2002 News Archive |
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Archive M.S.A.
Give Green Light (31/12) The Motor Sports Association
have given Max the go-ahead for long circuit racing in 2003 and the British
Superkart Association have put together a six race club championship for Rotax
Max at circuits including Pembrey, Lydden Hill and Silverstone. Race dates can
be found here. [
Top ] New
Level 2 Track (31/12) Kylemore Indoor Karting,
Dublin's only indoor karting arena that was established in 1992, has now added a
second 360 metre track, to be known as Level 2 track. The new track, which is
due to open in mid-January has cost over £350,000 (550,000 Euros) to complete.
Building work on the extension to the premises commenced 10 months ago while
interior work on the second level track, which criss-crosses the original track
began last July and has taken six months to complete. The original 30,000 sq ft
premises has been extended to give over 56,000 sq ft of track area. The new
track will feature underpasses, flyovers and a series of climbs and downhill
sections, which will make it one of the finest in Europe. [
Top ] 2002
MBKC Champions (23/12) Congratulations to all
Manchester and Buxton Kart Club Champions in 2002. Cadet Joseph Boullen, Junior
TKM Rossi, Inter TKM Jonathan Neville, Senior TKM Dan Holland, Rotax Max Paul
Pendlebury, Rotax Max 172 Tony Hughes, 100 National Simon McHugh, National 125
Peter Mitchell, 125 Open Jeremy Bates & 250 National John Bishop. Everyone at the club looks
forward to celebrating your achievements at the MBKC award ceremony 1st February
2003. For details including final positions in all championships visit http://mbkartclub.com/champions2002.html [
Top ] Trulli
Kart (23/12) HRS Motorsport in Sunderland
have been appointed as sole UK distributor for the Trulli kart. [
Top ] Jon
Daltrey (20/12) It is with regret we report
the sad news that Jon Daltrey who raced in Rotax Max and was the British
champion in 1998 in 100C, multiple Midlands champion and the winner of the world
champs qualifying round to race in Puerto Rico, has died. At the young age of 25 years,
he died in his sleep on Sunday 8th December. One of the top drivers in his time
he will be sadly missed by not only his family, but his many fans and friends
around the country too. His funeral takes place today
(20th December) in Swindon, Wiltshire. Contact telephone numbers are available
to anyone wishing to contact the family. [
Top ] Girl
Power Revs Up (19/12) Top British female drivers
spanning the last decade will join together at Autosport International 2003 - in
association with the Daily Telegraph - to try to encourage more women into
motorsport. Barbara Armstrong, Vicki Butler-Henderson, Louise Goodman and Penny
Mallory will head the line up in this ladies karting challenge to be staged on
the Daytona kart circuit in Hall 11, on Friday 10 January at 12.00 noon in the
new National Motorsport area. Throwing down the gauntlet
for the juniors will be 14-year-old karter Serena Hampton, who has made an
impression on the competition in the Junior Max class after racing for the first
time in Champions of the Future in 2002. Sarah Wilson, who will join the MN
backed Stars of Tomorrow - Racing with the BRDC national kart championship in
2003, will also be hoping to drive rings around the celebrities. The 14-year-old
already boasts an impressive race CV and is a former Warden Law and Rowrah
Junior TKM Champion and reigning Super 2, NKF and Rowrah Junior TKM Champion. Fully supporting the event,
Louise Goodman from ITV's F1 programme comments: "Whether you are male or
female karting is undoubtedly the best place for any competitor to start." Daytona Karting has
generously donated an exclusive driving event for up to 20 drivers at one of
Daytona's five venues across the UK for the Race of Amazons winner's nominated
charity. [
Top ] NEC
Launch for 7Kart (17/12) 7Kart Ltd will be launching
its 7Kart Components Division and showcasing the 7TDB Prokart in the new
National Motorsport area at Autosport International 2003, from 9th - 12th
January at the NEC in Birmingham. Supplying quality karting
parts and equipment, 7Kart Components is a company run by karters, for karters.
Neil Dodson, Managing Director comments: "Our aim is to provide a quality
service and deliver a massive range of components 'on time', at competitive
prices. Stocked lines are set to include Alfano, Kartsmart, KG, R3, Ridolfi,
WildKart and many more." 7Kart Components will also
feature an on-line shop during January 2003, providing an efficient and easy to
use one-stop distribution service. A visit to the 7Kart stand should get you all
the professional advice you need and you'll also be able to benefit from some
exclusive Show offers too. [
Top ] Sandown
Thong Race (16/12) What started out as a wind-up
some weeks ago, finished yesterday with David Bright, Jeff Johnson and Sean
Durcan running a lap of a damp Sandown Park kart circuit each wearing underpants
and little else. This preceded the day's main event, a 6 hour enduro won
by David Bright Racing. The thought of seeing the three running around in
thongs may have kept many away but around £700 was raised for Childline, the
children's charity. On the basis that most things
get smaller when cold, JJ and Brighty felt they had every reason to question
Sean over the disappearance of the paper towels! Anyone wishing to support the
efforts of the boys can contact Dave Bright on mcgeeracing@hotmail.com [
Top ] Winter
Wonderland for Lancaster (13/12) Jon Lancaster powered his way
to victory and fastest lap in the first round of the JICA Winter Series at the
Three Sisters Circuit in Wigan. It made up for his disappointment from his
previous win the week before at the PF International Club race in which he was
excluded after being underweight by just 1 gramme! Birel U.K Importer Andy Cox
Racing was over the moon with the result; "This is the first race win for a
Birel driver in JICA since 1996, when then JICA driver Tom Sisley won the
Champions of the Future round at Buckmore Park. Jon and his engineer Mark have
worked hard over the last month since changing to our chassis and Jon's
performances in testing and racing have been fantastic, we are very pleased with
the progress and so are the Birel factory in Italy," commented Andy Cox. [
Top ] Fairmont
Winner (11/12) Fairmont Insurance Services
Group Ltd in conjunction with 'Stars of Tomorrow' have great pleasure in
announcing that Daryl McDonald has won the 2003 Fairmont Scholarship. The other
three karters in contention for the award were; Thomas Brown, Ross Curnow and
Oliver Turvey. The four members of the
judging panel had a tough time: "It was an extremely difficult job that was
set the panel" said Paula Hamilton "and on one occasion Carolynn Hoy
from 'Stars of Tomorrow' thought that we all might be getting close to
blows!" "Speaking for myself and
I am certain that this goes for all the judging panel" said Carolynn Hoy,
"I always feel a little down after the decision because I have one ecstatic
boy but three devastated ones. They all worked so hard but there can only be one
winner." Well done Daryl and best of
luck for 2003. [
Top ] Test A
TXRM - Date Changed! (11/12) Dream Karts International,
sole importer of the French GoKart chassis have changed their test day at Bayford
Meadows to Wednesday 18th December 2002. Anyone interested in a test drive
on either a junior or senior Max should contact them on 0208 518 7744 or 07870
564503/2 for further details or just turn up on the day. [
Top ] Fees
Fixed For 2003 (11/12) Cumbria Kart Racing Club
maintain their reputation for value for money racing by again offering
competitive fees at one of the best drivers' venues in the UK. The fees are: Membership;
£40 (single) with £30 for each subsequent family member at the same address.
Race Fees; Member £30, Non-Member £40. Practice Fees; Member £15, Non-Member
£25. [
Top ] Charity
Event (10/12) Sunday 26th January is the
date for a 2 hour endurance race in aid of The Anthony Nolan Trust - a leukaemia
charity founded in 1974 as the first register of volunteers willing to donate
bone marrow in circumstances where a match cannot be found within a patient's
family. The event is being held at Lakeside Karting, Thurrock, Essex using Biz
twin-engined prokarts on the full 900m circuit. This is a Pro Am event for a
very worthwhile cause. Up to 15 teams will be competing and each team will
feature a driver from the world of professional motorsport. Teams interested in
racing should contact Bronwen Nicholls at the Trust - Tel. 01371 811205 or
e-mail bronwen.nicholls@popmail.anthonynolan.org.uk Would any professional
drivers interested in racing please contact Simon Jones at Lakeside Karting
01708 863070. [
Top ] F6
Champ Tests FF (10/12) 19 year old Andy Wills, who
became Rochester Motor Club's 'Formula 6' Senior Prokart '0' Plate champion
earlier this season, is testing with the Formula Ford Winter Series 2002
championship winning team Team Jato Motorsport at Donington Park on 12th &
19th December 2002. "This is a dream come true" says Andy, who was run
by Jeff Harris in karts, "and I hope to join Jeff's and Derek Phibb's
winning team next season". Jeff Harris's son James who
won "Best Newcomer" award at Brands Hatch this November for the
Formula Ford Winter Series 2002 Championship will also be testing with the team.
Anyone else interested in testing at Donington with Team Jato Motorsport should
call Jeff Harris on 020 8669 9223 or 07958 725432. [
Top ] Karts
'n' Parts Appeal (09/12) The F1 Junior Karting Club of
Clydebank, in Glasgow are launching an appeal to the nations karters! They are
asking for any karters who have any old items of equipment that they no longer
require to donate them to the Club. The appeal is to aid children who could not
otherwise afford it, to have a chance to try outdoor karting. So if you have a
chassis that you no longer need or perhaps you have retired from the sport and
would like to help kids have their first outdoor kart experience then call us
now. If you have a spare set of
tyres, tools, an odd engine or two then please contact them, they will also
gladly accept suits and helmets if you have them. Looking for all items for
Cadets, Honda Twins, TKM or Rotax and they can collect anywhere nationwide, or
you can send the items to the address below. For those that live in the
Central belt area of Scotland, the club is currently raffling a pair of tickets
to a Westlife concert in Glasgow, on the 8th July 2003, the package includes a
chauffeur driven luxury car to collect you from home and deliver you to the SECC
for the concert. Thereafter the same car and driver will collect you at the end
of the concert and return you safely home. The price for raffle tickets is
£1.00 each which can be purchased by contacting the club on the numbers listed
below, postal order and cheque payments accepted. All proceeds from this raffle
will go to aid the kids in their attempt to raise funds to buy equipment to go
outdoor karting. Contact: David O'Neill, 112
Ralston Avenue, Crookston, Glasgow, G52 3NB, telephone 0141 882 4193. Or phone
Dave MacHendrie on 0141 642 0488. [
Top ] Fairmont
Scholarship (06/12) Successful motor sports
photographer Paula Hamilton was recently selected by Karting magazine to
represent the publication on the judging panel to decide which young karter
would win the prestigious "Fairmont Scholarship 2003". This meeting
took place at Motorsports House on Tuesday 3rd December 2002, and the winner
will be officially announced this coming Wednesday. "I was deeply honoured
to be asked by Mark Burgess, the magazine's Managing Editor, to represent the
magazine on the panel of four and it was a privilege to judge the four
candidates with Tim Bowdler - Editor of Motorsport News, John Ryan of the MSA
and Rob Kluths from Fairmont Insurance", said Paula. As one of Karting magazine's
principal photographers, Paula has decided to put down her camera at certain
race weekends in 2003 and be photographed herself when she competes in the John
Cooper Challenge for the new award winning Mini. A successful racer from years
gone by, whose winning ways date back to the 70's, Paula has a future ambition
to be the oldest woman ever to race in the British Touring Car Championship.
"I already have a couple of companies joining me as sponsors" says
Paula, "but if any other organisation or individual wishes to come on board
then myself and fellow competitor Liz Biagioni, who finished 3rd in her last 750
Motor Club race at Mallory Park in October, feel confident that they can blow
the men away". An interesting thought! [
Top ] New
Concept Series (03/12) England Internations team
manager & Karting magazine photojournalist, Martin Capenhurst, is to launch
a 3 round winter series based upon the successful format of the Internations
Challenge. A totally new concept to any
series run before it is supported by Karting magazine and intends to make team
racing available to all drivers, clubs and manufacturers. 6 classes are catered
for including Max, Pro Kart and Honda & Comer Cadet. For further information
click here or
telephone 0116 2883506. [
Top ] Rotax
Max Vega Wets (30/11) J.A.G., as co-promoter with
the ABkC, for the Formula Rotax Max kart class has informed us that the latest
batch of Vega W2 wet weather tyres, marked JAG, have been supplied with a faster
compound than earlier batches. The difference in lap times is about 3 to 4
seconds. This seems to have occurred due to misunderstandings between the
importers and Vega. However the importers have assured JAG that the change in
compound is permanent and will be supplied from now on. The ABkC regrets this sudden
change due to circumstances outside its control, and in all normal situations
would give several months notice of a change in compound. However because of the
quantity of new tyres now available and the non-availability of the earlier
tyre, the change will have to be treated as force majeure and the MSA have given
permission for the tyres to be used, subject to satisfactory monitoring this
weekend. In any case the new tyre performance is substantially better for wet
weather racing than the current tyre. It should be noted that the price per set
has been reduced to £100 plus VAT, substantially less than previous. J.A.G., on behalf of the
importers, would like to apologise to all competitors and to the ABkC. They are
offering that anyone that has recently purchased a set of the earlier compound,
which has not been used, may exchange them for the latest compound so long as
proof of purchase is shown. They have also made arrangements for
sufficient quantity of the new compound wet tyre to be delivered to Shenington
and PF International for the meetings this weekend. These will be restricted to
one set per competitor and will be available at the new price of £100 plus VAT. The ABkC anticipates that the
same new compound Vega W2 will be supplied for use in 2003 for the Formula 100
National class. Until the end of the year however only the Vega W2 marked GB is
eligible in 100 National. Further investigation on this will be taking place. [
Top ] Hairpin
Found (29/11) On Sunday 24th November an
intrepid team of Manchester & Buxton KC miners lead by the old Cumbrian hand
Iain Blair found a new circuit at 3 Sisters. The new Hairpin circuit was very
well received by drivers, providing a different challenge from the existing
circuits. Subject to MSA approval the club will be using this circuit alongside
the Valley, Club, Perimeter and International circuits; 5 circuits each with
there own unique challenges. The first three are used for all karts, the
Perimeter and International circuits are used for gearbox classes. For a
complete list of the circuits to be used in 2003 click
here. [
Top ] Kart
Parts Donated (29/11) A High School & Sixth
Form College karting team attended the International Kart Show at Telford over
the weekend of 23rd & 24th November, setting themselves a challenge to
assemble a kart from donated parts during the course of the weekend. Several of
the exhibitors at the Kart Show supported the initiative with donations. Sandbach High School &
Sixth Form College would like to thank all the following for their donations of
parts to the school karting team. Century Race Preparation, Delta Karting, Hasse,
James Brobin, JKH Karting, John Mills Racing, Kartal Motorsport, Kartell, LRG
Karts, Rega Motorsports, Saxon, Swiss Hutless UK, Tabor Racing, Tal-Ko & Zip
Kart. Thanks to their generosity, the team is now well on the way to having a
new kart for the next season of racing. [
Top ] New
Karting Videos (26/11) Tal-Ko has the first release
of new 2002 karting action from both the MAXXIS Formula TKM Festival at
Kimbolton and the Elf Hill House Hammond Super 1 series. Both videos feature the
footage from the Sports Unlimited TV coverage of the racing including
interviews, on-boards and race action. The S1 coverage features all classes in
both juniors and seniors. The videos come in VHS form
in sleeved covers and both are available immediately from Tal-Ko, - ideal for
Christmas. For full details call 01767 682020 or email info@tal-ko.com [
Top ] Top
Racing Stars At NEC (25/11) The National Motorsport area
is attracting some top racing stars and set to appear on the Motorsport News
stand, the focal point of the new National Motorsport area at Autosport
International 2003, will be one of the UK's most successful karters - Lewis
Hamilton. Lewis will be chatting to visitors about how he tackled the transition
from karting, into single-seaters and clinch third place in Formula Renault in
2002. Another British karter turned
BTCC ace, Gareth Howell, will also be roaring into the National Exhibition
Centre in Birmingham in January. Gareth graduated from junior karting, where he
bagged a number of titles at home and in Europe, at the end of the 1996 season.
Since then he has gone on to scoop up the silverware in the saloon car arena,
firstly in the Ford Credit Fiesta Zetec-S Championship - where he was crowned
the youngest ever championship race winner - to the heady heights of the BTCC.
Having first made his debut in Touring Cars during 2000, where he clinched his
first podium, Gareth went on to compete in his first full season the following
year. This season has seen Gareth go from strength to strength competing in the
BTCC Independent Racers Cup as one of Team Atomic Kitten's top drivers. Hear
what he has to say about the challenges of advancing in the sport and driving
within one of the most competitive arenas in British Motorsport. Putting a point over for the
fairer sex will be Serena Hampton who has truly impressed in Junior Max in
Champions of the Future this year. Although the 14-year-old only started racing
for her licence last year, Serena has proved she is "one of the boys"
by her continual promising form in what was only her first year of national,
junior kart racing this season. Serena will be found on the Motorsport News
stand where she will be talking about the pros and cons of racing within a male
dominated sport and, most importantly, how easy it is for anyone to get started. [
Top ] Hines
Beats Schumacher (21/11) ZipKart founder, Martin
Hines, has been awarded the prestigious 2002 Autocar Award for Motor Sport. The
Autocar Awards recognise the best of the best in the motor industry and are
widely regarded as being the most influential within the motor industry and
across Europe. Winner: Martin Hines, ZipKart.
Runners up: Michael Schumacher, Audi Le Mans team, Kimi Raikkonen. [
Top ] Cumbria
Kart Racing Club (20/11) There has been a change of
date for the Cumbria KRC Annual General Meeting due to the venue now being
unavailable on the originally stated date. Please note that the meeting
will now take place on Tuesday 10th December at 7:30pm in the Washington Central
Hotel, Workington. All members are welcome and encouraged to attend and voice
their opinion on how this members' club is run. [
Top ] 2003
SRS Scholarship (20/11) The Silverstone Racing School
are running a competition to win a fully sponsored drive in the 2003 BRDC Single
Seater Championship - the recognised 'first step' on the single seater racing
ladder. Tutored by some of best instructors around, one in five entrants will go
through to a final assessment stage before the winner is selected. Have you the
aptitude, ability and a determination to succeed? More information here. [
Top ] The
GameFrame (18/10) The best modern driving games
are designed to be played with a steering wheel and pedals, but as any real
racing driver will tell you, to be competitive you have to be comfortable and in
total control, and you can't be quick when you're balancing the wheel pod on
your lap and the pedal box is creeping away from you on the carpet! So the new
GameFrame complete with a Tillett race seat looks to be the answer. Sitting in the correct
position with the controls firmly secured is very important, so kart racer Ian
Berry and chassis designer & engineer Ted Poole have come up with the new
GameFrame, the latest must-have accessory for driving games fanatics. It's a
frame that the driver sits in, complete with adjustable steering wheel and pedal
box supports, that can be used with a Sony Playstation, X-Box or a PC.
Serious gamers who already have their own wheel and pedals will be pleased to
know that the GameFrame will work with any of the set-ups currently available. At £199 (until 24th
December) plus delivery, the
GameFrame is half the price of similar driving stations and is unique because it
folds away to the size of a small chair, taking up minimal space. It can then be
easily stored in a cupboard or even hung on the wall. For more information
contact: Ian Berry on 01483 281 955 or 07774 933 812 or Ted Poole on 02380 463
467. [
Top ] New
Racing For Buttons Website (18/10) Racing For Buttons currently
based at Rowrah in Cumbria are about to enter their fourth year of operation and
as the scheme has been so successful the natural progression was inevitable.
Aimed at 7 to 12 years olds, RFB caters for kids throughout the whole region
(approx. 60 mile radius) and as such there has been an increasing demand for up
to date information. Through popular request RFB
are delighted to announce the launch of their brand new website. There's news
and information on the Cumbria based scheme regarding its activities and the
kids involved. Promised future developments include online market place and
discussion forums. Find out more at www.racingforbuttons.co.uk [
Top ] Manx GP
& Junior GP 2003 (18/10) The IOM Kart Racing
Association are already making plans for the most exciting round-the-houses
event for karts, the 2003 Manx Grand Prix, due to take place in Peel on the west
coast of the island at the end of June. In addition, they are also putting plans
in place for the 2nd Manx Junior Grand Prix. The junior event (open to Cadets
and Juniors) will be held at the 1350 metre Jurby race circuit near Ramsey on
Sunday 29th June 2003, following the conclusion of the Peel event on the
Saturday. If you would like more information about these events either go along
and see them at the International Kart Show in Telford this coming weekend, or
alternatively email the Isle of Man Kart Racing Association at; iomkarting@manx.net [
Top ] ABkC
AGM (14/11) The Association of British
Kart Clubs will be holding its Annual General Meeting on Saturday 23rd November,
starting at 2 p.m. The venue is the Kart Show at Telford's International Centre
with access from the M54 exit Junction 4. Each of the thirty member
clubs may send up to two voting delegates, but everyone interested is welcome to
attend. After the elections for the 2003 Steering Group there will be an
opportunity for an informal question and answer session on any aspect of
karting. Refreshments will be available from 1.30 p.m. Entry to the Kart Show is
not necessary to attend the meeting. [
Top ] Bravo
Beggio! (13/11) Team members from Birel
Motorsport arrived at a very wet PFI International last Friday, 8th November. It
was Gianluca Beggio's first visit to the UK arranged by the UK importer Andy Cox
Racing to demonstrate the new 2003 Birel chassis to existing Birel owners and
numerous prospective buyers. Owner drivers had come from as far as Northern
Ireland and some owners had even flown in for the test from Ireland. They
weren't to be disappointed, Beggio was quick in the rain and it was an amazing
sight to see his skills and professionalism on and off the track. Birel
mechanics Mariano and Fumagali honed the set up to perfection. Saturday dawned with clear
skies and before long the track was dry, Beggio was even more awesome in the dry
aboard the new Birel R32SR posting quicker and quicker times throughout the day
ending up on 44.85 secs. Advice was given to other Birel owners on set up and
Beggio signed autographs on anything from crash helmets to petrol tanks! "A successful couple of
days" commented Andy Cox, "Ronnie Sala, team manager of Birel
Motorsport was impressed with everyone's preparation and participation in this
event that could now become an annual event in the future". Andy Cox Racing
would like to thank everyone who attended and for those requiring more
information on the 2003 Range of Birel karts he can be contacted at andycox@andycoxracing.co.uk
or tel: 01527 63984. [
Top ] Glasgow
Junior Kart Club (12/11) The F1 Junior Karting Club
based at Scot Kart in Clydebank has announced it will shortly have five new
Cadet class karts for beginners, this means that they will be able to offer a
full range of karting experiences for 8 -16 year olds. It's usually £12.50 per
session but juniors will get their first drive free. Why not go along and try
it! Telephone 0141 882 4193 for further information. [
Top ] Buckmore's
£1M Clubhouse (08/11) Contractors have started
Buckmore Park's new £1M Clubhouse, which features the very latest in design
technology. Both floors of the multi-functional two-storey building are to be fully
equipped with state of the art facilities. The ground floor
specification includes an 85 seat cafeteria/restaurant, product display arena
(suitable for up to 180 guests), toilets, showers, changing rooms, medical room,
outside viewing terrace and access to the circuit via a new corporate pit lane.
