By Thomas Grant Jr.
Kenneth Blevins II has become the talk of the county.
At 11 years ago, the Pelion Elementary student pulled off a rare championship feat in K1 Speed indoor electric kart racing. In a span of 24 hours last month, he was crowned both the United State and E-World Junior Division champion in races at Charlotte, N.C. and Ontario, Calif.
Founded in 2003, K1 Speed is the world’s largest indoor electric kart racing operator, with 88 locations in seven different countries and 30 states. K1 Speed is a unique upscale entertainment concept for casual consumers, racing enthusiasts, and corporate or group events.
“I am happy I was able to bring home both Championships–the National and World Championship for K1 Speed,” Blevins said. “It was an amazing day, amazing and tough competition. Thank you K1 Speed for putting it all together and providing the amazing championship races.”
Last Wednesday, Blevins’ “Victory Tour” stopped at the VIP Stadium room at Lexington County Baseball Stadium. There he was celebrated by Lexington County Blowfish co-owner Bill Shanahan for his positive contribution to the community.
It was also announced that Blevins would be a featured guest during the team’s June 7 ‘NASCAR Night” promotion. Along with inviting fans to attend wearing their favorite driver’s jerseys, a Dale Earnhardt Mustache Look-A-Like contest will take place.
Thanks to Karl Horner Jr., distributor for Justice Brothers Car Care Products, Earnhardt’s 1996 Z28 Camero will be displayed that night. It made an appearance during the Blowfish’s May 15 luncheon where Blevins even got an opportunity to sit behind the wheel.
As an added bonus, Blevins received $100 from Horner to support the young racer’s career pursuit. In fact, Shanahan announced plans to hold a raffle during the June 7 game with proceeds going to the Blevins family.
While a fan of NASCAR driver Chase Elliott, Blevins currently hopes to join the Formula One circuit when he’s older. For now, he’s focused on his latest races in Greenville.
“I like to run fast and I like to run against other people,” said the soft-spoken Blevins about his love of racing.
Lexington County opens the regular season May 28 at the Florence Flamingos.
(Photos by Thomas Grant Jr.)
