West Cumbrian racing sensation Jonny Edgar hit the jackpot in Las Vegas as he pipped some of the sport's biggest stars to America's top karting prize.

The 11-year-old Cockermouth School pupil triumphed in the Superkarts USA Open Championship on Sunday, netting £38,000 in prize money.

Jonny, of Asby, competed in the cadet class of the four-day meeting, which attracted top stars from Europe and North and South America.

His dad Justin said: "The prize money doesn't really come back to Jonny, it's more back towards his racing.

"It's the biggest karting race in the world.

"Jonny loved it."

Jonny's grandfather Terry followed live updates from the race into the early hours in his Rowrah home.

One of four Brits competing, Jonny fought off 86 other drivers to take the title after strong performances in his heats.

He starting from grid two alongside Nick d’Orlando, the New Yorker he beat in the Florida Winter Tour eight months ago.

D’Orlando, Sam Mayer and Ryan Schartau edged ahead of Jonny from the start, but it took the youngster only a couple of laps reel them in.

Oliver Calvo threatened to nick the prize as the pair sparred over the final laps, before a mistake from Calvo saw him run off the circuit and Jonny clinched the win.

The win was also a major boost for Florida-based Benik Team, who invited Jonny to compete in Vegas.

It was back to school for Jonny this week, who will face another gruelling schedule next year as he looks to make a name for himself in he sport.

Justin added: "It'll have to be a very busy schedule because by the age of 14 if you haven't been noticed you're not going to make it.

"He wants to be a professional racing driver."