Audio/visual facilities include a bank of monitors displaying lap by lap race
action as well as links to terrestrial and satellite TV. The first floor, designed
primarily for corporate and group use, incorporates a 200 seat conference room,
toilets, full catering facilities and corporate bar. Large folding acoustic
screens allow the room to be divided into smaller hospitality suites/meeting
rooms which are bathed in natural light and have access to a balcony offering
outstanding panoramic views of the circuit. Audio/visual equipment includes a
large plasma screen, built in sound system as well as provision for ISDN
Internet access. The building is due for completion in Spring 2003. Circuit owner Bill Sisley
says "the new building will benefit all Buckmore's customers and is only
part of our long term development plan. As soon as the Clubhouse is finished we
will move on to our next project - a Paddock Facilities building which will
provide all owner/drivers with up-to-date facilities including a heated
scrutineering bay, technical room, medical centre, fast food cafeteria, toilets
and showers". For more details on Buckmore's future developments contact
Bill Sisley on 01634 201562 ext 206. [
Top ] BES
T-Cars Scholarship (07/11) The majority of the final ten
top drivers in the BES T-Car Scholarship come from a Karting background and now
travel to Castle Combe in Wiltshire on 13th November for track assessment and
driver interviews. The winner of the scholarship will be announced on the day
and can expect a lot of media attention as the top prize is a fully paid drive
in the 2003 BRSCC T-Cars Championship, which has an approximate value of
£30,000. The ten finalists are; Edward
Cockill, Matthew Bastin, Craig Dolby, Oliver Turvey, Sarah Wilson, Grant Rees,
Linda Rose, Daryl McDonald, Ruth Senior and William Cox. Good luck to them
all. [
Top ] Beggio's
Karts Arrive (06/11) Ahead of this week's test at
PFI, Birel importer Andy Cox Racing has received Gianluca Beggio's karts in
preparation for the test. "The 2003 chassis has some interesting features
commented Andy Cox, I just hope we have some dry weather this weekend to test
them properly!" Testing is due to commence this Friday morning, 8th
November and anyone intending to be at the circuit should telephone 01527 63984
or email andycox@andycoxracing.co.uk
to confirm their attendance. [
Top ] Single
Seater Racing (06/11) Silverstone Race School are
hosting the famous 5-Day Race Intensive Course between 19-23 November 2002. The
course is well renowned world-wide for providing the most comprehensive race
tuition program that progresses through to a FFord race at the end. Interested
karters who want to get one of the few remaining places are being offered entry
at a reduced cost on this final course for 2002, saving over 18% on the usual
price. Call 01327 320412 or email race@octagon.com
for further information or to book your place today. [
Top ] SRT's
Biland Test (01/11) It was cold and it was wet,
but it was great fun. There was a good turnout at the East Midlands' Sutton
Circuit last Monday for SRT Karting's demonstration of the new Biland engine and
all who tested it had the same thing to say; Wow! The test lasted for 2 hours,
with new drivers hopping in and out of the seat every 10 minutes or so and the
kart ran without a hitch until 5 minutes before the end of the session when one
of the drivers crunched the right hand track rod and hub, so bringing the test
to an abrupt halt. Some of the more impressive runs of the day came from Jamie
Green and Geoff Deacon (Sutton Circuit's owner) both putting in quick circuit
times in the wet on slicks. Further test days at Sutton and Stretton circuits in
Leicestershire have been promised, - hopefully without gale force winds and
sheeting rain next time. Anyone wanting to test the Biland can contact SRT
Karting on 0116 2210475. [
Top ] Win A
Rotax Max Outfit (30/10) Visitors to this year's
International Kart Show will have the opportunity to enter the free Karting
magazine competition to win a complete Rotax Max outfit, in association with
Dartford Karting. The show has this year moved
to the International Centre, Telford, and will have more than twice the area of
recent shows. The show has received great support from the Karting trade, and
visitors will have their first viewing of many new Karts. With the cancellation
of the London show, the International Kart Show is probably your best
opportunity of visiting a dedicated Kart show and viewing next year's equipment
now. For more details visit www.kartshow.com [
Top ] Test A
Max (23/10) BRM importer BKC Karting, in
conjunction with Sexton Motorsport, are inviting all interested parties to test
drive the BRM chassis at Lydd International Raceway on Wednesday 30th October
2002. Karts available for testing will be mini Max, junior Max and senior Max.
For any further information or to reserve your test please contact either: Karen
Dodds - 01202 666557 or Rob Dodds - 07889 793035 or Piers Sexton - 07763 841459. [
Top ] Elf HHH
S1 Kart Champs On TV (18/10) Coverage of the final rounds
of the Elf Hill House Hammond S1 Kart championships gets underway shortly on Sky
Sports 2 & 3. The last junior round at Buckmore Park will start its multi
appearances on 29th October within the Sports Unlimited programme. The seniors
in their last rain drenched round at Rissington start on 5th November. A compilation tape of this
year's racing will be available later in the year. [
Top ] New
Strawberry Website (18/10) Strawberry Racing have
launched their new website displaying TonyKart, Kosmic and Trulli equipment, and
Vortex engines and spares. There's news and information on the South Yorkshire
based company and promised future developments include online shopping. Find out
more at www.strawberryracing.co.uk [
Top ] Birel
and Beggio at PFI (17/10) The sole UK importer for the
Birel range of Karts, Andy Cox Racing Ltd., are pleased to announce the arrival
of key members from Birel Spa at PF International on the 8th & 9th November
2002. PFI will be the venue to demonstrate the new Birel chassis for 2003
homologation and will be driven by 5 times World Champion Gianluca Beggio. The two days are also an
invitation for any Max or 100cc Birel owners to come to PFI and test alongside
Beggio in their own karts. Also in attendance will be Birel Motorsport boss
Ronnie Sala, and for technical information for drivers top mechanics Mariano de
Faveri and Fumagali from the official Birel Motorsport Team. Andy Cox is thrilled to have
pulled off the arrangement of the test "This is unprecedented opportunity
for users of Birel Karts to actually ask questions and receive advice from key
people from the Birel Spa factory, as well as seeing a World Champion drive at
PFI. Although the days are to be held on normal PFI open practice days we are
keen for as many Birel owners to come and test their own karts and have owner
drivers even coming over from Ireland already! I hope this commitment shown by
Birel Spa's attendance in the UK signifies their intention for the Birel brand
to grow in the UK market in the 2003." Karting magazine will also be
in attendance and will be publishing a feature due for release in December.
Testing will commence on Friday 8th November at 10.00am. For further track
information and testing fees please contact the circuit operator, Kartsport on
01636 626424. Any drivers requiring hotel accommodation can contact Chris Steele
at the Old Barn Hotel, Grantham 01400 250909. For all other information or
confirmation of your attendance contact Andy Cox Racing 01527 63984 or email andycox@andycoxracing.co.uk [
Top ] World
Superkart Challenge (16/10) On 21st & 22nd September,
2002, the World Superkart Challenge Series was run in Laguna Seca, California,
as a support race to the American LeMans Series and it saw young Cory Fancy, 19,
take 1st place in Sunday's 250cc Single ICE Class final. A delighted Loren Fancy, the
father and crew chief of Cory, highly praised the part the MasterTune played,
saying; "I want to let everyone know that Master Tune is a great option to
have on a kart. We have been using one for almost 2 years and it has worked
without fail, I don't even own a jet. Master Tune is not just a tuning device
but a hassle and time saving device in the pits. No changing jets at the last
minute etc. with all the mess and fuss. We just keep track of how many turns at
what time of the day, i.e. air density, and go to the grid. If we get it wrong
the race is not hampered by the wrong jet choice, just make a tune adjustment,
just like the thousands of 100cc racers do. We had a rough time at Laguna with
major motor breakage (cylinders cracking and pulling off the cases) we had our
hands full trying to put motors together and breaking in pistons, thus missing
hot lap practice time etc. the end result being no jet data at that track, but
no problem, we set the Master Tune to a safe setting and let the driver go from
there. We had very very little practice but still finished every race lap both
days and finished first on Sunday, that would have been much more difficult
without the Master Tune." Further information on the MasterTune is
available at www.mastertuneracing.com [
Top ] Super
Two Championship (15/10) The Super Two ABkC National
Championship will include Honda Cadet, Junior and Senior classes with Libre
Invitation and TKM 4-Stroke Junior and Senior classes. Running at the same
meetings though no part of the Super Two will be the Formula TKM 2-Stroke
Challenge including Junior, Intermediate and Senior classes. 2003 provisional dates are:
13th April at Llandow, 1st June at Larkhall, 10th August Clay Pigeon, 24th &
25th August Rowrah, and 28th September Fulbeck, with two more additional rounds
to be announced soon. [
Top ] New
1300 Metre Circuit (15/10) Brooklands Grand Prix Academy
in Weybridge, Surrey has announced the completion of its international 1300
metre kart circuit and its modern clubhouse, both of which are now open.
Brooklands have also acted to clarify their position following false industry
rumours. A recent substantial investment into the track and facilities has seen
them take delivery of 20 new Biz twin engine pro karts and the fleet will be
complemented with a further delivery of 20 new Biz single engine karts at the
end of October 2002. This new and exciting circuit
is intended to give every driver a real challenge and Brooklands are gearing up
for an exciting future, including the hosting of a round of Champions of the
Future in 2003. Open practice sessions for 4
stroke owner/drivers are currently running every Friday. Telephone 01932 855880
for information and availability. [
Top ] Rotax
Max British Champion (15/10) Congratulations to Tristram
Oman of H.R.S. Motorsport for winning the 2002 Rotax Max S1 series on a TonyKart
chassis with of course H.R.S. prepared engines. [
Top ] Competing
In Europe (14/10) At present, a competition
licence issued by any European Union country (also by Andorra, Iceland, Monaco,
Norway, San Marino or Switzerland) and bearing the EU flag is valid for any
British event, providing the holder complies with all the requirements for that
event. Such a competitor is subject to Motor Sports Association regulations
while competing in any British event. Similarly, any British
competition licence holder of National A grade or higher is entitled to compete
in events within the 21 countries (15 European Union members, plus the 7 listed
above), providing he or she complies with the requirements of the event and the
regulations of the relevant national governing body. The effect is that many
national events can attract competitors from the 21 countries, without those
events being listed on the FIA International Calendar. The FIA World Motor Sport
Council recently amended its International Sporting Code, so that the privileges
described above will, from 1 January 2003, be available at National level only
to "professional competitors". However, for the year 2003
only, the FIA General Assembly has agreed a 'half-way house'. Further
information and the full text of the MSA briefing can be found at www.msauk.org [
Top ] New
East London Showroom (14/10) Dream Karts International the
sole UK importer and distributor for the "GoKart" range of chassis
have announced the opening of their new workshop / showroom at Fairways Business
Park in Lammas Road, Leyton. They will be offering a large range of services
including spares, sales, service, repairs and race support. Contact Peter or
Dominic on 020 8518 7744. [
Top ] F1
Junior Kart Club (14/10) Having finally settled in
their new home at Scot Kart in Clydebank, Glasgow, the club meets every Sunday
morning to offer boys and girls the opportunity to try their hand at becoming
the F1 drivers of the future. The club has negotiated a package where for
£12.50 kids can spend two hours of racing and endurance tests competing with
many other budding Schumacher's and Coultard's. Helmets and suits are provided. Current membership is in the
region of 28 drivers with a normal average of 15 every Sunday morning. Run by
the parents this club has now been in existence for nearly two years at a
variety of tracks, but have hopefully settled at Scot Kart, John Knox Street,
Clydebank Glasgow. For further information call Mrs Catherine O'Neill on 0141
882 4193, alternatively call Scot Kart on 0141 641 0222. [
Top ] Final
Round For Best Of British (11/10) The very best Kart racers
from around the country will be hoping to take another step toward a career in
Formula One, as they contest the final round of the British Karting
Championships this weekend. The climax to the season is
taking place on Sunday, (13th October) at Rissington Kart Circuit, between
Stow-on-the-Wold and Burford. With 100cc and 125cc
two-stroke Karts capable of hitting 90mph and a circuit that offers plenty of
overtaking opportunities, this promises to be a spectacular event. Drivers from
around the UK - including a number of local racers - will be fighting for a
place on the podium in one of the most important meetings of the season. The
powerful Formula A, Formula ICA, Formula TKM and Formula Rotax Max categories
all being contested in a full day of wheel-to-wheel action. Rissington kart circuit is
near Upper Rissington and is signposted off the A424 to Burford, ten minutes
from Stow-on-the-Wold. Admission is just £5 per vehicle and spectators benefit
from full race commentary, excellent trackside vantage points and refreshment
facilities. Unfortunately, no pets are allowed. Racing is expected to run from
10.45am until approximately 4.30pm. [
Top ] TKM
4-Stroke National Champs (11/10) The new Formula TKM 4-stroke
classes have been given a major boost by their inclusion within the Elf Hill
House Hammond Super 1 National Championships for 2003. Junior and senior TKM
4-strokes will race within the new TKM only section of the Super 1 series which
kicks off next Spring. It is the first time ever that 4-stroke engines have been
included in the top level S1 series and reinforces the growing significance of
these new style high tech engines which will be introduced into world level
karting within a couple of years. Alan Turney of Tal-Ko, the
company which designed and makes the engines, said: "This is very good news
for the class and creates a major new opportunity for drivers who want to
combine racing at the top level with the very latest technology and superb
reliability. We want to give drivers every chance to race at different levels
and in different equipment but knowing that they have exactly the same engine
and performance as the next driver. That is what they have with the 4-stroke
which uses sealed power units." But he adds: "We must also stress our
wholehearted and continued commitment to our TKM BT82 2-stroke engine used as
the basis for the UK's largest category and which will have our long-term
support. It has already produced two F1 drivers and we hope many more." Tal-Ko will be offering a
full spares and technical back-up at the new TKM S1 series rounds for 2003. In
the meantime the company is holding special test days to give drivers the chance
of sampling the TKM 4-stroke engine. Those interested should contact Tal-Ko at
01767 682020 or email to info@formulatkm.com Dates for the S1 Formula TKM
series in 2003 are: 22nd & 23rd March at Rowrah, 19th & 20th April
Kimbolton, 3rd & 4th May Buckmore Park, 21st & 22nd June Clay Pigeon,
20th & 21st September Lydd, and 11th & 12th October Whilton Mill. [
Top ] Super
Two/Honda Challenge Awards (08/10) The Lucky Strike B.A.R. Honda
Formula One team played host to the Honda kart champions on Saturday 5th October
at their splendid facility in Brackley near Silverstone, Northamptonshire. The Awards day out for the
karters which comprised Honda Cadets, Juniors, Seniors and Libres, included a
factory tour for some 90 people and a look over one of the F1 cars just back
from testing at Barcelona in the hands of Anthony Davidson, this was followed by
a question and answer session with Anthony with everyone fascinated to hear
about his transition from karts to cars, his first F1 race in the Minardi and
his test role at BAR. Willem Toet, the BAR
aerodynamicist gave a presentation on the use of the wind tunnel and
computational fluid dynamics and then everyone moved into the presentation of
the Awards by Anthony Davidson. The top nine in each class won engraved salvers
and a symbolic number plate to recognise their right to a single digit race
number in 2003.There were special prizes from the main series sponsors Dunlop,
RG Racing, RPM Engines and Caliba. It was a fine finale to the season and a
chance to see the range of Honda competition interests from Karting to F1. The Calendar and Registration
Forms for the 2003 Super Two / Honda Challenge will be released on the Ratpro
website in about a week. [
Top ] Combined
Winter Grids For ProMax (07/10) Hot on the heels of a
successful summer season for both the EKC British Endurance Championship and the
equally successful Buckmore / Bayford SE Promax Challenge, the two series have
combined grids for the winter. Round 1 is at Bayford Meadows on the 12th October
and with an entry approaching 28 already, there should certainly be an exciting
start to the series. Lydd has also been added to the calendar to add some extra
interest. The Buckmore / Bayford SE Promax Challenge ends at Buckmore on 22nd
March 2003, but due to the start of their 2003 Summer Championship the EKC
Winter Championship finishes one round earlier on 1st February at Bayford. [
Top ] Biland
Challenge Final (07/10) Four British drivers have
been invited to join more than 60 others for the first Intercontinental Four
Stroke Kart Final at Ales in the South of France, taking place over the weekend
of 6th - 8th December. The lucky ones were the top four of 'The Biland
Championship' run by Formula 6. The final comprises timed qualifying, three
heats (9 laps) for each driver and a B final, a prefinal of 18 laps and a final
of 25 laps of a new circuit at Ales. Arranged by Team Biland of Switzerland, all
accommodation and fares are paid by the organisers for the competing drivers and
seventeen countries are represented including France, Finland, Greece, Portugal,
Rumania, the Benelux countries and many others from Europe, and from further
afield; Canada, Brazil, Taiwan, Malaysia and Australia. [
Top ] Honda
Cadet Championship (07/10) Buckmore Park & Bayford
Meadows, in Association with Formula 6 have announced the launch of the Winter
South East Honda Cadet Championship. Suitable for both Novice and Full plate
drivers, this two circuit championship consisting of 6 rounds starts at Buckmore
on the 20th October and has three rounds at each circuit, with the final race
taking place at Bayford on 26th January 2003. For an entry form and registration
details contact Sheila Rose at Buckmore. [
Top ] Lakeside Launch Day
(04/10) Tuesday 24th September was a
momentous day for Lakeside Karting Centre. The circuit decided to mark the
official opening day by inviting members of the press and media as well as
racing car drivers to an action packed racing event. The event was attended by
72 members of the National and Local Press including The Guardian, Meridian TV
and Essex FM. The attendees were split into teams of four and were given a
briefing and tour of the circuit before embarking on a 15 minute practice
followed by a one hour endurance event where the teams competed against each
other. Highlights of the day
included a demonstration drive by Mr. Colin Stancombe who managed to reach
speeds of up to 80mph in his Renault Clio touring car. Lakeside were also
honoured to have Justin Keen, F3000 competitor and regular KL Minardi Asiatech
F1 team test driver
demonstrate his skills at the wheel of a 100mph racing kart. The centre's adult
kart tutor Mr. Jay Howard, 3 times UK National Kart Champion was also on hand to
provide help and advice to novice and expert alike. Interviewed after the event,
Mr. Jon O'Neill, Business Manager from Business to Business Life said "I've
never raced at 70mph in such a tiny machine before. I can highly recommend this
experience to anyone who needs to de-stress at the end of a busy week."
Justin Keen also commented "This is without doubt the most challenging and
entertaining kart circuit I have ever visited." After prize giving and a
speech by Mr. Michael Anthony, head of Sales and Marketing, everyone enjoyed a
buffet and drinks. Lakeside Karting Centre
offers pre booked and arrive and drive karting for all ages from 9 years. The
centre is also pioneering professional driver training for both adults and
children at all levels. Contact Lakeside Karting Centre on 01708 863070 or visit
www.lakeside-karting.com [
Top ] Expansion
For Top UK Kart Champs (03/10) The UK's premier Karting
championship has announced plans for major expansion and re-organisation in 2003
to cope with the ever increasing number of competitors who want to race at the
highest levels. The Elf Hill House Hammond S1 Series will be split into three
sections next year to provide 18 rounds of top level national racing at circuits
throughout the country. Currently the series has four
qualification rounds and then splits into Junior and Senior sections with a
mixture of classes. For next year there will be no qualification events and the
split will be quite different into three parallel race series: The MSA British Championship
series will include the top junior and senior Hill House Hammond MSA British
title classes along with Cadets, ICA and 100 National. The ABkC Formula TKM series
will include classes for junior, intermediate and senior TKM 2 stroke karts, as
well as junior and senior classes for the new TKM 4-stroke engine. The ABkC Rotax series will be
for the three Rotax classes for juniors and seniors. Inclusion of the TKM
four-strokes marks the first time that four-stroke engines have ever been
included at top national championship level. In itself it is a further expansion
of the series. Series organiser Neil Hann commented: "We have talked at
length to teams and drivers to understand their needs. We have made these
changes to allow the series to grow in line with the demands of our competitors.
We stress that each series is seen as running in parallel with the emphasis on
equal billing for all. What this does is to allow us more championship events
and the ability to cater for more drivers within a suitably controlled meeting.
Each class has different needs and we feel we can better assist in the smooth
running of events by taking this approach." TV coverage for the series
will remain with full details to be announced later once full schedules are in
place. A schedule of events has been drafted and will be announced within a
couple of weeks following confirmation of the international Karting calendar. [
Top ] Gearbox
Finale (02/10) The final round of Super 4
will take place at Little Rissington this weekend and with 3 of the titles still
to be decided the racing should be very tense. In 125 Open, Nathan Freke and
Noel Brennan both need to win the meeting to take the title, with Nick Smith
looking to consolidate 3rd place. Junior champion Frank Wathall makes his debut
in 125 Open as a guest. In 125 National 3 drivers can win the title; Lee Stamp,
Matthew Bett, and Lee Harpham, in what should turn out to be a fascinating race.
250 National also has a 3 way battle between Mally Witts, Neil Burroughs and
Andrew Walker, any one can win the title. Racing starts at 10.45am so go and
have a look at what will be a fine day's racing. [
Top ] Forest
Edge Circuit Changes (01/10) The sand has gone - Yippee,
the fence has gone - Yippee, the trees have gone - Yippee, and the track is wider
- Yippee! After surveying the members
and racers at Forest Edge the club have just completed the following changes to
the track on its site in Ringwood, Hampshire. The sand run off areas around the
circuit have been removed and replaced with more engine friendly bark chippings
all the way around the 1100 metre circuit. The long post and rail fence,
recently installed by the club's landlords, has been entirely removed from
Foster's Straight leaving a wide run off area for those leaving the Parabolica
prematurely. The trees and undergrowth
that were close the track on the exit of Bridge have been removed by permission
of the landlords and English Nature and the old track curbing at Club has been
removed to make the track wider at the first bend - 4 karts in to 2 may now go! This has all helped make the
track better for overtaking, safer to drive and with better visibility for
spectators too. Those wishing to try the new Forest Edge should contact Peter
Bryceson for more details or entry forms. Tel. 01256 893663. [
Top ] Full
Grid Expected For Charity Race (01/10) The Pro-Am Charity Karting
Challenge scheduled for 27th October is predicted to start with a full grid,
event organisers RacingLines International announced that with over half of the
25 entries filled the remaining karts will be oversubscribed as the event at Rye
House Kart Raceway draws closer. "We immediately had a
massive surge of interest and this has really kept up" explained Project
Director Noel Bradford, "in the last week we have seen things go crazy with
the website and event hotline surprisingly busy." "We have had
enquiries from around the world and we are quietly confident that the grid will
be full" continued Bradford; "The £400 per team entry fee includes
all the safety gear, insurance and a huge after race party at the luxurious
Briggens House Hotel." The event will see teams of
up to 6 amateur drivers joined by a professional racer, drawn from series such
as Formula One, British and European Touring Cars, Formula Three, British
Superbikes and ASCAR, in a four hour non-stop endurance race for a large cash
donation to the winners nominated charity. "The professional driver line up
is looking to be impressive with the majority of the 2002 British Champions
taking part in the event" observed Bradford; "and we are working on
those that are not yet committed to the event." Anyone wanting to enter a
team is urged to act quickly as the remaining entries are on a strictly first
come first served basis. For entry information visit the official event website
at www.charitykarting.org or call
the event hotline on 0870-7651240. [
Top ] Junior
Gearbox (25/09) Following the decision to
include Junior Gearbox in Champions of the Future, Century Race Preparation will
be offering test days in their demonstrator karts to give drivers a chance to
try the class before making choices for 2003. Interested racers can contact
Century on 01562 632032 or 07710 232813, or mail@century-karting.co.uk
to arrange a test. [
Top ] Karting
On TV (20/09) The ABkC O Plate Championship
from Clay Pigeon will be broadcast tomorrow (21st September) on Channel 4 at
10:30am in a dedicated half-hour show, there will also be highlights of the
event in Sky Sports programme The Fastrax starting in October. The TKM 0 plate
championship from Shenington will be on The Fastrax first broadcast on Tuesday
24th September, Sky Sports 3 at 6.00pm. [
Top ] Biland
for Birel (18/09) Sole UK importers of the
Birel chassis Andy Cox Racing has been appointed as a Midland dealer for the
Biland four stroke engine. In conjunction with this appointment Andy Cox Racing
will be holding test drives at Whilton Mill throughout October and November
aboard the Birel/Biland combination. In 2003 the company will offer the Biland
engine available with the choice of two new Birel chassis designs as a complete
package. For more information contact Andy Cox Racing Ltd: 01527 63984 or andycox@andycoxracing.co.uk [
Top ] T-Cars
Scholarship (17/09) One lucky teenager will be
racing on Britain's top motor racing circuits in a purpose built 100mph racing
saloon next year absolutely free, an if they've got what it takes they may be
just a step or two away from following some of the top drivers who cut their
teeth in the T-Cars programme. Martin Lewis, Managing
Director of Building Environmental Services Plc, and founder of the Scholarship,
has confirmed that one lucky winner will be lining up on the T-Cars grid next
season. That commitment extends to the provision of a fully prepared car run by
a professional team in a prize worth over £30,000! The B.E.S. T-Cars
Scholarship has the added support of the UK's leading kart publication, Karting
magazine, through which anyone born between 1st May 1986 and 1st February 1989
inclusive may enter. Entrants must also be at least 4'9" tall and be able
to drive a car with a manual gearbox. The winner of the 2003 B.E.S.
