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This page contains older news items. For the latest news be sure to visit the main index page of UK Karting. If you have any news, press releases or information you would like to contribute, e-mail us at newsdesk@karting.co.uk.
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News
Archive
2001 News
Items
Autosport International (29/12)
The world's best motorsport exhibition takes place at the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham from 10th to 13th January 2002 inclusive. Open from 09.00 to 18.00 on all four days, it is only Saturday & Sunday that have been designated public days. Karting is well represented again and exhibitors include Club 100, Supersport Timing Systems, ProKart Engineering, Deavinsons, Buckmore Park, Karting magazine, Formula TKM, GT Challenge and many more, all who will gladly offer help and advice.
Entrance on the day will cost £13.50 and a ticket to the Live Action Arena will add another £10.00. Book tickets in advance and save £2.50 on a combined entrance and Live Action Arena ticket. Book online at http://boxoffice.necgroup.co.uk/thenec.asp or telephone 0870 902 0444. Those requiring information concerning disabled access should call 0121 782 3555 for details.
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Lakeside Karting (29/12)
Work has commenced on the construction of the UK's latest kart circuit situated next to Lakeside Shopping Centre in Thurrock, Essex, (Junctions 30/31 of the M25). Lakeside Karting will cater for all standards of drivers from the novice to the expert, and in two months time owner-drivers will also be able to use the state of the art facilities for testing whilst a race programme is being put together.
A choice of karts will be available for customers, starting with single engine 200 cc BIZ rental karts for those people who want to try karting for the first time, these will run on the 650 metre circuit. For youngsters there will be 160 cc BIZ cadet karts running on the 350 metre cadet circuit, and for the enthusiast there will be twin engine 400 cc BIZ Pro karts on the full, MSA approved, 1000 metre circuit. The circuit is due to open on 1st March 2002 and more information can be obtained by e-mailing info@Lakeside-Karting.com or calling 01708 863070.
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Swiss Hutless UK (29/12)
Swiss Hutless UK would like to thank all of their drivers for a successful 2001, especially Michael Simpson after finishing 3rd in the Rotax Max British Championship, and including Carl Bradley in the ICA class, Simon Pym in the 125 Gearbox Class and Northern Ireland Gary Blair who became Vice champion in the Ulster Cup and in the NIKA Champ's, and they are hoping that the 2002 season will be even more successful both in the UK and in Europe. Anyone requiring information and/or assistance should contact Gary Rolfe of Swiss Hutless UK on Tel/Fax 020 8421 6252 or Mobile 07956 635040.
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Another Stolen Kart (29/12)
A black Eglam (the only black one in the UK) with Rotax No.771994 was stolen on 15th December from Orpington, Kent. Please contact Orpington police or e-mail: geoffh@fsmail.net with any information.
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DYNOmite™ Kart Chassis Dynamometer (29/12)
Dial in horsepower and fix throttle response or acceleration problems prior to any race with Land & Sea's DYNOmite Kart Chassis Dynamometer. Here's a dyno that requires no dedicated test bay and can easily be carried right to the races! Dynamically balanced and grooved 5" dual rollers limit vibration and tyre slippage for accurate testing results. The computerized load control absorber lets you do more than basic inertial horsepower analysis.
Their DYNO-MAX 2000 "Pro" software integrates the dyno with your own PC giving you keyboard speed control, data acquisition formula editing, and powerful graphing capabilities. In fact, DYNO-MAX even features a simulated track load mode to reproduce racetrack conditions, eliminating the guesswork on race day. For more information contact Land & Sea, Inc. in the United States on 001-603-329-5645), e-mail: sales@land-and-sea.com or visit www.land-and-sea.com
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Ron Haslam Heads Line Up (17/12)
The 1st Stanstead Abbotts Scout Groups' inaugural Pro-Am Charity Karting Challenge has received unprecedented support from the British motorsport fraternity with a huge range of champions pledging to take part. British, European and World Champions past and present from both two and four wheels will be amongst the professional driver ranks for the Pro-Am Charity Karting Challenge when the race starts at the Rye House Kart Raceway on the afternoon of 27th January 2002.
