Local

9-year-old go-kart racer taking track by storm

PITTSBURGH — It is nothing for 9-year-old Madison Campeau to do 60 miles per hour in her Yamaha Jr. Sportsman and Cadet Class go-kart.

Madison, whose home track is Pittsburgh International Race Complex in Wampum, started racing when she was 6 years old.

Madison's mother, Michele Campeau, still gets nervous at the start of races.

"My heart rate gets pretty high until the green flag drops," Michele Campeau said. "Once they are through turn one, I settle down a little bit."

Madison, whose racing inspiration is Danica Patrick, isn't fazed by it all. She offered this advice to Patrick and herself if things don't go well: "Every time you don't do so well, don't get so frustrated," Madison said.

The race season has been going very well for Madison. This year alone, she has three wins locally and a top-five finish in a national race in South Carolina.

Her father, Jim Campeau, who raced MotoGP bikes, recognizes his daughter's talent.

"She learns every time we go to a different track and travel," Jim Campeau said. "She comes back here, she picks up time, and she's been faster.”

How fast and far can Madison go? Time will tell, but right now, the Campeau family is enjoying the racing adventure.

When asked what it’s like to win, Madison got right to the point with a one word response: "Awesome."