T-Cars Scholarship in association with Karting magazine will receive the
exclusive use of a professionally prepared and run T-Car for the 2003 BRSCC
T-Cars Championship and official practice sessions. Race entries and mechanical
repairs are also taken care of, all the scholarship winner is liable for is
accident damage, which must be insured against and testing carried out over and
above the official sessions. Among the drivers who began their successful racing
career in T-Cars are Tom Boardman, who is racing in the Production class of the
BTCC, Tom Chilton jumped straight into the Touring class of the BTCC this season
to become the youngest ever competitor in the championship and finished on the
podium in his first BTCC weekend! Or maybe single seaters is
more your cup up tea? Formula Ford Zetec racers Tom Kimber-Smith and Stuart Hall
are former T-Cars rivals, Ben Reeves is now racing in Formula Renault, Ryan
Lewis is competing in Formula Palmer Audi while Oliver Playle is in Formula
Renault and will shortly be moving into British Formula 3. Full details of how
to enter this once in a lifetime chance to make your dreams come true, are
available in the October issue of Karting magazine out now! Telephone 01689
897123 to order your copy. [
Top ] Quality
Drivers Wanted (17/09) Lakeside Karting have a media
launch coming up at their newly built Essex track and are seeking some quality
drivers to take part in a 90 minute team endurance race next Tuesday, 24th
September. On offer to suitable candidates is some racing in Biz Prokarts, a
buffet and drinks, - all free of charge! You will need your own race kit and
must be at least 17 years of age. All interested in attending should either
e-mail info@lakeside-karting.com
or telephone 01708 863070 for a chance to be on the grid. [
Top ] Stolen
Kart - Reward (16/09) A cash reward of £250 is
being offered for information leading to the recovery of an Anderson Cadet Kart
stolen on 10th September from Sandal, Wakefield, West Yorkshire. It has a Honda
engine serial no: 5689323, chassis serial no: HAN01376, and had blue spoilers
etc with various stickers. Racing no. 88. Well known at SYKC and Tockwith Motor
Club. Tel: John / Ann. 01924 892154 daytime or 01924 254209 evenings. [
Top ] WTP Now
At P.F.I. (11/09) Trent Valley Kart Club has
agreed to run the Cadet Formula WTP class as part of their line up for their 6th
October club meeting at the Lincolnshire circuit near Brandon. This is not a
championship round, so any cadet driver with a WTP engine can enter and it will
run as its own class. As with all classes at P.F.I. get your entry in early to
avoid disappointment due to the large number of drivers. More information can be
obtained from T.V.K.C. or JM Racing. There should be some great racing. [
Top ] TKM
Festival On TV (11/09) Coverage of the MAXXIS
Formula TKM Festival at Kimbolton began on Sky Sports channels 2 and 3 this week
within the Sports Unlimited programme. The stations will be showing multi
repeats of the coverage over a three week period with three different programmes
being screened covering the full range of events at the Kimbolton festival held
last month. Later the Sports Unlimited programme will also be screened to many
other countries around the world. [
Top ] Derrick
On Course (11/09) Hampshire kart racer Chris
Derrick is now well on his way to winning his sixth karting championship in a
row, after completing back to back wins in the 2 Counties Championship, Chris
extended his overall lead in the seven round series which the three times
Matcham's champion has now won two years in a row. Winning the title for the
third time has only been achieved once before in the championships long history. On Chris's National
Championship campaign he is currently lying third in the Victory Racewear
Formula Blue G.T. Series and third also in the N.K.R.A Formula Blue National
Qualifiers after a superb second place at the super fast Lydd circuit, keeping
the Chandler's Ford racer as Hampshire's no1 driver in Formula Blue, and helped
by current sponsors Peter Green Furnishings, Abbey Park Cars, Argonaut Powder
Coating and Foxcraft Engineering. An exciting new sponsorship package has just
been announced with Rock Oil whose range of products is sold by Andy Cox Racing
and Chris has the highest praise for his sponsors, acknowledging that none of
these results would have been possible without the tremendous amount of help and
support they have all given. [
Top ] Live
Action Arena (09/09) As Autosport International
2003 roars in to the NEC in Birmingham from 9th to 12th January 2003, one of the
biggest attractions will undoubtedly be Karting's debut in the Live Action
Arena. Although plans are in their
infancy, it is expected that Karting will feature with appearances and
demonstrations from some of the most talented karters the UK has to offer. Ian
France, Group Show Manager, Haymarket International comments: "We are very
excited at the opportunity to raise the profile of Karting in the Live Action
Arena, where performances take place in front of 4,500 visitors, five times a
day over the weekend and twice on the trade days. We also have exciting plans to
stage races involving both national championships. We want to do all we can to
showcase Karting as the grass-roots starting point in motorsport." [
Top ] Important
Technical Clarification for Formula TKM (05/09) Rule 5.18 states that the
engine should be at cold (ambient) temperature when volume measurement readings
are taken. The Formula TKM Co-ordinator has clarified that when volume
measurement readings are being taken the engine and relevant test equipment
including oil should be at a temperature between -5C and +50C. Readings taken at
any point within this scale will be acceptable as a definitive measure of the
volume. This clarification takes immediate effect. [
Top ] Maximum
Grids Expected (04/09) Buckmore Park's 2 stroke
Summer Championship kicks off again after its summer break on Sunday 15th
September. The meeting not only features Buckmore's normal ABkC classes but also
a round of the Rotax Max Challenge. It will also be the last chance for
competitors to practice and race at the Kent circuit before the Junior Super One
round in early October. Maximum entries are expected in all classes. Additional
practice is available on Wednesday 11th and Saturday 14th September. For more
details and entry forms contact the club secretary, Mrs Sheila Rose on 01634
201562 ext 210 or email to chris@buckmore.co.uk [
Top ] Well
Done Boys (30/08) Century Race Preparation
would like to congratulate the winners of the 125 Gearbox class winners at the
Nutts Corner round of Super 4 last weekend. 125 National winner Matt Campbell,
and Nathan Freke the 125 Open winner of both heats and the final which follows
his GP win at Pembrey, Gold Cup win at 3 Sisters, and lap record setting wins at
Silverstone, all on the Pavesi engines. Drivers considering 125 Gearbox and
seeking success in either National or Open classes can contact Century on 01562
632032 or mail@century-karting.co.uk [
Top ] Updated
(28/08) Zoom Karts have updated and
improved their online store and website. More user friendly and much easier to
use, the site store now features even more products and monthly online offers.
See for yourself at www.zoomkarts.com [
Top ] 100
National (22/08) Super 1 supremo Neil Hann
returned from holiday this week to review the reaction from the ABkC proposals
not to hold 100 National Super 1 and O Plate championships in 2003. He said:
"I want to make it clear that whilst I was present at the meeting where the
proposals were made, I am now putting on hold any decision not to run 100
National in next year's Super 1 pending further discussions with interested
parties." Several prominent kart traders had reacted against the proposals
claiming they already had made significant investments in the class for next
year. The 100cc air or water cooled rotary valve engines used in 100 National
are not permitted to be the latest model types as used in Formula A, but since
many manufacturers did not do a full re-design, in practice many of the engines
used in both classes are identical this year. 100 National is a budget class
with drivers only permitted one chassis and two engines for a race meeting,
whereas ICA and Formula A are permitted two chassis and three engines, but
entries in 100 National have been declining especially at club level. [
Top ] Midland
Karting Championships (21/08) Some of the very best British
Kart racing talent will be in action at Rissington Kart Club at the end of the
month, to contest the annual Midland Karting Championships. A number of rising motor
racing stars will be hoping to add the prestigious title to their CV during the
two-day event, held at the Gloucestershire circuit from 31st August - 1st
September. The most famous winner of the title is current F1 star, Jenson
Button, who dominated the Formula Cadet category between 1989 and 1991. A
massive entry of around 300 drivers is expected to contest the 2002 event,
including Charlie Bruce-White, Sam Hill and Paul Wilson, who currently lie
first, second and third in the 100cc powered Formula TKM British Championship.
Other big names include Paul Kennings, leader of the British Formula 250 gearbox
series and Formula 125 gearbox racer, Nathan Freke, who recently won the British
Kart GP held at Pembrey, in Wales. Free practice and heats take
place on Saturday, with the remaining heats and finals making up Sunday's
programme. Spectators benefit from full race commentary and unrestricted viewing
of the action. There will also be a number of displays and some paddock
entertainment to enjoy between races. Admission
is charged at just £5 per vehicle. Unfortunately no dogs are allowed. The
circuit is near Upper Rissington and is signposted from the A424 to Burford,
just ten minutes from Stow on the Wold. For full directions and event
information, visit www.rissykartclub.com Visitors are also set to
discover that size doesn't matter, when expert Pocketbike racers make a guest
appearance at the Championships on the Sunday. Wiltshire
based outfit, Minimoto Racing, will be entertaining the crowds on their scaled
down machines, during a special track demonstration around the circuit. Despite
their size, these high-revving two stroke machines are no toys, hitting top
speeds of well over 60mph. Minimoto Racing will also be putting their tiny
bikes on display in the Rissington paddock throughout the second day and
spectators are invited to view these incredible machines close-up and a number
of experienced riders will be on hand to answer questions. "It will
be a real treat to see the pocketbikes in action," said resident circuit
commentator, Chris Hartley. "Karting has a solid reputation as the breeding
ground for Formula One stars and I don't see why the next Carl Fogarty couldn't
come from Minimoto." Remote Control
Challenge. As well as enjoying the spectacle of some superb racing at this
weekend's Midland Karting Championships, visitors will be able to enjoy the
thrill of competing themselves, with the Remote Control Challenge. The club is
inviting spectators, drivers and team members to bring along their own remote
control cars and tackle a specially set up course in the race paddock this
weekend. Anybody wishing to put their skills to the test will have their times
recorded and the fastest three entrants over the course of the weekend will
receive prizes. The Remote Control Challenge is designed to bring an element of
fun to the event and is just one of a number of special paddock displays that
will be entertaining the crowds between races. [
Top ] Gearbox
Champs (20/08) The UK's premier Gearbox
National Championship makes a welcome return to the Nutts Corner circuit near
Belfast this coming weekend with all of the titles still up for grabs. A good
entry is predicted with all of the top runners in the championships going to the
popular County Antrim circuit, plus there's local Irish interest in the Guest
drivers allowed in the Super 4 format. The racing will be fast and furious on a
circuit which is different to any short circuit found in the UK mainland. In the
125 classes Nathan Freke and Noel Brennan will be trying to gain supremacy in
the Open class, as will Matthew Bett and Lee Stamp in the National Class. In 250
National, Andrew Walker, Neil Burroughs will be the main protagonists. Frank
Wrathall, Jason Dredge will be the contenders in Junior Gearbox, and 250E driver
Greg Roberts is making the journey from Guernsey in the Channel Islands. Competitors should note that
at the moment access to the circuit will not be available before 9 pm 22nd
August. [
Top ] CDRom
for Max (14/08) The Rotax MAX gets the
multimedia treatment and appears on a new CDRom from UKPollards, the team that
produced the popular internationally sold Honda Gx160 engine CDRom. The subject this time is
'Gas-Flowing the Max - for Open Racing'. It covers theory and practical tuning
work with CAD, photo-animation, digital photos and tech talk, principles of
tuning, step by step guides to what can and cannot and what should not be done
to your Rotax Max engine. It's another comprehensive
reference work from Brian Pollard and our only minor gripe is it could perhaps
be a little more user friendly, but it's all about technical information more
than pretty presentation and if you want to see a vast array of actual Max
engine parts in cross-section, utilising the power of modern digital photography
then you should buy this CDRom. If you just want to read in-depth texts covering
two-stroke tuning theory and practise, then this production is made just for
you, or if you want to shortcut the learning process of two-stroke gas flowing
and tuning then look no further, you need this CDRom and its here and waiting
now! Visit www.ukpollards.com/rotax
for more details. [
Top ] Kart
Chassis Setup Technology (13/08) The Kart Chassis Setup
Technology book furnishes comprehensive details on chassis setup and teaches a
racer the easiest and best way to prepare a kart for competition. The book
includes: Understanding a kart chassis - how torsional flex influences handling;
Chassis & handling dynamics - what affects handling and weight transfer;
Front end geometry - the principles of caster, camber, toe, Ackerman, steering
axis and scrub radius, and how they affect kart handling; Chassis baseline setup
- kart scaling and weight distribution, and proper seat positioning; Tyres -
theory, use, compounds, pressures, reading tyres; Track tuning and adjustment - dialling
in the chassis at the track, plus other setups and adjustments. Whether a
competitor is racing 2-Stoke or 4-Stroke, sprint or endurance, this book will
help maximize a kart's handling and performance. E-mail enquiries to info@ssapubl.com
or telephone 001 714 639 7681 or
order on the Internet at www.stevesmithautosports.com
Kart Chassis Setup Technology is available for US$21.95 plus US$7.00 for
shipping from Steve Smith Autosports, P.O. Box 11631, Dept. UK, Santa Ana, CA
92711, USA. [
Top ] Congratulations
(12/08) The new 125 Europa class A
had a successful return to racing at Rissington on 4th August with 2001 champion
Neil Adlington taking a close win from Oliver Hookway. Go to race
report. [
Top ] Busy
Times For Karting2000 (12/08) Working closely with the
crime concern trust and youth inclusion groups in and around Manchester,
Karting2000 are helping youngsters educate themselves via NVQ and City and Guild
courses (motor maintenance) that are run on a daily basis. There's also a bus
project course whereby disaffected young people refurbish buses and ambulances
in a new 26,000 square foot building across the road from the main Karting2000
track, with the vehicles later being shipped out to third world countries. A
major part of the course concerns the mechanics of karts both 2 stroke and 4
stroke with a great deal of hands on experience and tuition on driving technique
and theory. Early last year Karting2000
opened an indoor track in the busy holiday resort of Gt. Yarmouth and more
recently took over Manchester based Indoor Karting UK and the business continues
to expand, with increasing staff numbers helping run three kart fleets. As a
result of the minimum age limit for use of the karts being lowered from 16 to 11
years, the company are now experiencing an increase in the number of children's
parties and groups of young people being catered for. More info at www.karting2000.co.uk [
Top ] Maxxis
Formula TKM Festival (07/08) More than 200 top Formula TKM
drivers from around the country will be heading to the Kimbolton kart track this
weekend (10th & 11th August) for the UK's largest one make race event, the
MAXXIS Formula TKM Festival. The TKM Festival brings together drivers from 11
years old right through to those in their 50's competing for some of the most
closely fought titles in British motorsport, and among them will be many junior
drivers with their sights firmly set on following in the wheel tracks of the
many Grand Prix drivers like Michael Schumacher, David Coulthard and Jenson
Button who all started their careers in karting. This is the sixth year of
this prestigious Festival of racing which is backed by Tal-Ko, the UK's largest
manufacturer of kart racing engines and by Maxxis Tyres, a world leader in
specialist tyres. The event is organised by the Hunts Kart Racing Club and will
be featured on TV around the world. Racing at Kimbolton is mainly for Formula
TKM karts powered by the 100cc 2-stroke TKM BT82 engines capable of propelling
the machines at up to 80mph. Also racing will be junior and senior classes for
the new TKM 4-stroke. Says Formula TKM organiser Grahame Butterworth: "The
Kimbolton Festival has become a high point in the British karting calendar,
highlighted all the more by the opportunity for drivers to be spotted for
fast-track selection through into racing cars. We are expecting some fantastic
racing. " Late entries will still be
accepted in the event for some classes where extras can be placed in easily.
Kimbolton track is situated a mile north of Kimbolton and clearly signposted.
Racing starts on Saturday lunchtime and goes right through Sunday with the
finals Sunday afternoon. Admission costs just £3 with accompanied children
free. [
Top ] Rotax
Scottish Open Festival (06/08) The West of Scotland Kart
Club is to run an additional meeting at their Larkhall circuit near Hamilton for
all Rotax classes, i.e. Mini Max, Junior Max, Senior Max, Over 30 years and
Heavyweight, over the weekend of 21st & 22nd September 2002. It's intended to have 3 heats
of 10 laps on Saturday with a Sunday final over 15 laps. There'll also be timed
practice and Formula 1 type qualifying for a 25 lap (SR Plate) Grand Prix that
boasts prize money of approximately £1000 per class, plus additional prizes. So
don't delay, get your entry in today. If any drivers want to race and are not
registered for Rotax, please contact
Bill Hay for the Rotax Festival regulations and entry forms. [
Top ] New MSA
Chairman - Elect (03/08) The Motor Sports Association
(MSA), the national governing body of motor sport in the UK, has appointed John
Grant as Chairman-Elect. Grant takes up the position of MSA Vice-Chairman with
immediate effect, and will take over from the present Chairman, Michael Limb, on
his retirement in December this year. Shortly after the announcement, John Grant
gave a brief interview to explain his views on his forthcoming role. Read
the Interview... [
Top ] Superkarts
at Donington (01/08) Superkarts are at the
Donington Park Gold Cup meeting over the weekend of 9th, 10th & 11th August
with the action commencing at 9am each day. The home crowd should have plenty to
cheer about around the Grand Prix circuit with 27 Brits expected to start. 15 in
Division 2 (250cc single cylinder) and 12 in the Division 1 (250cc twin
cylinders) events, including former multiple World Superkart Champion Martin
Hines, out to show that even after being out of competitive Superkarting for
almost 9 years he has still got what it takes to compete at the top. Will he
succeed? Besides the 2002 European
Superkart Championship, this action packed weekend includes rounds of Formula
Palmer Audi, Formula Renault, Euro F3000, the Kumho BMW Championship and more.
Minardi F1 will be in attendance with their 2-seater Formula 1 car for
demonstrations, passenger rides and F1 pit stops, and on Sunday 'Thunder in the
Park 2' has many familiar faces from the world of motor sport such as 1996 F1
World Champion Damon Hill, Minardi Chairman Paul Stoddart and ITV F1 pundit Tony
Jardine. If you still want more
there's bouncy castles and face painting too! For ticket and further information
see; www.donington-park.co.uk
Tickets are available from any Ticketmaster outlet and also by telephoning the
credit card sales line on 0870 4000 699. [
Top ] Formula
6 O Plate (30/07) Congratulations to Tommy
Truscott, Rhys Jenkins and Bradley Smith, who in the recent Formula 6 Honda
Cadet O plate meeting at Buckmore Park managed a 1-2-3 for Mectech Motorsport. [
Top ] ABkC O
Plate Meeting (29/07) The popular Clay Pigeon Kart
Circuit with the support of Super 1 organisers is hosting the ABkC Open
Championships for Rotax Max, Rotax Junior UK and Formula Cadet on 24th &
25th August. Support races include a class for Rotax Max veterans. The meeting
is open to all holders of National A licences and will be televised by Channel
4. A minimum of £500 is up for grabs in each class plus a special Lotus deal
for the winner of the Formula Rotax Max senior class. The winner of each ABkC
class has the use of the O, or zero, number plate for the following year. Stop Press: Clay Pigeon has
been awarded the 2003 ABkC O Plate meeting for Formula TKM, Junior TKM,
Intermediate, Formula A and Intercontinental A. [
Top ] Strawberry
At PFI (26/07) All those attending the
Kartmasters meeting next month will find Strawberry Racing with a full range of
karts and some special prices too. Importers for TonyKart, Kosmic, Trulli Karts
and Vortex engines, they will be at the Paul Fletcher International kart circuit
on 2nd, 3rd & 4th August. [
Top ] New
Premises (22/07) Karting Direct has moved to
new offices in Lincolnshire and all mail should now be directed to Karting
Direct, PO Box 165, Market Rasen, LN7 6WZ. This leading online supplier of kart
racing spares and accessories can be contacted by e-mail at postmaster@kartingdirect.co.uk
or via their website at www.kartingdirect.co.uk
Office hours are Monday to Thursday 9am to 5.30pm and Friday 9am to 5pm, tel:
01472 859982 or fax: 01472 859983. [
Top ] What A
Deal (18/07) To encourage new drivers onto
the long circuits, the British Superkart Association are offering a special deal
to drivers who have not competed on the long circuits in 125cc. The deal is a
free entry to the Mallory Park meeting 18th August and only £20 to enter the
Snetterton meeting 12th / 13th October. This is too good an opportunity to miss,
so dip your toe into the water for free or next to free, you might regret it if
you don't. Contact Ian Rushforth on 01509 620702 for more details, all you need
is a kart and the b****! [
Top ] Gearbox
Test Day (17/07) There will be a gearbox test
day at Shenington on Thursday 15th August with karts supplied by Century Race
Prep, Shrewley Kart Shop and NJR Motorsport. Karts available to test will
include Junior Gearbox, 125 Open / National, 125 Europa Class A and 250
National. To book a session, or discuss your options please call one of the
following; Century 01562 632032, Shrewley 01295 678188, NJR 01992 440461. [
Top ] Congratulations
(17/07) Project One Racing would like
to congratulate Bill Casson on winning the Honda Cadet 'O' Plate at Clay Pigeon
last weekend. Anybody who would like to test the Project One Honda Cadet kart
should contact Clive Freke at Century Race Preparation on 01562 632032 or Gerard
Cox on 01634 579092. [
Top ] ParaKart
2002 (12/07) This will be the first of an
intended annual international Karting event for disabled drivers. Due to take
place at the popular 760 metre Karting Almancil circuit near Faro in Portugal,
all the Karts will be fitted with hand controls. Dates are 11th, 12th & 13th
October 2002. The Karts are competition twin-engine 400cc karts with
purpose built controls. Drivers are expected to come from all over Europe for
the event, including some ex-motor racing drivers injured in their sport.