Currently heading the professional driver line up is multiple motorcycle world champion Ron Haslam and current 500cc GP rider Leon Haslam. The Haslams will be joined by top talent from the 4 wheel world including former European Formula Ford Champion and Macau GP lap record holder Derek Hayes, former World Formula Ford 1600 Champion Topi Serjala, reigning European Caterham Champion and McLaren young driver of the year nominee Simon Pullan. "This whole format is great and will be a really great spectacle" said British F3 Scholarship Class Champion and McLaren young driver of the year nominee Robbie Kerr. "I hope that this event will raise thousands for good causes and I am really looking forward to a bit of competitive karting again".
The main event of the meeting will put teams of up to 6 amateur races and a professional driver in a four hour endurance race for a winner takes all prize of a cash donation to the victor's charity. "We still have several karts available for the event" reported Sean Driscoll of event organisers RacingLines International, "With the prize money being directly proportional to the number of entries the more teams that enter the more money that will be raised for the charities." "We anticipate the list of professional drivers taking part in the event will be further swelled by a number of surprise guests" he continued. While refusing to be drawn on who the surprise guests are, Driscoll admitted "We are in complex negotiations with several household names".
All teams will receive trackside banner space and the opportunity to put a sponsors livery on the Kart making this a great event for corporate entertainment to reward staff or impress clients. The primary beneficiary of the event will be the 1st Stanstead Abbotts Scout Group's Headquarters refurbishment & Minibus fund with 40% of the proceeds going to the victors' charity. For more information and entry details please see the event website at http://karting.racinglines.com or call the event office on 01920-877005.
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Congratulations (17/12)
Century Race Preparation would like to congratulate their Championship winning drivers in 2001. Nathan Freke - UK Cup / O Plate winner 125 Open long circuit, 125 Open Midland Champion, 125 Open 3 Sisters Club Champion, Ryan Vann - Whilton Mill Senior TKM Champion, Daniel Holland - 3 Sisters senior TKM Club Champion, Johnathan Neville - Wombwell Intermediate TKM Club Champion and Peter Vincent - South West Senior TKM Champion. Chris Needham also comes in for a mention for his 2nd place at both Whilton Mill and Rissington senior TKM club championships and Peter Vincent too, the Wigan Gold Cup winner and 2nd in the Clay Pigeon Club Championship, and what a way to finish the season for Nathan Freke 125 Open, Ashley Whitcroft Senior TKM, and Danny Holland (Jnr) Junior TKM, all winning at 3 Sisters a week ago. Century can be contacted on 07710 232813 or mail@century-karting.co.uk
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Well Done Tom (17/12)
Tom Bryant won the Junior Yamaha 2001 Club Championships at Rye House and Buckmore Park in his first year of Yamaha and still only at the age of 11! Tom moved early from Honda Cadet (he was just 11 at the start of this season) in to Junior Yamaha and despite a difficult first few months adapting to the changes Tom persevered and managed to steal the championships from a number of other more experienced drivers. Whilst not under estimating the challenges ahead, Tom is looking forward to competing in Champions of the Future in 2002. Thanks go to Dad, Zip (especially Jim) & Sean Pitts for their help this year.
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Burke Switches To Birel For 2002 (12/12)
Champions of the Future Junior Max Champion Darren Burke will move up to Senior ICA in 2002. He will switch to the New Birel R31s chassis supplied by UK Birel importer Andy Cox Racing. Darren's engines will be Rotax, which will be supplied and prepared by John Gravett of JAG.
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New Kart Insurance Product (12/12)
Kartinsurance.com is a completely new insurance cover, which has been arranged by Everitt Boles Motorsport Insurance Management. By designing a simple form that takes just a few minutes to complete they have made the process of buying individual or team kart equipment cover very easy.
Cover is comprehensive, with equipment being insured for fire, theft and other losses, including damage to the chassis whilst the kart is racing. The policy is available to all residents of the UK and Northern Ireland and covers loss or damage whilst anywhere in the European Union. Premiums start at just £90 per year, ensuring that excellent value kart insurance is available to the amateur or professional racer alike. Telephone 020 7709 9559 or e-mail greg.mead@everittboles.com for further information.
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Chris Cox To Come Out Of Retirement (12/12)
Vice Champion of 1995 and 1996 100C driver Chris Cox is to re enter Super One in 2002. Brother of Birel Importer Andy Cox (Racing) Chris will compete in Senior Rotax Max. He will drive the new Birel R31S with his engines prepared by Andy Cox - of course!
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Christmas Fayre (11/12)
The last round of the Buckmore Park Kart Clubs 2-Stroke series takes place this Sunday 16th December, with double points and Christmas fayre on offer!
