Local racer, 11, takes 1st in Go-Kart championships

Bailee Jones is lifted up by Bob Miller, also known as “Bondo Bob” after winning a race in Medford, Ore. Submitted Photo

Along with her father, Chris Jones, the pair have been taking part in racing events in Medford, Ore., and have two first place trophies to show for it.

Last month both took first place in their respective divisions in the overall Southern Oregon Outlaw Kart Champ­ionship series. Bailee finished with 309 points out of nine races run at the track in the 250cc division compared to a final score of 289 for the second place finisher.

“It’s something we can do as a family,” Chris Jones said about Go-Kart racing. “It’s fun and we enjoy the competition and the friends we’ve made.”

Chris Jones took first in the Sportsman division. Fellow Del Norte County resident Eric Chandler took 2nd overall while Bob Miller, also known as “Bondo Bob,” took fifth.

Chris Jones said that since she was little Bailee has had a passion for racing and first got involved riding four wheelers, but added that he’s pleased she got into Go-Karts because “it was a little safer.”

Now, Bailee hopes to take the next step in her racing career.

This weekend she will take part in the Ron Sutton Winner’s Circle Driver Development Program Shoot-out at the Stockton Speedway.

Local Go-Kart racer Bailee Jones during a race in Medford, Ore., recently. Jones, 11, took first overall in the 250 CC division in the Southern Oregon Outlaw Kart Championship. Submitted Photo

This was a four step process that included a resume and written interviews.

If chosen by a team Bailee would be racing out of the Sacramento area during the racing season. 

The program is designed for up and coming drivers with NASCAR aspirations.

Bailee said she’s excited about the upcoming event and and having a chance to be picked dup by a racing team.

Bailee is seeking local business sponsors. For more information, call 954-2464.