Further information on the track and event can be found at www.parakart.net,
where you'll also find a Driver Entry Form. The event was the idea of
David Player, and with the assistance of Jean-Francois Escriva, Managing
Director of the Almancil Karting circuit, - ParaKart 2002 was born. An ex Royal
Engineer, David served in the British Army for 5 years before joining his
father's business in Portugal, but in 1991 he suffered a broken neck whilst
diving in a shallow lake. Now a tetraplegic and wheelchair bound, he runs his
own business called Wheeling Around The Algarve. The company caters for other
disabled people who want to enjoy 'normal' holidays and leisure facilities in
southern Portugal. David can be e-mailed at dave@player.pt [
Top ] Anniversary
Meeting (10/07) Buckmore Park are holding
their 39th Anniversary race meeting on Sunday 21st July. The meeting is
sponsored by Fairmont Insurance Services Group and as well as all the usual ABKC
classes, the event incorporates the "O" plate meeting for Formula 6
Honda Cadets and Juniors. [
Top ] August
Sizzlers At Nutts (10/07) All those considering
travelling to the Nutts Corner Motorsports Centre next month will be pleased to
know that the Ulster Karting Club have finalised special travel details with
StenaLine who are providing unbeatable deals from both Stranraer to Belfast and
Holyhead to Dun Laoghaire. There's the Irish Kart Gran
Prix on 10th & 11th and a round of the Total / Hill House Hammond British
Championships (Super 4 series) two weeks later on 24th & 25th. The Boal
Carparks supported Irish Gran Prix is Ireland's largest karting extravaganza
with Ireland's top drivers in all the classes, but it's the StenaLine &
Northern Ireland Events Company supported Super 4 series event on 24th &
25th August that will be the big one when the UK and Ireland's fastest drivers
and their machines converge on the Co. Antrim circuit. Gary Magennis, Chairperson of
the Ulster Karting Club, said: "The assistance we have received from
StenaLine, in conjunction with the support from the Northern Ireland Events
Company, has been very important. StenaLine's support and the ferry package
deals on offer has made the province even more attractive for drivers who are
considering coming over to compete at Nutt's Corner. Without this combined
support the Ulster Karting Club simply could not have brought this spectacle to
the public of Northern Ireland. With two major kart racing events and a
motorcycle event in between, Dundrod is the place to be in August." Full event and travel details
for competitors are available on the club's website www.ulsterkartingclub.com
and on the series web site www.super4.co.uk [
Top ] Johnny's
Racing Driver Search (08/07) Former British Grand Prix
winner Johnny Herbert has launched a nationwide search to discover new driving
talent and there's a £60,000 prize awaiting the winner of his Search for a Star
competition. In one of the largest ever
motor sport initiatives to find the Grand Prix stars of tomorrow Johnny has
launched Search for a Star in conjunction with BBC's Top Gear Magazine and the
Johnny Herbert Rockingham Experience, the UK's newest and fastest driving
experience. For the overall winner there's a fantastic fully paid motor sport
season competing in the Avon Junior Formula Ford Championship, worth £60,000
which is recognised as one of the key racing formulas in terms of developing
young driver talent. The prize package includes 18 test days, 12 races (eight
meetings with four double headers), technical training, extensive driver
training, PR and Marketing support, presentation skills training as well as
physical training. The driver assessment will
all take place at the awesome Rockingham circuit, in Northamptonshire developed
at a cost of over £50 million and featuring Britain's only banked oval track as
well as two infield circuits with seven different driving configurations. Says
Johnny, "This is a really fabulous opportunity for every budding Grand Prix
driver to find out if they really have got what it takes to succeed in the world
of motor sport and emulate their F1 heroes. I'm absolutely behind this project
100%, it's my way of putting something back into the sport which has been very
good to me over the years". If you want to know more
about Search for a Star please call the special entry hotline on 01536 271272 or
visit the website: www.jhrockinghamexperience.co.uk [
Top ] Europa
Demo (08/07) New 125 Europa demonstration
dates at Whilton Mill circuit are 10th & 24th July. Please check before
setting off. For full details ring either NJR or RPM Motorsports. [
Top ] Manx
Kart Grand Prix (08/07) Many competitors wish to
congratulate the winners and express their thanks to the committee and officials
for the excellent organisation and also to the people of the Isle of Man,
especially those that put up with the karters racing past their front door at
regular intervals. Pictures from the event that took place on 26th - 29th June
can be seen at www.iomracing.com
Nice shot of Karl Hulme in Gallery 1, - have the brakes just failed? [
Top ] KCB -
Major Open Day (05/07) Representatives from the UK's
commercial karting sectors are being invited to an open meeting launching the
new Kart Control Board and setting down its plans for the future of the sport.
The meeting, being held at the Jaguar Visitor Centre, Birmingham on July 25,
follows a meeting there last year where after open discussion there was
overwhelming support for moving forward with the Kart Control Board concept. The Motorsports Association,
National Karting Association, British Kart Industry Association, Association of
Race Kart Schools, Association of British Kart Clubs, BKIA circuit owners group
and others have been involved in two years of talks to reach this stage.
Commented KCB Chairman Colin Hilton: "This is a meeting which has great
significance to the whole development of karting in the future within the
commercial and sporting arena. Extensive discussions have been taking place with
a view to bringing together the whole sport. A year ago we held an open meeting
for the industry which brought a very positive response providing the mandate to
proceed. We have now taken that forward and with the full backing and support of
the MSA, NKA and other national groups, launched the Kart Control Board. Now we
want to share with you our thoughts and set out the guidelines which we believe
should be adopted across all commercial karting. Safety, organisation, medical
cover, insurance, licences, training, promotion, they are all issues we have
addressed. The meeting is a positive step forwards for the whole industry and
for the sport in general." Representatives of a wide
variety of commercial sectors are invited to intend, including circuit owners
and operators, manufacturers and suppliers. Details as follows: Date: Thursday, 25th July
2002. Venue: Jaguar Cars Ltd, Visitor Centre, Castle Bromwich, Birmingham J5, M6
(A452). Time: 2pm (Tea/coffee will be served from 1.30pm) Those planning to go must
notify their attendance in advance either e-mailing to info@kartcontrolboard.org
or faxing to 01753 682938, or ringing John Ryan on 01753 681736. [
Top ] CIK-FIA
World Champs (01/07) Britain's Ben Hanley took his
place on the first row of the grid for the 2nd Round of the Formula Super A
World Championship last weekend after excellent qualifying heats, finishing 4th,
5th and then 1st in his three heats at the Mika Salo circuit in Alahärmä,
Finland last Saturday. Pole sitter was Italian Ronnie Quintarelli with Marco
Ardigo another Italian in third place. Briton John Byrne led series 2 qualifying
beating Frenchman Jean Robert and Darren Bressaglia from Luxembourg. On race day both Mike Salo
and Mika Häkkinen were in attendance at the circuit and it was Ronnie
Quintarelli who became double - or actually triple - winner, as the second race
was driven in two parts due to a sudden heavy rain shower. Quintarelli mastered
the race both on dry and wet convincingly. Starting from pole in all of the
three races Quintarelli took an early lead in each. After a tight battle into
the first corner, the Italian was usually able to get away from his fellow
competitors. Said a smiling Quintarelli afterwards, "I am very satisfied.
The kart was excellent on both dry and wet. I like this track, as it is very
demanding for the driver, and for the kart. We managed to do everything right,
starting with the qualifying practice and the qualifying heats. These three wins
are just the topping on the cake and they are very good for us, when we think
about the championship." In race one and just behind
Quintarelli, Ben Hanley was able to keep his second place early on, even
managing to make a bit of a gap on his pursuers, but it wasn't to be his day.
Asmer, who had started from 10th place on the grid made good progress and
overtook Hanley for second place, and it was soon after that engine problems led
to the Briton retiring. The Italian Davide Fore, who rolled his kart in
Saturday's qualifying heats, was making his way up the order and took third
position at the finish. Briton John Byrne finished 8th. The second race in Formula
Super A had some added excitement as rain started to fall. It only took eight
laps before the heavens opened and it really started to pour. With Quintarelli
leading, the race had to be stopped to allow drivers to change to wets. Hanley
had spun in the wet conditions too early before the race was stopped and was not
allowed to restart. The race continued half an hour later as a wet race and
finished with Quintarelli again leading them all home, followed by Finland's
Jussi Kohtala in 2nd, Italian Marco Ardigo 3rd and John Byrne 9th. Next round: Braga, Portugal
over the 10th/11th August weekend. [
Top ] Karting
Fun Night (28/06) It's the time of the year
again when DJ Motorsports have another of their Karting fun nights at Buckmore
Park for teams of 2 drivers racing twin engine Prokarts. On Monday evening 8th
July a full driver briefing and practice session will be followed by a 1 hour
endurance race, with driver changes every 15 minutes. Your family & friends put
up with your karting so here's the chance to let them have a go, and there's a
special 'family team' class too. With no experience necessary it should
certainly be a fun night! For more information call 01634 719791 anytime
or e-mail: fun@djmotorsport.co.uk [
Top ] Manx
Junior Kart GP (27/06) This coming Sunday, 30th June
sees the 1st Manx Junior Kart Grand Prix taking place at Jurby race circuit,
Isle of Man. This event, sponsored by C & C Limited, will be a tremendous
opportunity to see some of the racing stars of the future take to the track,
racing at speeds of up to 60mph. With over 30 young competitors taking part from
both the Isle of Man and the UK, it promises to be a great day. In fact, the
racing is often so close that it makes Formula 1 look positively boring! The
action starts at 11am, and best of all, entry is free! [
Top ] Road
Rebel (26/06) The Kart Shop at Buckmore
Park has been appointed as an agent for the World Championship winning range of
CRG karts. They have a Road Rebel and a Maximo on display in their shop and can
arrange test drives in Senior Rotax form for suitably experienced drivers. They
hold a full stock of spare parts for both these models. They also continue as
agents for the LRG range of karts. [
Top ] Jobs
Galore! (21/06) Octagon Motorsports Ltd have
the following positions to fill at their various Karting venues. Permanent positions at
Daytona Raceway Admin Assistant - £10,000 pa
You will be assisting with daily admin duties in the office, and assisting with
event organisation & customer service. You must be flexible, of smart
appearance and have excellent communications skills. Daytona Sandown and Daytona
Milton Keynes If you would like to be part
of the Daytona team, send your CV, quoting salary details, to: Yvonne
White, Octagon Motorsports Ltd, Brands Hatch, Fawkham, Longfield, Kent, DA3 8NG
Tel. 01474 872331 / Fax. 01474 879259. Email: yvonne.white@octagon.com The following fixed-term
positions are available at all circuits, please call the venue for an
Application Form: Race Directors - from £7 per
hour after training We are looking for confident, outgoing, presentable people
with good communication skills to front our corporate events. You will be
required to co-ordinate the Track Team with responsibility for all on-track
activities. Training will be provided. Track Marshals - from £4.20
per hour Following a successful induction procedure, you will participate in a
training programme to ensure that Daytona standards are maintained at all times,
both on track and throughout the venue as a whole. Evening and weekend shifts
available. Catering Assistants - from
£4.50 per hour Working within a small but professional team providing
corporate, hospitality and retail catering for large and small groups. You will
be enthusiastic and willing to learn. Food hygiene certificate preferred, but
not essential. Contact your local Daytona
venue for an Application Form. All Daytona venues can be found in the Tracks
Directory at www.karting.co.uk/tracks/ [
Top ] South
West Championships - SW Plate (21/06) This year's South West
Championships to be held at Dunkeswell in Devon promises to be a Bank Holiday
bonanza. Hosted by Dunkeswell KRC the two-day event on 24th & 25th August
will be sponsored by the UK petrol company JET. The event kicks off on Saturday
24th with timed practice and qualifier for Sunday's 15 lap heats and up to 20
lap finals. In addition to all the race
excitement there will be a Saturday night hog roast, bar, BBQ and disco in the
marquee including entertainment for the kids throughout the day. Stunt flights
and parachute displays will take place during the breaks along with other
activities still to be announced. Free camping is available from Thursday to
Monday inclusive making this a great opportunity for drivers to enjoy a weekends
racing and have a longer break in Devon at the same time. Large entries are
expected for the weekend's racing which is open to all ABkC classes and there
will be plenty of trophies up for grabs including the all important - SW plate
2002. More details and entry forms
are available from the news section on the Dunks web site www.dunkskrc.co.uk
Telephone 0871 871 1400 or Fax: 0871 871 6399. You can also email the club on email@kartrace.co.uk
with your name and postal address and they will send you an entry form by post
if requested. [
Top ] Europa
A Class (20/06) The new Formula 125 Europa
class commences on 4th August 2002 at Rissington. This will be the start of a 6
round championship at circuits Dunkeswell (25th August), Kimbolton (8th
September), Whilton Mill (22nd September), Forest Edge (6th October) and
Shenington (20th October). An '0' plate meeting is also planned. For full
details call NJR on 07000 4 KARTS or RPM Motorsport on 01920 460800 for a
brochure and details of test days. [
Top ] New CKC
Website (19/06) Camberley Kart Club have
launched their new website at www.camberley-kartclub.co.uk
with contact details, directions to the track, race/practice dates, full race
results, championship table information and a circuit diagram complete with
animated kart, - it's a bit slow through The Esses though! [
Top ] Ulster
Road Race (18/06) The Ulster Karting Club's
Alan Cahoon Hyundai Dealers Carrickfergus road race is scheduled for Tuesday
23rd July and will once again see the fastest drivers in the country take on one
of Britain's fastest road races. Classes will include the incredible 160mph
250cc Superkarts and the event will take in the Scotch Quarter and Marine
Highway areas with roads closing at 5.30. Ireland's largest karting
extravaganza, the Irish Kart Gran Prix will be held at Nutts Corner on 10th
& 11th August with drivers in all the gearbox and non gearbox classes
competing for the GP plates, and with the StenaLine and NI Events Company
supported round of the British Championship series for gearbox karts on 24th
& 25th August, the summer is action packed on the kart racing front. Full
details are also available on the club's web site www.ulsterkartingclub.com [
Top ] Record
Sales (18/06) The system is capable of some
very advanced features including split lap times (as seen in Formula-1), Pit
Stop timing and TeamScreen, a feature unique to SuperSport which gives every
team in an Endurance race their own monitor which shows information specific to
their team! The combination of extensive features, ease of use and the
SuperSport industry-benchmark free backup and support is proving a hit with
circuit operators in the UK and worldwide with systems recently installed in
England, Scotland, Ireland, Wales, Sweden, the Philippines, Greece and many now
being installed in the USA. SuperSport have recently set up a dedicated sales,
support and installation team in the USA, such is the demand in the United
States. By Autumn 2002, SuperSport
will be launching a new package for the leisure and competition markets. Based
upon the existing system, WinTime-XP has been designed to work reliably on the
latest Windows XP operating system without the embarrassing "system
crashes" experienced by some Windows-based timing systems. Although still
providing rock-solid stability with it's central core server being based on the
DOS platform it will function on any version of Windows including W95, W98,
W98SE, W2000, W-ME, Windows NT as well as Windows XP. The system incorporates
many features never seen before, and the SuperSport team worldwide are eagerly
awaiting its launch. SuperSport are also MSA
approved to issue competence certificates for MSA timekeeping licences in the UK
for use in conjunction with the Software. Further details and
information are to follow, but SuperSport are confident that Wintime-XP along
with the existing Grafix-QUAD software will further cement SuperSport's
reputation and client base worldwide. Further details on all SuperSport products
can be obtained by calling 01432-860685 or by email at supersport@vossnet.co.uk [
Top ] European
Superkart Championship (17/06) Without a proper
international championship since 1995, the 250cc Superkart class will this
season have a genuine CIK-FIA European Championship. Superkarts (previously
known as Formula E and ICE) are powered by 250cc single-cylinder engines
(Division 2) or 250cc twin-cylinder engines (Division 1) with 5 or 6 sequential
gears. Due to their performance level Superkarts compete almost exclusively on
car race tracks and three prestigious circuits are proposed for the 2002
European Championship; the Nürburgring in Germany, Donington Park in England
and the Bugatti course at Le Mans in France. Each event will comprise of
two races and already the maximum number of 60 entrants has been reached for the
first of the three rounds championship at Nürburgring on 12th, 13th & 14th July.
Nine nations will be represented and the entry list features many leading
drivers from the German (21 entrants), British (19), French (7) and Swedish
(6) series', including several former World Champions crowned in the 1980 's and
1990 's. It's likely to be a good advert for kart racing as it will form part of
the popular Truck Grand Prix (FIA European Truck Racing Cup) event at the
circuit, which last year was attended by no less than 200,000 spectators! The 2002 CIK-FIK European
Superkart Championship then moves on Donington Park on 09th, 10th & 11th August
2002, and this second round event will be part of a meeting that features a
round of the Euro 3000 Series (international F3000 series approved by the FIA).
The third and final stage of the championship is scheduled for 18th, 19th & 20th
October 2002 on the Le Mans/Bugatti circuit. [
Top ] 500Km
Enduro (17/06) The annual Bayford Meadows
500km Pro-Kart endurance race will take place at the Sittingbourne circuit on
Sunday 04 August this year. This 454 lap event normally takes just over 7 hours
to complete and provides a real test of stamina around the technically demanding
Bayford Meadows circuit. Entrants will be divided into three classes: Modern -
for contemporary Pro-Karts; Pre'99 - for chassis' built before 1999; and Heavy -
which will run at 192 kilos and also has the option of running the Dunlop SL1
slicks. Trophies will be awarded for each class. For further details please
contact the circuit on 01795 410707. [
Top ] Alfanalyse
Update (14/06) Holden Software Ltd, and REGA
Motorsport have announced a major new update release to Alfanalyse. Since its
launch at the beginning of this year, Alfanalyse has set the standard for
download software designed to be used with the AlfanoTM Pro. The FREE update,
available to registered users, provides comprehensive additional functions. The
update include: 1) Download Append, this effectively gets around the 99 lap
limit in 'normal mode' and enables Endurance teams to record the data from a
full race. 2) Split Sectors, helpful where tracks are fitted with more than 1
magnetic strip. 3) Multiple Simultaneous Alfano Support, allowing download of
data from multiple Alfano's enabling direct comparisons useful if there is more
than one Kart in your team as you will be able to compare and overlay session
data from each Kart and Driver. 4) Record Mode, perfect for working out optimum
gearing or to analyse specific corner speeds. Stuart Hirst of Holden
Software Ltd, developers of Alfanalyse said, "This is the most significant
update to Alfanalyse since its UK launch at the end of January. We have been
able to produce a product that has been directly influenced by our customer's
requirements and the feedback that they have generously provided. We will
continue to value that feedback and deliver real value in to the market."
Colin Smith of REGA Motorsport the UK Distributor of Alfanalyse said, "The
commitment made to customers that there would be ongoing development of
Alfanalyse, has been proven over and over since its UK launch. With this update,
Alfanalyse maintains its position as the ultimate download product for the
Alfano, and even though the considerable investment in the product continues,
I'm pleased that we have been able to maintain its price point - making it even
better value for new and existing customers". Alfanalyse comes complete
with a quality anodised aluminum download 'pen' and registered users benefit
from free product updates and free technical support. Call REGA Motorsport on
01422 348800 for further info. Alfanalyse is available ex-stock from the
following Authorised Resellers: Zip North, Dream Karts, KKC, BKC Karting, CAT
Racing Services and NI Kart in Northern Ireland. [
Top ] Back
For The 5 Nations (14/06) WGP Motorsport has announced
the return to karting of Chris Guy from Templepatrick, Northern Ireland. Chris
will be taking part in selected events commencing with the Five Nations
Championships at the end of June using a Birel R31S Motorsport Chassis prepared
by WGP Motorsport using Andy Cox Racing prepared engines. Nutts Corner circuit
is a firm favourite for Chris and has been the venue for many Championship
victories. Chris says 'The Birel package offers an excellent chance of a good
result'. David Haire from Lisburn has started to realise his potential in the
Junior Max Class after a heat win at the last NIKA Round, and he led the final
until an incident demoted him to fourth. WGP Motorsport wish all Birel Drivers
the best of luck in the up and coming events. [
Top ] Rising
To The Top (12/06) British Racing Drivers Club
'Rising Star Driver' Ben Hanley added his name to an elite list of drivers over
the 1st/2nd June weekend, when claiming pole position and finishing second at
the first round of the Formula Super 'A' Karting World Championships in Belgium.
First place went to thirty year old Alessandro Manetti, while thirty-two year
old Gianluca Beggio finished third. Racing against the world's best professional
kart drivers, some of who have twenty years driving experience, the
seventeen-year-old continued to prove he has what it takes to go all the way in
the world of motorsport. Having been crowned British Karting champion in 2000,
and vice European Karting champion in 2001, the next goal was Formula Super 'A'
world championships for 2002, which comprises of factory paid drivers and the
highest ranked drivers from around the world. Ben said "the ultimate
dream of any sports person is to be able to compete in their world
championships, and having worked so hard to get to this position I want to prove
I can adapt to different situations and remain composed, even when pitched
against the best." In 2001 Ben became only the fourth British driver in
twelve years to become a European champion, and his second place at the opening
round of this years world championship re-wrote the history books again, the
last British licence holder to finish as high was back in 1977. Renault formula
one driver Jenson Button won the Formula Super 'A' European Championship in
1997. The next round of the
championship is at a relatively new circuit in Finland, the Mika Salo circuit.
It will be the first time the top drivers have visited the venue. Ben said;
"I have never been to Finland before, but the initial reports sound good,
the track sounds challenging and the weather should be good. I will be looking
to replicate my performance from Belgium, and collect some more points towards
the championship". Ben would like to thank the following for their
continued support: TNT, Cartwright Trailers, BRDC, Bridgestone, Lucky Design and
the team Maranello/Maxter/Nodtune. Its possible to keep
up-to-date with Ben's progress at: www.benhanley.co.uk
or by contacting Paul Ibbotson on 07860 220222. Photographs are available from
Chris Walker Photographic 01522 810271. [
Top ] Smile
Please (11/06) Hope all you long circuit
Rotax Max drivers were smiling because some of you are in tomorrow's Motorsports
News. Pictures and write up from Pembry and Cadwell Park. [
Top ] Congratulations
(11/06) Congratulations to Andrew
Twiss from JKH for winning the Max UK Cup at Wigan. Andrew on his JKH Max set
the fastest time in timed practice, pole position for the pre final, then went
on to win the main final and also set the fastest time of the day. Well done too
to Manchester and Buxton KC for a well organised event with some great prizes
and excellent trophies. Swiss Hutless UK congratulate
Simon Pym and Rob Taylor on their fine performances at Kimbolton in the 125
Gearbox class. Simon Pym had a 1st and 2nd in his heats and then walked the
final by a massive 27 Seconds on the brand new 125 Turbo 50mm chassis. Rob
Taylor also had fine finishes in both the April and May 125 National Gearbox
finals by outright wins, and finished a good 2nd in the June race making it a 1
- 2 for the Swiss Hutless Turbo chassis. If you would like further information
on the Swiss Hutless Chassis, please contact Swiss Hutless UK directly on 07956
- 635040. [
Top ] WTP '0'
Plate (10/06) After a round of the WTP
Challenge at Rowrah yesterday it was decided to run the WTP commercial '0' Plate
alongside the ABkC '0' Plate, thus the first WTP '0' Plate will be run at Rowrah
on 11th August. [
Top ] Sub 46
Seconds (10/06) Round 4 of the Super 2
National 4 stroke Championship at Bayford Meadows on Monday 4th June saw the
Libre class break the circuit's outright lap record and the 46.00 secs barrier
in each of the Heats and the Final. [
Top ] Teamworks
Karting Relocation (07/06) The Bishopsgate circuit is
now closed and will be relocating to new premises in 2003. The Bishopsgate
Goodsyard site on the edge of the City of London where the circuit was
constructed is the proposed route for the extension of the East London
Underground line and the site is now being cleared, therefore no further race
events can be run. Teamworks Karting would like to thank all customers and
supporters over the last 18 months. Their ProKart team will continue in the
Daytona Championship and are entered in the Le Mans 24-hr event in July.