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British Championship Round at Nutts (11/12)
The Ulster Karting Club announced at it's annual general meeting on Sunday 9th December that the club has been successful in it's bid to bring a round of British championship racing back to Nutts Corner Motorsports Centre, Belfast on 24th & 25th August next year. The meeting also heard details about how the club and NIKA are building an adventurous strategy for the future, for kart racing to be the most popular form of motorsport in the province. Along with the three other clubs, the UKC and NIKA are an integral part of the development of the first ever motorsport strategy in the province and hope that this strategy will result in a greater profile of kart racing with an increase in spectators being one of the main goals.
The new club chairperson Gerry Magennis commented " the announcement by the championship co-ordinators is a terrific vote of confidence for the club at the end of a difficult year for all motorsport not just our own. Championship reorganisation, political unrest and foot and mouth has kept the championship away from the province after a run of six years so it is a superb Christmas present for those that put in all the hard effort in getting the championship back to these shores". The event will include the incredible 160mph 250cc machines and with a record three British champions in club ranks in the 125cc and 250cc classes, the event will be one of the biggest chances for locals to show how they can compete against the visitors. Justin Doherty, 125cc British Grand Prix winner, Colin Menary the 250cc British Grand Prix winner and Stephen McAdam the 250cc British long circuit champion really showed off the potential of the local talent in 2001 and will undoubtedly be seen as strong championship contenders. Gerry further commented that "drivers from all over the UK love to race at Nutts Corner. It is a real drivers circuit and in the series is probably one of the fastest circuits as well as one with a demanding natural layout making it as close to road racing as one can get. We hope that well over 100 drivers from mainland GB will again be visiting and judging by the initial responses by drivers there will be a strong contingent for the locals to compete against."
Antrim Borough Council, the circuit owners, also confirmed recently that a number of circuit and paddock improvements will be carried out in January in readiness for a packed season of racing. No less than 20 UKC promoted events will take place at the circuit throughout the year including three other big national events, the Ulster Championships at Easter, the unique 5 Nations championships in late June and the Irish Kart Gran Prix in mid August. The club also announced that by the end of this week it will have a new official web site address www.ulsterkartingclub.com Newcomers and existing drivers will be able to find out about the sport, the club, and will progressively be able to download entry forms, regulations etc.
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Another Theft (11/12)
A Biesse Shadow serial number CIK008-1986 with Rotax Max engine serial no. 534547 and transponder serial no.1680796 were stolen on night of 9th December along with an LDV 200 van reg K233 SKH. If you have you been offered this equipment or seen it contact Letchworth Police on 01462 425108 or email colin.swann@ntlworld.com Please help stamp out this type of crime.
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Roger Ashby Trophy (11/12)
Whilton Mill 2001 TKM champion Ryan Vann was awarded the Roger Ashby Driver of the Year Trophy at the recent club presentation dinner. Ryan said "I was feeling pleased with winning the TKM championship but I was stunned to be awarded the Driver of the Year prize too". Ryan takes the opportunity to thank the club for this prestigious award and acknowledge all the hard work put in by the organisers, officials and track workers in order that he and fellow competitors could have a good seasons' racing this year.
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Rowrah Clubhouse (06/12)
Cumbria KRC now have planning permission granted for their new admin building and clubhouse facility. The Copeland Borough Council Planning Committee met this week and passed the plans, subject to the building not being sublet for activities not connected with circuit use and a site inspection by the Environment Agency to discuss waste water plans.
This weekend's meeting on 9th December will almost certainly be the last in the old lapscoring building before it is demolished and the building process for the new facility commences. The Cumbria Kart Club committee are delighted with the news and believe that the new building will bring the circuit facilities in line with the best in the country, – “we already have the best track” added CKRC Press Officer Iain Blair.
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TKM 2-Stroke Regs Updated (05/12)
Formula TKM, the UK's largest 2-stroke karting class, has made a small change to its regulations which will allow drivers to take advantage of the low cost kart-based information systems now on sale. From January 1, 2002 drivers will be able to use steering wheel mounted equipment which both records engine revs as well as circuit timing. The Alfano is just one of the systems which may be used. Where such systems also incorporate a temperature sensor the equipment may be used but with the sensor not connected. This change of rule will allow drivers to take advantage of on-board timing facilities now easily used in conjunction with the magnetic strip used at most circuits for the transponder results system. However the use of true data-logging equipment is still forbidden within the class for all racing and official practice.
