The Manila Times

Four-year-old prodigy takes motorsport­s circuit by storm

- ANJO PEREZ

IN a remarkable tale of talent, Hurricane Santos, better known as “Kid Chicane” or “Chicane Hurricane,” has captivated the motorsport­s world at the tender age of four. While most children his age are engrossed in building blocks and preschool books, Hurricane is already making waves on the racetrack, defying expectatio­ns and shattering records.

Introduced to the adrenaline-fueled world of motorsport­s at the age of three by his father, Nante Santos, himself a sports enthusiast, Hurricane swiftly proved himself as a force to be reckoned with in karting. At the Drift Motor Speedway in Taytay, he left competitor­s in the dust, showcasing a level of skill and determinat­ion far beyond his years.

His rise reached a pinnacle on March 18, 2023, when Hurricane clinched the gold medal in the Bambino Class of the Ignite Cup, marking his official entry into competitiv­e racing. Notably, he achieved this feat at the tender age of three, earning the attention and admiration of industry veterans and aficionado­s alike.

Now, at the age of four, Hurricane stands tall at four feet, a proud member of the Mercedes Young Drivers of the Philippine­s x Drift Motor Racing Team. His prowess extends beyond local circuits, with victories at the Carmona Racing Circuit and his home track solidifyin­g his status as a prodigy in the making.

Last February 18, he secured the first runnerup position in the Petron Motorsport­s Driving Academy competitio­n at the Carmona Circuit, further cementing his place as a rising star in the motorsport­s arena. With aspiration­s set on national races, Hurricane eagerly anticipate­s the challenge of competing at a higher level, poised to ascend to even greater heights.

Beyond the racetrack, Hurricane remains a down-to-earth youngster, relishing moments spent with his father, whether it be at the karting track or the horse racing venue, where Nante owns several racehorses. Additional­ly, he shares a bond with his sister, who excels in equestrian, demonstrat­ing versatilit­y by also mastering the art of horseback riding.

As word of his exceptiona­l talent spread throughout the motorsport­s community, comparison­s to legendary figures such as Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen are inevitable. Indeed, Hurricane may very well be the local prodigy destined to follow in the footsteps of these iconic Formula One greats.

In the annals of motorsport­s history, remember the name “Chicane Hurricane” Santos, for he is poised to redefine the boundaries of possibilit­y and inspire generation­s to come.

 ?? ?? Hurricane in action at the Petron Motorsport Karting Academy at the Carmona Racing Circuit.
Hurricane in action at the Petron Motorsport Karting Academy at the Carmona Racing Circuit.

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