Teamworks will be contacting all groups booked as soon as possible but should
you need to reach them please either e-mail: mail@teamworkskarting.com
or call 0870 900 30 20. [
Top ] L/C
Rotax (05/06) After another very successful
long circuit at Cadwell Park on 3rd June, Kevin Rootes has been asked to attend
the committee meeting on behalf of Rotax Max drivers to map out the future of
the Rotax on long circuits. Please e-mail Kevin on kevin.rootes@virgin.net
with your views and thoughts for him to forward on, to help ensure that everyone
can enjoy close racing on the well organised long circuits. [
Top ] New For
Old (29/05) Do you own an AMB160
transponder at least 12 months old? If you do and would like to swap it for a
brand new one then a Gloucestershire based company want to hear from you. There's no
catch and no strings attached, just a straight swap, old for new! Call Justin on
01452 85 55 66 for further information. [
Top ] Rissy
Smooths It Over (28/05) Racers at Rissington Kart
Club are about to get a smooth ride, as committee members, officials and
volunteers work towards the completion of a complete resurface of the
Gloucestershire circuit, in time for the 1st-2nd June race meeting. This latest
improvement is part of an ongoing commitment to making Rissington one of the
UK's leading kart clubs and follows recent investments in new tyre walls and a
brand new toilet block. Although the new surface will
be used for Saturday practice, Avon Junior Formula Ford team principal, Peter
Chambers, will officially open the newly improved circuit on Sunday morning. To
mark the occasion, Peter Chambers Motor Racing will be bringing along some of
their glorious 1800cc Formula Ford Mygales, which will be on display throughout
the day. Peter will also be on hand to offer advice and support to young racers,
interested in pursuing a single-seater career. A former kart racer himself,
Peter is this year sponsoring Rissington's TKM Premier championship. As well as
providing the top three trophies at each round, Peter Chambers Motor Racing is
awarding the superb prize of a free Formula Ford test for the top three
finishers in the 2002 series. For further information on next weekend's event,
visit www.rissykartclub.com [
Top ] Second
KNE Circuit (28/05) Karting North East have
opened an indoor circuit in Newcastle city centre. The centre is the first in
the UK to use Frank Eglem corporate karts and will be targeting young drivers as
well as group bookings. The big plus is that this new circuit will release track
time at Warden Law for owner drivers to enjoy exclusive testing sessions at the
outdoor circuit. [
Top ] Last
Few Days (28/05) Only a few days left to get
your entry in for Cadwell Park long circuit Rotax Max racing, on Sunday 2nd
June. Call Ian Rushforth on 01509 620702 to express you entry. Be there, you
know you want to! [
Top ] Victory
for John Byrne (24/05) [
Top ] 4-Stroke
Karting at Sandown (24/05) Sandown Park Kart Club are
proposing to run a class for Endurance Prokart at their monthly MSA sprint
meetings. They are also running a 4 stroke kart festival event on 11th August
with grids for all 4 stroke classes. Any interested drivers should contact SPKC
on 01372 471336. [
Top ] New
Services from Oxford Karting (23/05) Oxford Karting have launched
a range of new services for racers. For testing and race days they have a range
of packages from simple awning space right through to mechanics, hospitality and
catering. The new shop at the Oxford Stadium track also has a range of TKM 2 and
4 stroke, CRG, Parolin and Pro Karts available, as well as parts and all the
latest racewear. If you are looking for a kart or advice you can contact Oxford
Karting on 01865 717134 or 07932 710459, or drop in for a chat and a coffee. [
Top ] Clubman
at Forest Edge (21/05) The Junior Clubman Class have
been invited to compete at Forest Edge on 1st & 2nd June in the Southern
Championships and would like to extend this invitation to all 1998 homologated
list piston port engined karts to compete in this prestigious event, including
all Yamaha drivers. Use of a 19mm restrictor and the Maxxis HG2 tyres is all
that is required, but please check the class regulations on the web site below.
The Senior Clubman drivers are also expected to be there so anyone looking at
what class to join can see both the juniors and seniors in action. For further
details see www.clubmankarting.co.uk. [
Top ] National
Motorsport Launch (16/05) Autosport International is to
create a new National Motorsport area at the 2003 Show taking place at
Birmingham's NEC from 9th to 12 January 2003. Supported by Motorsport News, the
area will be aimed at club competitors and those keen to discover the various
forms of affordable and entry level motorsport. It will cover the expanding
industries of karting, national and overseas domestic championships and club
motorsport. Gavin Brown, Managing
Director of Haymarket Exhibitions Ltd said "By consolidating the various
facets of the national motorsport industry to one place within the show allows
us to promote this as 'the' place to find out about how to become involved in
motorsport and about the different championships that are available. So whether
you are new in to the world of motorsport or looking to develop your expertise,
this is the place to go." Motorsport News, will enhance
this area with its own stand providing advice and a platform that will enable
visitors to have a chance to chat to drivers from many forms of national
motorsport including karting champions and up and coming young drivers.
Contained within the 'National Motorsport' area will of course be Karting,
covering all categories of karting from across the world. Exhibitors will
include manufacturers, teams, championship organisers, circuits and accessories.
There will also be a Constructors Pavilion and a Club Motorsport area. Grahame Butterworth from the
British Kart Industry Association welcomed the news saying: "This is a
positive step which will help bring closer together the karting industry with
its potential new customers and those drivers moving on to full size cars. I
think Haymarket Exhibitions are to be congratulated on the way they have
listened to the needs of the industry at a time when the sport is continuing to
develop, mature and grow." 89,500 motorsport
enthusiasts, including 19,500 trade visitors from home and abroad, made it to
Autosport International in 2002. The chance to rub shoulders with F1 drivers,
exclusive access to the F1 grid and more than 700 state of the art exhibition
stands will help the new 'National Motorsport' area in its popularity. For
further information on the show contact the Autosport Team on 0208 267 8300, Fax
0208 267 8350, website: http://www.autosport-international.com
or e-mail: autosport.international@haynet.com [
Top ] Happy
Birthday (15/05) Andy Cox Racing celebrates
ten years of business later this month. Since 1992 the company has grown from
strength to strength becoming Sole distributors for many products such as
Freeline, Champion Plugs, Rock Oil and Motorquality accessories. Pride of place
of the companies achievements was securing in 1995 the Sole Importer contract
for the legendary Italian Birel range of Chassis. As well as its commercial
activities boss Andy Cox has also enjoyed success with his engine tuning and
preparation both in Europe and the U.K as well as running Junior and Senior
teams in Super One, working over the years with Leighton Walker, Michael Conway,
Tom Sisley, Chris Trott to name but a few. To celebrate its ten years in
business Andy Cox Racing is currently in negotiations with a World Champion
Birel driver to race at the T.V Masters at P.F in August - watch this space! [
Top ] First
Stop Max Cup (15/05) MBKC will be hosting the
First Stop Rotax Max Cup at Three Sisters, Wigan on 8th/9th June 2002. First
Stop's support means that prizes include the biggest cups ever and Formula 1
factory and test day visits. Entries need to be in by 25th May. Information and
entry forms can be found at; http://mbkartclub.com/RMCup.html [
Top ] WTP
Championship (14/05) Entries for the upcoming 2002
WTP Championship are now being taken. This five round series is expected to
attract a lot of support and entry forms have already been sent out to owners.
If you have not received yours and would like a copy, or if you require any
further information contact JM Racing - but hurry the closing
date is 20th May 2002. [
Top ] Stolen
Rotax Max Karts (13/05) The Karts stolen were a BRM
Mk7 chassis finished in blue metallic paint, has all blue plastics and old style
silver exhaust: Max Engine Serial no. 765822, JAG Seal No. 004590 and chassis
No. C267, and a BRM Mk5 chassis, finished in identical blue metallic paint, has
blue side pods with silver nose and nassau panel: Max Engine Serial no. 772532,
JAG Seal No. 002710 and chassis No. C214. Any information on the
whereabouts of this equipment would be much appreciated. Please telephone either
Dom Hume on 0776 468 3997, Daniel Cureton on 07985 443 739 or your local Police
Station. [
Top ] Customers'
Benefit (13/05) Major works at Daytona
Silverstone designed to improve Silverstone Circuit for the British Formula One
Grand Prix, have also greatly improved the Karting venue and will have a direct
benefit for all using the Daytona facility. The improvements include; a
redesign of the indoor circuit incorporating a 50m straight and high-speed
corners with improved run off areas allowing an increase in overtaking
opportunities; heated spectator area with enhanced viewing of the indoor
circuit; construction of a new purpose-built two storey Workshop & Race
Control building and exclusive customer parking. [
Top ] Southern
Championships (10/05) The Forest Edge Kart Club
near Bournemouth play host to the Southern Championships on 1st & 2nd June.
The format will be; Saturday morning practice, followed by 2 heats and a
pre-final in the afternoon. Sunday will have three heats and a final. The
amalgamation of both days' scores will determine the Southern Champion. Entry
forms can be obtained from Joy Bryceson on 01256 893663 or visit www.fekc.co.uk
and for all those that like to party, there's a BBQ and Disco on Saturday
evening. [
Top ] DYNOmite
Debut (10/05) Land & Sea, Inc. of
Rockingham County, New Hampshire, USA has introduced a new versatile DYNOmite
"Pro" Small Engine Stand & Console. While this modular engine
stand still includes a vibration isolated universal engine plate (as did their
earlier stands), the "Pro" also accepts an optional eddy current
reaction cradle frame. The universal engine plate makes testing or developing
kart and motorcycle engines quick and easy, but reaction cradle testing
eliminates inertial torque errors, and is a must for testing very small
displacement but high RPM engines. The "mini" console, similar to Land
& Sea's popular Automotive "Pro" console, mounts on special
vibration isolators and is even removable for wall mounting purposes. Other new
features include a workspace for a laptop computer, ports for installing cabling
and your DYNOmite Data Acquisition Computer, an analogue tachometer is built in,
along with illuminated rocker control switching. Provisions have also been
allowed for mounting their optional DYNOmite throttle and load controls. The
dyno stand itself is manufactured with a heavy gauge metal foundation that
houses two storage shelves and integral battery holder, plus heavy duty 3
½" wheels keep it portable and easy to store. For more information e-mail
Land & Sea, Inc. at sales@land-and-sea.com or visit www.land-and-sea.com [
Top ] Gearbox
Champs (09/05) The National Gearbox
Championships, Super 4 moves to Fulbeck in Lincolnshire this weekend and with
another strong entry the standard of racing will be high, with several current
and previous national champions on show. The biggest grids are in 125 National
and 250 National, with high quality racing expected in 125 Open. Spectators are
welcomed and can expect good value for money when racing starts at 10 am. For
directions to the circuit click
here. [
Top ] New TKM
Trader (09/05) Apollo Kart Racing Engines
are now TKM dealers. All BT82 engine parts are kept in stock ready for next day
dispatch or collection at fantastic prices, along with all chassis components
for the TKM classes. Their special offer on full BT82 rebuilds is still
available so keep an eye on their website which will soon have a fully updated
price list. www.apollokartracingengines.co.uk [
Top ] Max At
Cadwell (09/05) Following a very successful
meeting at Pembrey, Rotax Max racing has got the go ahead at Cadwell Park on 2nd
June. Phone Kevin Rootes on 01892 835915 or Ian Rushforth on 01509 620702 for an
entry form. [
Top ] New
Shark Shop (09/05) Shark Motorsport has opened a
retail premises in Camberley. Open Monday to Fridays from 8am to 5pm, visit them
at Unit 2, Helix Business Park, Camberley, Surrey, or call 01276 66311 for
further information on Karts, clothing and accessories. [
Top ] New
TonyKart Importer (01/05) Sheffield based Strawberry
Racing has bought the rights to import TonyKarts, Trulli Karts, Kosmic Karts and
Vortex engines from Mike O'Neill and can be contacted now on 0114 2889933. A new
website for karting parts and clothing is promised shortly. [
Top ] Daytona
MK (01/05) With Daytona Juniors moving
to Silverstone, the circuit at Milton Keynes will no longer be split in two on
Saturday mornings from the beginning of June. The result being that the full
1360 metre International track will be available for Senior practice and open to
ProKart, ProMax and ThunderKart drivers, as well as pre-booked hire drivers. The
latter will be run in sessions, thus guaranteeing some owner-driver only track
time. Further information from Daytona International on 01908 695694 or email: mk@daytona.co.uk [
Top ] World
Championships (29/04) The 2002 CIK-FIA World
Championship has 14 teams entered for the events taking place in Belgium,
Finland, Portugal, France and Italy. Two venues being used for the first time
which are sure to delight the 28 drivers and all involved are, the Mika Salo circuit in Finland
with its ultra-modern facilities, and the southern Italian La Conca circuit also
with excellent facilities. There will be two races at each of the five events
and all results by driver and team will count. Davide Fore of Italy and
Marko Asmer from Estonia make up one of the TonyKart teams attempting to repeat
last year's victory and lead the TonyKart Racing Team to another team World
Championship. One of the teams hoping to beat them to it is Maranello Kart, with
Britain's 2001 European Formula A vice champion Ben Hanley and Italian Ennio
Gandolfi. Tecno, who have been
associated with many top drivers in the past including Jenson Button, are back
at the highest level of competition and aiming to make their presence felt with
two French drivers. Team Koene on the Trulli chassis will have Briton John Byrne
and Dutchman Carlo van Dam (2001 European Formula A champion) as its drivers.
Many well known teams such as Birel and CRG are expected to put up a bold show
even though Team CRG will be without 2001 world champion driver Vitantonio
Liuzzi. There's also three new teams making their World Championship debut this
year. Event venues and dates are;
Mariembourg in Belgium on 01 & 02 June, Alaharma, Finland on 29 & 30
June, Braga, Portugal on 10 & 11 August, Salbris, France on 07 & 08
September and Muro Luccese, Italy on 26 & 27 October. [
Top ] Longer
Hours (29/04) The Kart Shop at Buckmore has
extended its opening hours to assist the owner driver who has difficulty
visiting the shop during normal hours. For the summer months the shop will be
open from 9am to 6pm Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday and from 9am to 8pm on
Thursdays. Fridays and Saturdays remain at 9am to 5pm and Sundays 10am to 2pm
except for race days when it opens from 7am to at least 5pm. The Thursday late
night is intended to help those racing at the weekend make their purchases in
advance. A full stock of consumables including tyres is stocked as well as
Racewear and Rotax, TKM and Cadet spares. [
Top ] Swiss
Hutless UK (29/04) Would like to congratulate
their Northern Ireland Driver Gary Blair for his recent success in the Easter
Championship at Nutts Corner where he finished 2nd along with an outright win
and several consistent fastest Laps in the Ulster Championship. With this recent
success Gary is looking forward to a strong season ahead. For further advice or
assistance contact Swiss Hutless UK on 07956 635040. [
Top ] European
Championships (22/04) The CIK-FIA has 210 drivers
registered in its 2002 European Formula A, Intercontinental C (ICC) and
Super-Intercontinental C (Super ICC) Championships with a total of 28 nations
represented. Italy are best represented across the Championships with 44
drivers, four times as many as Great Britain whose entrants include Nik
Goodfellow, Ian Johnstone, Simon Short and James Wright. The creation of a Formula A
World Cup event due to take place in Italy on 26th & 27th October 2002 has
brought about an increase in entries over the previous year, and in ICC many of
the 68 drivers are making their international debut. The new Super ICC, the top
125cc gearbox class also has increased numbers compared to 2001 entries in the
old Formula C. The opening of the
Championships is scheduled for Ampfing in Germany on 10th, 11th & 12th May,
and from there it's on to southern Italy and Sarno-Napoli on 26th, 27th &
28th July. The final round will take place in Mariembourg in Belgium on 20th,
21st & 22nd September 2002. In addition to the preliminary stages with
practice, qualifying heats and second chance heats, each event will comprise of
two races with the best 4 results (of a possible 6) counting towards the
Championship. [
Top ] British
Junior Kart Championships (19/04) Britain's top junior karting
championship gets underway this weekend (20th/21st April) as the youngsters with
their sights set on making it to Formula One converge on the Rowrah track in
Cumbria. The Elf Hill House Hammond S1 British Kart Championships kicked off
with seniors last weekend and now switches over to the juniors with a record
entry across five classes in the 14 round S1 series. The Elf fuel name once more
goes on the series as a result of branding decisions at the Total Fina Elf Group
which is focusing rallying activity on the Total brand, with car, bike and kart
track events on Elf, including F1. New sponsors this year include Motorsports
News and the famous Lotus car brand, joining long time backers such as Tal-Ko. Once again the series is
split into senior and junior groups with top Hill House Hammond MSA titles at
stake in both categories along with a full spread of other classes including
Formula TKM, Rotax Max, ICA, National and Cadets. A new TV deal this year brings
coverage for the series within the control of Frank Johns appearing on the
Sports Unlimited programme on Sky satellite channels in the UK and right around
the world. First coverage for Seniors is expected to be 7 May, with Juniors on
14 May. Says series spokesman Grahame Butterworth: "The Elf Hill House
Hammond series is bigger and stronger than ever this year. In particular the
junior section has shown real growth with packed grids. It will make for some
great racing." [
Top ] Any Old
Gear? (19/04) Apollo Kart Racing Engines
are desperately trying to help school kart teams by finding equipment for them.
There are currently many teams on the brink of closure because they simply
cannot afford any more equipment, but what we might regard as no longer any use
for us at MSA level may well have many more laps left at schools' level, tyres,
old chassis', old engines even if damaged may all help, odd wheels too,
literally anything that is of some use would be greatly appreciated. So come on
everyone, clear your garages, trailers, etc., of anything you may have that's
now surplus to your requirements and contact Stuart or Sally on info@apollokartracingengines.co.uk
All donations greatly appreciated by the schools. Apollo Kart Racing Engines are
BT82 re-builders and a Rotax battery retailer. Visit their site at www.apollokartracingengines.co.uk [
Top ] Baa
Baa (19/04) Black Sheep Racing are
pleased to announce that they are now a Tal-Ko dealer and will be carrying CRG
and TKM 4-stroke spares and tyres at all the S2, TKM Kimbolton Festival, TKM
Shenington 'O' Plate and Fulbeck meetings. Orders can also be placed over the
Internet. Visit their website for further details. www.blacksheepracing.com [
Top ] Three
Sisters '0' Plate (16/04) With the ABkC gearbox 0 plate
being held on the Club Circuit at Three Sisters, Wigan on 8th & 9th June,
the Manchester & Buxton KC meeting on 28th April is the last opportunity
before the 0 plate meeting to practice/race on this circuit. At the MBKC May
meeting gearbox classes will be using the full international circuit (over the
hill). For entries see http://mbkartclub.com
or contact competition secretary Kath Bott; Tel: 01257 252722, Fax: 01257
254810. [
Top ] New
Premises (16/04) REGA Motorsport, Northern
Agents for Dream Karts and the Alfanalyse distributor for the UK and Ireland,
has moved into new premises in Halifax, West Yorkshire. The new building
provides a showroom area, office space, storage and workshop facilities of over
1200 sq. ft. A new telecomms system has been installed to provide two lines and
fast Internet access. Colin Smith, of REGA Motorsport, said, "We are
delighted that this move gives us the opportunity to expand our business
further. The move to larger premises is a direct result of the growth in
business the company has experienced over the last 12 months and the new
showroom and workshop facility will further enhance the service levels we can
offer our customers and gives us the room to further develop the servicing and
maintenance of customers Karts". The new address and contact details are:
REGA Motorsport, Unit 16, Hanson Lane Enterprise Centre, Hanson Lane, Halifax,
West Yorkshire, HX1 5PG. Tel: 01422 348800 / 348885, Fax: 08701 382696, Email: info@regamotorsport.com [
Top ] Karting
But Not As We Know It (16/04) The creators of Channel 4's 'Scrapheap
Challenge' and TLC's 'Junkyard Wars' are now urgently looking for European
teams, in particular from France and Italy, to compete in a new Kart-Cross TV
show that will go by the name of 'Full Metal Challenge'. It's a competition
between teams of mechanics and drivers from around the world with the main
emphasis being on the fun of engineering, problem solving and working as a team.
Men and women of all ages (over 18) who are keen engineers / mechanics /
drivers, will get together in teams of 3 to build exciting and original vehicles
to compete around a specially designed arena. The competition will test the
versatility, durability and clever design of the vehicles as well as the skills
and character of the team members! All expenses will be paid
including travel to the area in England, accommodation, etc., with each team
being given 3000 Euros (approximately £1835) to build their vehicle using any
combination of old and new parts. Sadly, teams do not get to binge on any
unspent money, nor keep the finished article! The machine building phase will
take place during May/June (most teams are building during a couple of
weekends), with the actual competition rounds taking place during July / August
that will be televised for the Discovery Channel. To apply, all you need to do
is fill out one of the application forms from the website for each of the 3
members of your team and make a quick home movie of the team working together, -
keep it clean please! Team applications are being accepted throughout April
2002, but places are limited so be quick. Further information can be found at http://www.fullmetalchallenge.com [
Top ] Warden
Law (15/04) Please note that the
following arrangements have been made with regard to the Super 2, Super 4 &
Honda Challenge event taking place on 21st April. The gates to the circuit area
will officially open at 2.30pm on Friday 19th April. The official practice
session is being run by the circuit owner Karting North East but has had to be
limited due to prior commitments of the circuit. Exclusive practice available to
competitors will be from 2pm until 7pm on Saturday 20th April. Competitors may
be able to practice at other times during the day but may not have exclusive use
of the track. Scrutineering and signing-on will begin at 5.30pm on Saturday
20th. Anyone wishing to reserve a pitbay (£20 with electric hook up, £15
without) should telephone Ann Laws, Competition Secretary on (0191) 2730830. [
Top ] Stock
Clearance (12/04) Ferrari Racing is on the move
and over the next few weeks stock is being cleared prior to their change of
address. Everything has got to go (except the kitchen sink) and there are some
bargains to be had. Existing telephone numbers 020 8427 3301/3247 still apply,
or seek out Bruno in the stockroom, or wherever he is, on his mobile 07831
366939. [
Top ] T-Shirt,
Fleece or Lotus? (12/04) Ellough Park Raceway has
announced some great prizes, courtesy of Lotus Cars, for its summer Pro Kart
enduro series with the winning team receiving a "Day Out at Lotus" and
up to four drivers going to the Group Lotus headquarters at Hethel near Norwich.