Commented Formula TKM Co-ordinator Grahame Butterworth: "In the past we have only allowed a rev counter on the basis of cost. However much more sophisticated equipment is now available at low cost making this a sensible move for everyone." Other rule changes for the class for 2002 centre on noise with use of approved engine fin rubbers and heatproof wrapping around the exhaust flex now mandatory as from January 1. Full details are given in the Formula TKM 2-stroke regulations available now at £3.95 from Tal-Ko at 01767 682020 or email info@tal-ko.com
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Yamaha Challenge Winter Series 2002 (05/12)
The Yamaha Challenge Winter Series will once again be run over five rounds commencing at PF International. There will be two rounds in January, one in February and two in March. Rounds two and three are yet to be confirmed by the respective clubs, then it's back to PF International for round 4 before the final round 5 at Fulbeck.
The regulations and point scoring are as per 2001 Champions of the Future regulations. The tyres for the series will be the Bridgestone YEQ slicks. Each driver will drop three heats and a final. If only two heats are run then an average result will be calculated. As of last year there will be a driver of the day award at each round (sponsor yet to be confirmed) and after each round entrants will receive a newsletter and the current series results.
To register for the Winter Challenge download the registration form and return it to Peter Sherwin along with the registration fee of £35. Call Peter on 01928 712194 or e-mail: yamaha@sherwen.com if you require any further information on the Winter Challenge or Yamaha.
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Missing (05/12)
A Rotax Max energy reactor kart stolen out of a van on Sunday 2nd December in Upminster, Essex. It had a blue chassis and Max engine number 767151. Anyone being offered this equipment or hearing anything should inform Romford police station on 020 8984 1212 or Kamikazi Karting, the importer of the frame on 01708 631777. A reward is being offered to anybody giving information leading to the recovery of the kart.
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TV Coverage Commences (05/12)
TV coverage on this year's Total Hill House Hammond S1 Kart Championships has now started and will run through to the end of January 2002. The coverage is featured as part of the Fastrax programme which runs on Sky Sports with each programme being shown several times over. The British Championship Junior and Senior classes are featured along with Formula TKM Juniors and Seniors and a smattering of Cadet and ICA. In fact Cadets will feature on Christmas Day. A video bringing together all of the coverage will be available shortly from Lodgemark Press, Tel: 01689 897123.
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2002 Le Mans 24 Hour (30/11)
Pro-Max are go! For the 12th running of the British Le Mans event on 6th & 7th July 2002 the organisers will be running 4 classes, Twins, Pro-Max, Clubmans & Hire.
This very popular and well supported event is a must on the calendar of many endurance karters and although still 7 months away bookings' are already being made, but a number of places are still available. As usual there will be various awards and trophies, plus a £1000 cash prize for the highest placed twin. The organiser will also be purchasing a brand new fleet of Zip Tech Twins for this event. Visit www.teessidekarting.co.uk or contact their office for further details; Tel 01642-231117 or Fax 01642-232020.
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TKM Announce New Race Series (30/11)
Formula TKM have announced new race series for its two and four stroke classes in 2002 aimed at giving drivers the widest spread of racing. The 2-stroke classes - the largest in the UK - will continue to run national championships through the Super 1 series for all three classes. There will be new Superprix premier categories at the Kimbolton MAXXIS TKM Festival in August as well as an 'O' plate meeting at Shenington. In addition a new TKM Challenge series has been developed to give a range of nationally based racing for club drivers in Junior, Inters and Senior who want greater experience and competition but who don't necessarily want to race at S1.
