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BEIJING: Motor sports has been gaining popularity in China since Shanghai hosted its first Formula One race six years ago.
Aspiring drivers start by making a name for themselves in the go-kart circuit, some as young as 10.
While some toy with model cars or become race drivers in a virtual world, China's teenage motor sports enthusiasts are burning rubber - for real.
With toys that cost over US$4,000, they belong to a growing number of affluent children going full throttle to fulfil their dream of ruling the go-kart circuit.
Tony Wang, a motor sports fan, said: "I want to become an even better car racer than Michael Schumacher! I feel like I'm flying every time I race."
Eric Yang, a motor sports fan, said: "I prefer go-karting to soccer. There are too many players involved in soccer and I even got tripped over. Go-kart racing is an indescribable feeling."
For Kevin Zhang, being able to take control of the machine has helped boost his confidence in school.
"I took 40-over seconds to complete a lap when I first tried go-karting and wondered how I could get better," he said.
By his second visit, Kevin was already driving his own go-kart, with an annual VIP membership bought by his parents.
He and his friends can now complete a lap in 25 seconds, fast enough to give many adults a run for their money.
Gu Yaofang, Mother of Kevin Zhang, said: "I make it a point to tell him that we should only buy things that are necessary. It's more convenient for him to train with his own kart, as he can then exercise better control over the vehicle."
The operator initially targeted middle and upper-class adults, but has since widened its customer base to include children.
Chen Yajun, Manager of U-Speed Karting Centre, said: "An increasing number of children are becoming interested in auto-racing. Our new karts are designed to accommodate the needs of children. The brakes and accelerators are built to cater for their smaller frames."
At US $11 for a six-minute ride, the sport is a luxury for many people living in Beijing.
But then again, the Chinese capital is also home to a large number of wealthy residents, hungry for novelty.
Since China held its first Formula One race in 2004, interest in motor-racing has been picking up speed. One indoor circuit was built more than two years ago. It now flags off 15,000 rides every month. And its popularity will grow, as more Chinese dream of racing their way to pole position in the international motor sports arena. - CNA/de
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