After some demonstration laps by Gavin Kershaw, (winner of TV's "sideways
challenge"), they will get to drive the amazing Lotus Elise around the two
mile test track, followed by a factory tour to see the cars being built. This
first prize cannot be bought and has been arranged just for Ellough Park
Raceway. Runner-up team drivers will all receive Lotus fleeces and the third
placed team will receive T-shirts. The first round has just
taken place, but the scoring system allows teams to drop one result so there is
still a chance to win! If you are interested in competing call either Nick Gill
on 01603 486655 or Stuart Weavers on 01502 717718. [
Top ] New
Look (11/04) Britain's top karting
championships get underway this weekend (13th/14th April) with a new look to the
long standing S1 series that has helped find Grand Prix stars like David
Coulthard, Johnny Herbert and Jenson Button. The Elf Hill House Hammond S1
British Kart Championships kicks off with the seniors at the PFI circuit near
Grantham, Lincolnshire as the first of a 14 round charge to find Britain's
karting talent. The Elf fuel name once more goes on the series as a result of
branding decisions at the Total Fina Elf Group which is focusing rallying
activity on the Total brand, with car, bike and kart track events on Elf,
including F1. Once again the series is
split into senior and junior groups with top Hill House Hammond MSA titles at
stake in both categories along with a full spread of other classes including
Formula TKM, Rotax Max, ICA, National and Cadets. A new TV deal this year brings
coverage for the series within the control of Frank Johns appearing on the
Sports Unlimited programme on Sky satellite channels in the UK and right around
the world. Says series spokesman Grahame Butterworth: "The Elf Hill House
Hammond series will be bigger and stronger than ever this year. We look forward
to some excellent racing on the way to these most prestigious of all karting
titles." [
Top ] Reports
& Results (09/04) Some close and exciting
racing took place at Nutts Corner (Ulster Championships) on 1st & 2nd April,
and at Bayford Meadows (MSA British Endurance Kart Championship, 2nd Round) on
6th April. The results and reports can be found here. [
Top ] Yamaha
Drivers (09/04) With the demise of the Yamaha
class there has been a lot of good equipment either being sold off or put in to
the back of garages, but this does not have to happen, and nor do you need to
buy new equipment! At Forest Edge on 7th April the Junior Clubman Class were
pleased to welcome a Yamaha driver into the fold. As the Yamaha engine is a
(1998 Homologated) Piston Port engine they only have to run with a 19mm
restrictor and Maxxis HG2 tyres to be eligible. All Yamaha drivers wanting to
compete at Hullavington or Dunkeswell, can simply enter as a Junior Clubman,
comply with the regulations and enjoy a day's racing. For more information
please contact karting@kemara.co.uk or
visit www.planetkarting.co.uk, or
if Hullavington and Dunkeswell are too far south for you, contact Gary at yamaha@teamlgw.co.uk
for other possibilities. [
Top ] Experience
Cadwell Park (08/04) A Cadwell Park 'Full Circuit'
practice evening has been arranged for 31st May 2002 between 5.00pm and 8.00pm.
Open to everyone, the costs will be £25 plus £5 club membership per driver.
Juniors must have a parent or guardian with them and will only be allowed out in
the junior class. Please note that this is not a race but a chance to experience
the thrill of Cadwell Park. Anyone who wishes to take part should contact Keith
on 01526 321449 or by e-mail at parker@kppms.freeserve.co.uk [
Top ] BKIA
Expands (08/04) The British Kart Industry
Association has launched a new division to represent circuit owners and
operators throughout the UK. The BKIA Circuit Owners & Operators Group, will
represent the interests and needs of circuits in line with the fast changing and
developing requirements of commercial karting. The group has a specific seat
on the MSA-backed Kart Control Board which will initially be held by Bill Sisley
of Buckmore Park, who has been nominated as first Chairman of this important
circuit group. BKIA Chairman Alan Turney commented: "We have recognised the
need for such a body in the light of many situations happening within karting at
present. There is a clear need to bring together the various circuits and
operators to provide a cohesive and well thought out approach." Bill Sisley
added: "The time is right for all of us to get together to mould the shape
of commercial karting in the future. We can provide a much more powerful and
solid voice if we speak as one to smooth the way for the future. This sector has
grown far faster than the sporting side and we need to both encourage and guide
it in the appropriate direction for the benefit of ourselves, drivers and the
sport at large." Membership of the group will
be £175 for the year. It is only open to circuit owners and/or those who
commercially operate at them. Traditional karting clubs will not be eligible for
membership. Full details from the BKIA at Tudor Lodge, Belshaw Lane, Belton, Nr
Doncaster DN9 1PF [
Top ] ABkC
Gearbox Champs (04/04) This weekend will see the
cream of British Kart racing participating in the first round of the ABkC
National Gearbox Championships, the Super4, at Shenington Circuit near Banbury.
There's a bumper entry this year with over 40 entries in National 125cc and
similar numbers in 250 National and the 210 class. An innovation in the premier
125 Open class this year is timed practice as requested by the drivers,
following the format used for ICA in Super 1. With former champion Mark Fell and
top driver Paul Ozanne moving on this year's title looks to be a fight between
'O' Plate Noel Brennan, Nathan Freke, Peter Connors, Mark Gillibrand, and Nick
Smith returning to the full series after a period of absence. 125 National will
be spiced by the arrival of top 100cc veteran Phil Hill who will race a 125 for
the first time at Shenington against current champion Carl Millington. In 250
National the competition will be between 250 International champion John Riley,
who switches class, and former champions Don Kennedy and Mally Wits amongst
others. The other classes racing will be 250E, 210 (with the biggest grids seen
for several years) and Junior Gearbox. The racing is likely to be fast and
furious and as good as anything seen in other National Championships, so come
along and watch the action. For directions to the circuit click
here. [
Top ] New
Circuit & Kart Club (03/04) Dragon Kart Club will be
holding a test weekend on the 13th & 14th April at their brand new 1100
metre circuit at Glan y Gors Park, near Betws y Coed, north Wales. Location
details available at www.gygkarting.co.uk
or telephone Glan y Gors Park on 01490 420770 and the Dragon Kart Club on 01606
883956. A fast undulating circuit with some challenging corners! [
Top ] WTP At
Lydd (03/04) Lydd International Raceway
are to hold a Cadet club once a month focusing on the WTP and Honda Classes.
Also Kent Kart Racing Club are to accept WTP's on their grid for the 12th May
race. All interested in either the cadet club or racing WTP's at Lydd
International Raceway should telephone the circuit on 01797 321895. [
Top ] Testing
Times Ahead (02/04) Last year's Formula A vice
European Champion Ben Hanley will be competing in the Formula Super 'A' World
Championship along with selected Italian/International race events with the
Italian works Maranello race team. Ben will continue to receive support from
Bridgestone Motorsport during 2002 as he did throughout 2001, and will conduct
various test days with the tyre manufacturer commencing on 3rd & 4th April
at Mariembourg. After the tyre test at the
beginning of April, Ben will move on to Italy to begin development work with the
Maranello race team and also engine manufacturers Maxter, who will supply the
engines to the Maranello team. Ben's association with sponsors TNT, MAN and
Cartwright Trailers will continue through 2002. [
Top ] CRG
Team-Up With Tal-Ko (02/04) Commenting on the engine CRG
boss Giancarlo Tinini said: "The TKM engine performed very well and was
easy to fit. It makes much more sense for us to work with this engine than try
to compete. TKM has taken a big step forward in developing this engine and
mastering 4-stroke technology." At the same time the two companies have
started discussions on the next era of TKM 4-strokes, a 250cc engine with four
valves and computed to produce well over 30BHP - a prime contender for victory
at world championship level. The existing TKM 4-stroke has
now been on sale for a year in the UK where it has already sold in excess of 100
units with sales growing fast both in the home market and overseas. A number of
overseas distributors have already been appointed and this arrangement does not
interfere with these countries. The engine is 200cc, two valve, revs to
12,000rpm and has a soft rev limiter built into the ignition. At a fraction
under 19BHP the engine has a huge amount of low and mid range torque and has
been built to F1 levels of technology. It is ultra small and light and therefore
able to be bolted straight onto any traditional 100cc kart. It has a very low
noise level and exceptionally long life with at least 100 hours between any
rebuilds. The engine is fully sealed to prevent any tuning and keep running
costs to a minimum. Full details and prices are available from Tal-Ko at +44
(0)1767 682020 Fax +44 (0)1767 691622 or e-mail info@tal-ko.com [
Top ] New
Essex Outdoor Kart Circuit (02/04) Lakeside Karting's £1.5m
multifunction karting centre opened on the Bank Holiday weekend and is destined
to be the fastest and best-equipped complex in Essex. Situated on the doorstep
of Lakeside Shopping Centre it will cater for everyone aged 9 and over and is
the only circuit in the county where you can drive a 75mph 400cc twin engine
Pro-Kart. Work started on the circuit in December 2001 and is on target to open
it's gates to the public within the next couple of weeks. "Essex and the
South East has a high demand for karting but lacks the quality facilities many
people require" comments circuit Director Giles Murray. "Lakeside
Karting has taken this into consideration and aims to provide the public with
one of the best circuits in the country". Designing the circuit was the
forte of some of the best racing brains in the country including input from the
MSA (Motor Sports Association). Ex-European racing driver and circuit Director
Chris Tucker comments "having raced all over Europe at some of the best
circuits in the world, when designing the circuit we incorporated a lot of the
factors that I know make a good racing circuit". The fleet of karts has
been supplied by Biz Karts "we supply karts to most of the UK and European
kart racing circuits" comments Paul Scutchings of Biz Kart management,
"after driving the brand new track at Lakeside Karting, I was most
impressed at the design and speed that the circuit enables you to achieve, and I
believe that it will certainly be one of the most demanding and exciting outdoor
circuits in the UK". Besides karting, the complex offers off-road driving,
oval racing and a radically designed clubhouse offering customers panoramic
views of the circuit, catering facilities and conference rooms which are
available for conference hire and stand-alone events. Telephone 01708 863070 for
further information. [
Top ] Cadet
WTP Owners (28/03) Camberley Kart Club will be
holding a race for the new cadet WTP engine at their next club round at
Blackbushe on 27th April. All enquires to Competition Secretary Tony Cope.
Telephone 01252 540758 for more details and an entry form. [
Top ] Thanks
Anne (27/03) A big thank you from all who
took part to Anne Laws and everyone at Lincolnshire Kart Racing Club (Fulbeck)
for running a very small but cosy Junior Yamaha grid last Sunday. If you have a
desire to keep this class running, e-mail: yamaha@teamlgw.co.uk [
Top ] Gearbox
Karters (26/03) A device that adjusts a
carburettor whilst you drive, eliminating the need to change a main jet,
forever. MasterTune (Patent Pending) has been flow-tested in England by Mike
Hemingway of UK Racing Spares Ltd., a company dedicated to the preparation of
Aprilia Grand Prix motorcycles. No more guessing in the
morning or on the starting grid. So long as you have enough clearance at the
bottom of the carburettor the standard plug and main jet come out and a new
oversized, re-designed jet goes in, and the new plug is installed. As simple as
that. The whole assembly takes ½" on the bottom of the carburettor. Just
what you've always wanted? Find out more at http://www.mastertuneracing.com [
Top ] Cancellation
(26/03) The first round of the
Thruxton Pro Kart Championship, scheduled for 31st March has reluctantly been
cancelled. The combination of a late date change to avoid clashing with Sandown,
combined with the Easter weekend preventing some prospective teams from being
able to attend, has resulted in a potentially poor turnout. The scheduled
second round on 12th May will take place and interest is very encouraging with
around 20 teams to date intending to take part. With this in mind, Thruxton have
a full day test session put aside on 27th April, and to allow teams to
concentrate on chassis set-up the organisers have fixed the gearing for the
first round at 20/73. For further information contact Thruxton on 01264 882222,
or email adrian@thruxtonracing.co.uk [
Top ] Mari
Pro-Kart (26/03) Boyes Lane Racing have been
appointed main agents for the Mari-Prokart by the UK importers of the Italian
Mari chassis, JM Racing. Testing is available and all those interested or for
general enquiries please contact Andy Metcalf on 01964 623459 or 07730487014, or
visit www.boyeslaneracing.s5.com [
Top ] Refurbishment
Finished (26/03) The Circuit based in Deeside
near Chester has just put the finishing touches to their new track extension and
refurbishment. Established in 1989 The Circuit has been one of the longest
running indoor karting centres in Europe and boasted one the largest tracks. The
track has now been extended to 750 meters and includes 3 new exciting race
features. These include new Indy style banked corners, a 70m darkened Monaco
Tunnel and an outdoor section that returns indoors to rejoin the main track. With the newly installed
Grafix Quad Timing system from Superport Software drivers now have a wealth of
information on their driving abilities, especially useful for Enduro events as
the timing system provides real time graphs of kart and driver performance! For
more information please call The Circuit Raceline on 01244 531652 or visit their
website at www.thecircuit.co.uk [
Top ] Ulster
Karters Have Their Say (25/03) Attendees at the Ulster
Karting Club's AGM heard brief details about the first ever strategic plan for
the future of 2 and 4 wheeled motorsport. The plan has been developed by a
working group comprising the local governing bodies of Motor Cycling, Car Sports
and Karting and is being co-ordinated by The Sports Council Northern Ireland (SCNI).
Kart racing is well recognised in the plan as an integral part of motorsport
which provides a great number of potential Formula 1 drivers. Representatives of
the sport have been involved over the past 6 months in the creation of the
overall plan for the future and it's now your chance to have your say before the
specific kart racing feeder plan is finalised which sets out the 5 year plan for
the sport. The strategic plan is now
available for public consultation which basically means if you have any comments
on the generic plan they need to be made to SCNI by 12 April. There are various
ways of doing this. You can either access the plan on Sports Council's web site www.sportni.org
(click on the link to the plan when it's name appears in the home page, and then
click the document link in the home page for the plan). Alternatively, leave
your details on the 2 & 4 wheel motor sport hotline on 028 90 381222. If you
have an interest in the future of your sport then do have a read at the plan and
comment as you see fit. A copy of the plan will hopefully be available to read
at the Ulster Championships meeting on Easter Monday and Tuesday at Nutts Corner
Motorsports centre. [
Top ] Hi-Di-Hi
(25/03) Good news for all registered
drivers of the Dadson Rotax Gent's Challenge as the winner of the Challenge will
receive a 4 day family holiday to Butlins. There's also a cup for the Gentleman
of the Challenge sponsored by ACS Motor Services. The 20 registered drivers for
the series and are now looking forward to the first round at Lydd International
Raceway on 7th April 2002. All those not yet registered ought to be quick (and
not just on track), you have only until 31st March to register. Contact Tony
Cowlam on 07957316006 for a form. [
Top ] Satisfactory
Conclusion (25/03) Matchams Kart Club has
reached a satisfactory conclusion to it's earlier insurance restrictions and
will now be operating test days by pre-booking on Fridays, Saturdays, and
Sundays from April to October, and Saturdays and Sundays from November to March.
Testing open to current MKC membership holders and to MSA licence holders.
Further details and any enquiries to Matchams Kart Club on 01425 473305 or
e-mail MatchamsPark@aol.com [
Top ] Europa
Karts (25/03) As no Europa race events are
currently planned for 2002 and there are probably a good number of Europa owners
wanting to race, we are advised that Whilton Mill would be willing to include
Europa class along with an existing class, or if enough interest a Europa only
race. If you have a Europa Kart and want to race you should contact Peter
Copeland via e-mail: peter.mx5@talkgas.net
or ring John Conway 01527 543306 who will co-ordinate and advise dates where
possible. [
Top ] Track
Two For Dublin (25/03) Building work has commenced
on a second track at Kylemore Indoor Karting, Dublin's only indoor track. The
new track will be 360 metres and will crisscross part of the original track,
giving three levels at one point. When the two tracks are joined it allows for
an overall track length of 720 metres. [
Top ] CRG
Expand UK Operations With Tal-Ko (20/03) World champion kart
manufacturer CRG has announced plans for a major expansion of its presence in
the UK in association with its exclusive distributor, Tal-Ko. The Italian-based
company has itself undergone major changes over the past couple of years. Now
stronger than ever and buoyed up by its world title success, the company is
setting forward on a plan which will not only increase its presence in this
country, but also create an exciting stepping stone for up and coming drivers
into Europe. The starting point in the plan is a search for top-line race teams
and drivers to use CRG karts in the UK across a range of classes including JICA,
Formula TKM 4 Stroke, ICA, 100 National, Rotax Max and Formula A. Says CRG boss
Giancarlo Tinini: "We have our best ever range of karts which have beaten
the world. Now we want to make it easier for every driver to make use of the
best from CRG." Tal-Ko boss Alan Turney has
just returned from Italy following meetings with CRG where many plans were
finalised including: Says Alan Turney: "We
really want to make the CRG name fly over here. It is a superbly successful and
quality brand backed of course by its own Maxter engine brand. The time has now
come for us to really establish the CRG brand in the UK." Drivers and race
teams interested in being invited to the tests events should immediately contact
Alan Turney or Glenn Dear at Tal-Ko on 01767 682020, fax 01767 691622, or email info@crgkarts.co.uk [
Top ] Shopping
For A Kart? (19/03) Part of the St. Patrick's Day
Parade in Chicago last Sunday! Click
Here for the photo... [
Top ] Formula
6 (15/03) 132 Formula 6 member/drivers
enjoyed the season's opener at Buckmore Park in Kent earlier this month.
Currently over one hundred and seventy drivers are registered for the 2002
Formula 6 South East Championship series, comprising of 28 Honda Cadets, 18
Honda Junior Prokarts and 23 Honda Senior Prokarts. In addition the F6 Junior
Royale has 20, F6 Junior Standard 17 and the Senior Prokart Heavy16. F6 Senior
Open have over a dozen in their own right but also 12 Biland. For more
information ring Roger Sheffield on 07710 288074 or visit the F6 website at http://www.f6karting.com/ [
Top ] Super 4
(15/03) The Super 4 Total Hill House
Hammond ABkC Gearbox Championship organised by Highlight Karting is shaping up
for a record-breaking season with over 40 National 125 drivers already
registered and 250 National is also likely to have large grids for this season's
Championship. 125 Open will have timed qualifying for the first time and Junior
Gearbox is now with a choice of TM or Honda 85cc engines. Despite the disappointment of
losing the Cadwell event scheduled for the June Bank Holiday weekend, the
slightly reduced Championship still features Fulbeck, Rowrah, Nutts Corner and
Rissington, with the first round at Shenington on the 7th April. All those
interested in joining in the Championship can find more information on the Super
4 website at www.super4.co.uk or by
contacting Lesley Allen on 01295-678116. [
Top ] Cool
Power (13/03) Zoom Karts in Hull are now
the main importers into Great Britain of Cool Power 4-Stroke Racing Oil. This
oil has quite a following with many top class drivers including Adam Willis the
Honda Challenge Senior Championship winner using it, along with engine
preparation specialists RMP Dyno-Tech and HPE. For further information about
this race winning oil for the Honda GX160 & 120 engines contact Zoom Karts
on 01482 321 753 or e-mail: user@zoomkarts.com [
Top ] Kart Expo
2002 (13/03) The kart shows that we have
known and enjoyed over the years have reflected the evolution of the various
aspects of the sport and have proved to be an invaluable forum for their
industry to meet during the winter, but in spite of karting's 44 years of
history in this country there has never been a stand alone kart show in London,
until now that is! The country's most densely populated region and the epicentre
of corporate, leisure and competition karting in the south is on course to
experience a kart show in the impressive halls of the 'Ally Pally'. Ambitious
plans are all coming together and the date and place for your diary is 14th
& 15th December 2002 at Alexandra Palace, north London. Response from the trade has
been described as phenomenal with both the major corporate karting companies
seeing the potential benefit in attracting a local public to their venues, and
equally, the serious karting manufacturer can exhibit to their customers. The
organisers have budgeted to provide inexpensive stand space in order to attract
the maximum number of small and large karting companies alike. They have many
innovative ideas as to maximise public awareness including raffles and prize
draws. Ticket prices are likely to be £8 for adults and £4 for children when
booked in advance, with tickets being available for purchase from next month.
For further information and to reserve stand space, please e-mail: dkr@talk21.com [
Top ] Taking
Shape (13/03) Despite some truly appalling
weather, construction has commenced at Rowrah for the erection of the new
clubhouse/admin facility. Steelwork has been erected allowing building of the
ground floor facility first, and more steelwork will be installed later to allow
construction of the upper floor. This will take the upper floor of the building
back into the banking by the same width as the existing steelwork. The building
will be 16m wide by 21.7m deep (including the clubhouse upper floor). The ground floor will
comprise of lapscoring/race control, signing-on office, stewards/clerks office
and a store room. The upper floor will have a canteen, showers and toilets, and
the front of the building will be glazed to offer a view of the whole track.
Construction of the lapscoring part should be complete in time for the S1
qualifier on 24th March, the rest of the ground floor soon afterwards, and the
complete building should be finished by early Summer. For plans of the building,
go to www.cumbriakrc.co.uk/club.htm [
Top ] Drackart
(13/03) CC Karting advise they are
now the sole UK importer of the Spanish Drackart Discovery for Max and all 100cc
classes. For more see www.cckarting.co.uk
or call 07946 528842. [
Top ] Where
To Start? (12/03) Kemara Karting are looking to
give some youngsters the opportunity to race competitively by providing a
limited level of support to both them and their parents to get them started. The
idea is to offer some support to younger drivers who may not get many
opportunities to race, not because of a lack of money but because their parents
may not know what to do or really know how to get started. Many don't want to
pay money out on a fad but have children who would like to start karting but
need some help, especially in the first year, when they don't really know
whether they will like it or not. Enter Kemara Karting, who
have an opening for two Junior drivers with a budget. One seat is available in
the Junior Clubman class and there is one seat in Junior TKM. Both drivers will
initially have the possibility of competing at Forest Edge, Hullavington,
Dunkeswell and in the NKRA. Drivers and parents interested should contact karting@kemara.co.uk
in the first instance with details of experience, age, location, preferred class
and telephone number. [
Top ] First
Win (12/03) The first round of the 8
round Trackside Karting EcoMoto/Rotax Max 1.5 hour Endurance Series at Bayford
Meadows on 10th March was won outright by Steve Lang and Simon Horabin racing as
Team Ecotastic on their EcoMoto powered Wright chassis. Invicta Karting have
drives available in the ABkC sanctioned Super Two for drivers with suitable
budgets. For further information e-mail barry@invictakarting.co.uk
or call 07973-542414. [
Top ] 165
Challenge 2002 (12/03) The 100 National Heavyweight
championship continues in 2002 with a few minor changes. The number of rounds
have been reduced from 9 to 6 with both the Warden Law and the double header at
Rowrah gone. In addition Fulbeck has been replaced with Whilton Mill. As well as
dropping rounds from the season a change in scoring is also due to be made,
rather than drop a meeting you can drop your worst three heats and your worst
final. Further details including the rules and regulations are available on www.165challenge.co.uk Competition is once again
likely to be intense, for the second year running the last round decided the
championship (and this time by just 1 point) Chris Bone, 2001 champion and Paul
Napolitano, 2000 champion, are both confirmed entrants as are most of the top 10
from 2001. Anyone interested in taking part during the 2002 season should in the
first instance contact Les Mitchell on 01388 601765 or 07771 684132.