Meanwhile the fast-growing TKM 4-stroke class gets its own national championship for Juniors and Seniors to be run as part of the ABkC backed Super 2 series. In addition there are a growing numbers of circuits and promoters welcoming the TKM 4-stroke engine within existing endurance championships including those run by Buckmore Park. The latest TKM 4-stroke regulations allow use of the engine on Pro-Kart type chassis and these Pro-TKM karts can be raced in both sprint and endurance events. In addition many clubs welcome the TKM 4-strokes to race alongside the TKM 2-stroke class in their monthly meetings until grids are large enough for individual races. Further information on the new sprint series can be obtained from Roger Abbey-Taylor of RATPRO at the Kart Show or from www.ratpro.co.uk
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REGA At The Kart Show (30/11)
REGA Motorsport will be on stands 3:17 & 3:18 at the International Kart Show this weekend demonstrating the new Alfanalyse software for the Alfano Pro. They have also announced their appointment as official agents (covering the North of England, North Wales and Scotland) for Dream Karts, the UK's sole importer of GoKart, and they will be holding Test Days for potential customers, in the North, in the New Year. In addition to the GoKart range, REGA Motorsport will be marketing the innovative Semel kart power brake and Semel tyre-changing equipment. For further information telephone: 01422 316315 or e-mail: info@regamotorsport.com
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McWilliams Misses Top Spot (29/11)
William Smith from Comber, Co. Down was on top of the kart racing world after fending off Saturday's challenge from World Championship motorcycle ace Jeremy McWilliams who was showing off his ability on four wheels. McWilliams came second to Smith in the feature race of the Ulster Karting Club's opening winter championship series at Nutts Corner Motorsports Centre and in the process of trying to snatch the early lead set second fastest lap time of the finals. The trial outing by McWilliams saw him up against the top Senior TKM drivers in the country and in the end the eventual winner was Smith with McWilliams team mate Cecil Conn finishing third. McWilliams took two excellent top five places in heats but it nearly all ended in tears though in the greasy conditions in the finals when a big slide in the closing laps nearly put him off the track. A superb recovery confirmed McWilliams abilities to the hardened kart racing watchers who gave him the thumbs up as he took the runners up spot. Smith was in jubilant form afterwards and now leads the club's winter championship ahead of McWilliams although only time will see if the ace pilot of two wheels fancies a return in the club's 30th December second round.
Meanwhile in the Junior TKM class, formula 3000 star and multiple local kart champion Richard Lyons from Hillsborough made a visit from Japan and watched on as his youngest brother Isaac stormed off to victory in the Junior TKM class with almost three seconds of a win on Ryan Magennis. Third was Irish Grand Prix champion Chris Irwin from Dungiven. Although Magennis took both heats to secure pole position for the finals, the charge through by young Lyons showed that he really means business over the winter series now that he has showed his form against two of the top names in the ultra competitive class.
The fastest class of the day for the 125cc Rotax Max machines saw Antrim’s Stuart Henderson just fend off Armagh’s Eamonn Gribben to take victory with Dundrod’s Neville Bell finishing third. Southern drivers dominated the fastest junior class for the Junior Intercontinental A machines with Cork’s James McCarthy long journey being worthwhile with a comfortable win in the finals. Second was hotly contended for between Dublin’s Aaron Coby and Coleraine’s Richard Tannahill but in the end it was McCarthy that snatched the runners up slot.
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More Stolen Goods (29/11)
A trailer, kart and tools have been stolen from Bourne End, Buckinghamshire. If you are offered a Project One Kart 0188, TKM Engine 5681, transponder 0821357 and a distinctive Indespension box trailer with SYMIX - KIDDE written on the sides please contact either Oliver Robinson 01628 522989 or the High Wycombe Police quoting incident number GF 854622501.
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Stolen Karts (23/11)
Please be on the lookout for 5 karts stolen from Amen Corner Karting at Rufford, Nottinghamshire on the night of 22nd November. The karts were twin engined pro-karts by JB Karts with silver chassis, blue pods and naussa, black plastic wrap-around side and rear bumper, chrome front bumper. Would anyone with any information regarding these karts please contact Steve Holmes at Amen Corner Karting on 01623 822205 or mail@amencornerkarting.co.uk
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Mum's Challenge (21/11)
Yvonne Longley is a thirty something mum, whose daughter Kymberly races cadet with MBKC at the Three Sisters circuit near Wigan. The challenge was made by Kymberly for Mum to pass her ARKS test and race at Wigan on 25th November. We are pleased to report that Yvonne rose to the challenge, has passed her ARKS test and is now looking forward to racing with the Rotax Max boys at the MBKC meeting. Yvonne is seeking sponsorship and donations with all proceeds going to Children in Need. Yvonne can be contacted on 01606 331030 for more information.
