Young racer with diabetes wants to inspire, dad says

Zachary Houghton, a 17-year-old from Redhill, Surrey, has completed his first Formula Ford test, marking a significant step in his journey from simulator racing to real cars. Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 12, Zachary aims to inspire others with the condition, according to his father, Scott Houghton. The teenager recently drove a racing car on a circuit for the first time, expressing his confidence in returning to racing after finding the necessary funding.

Despite the high costs associated with motorsport, Scott believes his son is determined to be an advocate and inspiration for young people living with type 1 diabetes. During his first race in August, Zachary's car featured the logo of the official charity for East Surrey Hospital, where he was diagnosed. The family has previously raised money for the charity, and seeing their name on the car while Zachary raced was a special moment for them.

Zachary's next goal is to compete in the Formula Ford Festival at Brands Hatch, an event for grassroots motorsport.