A Torfaen teenager has been nominated for the national Deaf Sports Personality of the Year award in the Young Sports Personality category.
Sixteen-year-old Caleb McDuff, a former pupil at Cwmbran High School is a rising motor racing star and the UK’s only male Deaf racing driver.
He is a member of Team BRIT, the world’s only competitive team made up entirely of disabled racing drivers.
Since signing with the team earlier this year, he has been competing in a BMW 1 Series in the Britcar Trophy Championship.
Following an outstanding season, in which the 1 Series secured the overall class win, Caleb advanced to drive the BMW M240i for the championship’s final race, showcasing his rapid growth as a driver.
Diagnosed as Deaf at the age of two due to severe ear infections, Caleb has overcome significant challenges with the help of advanced cochlear implants, which now allow him to have moderate hearing.
Team BRIT has developed a technical solution enabling him to use his implants while racing, by creating an interface between his implants and the pit crew, ensuring he can fully engage with his team and the sport he loves.
Caleb’s passion for racing started at a young age when his father, inspired by Canadian deaf racing driver Kris Martin, bought him a go-kart. It wasn’t long before Caleb’s natural talent shone through, culminating in a victory at the South Wales Karting Championship in 2019.
Caleb said: “I’m truly honoured to be nominated for the Deaf Sports Personality of the Year award. It’s such an amazing end to my first season with Team BRIT, and not only highlights my journey but also celebrates the achievements of young deaf athletes everywhere. It shows that with passion and determination, anything is possible. I hope my story can inspire others to chase their dreams.”
Team BRIT principal Mike Scudamore said: “Caleb’s nomination is so rightfully deserved. He has worked so hard this year, pushing on to progress further and further and delivering some incredible performances.
“It’s not just a personal achievement however; it serves as inspiration for young athletes within the Deaf community. These awards are an opportunity to shine a light on their contributions to sport and to celebrate their remarkable achievements. The award recognizes the resilience and talent of Deaf athletes, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity in sports – something Team BRIT is all about.”
Vote for Caleb in Deaf Sports Personality of the Year award
It’s so simple to vote- Visit https://dspy.co.uk/voting-online/ and scroll down to Vote for Young Deaf Sport Personality of Year 2023/24 and you’ll see Caleb’s name and photo. Click on him and that’s it done.