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Comer Cadet Kart Basics (20/11)
PSC Educational Publishing have announced that a handbook for novice dads new to the Comer Cadet class will be released at the forthcoming International Kart Show. 'Comer Cadet Kart Basics' demonstrates the complete rebuild of a typical Comer chassis, from frame to finished article, how to strip, rebuild and pressure test the carburettor, and a complete strip and rebuild of the Comer engine, with approximately 150 full colour pictures showing each stage of the process. Tony Theodore and Alan Taddei have written the handbook, with John Davies of Force Motorsport supplying much of the technical advice for the project. The book should enable those new to the class to understand some of the basic maintenance jobs required, with simple to follow instructions. Release date is 30th November, just in time for the Kart show, where the company will have a small trade stand. Further details and pre-release orders can be placed on 01244-380088.
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Double Victories (13/11)
The TKM 4-stroke took double victories at Kimbolton over the weekend, reinforcing the competitiveness of this high tech new engine. In Juniors James Bean joined in with the Formula TKM 2-stroke Junior class and carried off a convincing win despite it being his first ever drive with the new engine. Meanwhile Terry Langley achieved victory in the senior TKM class making it two meetings in a row at Kimbolton where the 4-stroke has taken the flag first.
Both drivers were using TKM Raider karts for the event in preparation for new sprint and endurance series to be announced for the TKM 4-strokes next year. Full details on the new TKM 4-stroke race series will be announced shortly, meanwhile Tal-Ko are stepping up their manufacturing of the new engine to keep pace with demand from the UK and abroad.
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Pro Kart Testing (10/11)
Exclusive Pro Kart testing is now available at Rye House Kart Raceway on the second Saturday of every month. For details email: john@deavinsons.co.uk
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ProMax Workshop & Raceday (09/11)
A great deal of interest and enthusiasm has been created in this new formula and on Sunday 9th December there's a ProMax workshop and raceday at Lydd Raceway in Kent. A complete Engine Tech. Day with free advice in abundance and plenty of track time.
Specialists from JAG Engineering, John Gravett and George Robinson will spend the morning advising how to get the best from the Rotax engine and help you succeed with this exciting new formula. After lunch there will be an opportunity to test your new race equipment in a 30 minute practice session, this is followed by a 15 minute qualifying period prior to a 3 hour endurance race. Further information can be found at: http://www.karting.co.uk/aDs/BEKCPreSeason.html
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Lydd Record (09/11)
David Florey set a new lap record at Lydd using an Arrow AX7 kart & 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."
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Record Entry (08/11)
Last Sunday saw a record Prokart entry at Warden Law with 39 Twins on the grid. In addition a large entry of Rotax and Cadets made for a very successful meeting for the newly formed Karting North East Owner Drivers Club, with Prokarts racing a total of 85 laps and Rotax racing 52 laps the 'no licence required' club is off to a good start. Two more meetings are planned for 2001 being Sunday 2nd December plus the Fun event on the 30th December. For further details contact the circuit on 0191 521 4050.
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Obituary- Reg Slack (06/11)
We sadly report that Reg Slack, the owner of Matchams Leisure Park, (home of Matchams Kart Club), and promoter of Ringwood Raceway stock car circuit, died on Saturday evening after a short illness. The funeral for Reg will be at St. Mary's Church, Hayling Island, nr Portsmouth, Hampshire at 1pm on Thursday 15th November. We offer our sincere condolences to his family and friends.
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Charity Events (05/11)
National leukaemia charity, the Anthony Nolan Bone Marrow Trust today launched its appeal for would-be Michael Schumacher's to take part in it's outdoor karting challenge. Teams are invited to enter the 2 hour Anthony Nolan Endurance Challenge on Sunday 16th December 2001 at the Three Sisters Racetrack, Wigan. Ruth Carter, Area Manager for the Anthony Nolan Trust said, "This is a real alternative to the usual work Christmas party - it's a great day, whether you are watching or participating, and of course you will know that you're support will be helping a very worthy charity." If you would like further information on this event please call 01423 879510 or e-mail your details to ruth.carter@popmail.anthonynolan.org.uk
The 1st Stanstead Abbotts & St. Margarets Scout Group have announced its inaugural Pro-Am Charity Karting Challenge to be held on 27th January 2002 at Rye House Kart Raceway, Hoddesdon. Organised and managed on behalf of the Scout group by motorsport media and promotions company RacingLines International, the event will take the format of a 4 hour Thunderkart endurance race. Uniquely, up to 27 teams consisting of between 3 and 6 members of the public will have a professional racing driver randomly selected from a multitude of motorsport stars, and will compete for the prize of a cash donation to the charity of the winning teams choice. Further information from RacingLines International on 01920-877005 or e-mail: kartchallenge@racinglines.com or visit http://karting.racinglines.com
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Over 35’s (05/11)
Kent Kart Club are considering running an over 35's Rotax class at club level and possibly a southern challenge to be held at various southern circuits, if there is enough interest. The class name has not been decided yet and there will be no minimum driver weight limit but the class would run a minimum weight of around 168/170kg. Anyone seriously interested should contact either; Tony Cowlam 07957 316006 or Kevin Otway 07976 706112 or Kevin Rootes 07769 936568.
