering."
Douglas's father Paul Crosbie said: "The racing is quite a commitment but he seems to have taken to it like a duck to water."
Related content:
A-level record-breakers have future planned out (plus advice)
Racing ahead: Driven Douglas knows a degree is the formula for success
Latvian teenager enjoys success after moving to Potteries
Comments