Registration fees have been kept at £100 and must be with Les by 5th April
latest. [
Top ] T-Cars
Scholarship (12/03) After the BRSCC received a
number of calls from drivers unable to make the initial round at Silverstone and
from Super 1 Qualifiers at Buckmore Park last weekend, the sponsors have decided
to run an additional qualifier at Langbaurgh on Sunday 17th March, 2002. For
details of entry to the Competition, please see www.t-cars.org.uk or contact co-ordinator@t-cars.org.uk
for further information. [
Top ] 100
Registrations (08/03) Organisers are pleased to
report that registrations for the Super Two and Formula TKM 2-Stroke Challenge
continue to arrive and have now reached 100, yet the series' are still not known
to many racers. The Super Two ABkC National Four Stroke Championship
includes the Honda Challenge for Cadets, Juniors and Junior Heavyweights,
Seniors plus the Libre Invitation class that currently includes EcoMoto and
Biland. In addition there is the Formula TKM 4-Stroke Championship for Juniors
and Seniors and the Formula TKM 2-Stroke Challenge for Juniors, Intermediates
and Seniors. Visit www.ratpro.co.uk or
phone Roger Abbey-Taylor on 01784 462 624 for more information. [
Top ] Larkhall
Back On Track (07/03) The West of Scotland Kart
Club are pleased to announce that the circuit is now available for weekend
practice and will be open between 10.00 and 18.00 on available days, specific
exceptions are 11th & 12th May (Champions of the Future), 15th & 16th
June and 20th & 21st July (Super One). Club race dates can be found by clicking
here or on the WSKC site at http://www.wskc.co.uk A training day for Marshals
will take place on Saturday 9th March at the Summerlee Raceway and at intervals
thereafter, all those interested in assisting the club should contact Kate on
01324 813601 or e-mail: katehaywskc@yahoo.co.uk [
Top ] Caliba
Support (07/03) Caliba, the Karting seats and
steering wheels division of Astrali have announced their backing for the 2002
Super Two Championship. Caliba support will involve individual Driver of the Day
awards of steering wheels and seats at each event for Cadets and Juniors
competing in the Honda Challenge, TKM 4-Stroke and TKM 2-Stroke classes,
culminating with the Caliba Award for the Senior Overall Championship Winner of
a " Five Day Intensive Course in Racing" under the expertise of the
Silverstone Race School. This overall championship award will be based on a
points system with the leading driver at each event being identified by a
prestigious decal on the kart, - 'The Yellow Jersey of Karting'. [
Top ] New
Cadet Class (05/03) As from 1st March 2002 the
new Cadet Formula WTP class is fully approved by the MSA, and this exciting new
cadet formula is taking shape with a six round UK Cup already planned. Clubs
already applied for their N1.3 include Wombwell, Warden Law and Rowrah and with
an anticipated full grid for the 24th March meeting at Fulbeck it's time to get
those entries in to Mrs Ann Laws (LKRC) as soon as possible, telephone 01912
722989 or e-mail: ann@lkrc.freeserve.co.uk
With the first batch of engines arrived and finding their way to their new
owners, watch this space for more details. [
Top ] T Cars
Scholarship (05/03) Karting enthusiast, Martin
Lewis of Building Environmental Services has underwritten the most valuable
prize to be offered within Junior Motorsport in 2002. Martin's son Ryan competed
in the BRSCC promoted T Cars series since its inception in 1999 and Martin was
so impressed by the T Car formula and the opportunities it had created for his
son to progress in car racing that he decided to create a Scholarship in order
to enable one lucky driver per season to compete in this Junior circuit racing
category. T Cars can be the way forward
for many young drivers with ability to progress into car racing. Karting can
hardly afford to lose drivers in this day and age and all kart clubs are
competing to attract drivers rather than lose them, but for the many talented
youngsters between the ages of 14 and 16 who have grown at a faster rate than
their contemporaries and who end up being a too tall or a too heavy, T Cars
offers them an opportunity to find an alternative way forward. Motorsport News asked all
kart clubs in the UK to nominate two drivers who would be invited to compete for
the Building Environmental Services sponsored T Car drive in 2002. This
competition has been organised and the opening stages are to be held on the 9th
March 2002 at Daytona Silverstone and Daytona Manchester. Full details are
available on the BRSCC organised website dedicated to T Cars and any interested
competitors should log on urgently to www.t-cars.org.uk
where they will find times and dates of the competition. The challenge is open
to any driver who can demonstrate some degree of competition experience, maybe
through Indoor, Outdoor leisure or MSA events or alternatively through minicross,
or autograss type racing. The value of the prize to the winner will be a
substantially sponsored season with a budget of £20,000. [
Top ] Helping
A London Child (01/03) Monday evening 18th March
will see the CSF Compaq Corporate Karting Championship Grand Final at the
Teamworks Karting venue close by the City of London. City brokers, dealers,
lawyers, IT consultants and other professionals will exchange their office suits
for racesuits as the 3-driver teams aim at a huge prize fund of around £10,000
with all looking to beat pre-race favourites Barclays Capital. Race commentator
will be Capital Radio DJ Mick Brown, with prizes for the winners awarded by Mike
Cohen - Director of CSF, and Tony Diprose, the Harlequins and England forward. [
Top ] MSA
British Endurance Kart Championship (27/02) The MSA 2002 British
Endurance Kart Championship kicks off this coming weekend and the BEKC are
looking forward to the launch of the 2002 season. The first of this year's MSA
ProMax Endurance Events takes place at Buckmore Park on Sunday 3rd March. The
morning will be set-up and practice, followed by a 4 hour endurance race in the
afternoon. The Championship is supported
by JAG Engineering who will be in attendance throughout the series, and with the
recent confirmation of sponsorship from Motorsport News and Putoline Oil the
series is set for a promising season. This 9
round championship has two remaining entries available for this weekend and
those wishing to be on the grid for the first round can obtain further
information by telephoning 02380 471117. Be there, you know you want to! [
Top ] ProMax
Winter Series (27/02) The first round of the
combined Buckmore Park / Bayford Meadows Promax 3 hour Endurance Winter Series
takes place at Bayford Meadows on 9th March. The second and final round of this
short, sharp series is on 27th March at Buckmore Park. The main summer series of
six rounds (alternating between the two circuits) starts in April and full
details are available from Buckmore Park (01634 201562 ext 201) or Bayford
Meadows (01795 410707) www.buckmore.co.uk or www.bayfordkarting.co.uk [
Top ] Single
Seater Challenge (26/02) If you race in Formula TKM
and have the desire to win a free test in a Formula Ford single seater,
recognised as the way forward up the motor sport ladder, then you must enter the
TKM class this year at Rissy. Rissy is delighted to offer this fantastic
opportunity to the 1st three drivers in this year's TKM Premier championship. Peter Chambers Motor Racing,
who own and manage a modern Formula Ford 1800 Zetec Racing Team catering for
Avon Junior and Slick 50 Premier Championships have agreed to sponsor the TKM
Premier class at Little Rissington during the year 2002. They will be providing
the 1st, 2nd & 3rd place trophies at each club round and also for the
championship. The cherry on top of the cake is the award of a free test in one
of the team's Formula Ford Mygales for the 1st three in the championship. This
is not an opportunity which becomes available very often, and could be your
chance to prove your talent to the right parties. Team owner Peter Chambers
began his motorsport career at Little Rissington, and is keen to put something
back to the grass roots from where he progressed from. He has appreciated the
amount of work which goes on behind the scenes which gave him the opportunity to
enjoy his sport and also to learn the basics of motor racing. He is now in a
position to help other youngsters to get out on to the track and to show what
they can do. Peter intends to attend the rounds at Rissington to offer advice
and support to young racers and hopes that he can help talented drivers step up
to single-seater racing. Victory Racewear have also
agreed to provide additional prizes dependent on the size of entries, so there
is even more reason to enter, now! Race Entry and Membership Forms are available
on-line at http://www.rissykartclub.com
The first race of the season is this weekend, 3rd March with practice on
Saturday 2nd. [
Top ] Junior
Clubman (26/02) Everyone in the Junior
Clubman Class extends their hand in friendship to the Yamaha Class drivers. It
is always a shame when any class ceases to have enough entries to survive.
However the Junior Clubman Class regulations allow the Chassis used in the
Yamaha Class, and all piston port engines up to and including the 1998
Homologated list, with a 19mm restrictor, or a Parilla Leopard engine, bolt on to your chassis and away you
go again. This exciting class is growing with club championships already being
run at Forest Edge and Hullavington, with the prospect of Dunkeswell, Camberley
and Rissington if there are enough entries. There is an NKRA National
championship again this year with the first round being held at Dunkeswell at
the end of March. The Leopard engines are available from Bruno Ferrari on 020
8427 3301 or e-mail: bruno@ferrari-racing.net
as well as other outlets. For more information contact karting@kemara.co.uk and
for NKRA information go to www.planetkarting.co.uk [
Top ] Tal-Ko
Help For Yamaha Drivers (25/02) Yamaha drivers left with
equipment following the collapse of the class have been offered a special deal
on TKM 2 and 4 stroke karts and engines from Tal-Ko, the UK's largest kart
racing engine manufacturer. Alan Turney, boss of Tal-Ko said: "I fully
understand the reasons for dropping this small class but of course I feel very
sorry for the drivers who are left stranded at this late stage in preparations
for the year. We want to try to help them." Tal-Ko will offer all Yamaha
drivers a 10 per cent discount on the price of new TKM 2 and 4 stroke engines
and karts bought direct from the factory. The offer applies only to private
sales and to those drivers then registering to compete in any of the TKM classes
at the Super 1 or Super 2 national championships. In addition the company will
make possible a test day for Yamaha drivers to try out the karts and engines
which are used in the most popular class in the UK, Formula TKM. Added Alan:
"We just want to offer a helping hand to young drivers who have been hit by
this bombshell." Full details from Tal-Ko on 01767 682020 or e-mail info@tal-ko.com [
Top ] Commentator's
Corner (25/02) Rissington Kart Club has been
busy updating its hugely popular website during the closed season and has
recently announced the launch of an exciting new innovation called
"Commentator's Corner". The page is designed to give drivers and teams
that visit Rissington, no matter how infrequently, the opportunity to
communicate up-to-the minute information about themselves to regular circuit
commentator, Chris Hartley. Chris commented; "It's a great opportunity for
drivers and teams to gain useful publicity for themselves and their sponsors.
The more I know about the drivers who race at Rissy, the more I can talk about
them and the more they'll get noticed." Visitors to the site can use
an online 'Commentator's Information Sheet' to pass on details about their
racing career, recent results and future plans. The site also features a Q&A
section and a profile of the budding Murray Walker. To access Commentator's
Corner, simply visit www.rissykartclub.com [
Top ] Did It
Darren? (25/02) The overall winner in Rotax
Max of the first Super One qualifying round held at Lydd yesterday was Darren
Rayfield, who has raced for the past two seasons with Team Screamin' Soco Racing
in the British Endurance Championships. Did all that endurance experience make
it an easier task to complete three heats and a final? [
Top ] KKRC
(25/02) Kent Kart Racing Club have
announced that Carlos King has purchased the freehold of the property. This has
paved the way for a series of exciting modifications and additional services,
with work already completed on the expansion and resurfacing of Pit B (no more
sticky tar!), as well as the circuit. There are many more improvements planned
over the next five years that would make Lydd International Raceway one of the
top circuits in the country. It is hoped that as the facilities are upgraded,
the chance of a European round being negotiated currently could be held within
the near future. [
Top ] Kart
Driver Fined (25/02) A pleasant time finally
turned rather unpleasant for karter David Frankum when he was fined £450 as a
result being stopped by police. 34 year old Mr. Frankum from
Tilehurst near Reading, Berkshire had enjoyed a few drinks at a barbecue when he
noticed friends had taken his kart, and with a lookout at each end were driving
it up and down the road. Frankum immediately told his friends to stop and jumped
in the kart to drive it back to his house close by, but he had travelled less
than 10 metres before a police car ordered him to stop and the officer found him
to be over the drink-drive limit. After admitting driving while over the
permitted limit Mr. Frankum was allowed to keep his driving licence after his
lawyer told the Court that his business would fold if he lost it. [
Top ] Re-Opening
Soon (22/02) The Raceway - Kings Cross,
London's largest and fastest indoor Kart Circuit is pleased to announce its
imminent re-opening. The whole facility has been completely re-built including a
longer track, new bar and state of the art conferencing ability. Peter Rankin,
The Raceway's Corporate Event Director said "After our neighbours fire
caused extensive damage to our facility we had the opportunity to start with a
'clean sheet'. The new facility once again sets the standard for a Corporate
Hospitality Venue, and, at the same time incorporates, what we believe to be,
the finest driver's circuit". Full details will be announced in the
National Press and on this website soon. [
Top ] Save
Our Class (22/02) A plea from Gary Wright to
all Junior Yamaha fans. E-mail yamaha@teamlgw.co.uk if you are interested in
keeping this class alive. [
Top ] Euro GT
Challenge (21/02) A Rotax Max European
Endurance Championship has just been finalised with rounds at Silverstone,
Veldhoven in Holland and Spa Francorchamps in Belgium. There is considerable
interest in this 3 round mini-championship with points scored at the Silverstone
event counting towards both the UK series and the European Championship on the
same day. Dates are expected to be released next week and 10-15 teams only from
each country will be competing. Further information from Graham Morris on 01795
439705, e-mail: graham@gtchallenge.com
or visit http://www.gtchallenge.com [
Top ] Qualifiers
Begin (21/02) Britain’s premier karting
championships get underway this weekend (24th Feb) as the search begins for the
2002 karting hopefuls looking for fame in the Total Hill House Hammond S1
National Kart Championships. A record entry of nearly 600 has underlined the
need for qualification rounds in many classes with the first taking place over
the weekend at Lydd. More qualification rounds follow to determine the top 48
racers in popular classes like Formula TKM, Rotax Max and Cadets who will move
on into the full series. The start of the full series is on 13th/14th April at
PF International with a further 13 rounds during the course of the year building
to an action packed calendar for the top titles in British karting. Most prestigious of all the
titles are those for the Hill House Hammond MSA British Junior and Senior Kart
Championships. Juniors will see a flock of new youngsters hoping for success
while at senior level last year’s masterful winner Chris Rogers is back to see
if he can do it all again. Once again the Total fuel and lubricants brand and
the Hill House Hammond insurance services company are the title sponsors for the
series which will be featured on TV. [
Top ] Corporate
Final (21/02) The final of the Teamworks
Karting Corporate Championship sponsored by CSF & Compaq draws closer after
the 6th round took place on Monday 18th February. Team that have qualified for
the final on Monday 18th March include Barclays Capital, OST Business Rules, CSF,
Tullet & Tokyo, GNI, IBM, HR Owen and Woolworths. The national Press will cover
the final and there’s a huge prize fund totalling in excess of £11,000 with
prizes donated by Omega, CSF, Optix, Veuve Clicquot and Teamworks Karting. The
event is scheduled to run from 18.00 – 22.00pm and entry is free for
spectators. Don’t miss out on the 2002 Championship! Teamworks are now taking
enquiries and further information can be obtained by phoning them on 0870 900 30
20 or e-mail: mail@teamworkskarting.com [
Top ] Eighty
Six Pass (20/02) Trackside Racing in
conjunction with Bayford Meadows Karting Circuit and the MSA conducted a total
of 86 ARKS tests on Saturday 9th February 2001, and a British record was made
when all passed at the same place and time, each earning their first Kart
License. A total of £500 was raised by Dr. S. Ebb who kindly donated a
percentage of the medical fees to charity. Trackside Racing can arrange ARKS
tests for other karters wishing to take part in their races and more information
can be obtained on 01795 473300 or e-mail: mail@tracksidekarting.co.uk [
Top ] MSA
BEKC (18/02) The organisers of the MSA
British Endurance Kart Championship, which this year has changed the kart
technical specification to ProMax, are pleased to announce that the series is to
be sponsored by Motorsport News. Motorsport News with a
circulation of 40,000 is "The Voice of British Motorsport", published
every Wednesday, and reporting in detail on all forms of motorsport at all
levels, but with particular emphasis on the "grass roots" of the sport
at National and Club level. Published by the famed Haymarket Magazines Ltd
group, which also produces "Autosport" and "Motorsport"
magazines and of course the Autosort International Show at the NEC each January,
it is hoped that this backing will give endurance karting in the UK more
credibility, and a bigger following and understanding. The icing on this already
very tasty cake is the announcement of the prize for the winning team at the end
of the series is a drive in a National Superstox race car at a real Short
Circuit Race meeting. Something different, and an opportunity to find out about
a very well established but often overlooked part of British Motorsport. How
many of you know that Derek Warwick, ex-Formula One, World Sportscar champ, one
time British Touring Car driver, and team owner, started his career in stock
cars on short ovals? Information on the MSA British Endurance Kart Championship
can be found at http://www.karting.co.uk/aDS/BEKC2002.html [
Top ] South
Yorkshire KC (18/02) A new season and a new system
gets under way for the summer series points scoring at South Yorkshire Kart
Club. Unlike in previous years where final points scores have been made up of
the eight rounds run with the lowest being a dropped score and not counted, in
2002 all the rounds will count and will now include a ninth month, March. March
in this year will also be the final round of the Winter series, so for some
drivers it will be doubly important to be on the grid March the 10th 2002. See
you there! Website at: http://www.sykc.co.uk [
Top ] Max
Owners (18/02) Rotax Max drivers have been
invited on to long circuits by Ian Rushford following a successful day at Lydden
Hill. All those interested can contact Kevin Rootes on 01892 835915 or email;
kjrootes@netscapeonline.co.uk for more information. [
Top ] Thruxton
(18/02) The new kart circuit at
Thruxton race track in Hampshire (opened in October 2001) will be organising an
owner/driver Prokart Championship this year. The circuit, the first purpose
built track to be located in central southern England, is 1100m long and
incorporates a flyover, the first for an outdoor UK track. Further information
from the circuit on 01264 882222. [
Top ] Forest
Edge KC (15/02) With a new season about to
get underway the Forest Edge Kart Club at Barnsfield Heath, near Bournemouth in
Dorset has announced an addition to their regular programme. From the first
round on 3rd March they will be holding a Junior Clubman Class Championship in
addition to the Honda & Comer Cadets, Junior and Senior TKM, 125 Rotax, 125
gearbox and 250 gearbox Championships. An open invitation is extended to
everyone to see and drive the circuit with its considerable improvements that
should further enhance the exciting racing that is seen every first Sunday in
the month. The circuit is open for its first practice day on Saturday 16th
February, gates open at 09.30. Be there! [
Top ] Sponsor
Announced (15/02) Endurance Karting is about to
get a big boost in the credibility stakes as the ProMax MSA British Endurance
Championship announces it has obtained the backing of Motorsport News as sponsor
of the 2002 series. More details will be given at this weekend's shakedown
meeting at Clay Pigeon on Saturday 16th February. http://www.karting.co.uk/aDS/BEKC2002.html [
Top ] Glan-y-Gors
Park (14/02) Karting magazine would like
to apologise for the confusion that will undoubtedly be caused by their article
in the latest issue concerning a new MSA licenced (subject to approval) circuit
in North Wales. The circuit that is being extended is Glan-y-Gors Park at
Cerrigydrudion, near Betws-y-Coed and not the circuit mentioned in the article.
The 800m circuit at Glan-y-Gors Park is currently being extended to 1100m and is
aiming to gain MSA approval to hold regular MSA meetings on the second weekend
of the month starting April. Most classes will be welcomed
when racing gets underway including 125 Gearbox and 100 National (water-cooled
only) and especially Junior Rotax Max. A new club Dragon Kart Club is currently
being set up to run the race meetings. Glan-y-Gors Park is also used by the
charity X-treme Disabled Motorsport (XDM) to run their off-road courses for
disabled persons. The correct contact details are Glan-y-Gors Park,
Cerrigydrudion, Corwen, Conwy LL21 0RU, tel: 01490 420770, fax: 01490 420702,
web: www.gygkarting.co.uk Dragon
Kart Club can be contacted c/o Unit 27, Wharf Industrial Estate, Wharf Street,
Warrington, Cheshire WA1 2HT, tel: 01606 883956. The correct details and
location map will appear in the next issue of Karting magazine. [
Top ] Drive a
Diablo (12/02) The prize? A day out at
one of the countries fastest racing circuits, driving not one but six superb
SuperCars, including this Lamborghini Diablo. See www.kartingdirect.co.uk
for more details. [
Top ] International
Kart Show (11/02) The International Kart Show
2002, will be taking place at the International Centre, Telford, on the 23rd
& 24th November, 2002. After taking time to listen to the various views and
opinions with regards to the Shows' future the organisers believe they have
secured the right date and venue and the package they are now able to offer will
take the Kart Show forward. The modern International Centre, Telford is used to
staging major exhibitions and with three exhibition halls twice the size of
Trentham Gardens and various conference suits and meeting rooms, the extra space
and facilities mean that there will be over 90 stands available within the one
hall, with the Karting Magazine forums just off the foyer. As the Show dates clashed
with the start of many winter series in previous years, this earlier date will
mean that many more drivers should have the opportunity to attend. There's
accommodation on site and the town centre is only 5 minutes walk from the Show.
The town of Telford is in the heart of the country, well serviced by the
motorway, the station is a short ride away, and Birmingham International airport
is reasonably close by too. For more information visit; www.kartshow.co.uk [
Top ] The
Circuit in Chester (11/02) The Grafix-Quad system
provides four high-colour computer-monitor displays all running from one
computer thereby reducing costs and with the SuperSport timing system already
used by over 90% of all UK circuits, circuit operators have nothing new to learn
as the new displays simply "bolt on" to their existing system and
instantly provide spectators with the most comprehensive information available.
Circuit owners can contact SuperSport for more information either by email at supersport@vossnet.co.uk
or by telephone on 01432 860685. For more information about The Circuit in
Chester, email info@thecircuit.co.uk
or call 01244 531652. [
Top ] PCR
Agent (11/02) Washington Motorsport are
pleased to announce that they are agents for the PCR chassis for the Rotax Max
class. For more information call Andy Washington on 01258 471189 or 07813 718961
or e-mail: washmotorsport@aol.com [
Top ] Single
Seater Experience (08/02) Daytona Silverstone will be
hosting a Rotax Max Open Race on the Stowe circuit for owner drivers on 23rd May
2002 at 6 pm. The Stowe circuit provides drivers will excellent drafting
opportunities down the high-speed straights and the race will run to a sprint
format with practice laps, 3 heats and a final. See http://www.karting.co.uk/events/EventList.asp?GroupID=1#40
and contact Daytona. The winner of this race will receive a single seater
experience at Silverstone. [
Top ] Larkhall
(08/02) The West of Scotland Kart
Club has regrettably announced that the Summerlee Raceway circuit will be closed
for practice until further notice. The closure for practice/testing is necessary
due to difficulties in securing further insurance cover for the track. Race days
continue as planned and can be seen at; http://www.karting.co.uk/events/EventList.asp?GroupID=2#39 [
Top ] Championship
Event Practice (07/02) Three Sisters uniquely offers
three different kart racing circuits, and Manchester and Buxton Kart Club will
be using all three for club meeting in 2002. For practice before a championship
event in 2002 select a club meeting which runs on the same circuit. See the Events Calendar for
Manchester & Buxton KC dates at; http://www.karting.co.uk/events/EventList.asp?GroupID=2#37
For more information, membership and entries see; http://mbkartclub.com [
Top ] Revolution
Kart School (05/02) A new Cadet School has just
been launched by Revolution Karting, located in Mile End Park, east London.
Aimed at teaching youngsters the basics of kart driving and mechanics the course
is aimed at the 8 to 12 age group and is intended to run throughout the year.
Each part of the course will be for 2 hours on Saturday mornings over a period
of 4 weeks and includes a presentation by a leading Karting expert who will
guide all those attending on the steps needed to progress. Once the course is
over the cadets will receive a Revolution Driving Licence that allows for
discounted karting sessions throughout the year, all for a cost of £5 per
week. More information from Revolution Karting on 020 7538 5195. [
Top ] Biland
Engines (05/02) Deavinsons of Rye House Kart
Raceway have announced that more than 50 Biland engines have now been sold. The
28HP 4-stroke Biland engine is eligible to race with Formula 6, GT Challenge
Enduro series, Super 2 (subject to class regulations) and at many MSA approved monthly kart circuit race
meetings. Further details available from F6 on 07710 288074, the GT Challenge
Enduro series on 01795 439705 and Super 2 on 01784 46262. Or call Deavinsons on
01992 460895 or visit www.deavinsons.co.uk or www.kart-power.com [
Top ] The Sun
Shines On GT Challenge (01/02) [
Top ] British
24 Hour (31/01) Teesside Karting are
organising a 24 hour event to be held over the weekend of 25th & 26th May 2002 for Pro-Max, TKM 4 Strokes, Twins (both owner and hire) and Thunderkarts.
There is also a free practice day on 24th May for all entrants. For further
information and bookings telephone 01642 231117 or visit www.teessidekarting.co.uk. [
Top ] Over
35's Rotax Challenge (31/01) The over 35's Gentlemen's Max
Challenge has announced a sponsor for the series. It will now be known as the
Team Dadson Gentlemen's Challenge and at each round there will be a tyre draw
for competitors who have entered that round. Dannie Pennell of Team Dadson comes
in for thanks for his contribution to the series as the organisers look forward
to some great racing this year. Contact Tony Cowlam on 020 8669 1700 (weekday
daytime) or 07957 316006 (evenings) for more details. [
Top ] Test A
Pro-Max (29/01) DreamKarts are holding a test
day at Bayford Meadows on Wednesday 6th February and any team or individual keen
to experience what Pro-Max is all about then this is a dedicated day for you.
All your questions answered about tyres, engines and general maintenance and
plenty of time in the kart. All serious enquiries should contact Matthew to be
booked in. Tel: - 020 8361 5885 (Office), 07771 546727 (Mobile) or e-mail: dreamkarts@yahoo.com [
Top ] Grand
Prix Series (28/01) Since the launch of
Trackside's Grand Prix Series at the Autosport Show, they report a fantastic
interest and response for their two championships running in the coming year.
The popular Trackside Rotax Max Challenge now in its third year and run at
Bayford Meadows, and Trackside's Rotax Max Grand Prix Series, a roaming
championship visiting Lydd International, Clay Pigeon, Buckmore Park, Ellough
Park and Bayford Meadows. The Trackside Rotax Max Challenge is a morning
practice with qualifying followed by a one and a half hour race, with the same
format again in the afternoon. Teams can enter either AM or PM races and
EcoMoto's are also welcome. The Grand Prix events will consist of a two-hour
set-up and practice session with timed qualifying, followed by a three-hour
race. All senior Max competitors
racing at MSA approved circuits will from 1st March be required to hold a
minimum of a national B licence and be a member of the club running the
championship. With this in mind Trackside have arranged for a subsidised ARKS
test and a doctor to be on site on Saturday 9th February at Bayford Meadows,
allowing drivers entered in either series to gain their race licences. Telephone
01795 473300 for further details. [
Top ] BRM
International (28/01) BKC Karting based in Dorset
are pleased to announce that they are the new sole UK Importer of the BRM
chassis. The range includes Cadet, 100cc, Rotax & 125 Gearbox. They will be
competing in Super 1's and Champs using the BRM. BKC hold in stock new &
second-hand chassis' as well as a full range of spares. For further information
contact Rob Dodds on 01202 666557 or email on bkckartracing@hotmail.com [
Top ] S1
Registration (22/01) Super One registrations have
exceeded all records and currently stand at 575+. Places are still available in
TKM Intermediate, JICA & FA. Qualification will be as follows: [
Top ] Top
Kart (22/01) Midlands kart racing team
Century Race Preparation have been appointed as official agents for the World,
European, and British Championship winning Top Karts. Century will be running
these karts in the 125 classes at Super 4 and in the Rotax Max classes at Super
1, Champions of the Future, and club racing. They will also be looking for
drivers with sensible budgets to contest the GT1 Challenge. Drivers wishing to
test a Top Kart or talk about racing at any level can contact Century on 07710
232813 or e-mail mail@century-karting.co.uk [
Top ] Alfanalyse
(22/01) REGA Motorsport, the official
Alfanalyse distributor for the UK and Ireland, reports terrific interest in the
new Alfanalyse software, due to start shipping at the end of January 2002. With
many orders already placed, production capacity has had to be increased to meet
the demand. The software was demonstrated at The International Kart Show in
December and Autosport in January and will be seen at the Belfast Kart Show on
26th & 27th January. The software takes full advantage of the functions
available in the Alfano Pro™ . Easy to use, utilizing user-selected criteria,
information can be built up on optimum performance, including sessions and
sequential laps, times, revs, temp, conditions, speeds, and circuit definitions.
Graphs can be produced and overlaid and reports can be printed and saved for
ongoing reference. Users will be able to 'connect' with the Alfanalyse website
for updates and developments. Colin Smith, of REGA Motorsport, said, "We
are delighted at the reaction we have had from members of the UK and overseas
Karting community. We believe that the software and the interactive environment
built around it, will bring great benefits to all Karters, clubman and
International entrants alike." REGA Motorsport will be appointing a
selective number of resellers for the UK and Ireland prior to the first
deliveries of product at the end of January. Resellers already appointed include
KKC, Dream Karts and Cat Racing Services. Stuart Hirst, of Alfanalyse said,
" We are extreamly happy with the overwhelming response we’ve have had
since the shows and feel reassured that REGA Motosport will handling UK and
Ireland distribution. There are many diverse and exciting developments planned
for the Alfanalyse product over the coming months which will be announced both
in the press and on our website.” Holden Consulting, developers of Alfanalyse
will be appointing additional international distributors to supply product in to
other worldwide markets and plans to have multilingual software versions in the
near future. For further information contact Colin Smith on 01422 316315 or
e-mail: colin@regamotorsport.com [
Top ] Ultimate
Machine Combat (22/01) Fancy a gas-guzzling,
testosterone-charged challenge. Metal mayhem is about to unfold, have you got
what it takes? RDF Media are looking for brilliant teams to engage in ‘Ultimate
Machine Combat’ – the new TV show from the creators of Channel 4’s ‘Scrapheap
Challenge’. Can you build the ultimate
fighting vehicle, in just one month? Machines and drivers from all over the
world will be pushed to the edge of their limits and beyond, in the greatest
gear-busting, wheel-churning, engine-munching challenge the planet has ever
seen! If your heart isn’t made of metal and your veins don’t run with oil
– give up now! But if this sounds like you, go straight to: www.ultimatemachinecombat.tv
You’ll find everything you need to know about the show and how to apply. Go on
- you know you want to. [
Top ] Estonia
24 Hour Race (17/01) There will be 30 Pro Kart
teams travelling to Estonia with Teesside Karting for a 24 Hour Prokart
Endurance Race in June 2002. Estonia is celebrating 50 years of Kart racing by
holding the race in the medieval city of Tallinn. Formerly a part of
the Soviet Union, Estonia regained independence in September 1991 and visitors
to this beautiful capital city will
find the people friendly and the cost of living low. The racing promises to be
an exciting challenge but there are only 30 Hire Kart teams travelling so book
early! See www.teessidekarting.co.uk
for more details or telephone 01642 231117. [
Top ] Lodge
Road (17/01) Lodge Road Kart Centre start
their race meetings on 10th February 2002, with classes for Pro-Kart, Rotax Max,
(junior & senior), Pro-Max, Comer Cadets and Honda Cadets (junior &
senior). Corporate karts also available for hire for race day. For more
information contact Nick on 01526 344566. [
Top ] Another
Kart Boot Sale (17/01) Teesside Karting will be
holding a Karting 'boot sale' on Saturday 23rd March and the 'Longest, Fastest'
kart track in the UK will be available on the day to test that newly bought
bargain. On sale will be karts and spares for karts past and present. Items
available will include 20 Prokarts priced at from £400 to £800 each. So clear
out the garage, load up those karting spares and make some money for the new
season. Entrance is free to sellers and buyers. Call 01642 23117 for more
details, or visit www.teessidekarting.co.uk
to see the exact location. [
Top ] New
Timing System A Hit (15/01) SuperSport Timing Systems are
well known in the UK with over 90% of all circuits using their system for the
timing and scoring of Arrive and Drive, Corporate Race Meetings and MSA-type
club race meetings. Since SuperSport developed the first mass-market system (for
use by Tom Walkinshaw of TWR) their systems have been market leaders in the UK
and very popular around the world with hundreds of installations in the USA,
Europe and even Asia. Until now, most timing
systems have relied on drivers and spectators reading the same monitor displays
as the staff of a race circuit or on expensive LED scoreboards. No one had
specifically designed a system to present the race information to the drivers
and spectators, who often were first-time users of a racetrack and un-familiar
with the vast information on display. At the other end of the scale, there was a
lack of extra information for the hardened endurance racer looking to use extra
information to help his/her team to victory. Until now... SuperSport used the 2002
Autosport Show at the National Exhibition Centre to launch GRAFIX-QUAD.
SuperSport has been working closely with The Raceway at Kings Cross, London (one
of the UK’s largest, popular and most successful indoor circuits) to develop a
system specifically for the end-user, the drivers and spectators. The display
system breaks a number of previous precedents. Firstly, to ensure clarity of
display, it is spread across four different monitors. Expense is kept to a
minimum though, because all of these monitors are driven from just one
inexpensive PC! The advantage of using four monitors is obvious upon first
viewing. The information can be spread out over a bigger area, meaning clearer,
brighter information, able to be viewed from a greater distance by a greater
number of people. The new GRAFIX-QUAD system is
Windows based, but does not sacrifice any of the stability of the existing
DOS-based software which retains all of the advantages of being immune to system
crashes. The users and operators of the system have nothing new to learn, a
great advantage to the circuit operator who’s staff see no difference in the
way they work. The system was warmly greeted by visitors to the trade days at
Autosport and SuperSport took an unprecedented number of orders, so visitors to
Kart tracks across the UK and Worldwide could soon be seeing vastly improved
information displays at their favourite circuits. As the system was developed in
conjunction with The Raceway it will come as no surprise that The Raceway took
delivery of System No.1 on the opening day of the show and many other
installations will be taking place now as the SuperSport engineers attempt to
keep up with the high level of orders. SuperSport are also proud to
announce the launch of Beta testing of Phase Two of the GRAFIX display system
GRAFIX-TEAMSCREEN. The Raceway is currently installing the system and it will be
available to other circuits after final “live” testing within the next 6 to
8 weeks. Using an idea most often seen by viewers of Formula 1, each and every
team in the spectator area can take advantage of their own monitor. Displaying
information which relates directly to their team they can make decisions on
their race strategy which up until now would have been guesswork. Based upon the
same “Multi-Screen” technology used by the basic GRAFIX-QUAD setup, the
system is relatively inexpensive for a circuit operator who wants to provide the
ultimate in user-friendly information display for their customers. The first
GRAFIX-TEAMSCREEN system, at The Raceway, will be driving 25 monitors for the
maximum of 25 teams which The Raceway runs indoors, but the system has been
designed to accommodate a maximum of 48 teams. A number of provisional
orders have also been taken for Phase 2 of GRAFIX-TEAMSCREEN. The basic GRAFIX-QUAD
system costs under £1000 for the software and also allows circuit operators to
increase their revenue by displaying “rolling adverts” on all monitors
whenever a race is not being run. Information about the system can be obtained
from SuperSport Timing Systems on (+44) 01432 860685 or at supersport@vossnet.co.uk [
Top ] Kart
Boot Sale (15/01) The South Wales Karting
Centre at Llandow near Cardiff will be holding a kart boot sale on Saturday 26th
January 2002. If you need to stock up on spares, need extra space in the garage
or want to choose from a good selection of nearly new and used TKM, Prokart,
Cadet or Rotax Max karts, be sure to make a note of the date. Contact Ken
Denscombe on 01446 795568 for further details. [
Top ] Swiss
Hutless (15/01) Swiss Hutless UK are very
pleased to report that they can supply chassis for the Biland 4-Stroke class,
and that rumours otherwise are incorrect. Early indications of sales in this
class are favourable, and they are looking forward to more chassis requirements
for this new, up and coming class. Contact Swiss Hutless UK for further details
on Tel/Fax -0208-421-6252 or 07956 635040. [
Top ] New
Control Board (12/01) British kart racing has moved
forward with the official formation and sanctioning of the Kart Control Board, a
new body dedicated to bringing all aspects of kart racing closer together. Its
official formation comes just in time for 2002. Plans to be introduced over the
coming months will help pull together traditional MSA club racing and the
rapidly growing commercial sector. The Motor Sports Association
has played a key role in bringing the Board to life and MSA Chief Executive
Colin Hilton is the first Chairman of the Kart Control Board. Two years ago,
various individuals in karting got together to discuss the possibility of
working together. A series of meetings finished with a public meeting in
Birmingham last summer, which gave the go-ahead to the broad principles of what
had been discussed. Since then, detail work has seen many aspects finalised,
often after lengthy discussion and careful blending of ideas. Many factors have
now been set in motion, with others about to be finalised, including a major set
of guidelines for those involved in karting. Safety and consolidation of
sectors have been key factors in the development of the Board. Points already in
place include: Creation of a forum for all sectors of the sport to take part in
discussion and exchange ideas. Establishment of a working link between
commercial circuits and kart schools to develop new opportunities for novice
drivers to train and gain signatures outside the current ARKS scheme. It will
make it easier for new drivers to gain as MSA licence if they wish. Creation of
a new Association of Race Kart Schools/Kart Control Board ProRacer Card, which
can be used to record completion of events and which will indicate the
experience of drivers. The MSA has created a new Promoter Permit, which can be
used by commercial circuits to run a new form of MSA-approved race meetings to
defined standards and with MSA insurance cover. Work continues to finalise a
set of safety guidelines for all circuits (still under development), which will
also restrict novice drivers getting into high performance karts without
experience. Commenting on progress to date, Colin Hilton said: "We have
made excellent movement in many directions and tackled some very big questions.
We still have much more ground to cover, but I am pleased at the way we have
progressed and look forward to continued success." The Kart Control Board
aims to provide good representation for those in various sectors of karting.
Council members are: ABkC (Graham Smith), ARKS (Gary Chapman), BKIA (Grahame
Butterworth), the circuits (Bill Sisley), the MSA (Colin Hilton), the Kart
Committee of the Motor Sports Council (Steve Chapman), Nat4SKRA (Roger
Sheffield), and NKA (Keith Barton). The Secretary is Paul Gladstone (MSA). Any
questions can be addressed to Paul Gladstone at the MSA or e-mail: info@kartcontrolboard.co.uk [
Top ] Over 35’s
Rotax Challenge (12/01) Organisers of the ‘Gentleman’s
Rotax Challenge’ have announced that they will run a 7 round series for the
over 35’s commencing at Lydd on 7th April. Further rounds take place at
Ellough Park, Clay Pigeon, Llandow, Forest Edge and Dunkeswell, before returning
to Lydd for the final round on 6th October 2002. Further information and a
registration form are available from Tony Cowlam on 020 8669 1700 (Mon to Fri
daytime) or 07957 316006 (evenings) or e-mail: tonyangela@acowlam.freeserve.co.uk [
Top ] Lydd
Lap Record (12/01) David Florey set a new lap
record at Lydd using an Arrow AX7 kart and TM engines in Formula Libra on his
way to winning the final on 4th November. A time of 38.61 was set, shaving over
1/10th off the previous best. David, an engineer from London who prepares his
own engines said; " The kart and engine set-up was great making it very
easy to drive – with new tyres I think low 38’s are possible. Not bad for
this time of year." [
Top ] Uniroyal
Talent Competition (04/01) Uniroyal, the world famous
tyre manufacturer, is launching a nationwide search for motor racing talent in a
£25,000 competition being launched at the Autosport International Show. Two top
prizes will offer enthusiasts the opportunity to race in the famous Spa 25-hour
race. Runner up prizes offer four more drives in races at circuits in the UK.
Prior to that all 18 selected finalists will take part in a special talent trial
at a top kart racing circuit driving the new TKM 4-stroke karts to determine the
six who will go for final training into the race cars. Uniroyal are launching this
amazing package of prizes as part of a major promotion to launch its new
Uniroyal Team Challenge race series which will take place for the first time in
2002. The Uniroyal Team Challenge offers endurance racing for teams of drivers
in races usually between 4-6 hours. Every team drives a specially designed
mid-engine car fitted with a glass-fibre body looking like the traditional VW
Beetle. This type of racing first started in Belgium five years ago and is now
hugely successful there and spreading into the UK for the first time. The
competition is being run from the Uniroyal Team Challenge stand at Autosport
International (Birmingham NEC stand 1040, January 10-13) where the new race
series will receive its official send-off for 2002. Says Uniroyal Marketing
Manager Tim Bailey: "This is a tremendous opportunity for anyone who has
ever wanted to race. Not only a day’s race tuition in high speed karts, but
then full driver training in cars and the chance to race either in the UK or at
the Spa Francorchamps circuit, one of the most famous circuits in the world.
"Team Challenge is designed to make motor sports more accessible and
affordable so what better way to promote the series than to offer the chance of
racing to everyone at the show." All entrants have to do is complete a
simple entry form on the stand. The competition is open to anyone, with or
without race experience, but they must hold a full UK car driving licence. Following the competition,
step one will be the random selection of 18 finalists. They will be invited to a
special test event at a British kart circuit where they will drive the very fast
and exciting newly introduced TKM 4-stroke karts. From this day six drivers will
be picked by the judges for the next step. Two drivers will be chosen for the
ultimate prize to join the Uniroyal team at Spa in July for the 25 hour race.
The remaining four will join the Uniroyal team racing at Snetterton or
Rockingham in UK races. All will receive race car training and assessment to
gain their race MSA licence. Adds Tim Bailey: "Even
for experienced drivers the chance to drive at Spa in a 25 hour race would be a
dream come true so for a novice this is a fantastic opportunity. We know we are
going to give the ride of a life-time to enthusiasts and we hope we may find
some budding stars of the future at the same time." Would be entrants should e-mail
the following details before midnight Sunday 13th January 2002. Name,
address, telephone number and age, and also state if an MSA licence holder or
not. You must hold a current car road driving licence to compete! E-mail contact: info@uniroyalteamchallenge.co.uk [
Top ] TonyKart/Billand
(04/01) From March 2002 O’Neill
Racing are expecting to be able to supply a new TonyKart Mitox for use with the
Biland 4-stroke engine. Telephone O’Neill Racing on 01753 573960 for further
details. [
Top ] Brooklands
(04/01) Work has begun on a track
extension at Brooklands Grand Prix Academy that will more than double the length
of the current 540 metre outdoor kart circuit, and it is expected to be
completed by the end of next month. A modular building containing showers,
changing rooms, toilets, catering facilities and offices will also be evident,
as will a new fleet of Pro-Karts. For further information telephone 01932 886695
or visit their web site at www.grandprix-s.co.uk
Brooklands, the birthplace of British motor sport. [
Top ] [ News
Summary / Site Index | Current News ] News Archives : [ 2000 ] [ 2001 ] [ 2002 ] [ 2003 ] [ 2004 ] [ 2005 ] [ 2006 ] [ 2007 ] [ 2008 ] [ 2009 ] [ 2010 ]
2002 News
Items
Engineering Team Leader - £20,000 pa Experienced engineer required to supervise
kart maintenance at our busiest kart track. Must be able to work under pressure
and have a responsible and organised attitude to work. An ideal candidate would
be a good team player, flexible and hardworking. This is a busy venue and so
enthusiasm and a positive approach is essential.
Engineers - up to £13,000 pa You will be assisting in the maintenance of the
kart fleet to required standards. Some experience of working as a mechanic
preferred, although full training given. You must be a good team player and
flexible, willing to work one day at the weekend. This is a small, but busy
venue and so enthusiasm and a positive approach is essential.
Receptionists - from £5 per hour (fixed-term contract) We need people who are
friendly, flexible and willing to do a little bit of everything! Duties include
dealing with walk-in customers, taking bookings, using the switchboard, issuing
race-wear etc. Good communication skills are essential.
45.95 secs. Heat 1 Nigel Hughes - Haase/EcoMoto. 45.87 secs. Heat 2 James Harris
- MS/EcoMoto. 45.83 secs. Heat 3 James Harris - MS/EcoMoto. 45.68 secs. Final
James Harris - MS/EcoMoto. For further information on the Super 2 National 4
Stroke Championship see www.ratpro.co.uk
and for further information on the 250cc 30hp EcoMoto engine see www.ecomoto.co.uk
Circuit manager, Kevin Busby,
who has helped to co-ordinate the resurfacing, commented; "From a racer's
point of view, Rissy has long since had a reputation as one of the best circuits
around; but over the past few seasons we've invested a significant amount of
time and money in improving the quality of service we offer members and
visitors. From track facilities to the way our events are run and presented,
we're aiming to achieve standards of professionalism that are second to
none."
Spectators are welcomed, as all proceeds from the event will be donated to Help
A London Child. There will be a charity auction during the evening. More
information from Teamworks Karting on 0870 900 3020.
Karting Direct, the
UK's leading online retailer of kart racing spares and accessories
is holding another prize draw. It's open to anyone, all you have to
do is place a carriage paid order online before the end of April.
Each time you order, your receipt number is put into the draw. Add a
set of tyres and you get two bonus entries as well!
Super 1 Qualifier - Club Circuit, as is club meeting just a week before on 24th
February
Super 1 Seniors - Valley Circuit, as is club meeting on 24th March
C of F - Club Circuit, as are club meetings on 24th February, 26th April, 23rd
June
ABkC 0 plate gearbox classes - Gearbox Circuit, as are club meetings on 24th
March, 26th May
Rotax Max UK Cup - Valley Circuit, as are club meetings on 24th March, 26th May
The circuit also organises Friday practice on the Friday preceding all Club
meetings on the circuit to be used at the meeting, to ensure sessions are run
book, call ARDS on 01942 270230.
24th February. Lydd - Rotax Max, 100 National, Jnr Rotax.
3rd March. Three Sisters - Cadets, Jnr TKM, TKM.
10th March. Buckmore - Cadets, Jnr TKM, TKM.
24th March. - Rowrah - Rotax Max, 100 National, Jnr Rotax Max.
ICA. Qualification will take place at the rounds using their timed practice. The
top 48 in timed practice will go forward to the heats. The remainder will
receive a 50% refund of their entry fee, but will take no further part in the
event. E-mail for further information: kartman@kartman.worldonline.co.uk
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