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The International Kart Show (31/10)
It does not seem possible that the first International Kart Show was launched back in 1988, in the Kings Hall Stoke-on-Trent. The venue turned out to be too small for both the number of companies wishing to exhibit, and the number of visitors to the show. During certain periods of the day it was almost impossible to move around the show. Since then the show has seen many changes, but there has been one common thread running throughout the last twelve years, the show has been run by karters, for karters. Throughout the years we have seen many companies come and go, during which time the show has evolved to a event that brings together friends old and new, in warm and comfortable surroundings, to discuss how to put right the problems in karting.
For this year the show returns to the superb facilities offered by the Grand Hall, and conference suits, at Trentham Gardens, Stoke-on-Trent. As in previous years visitors will be able to meet and discuss the latest in karting technology, with the manufacturers who actually build or import the karts and engines they may be using next season. The kart show is traditionally the place were many companies will launch next seasons equipment. Thankfully we are yet to see the release of ‘Concept’ karts, as is common in the motor trade, but no doubt if they do you will see them first here.
The Forums will again be held in conjunction with Karting Magazine, with invited guest speakers, who are specialists in their field of karting, offering their point of view on differing areas of the sport, and hopefully answering that question you have been wondering whom to ask. The show is open to the public; Sat 1st December 10am-5.pm & Sun 2nd December 10am-4.30pm. For more information contact Kart Promotions; Tel 01270 582146, Fax 01270 585470, or visit their web site at www.kartshow.co.uk
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Bayford Winter Pro-Kart Champs (31/10)
Bayford Meadows is running a winter Pro-Kart Enduro Championship over 4 rounds that includes a 40 minute Super Sprint and a 90 minute Feature Race. The circuit is also offering free team draws for entry into the next round and for Bridgestone slicks, plus a free midweek team test day voucher to first round entrants. First event is Sunday 11th November. For further information and to book your entry telephone 01795 410707.
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Change Of Ownership (30/10)
DreamKarts, the sole UK importer of the French kart 'GoKart' have moved address and changed ownership. The company has relocated to North London to expand and develop new products and chassis for different classes for 2002. The company has changed hands, with the original company director Matthew Norman now taking full control of the business as from 1st October 2001. New telephone contact details are 020 8361 5885 (Office) and 07771 546727 (Workshop).
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IOM GP Date Finalised (30/10)
The Isle of Man Kart Racing
Association 2002 Peel Kart Grand Prix dates have been finalised. They are
Wednesday 26th June to Saturday 29th June 2002. Regs will be available soon on
their web site at www.iomracing.com
Also planned is a Junior Festival on Sunday 30th June for Cadets and Juniors at
the Jurby race circuit. For more information contact Steve Graves on 01624817353
(day), 01624813223 (evening) or e-mail: gandcmotorsport@aol.com
Make sure you visit their stand at the International Kart Show, Stoke-on-Trent
& Autosport International Show, Birmingham.
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125 Europa Challenge (30/10)
Congratulations to Neil Adlington on winning the 13 round 125 Europa Challenge at Whilton Mill with a lights to flag win. With 2000/2001 champion Tony Gilson taking a gracious second and Russell Spence third.
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GT Challenge Winter Series (27/10)
GT Challenge have announced the dates for the winter endurance series for Rotax-Max and Pro-Max. A short 3 round Championship to be held at 3 popular South East circuits. Round 1: Lydd International Saturday 17th November 2001, Round 2: Buckmore Park Saturday 8th December 2001, Round 3: Bayford Meadows Sunday 17th February 2002.
All rounds will have classes for the GT1 (Full Rotax-Max) and GT2 (Pro-Max) with the following format. 30 Minute Open Practice - Qualifying Session - 3 Hour Team Endurance. The entry fee is £195 per team and the first 15 teams to register and pay in full for the series will receive 1 set of wet tyres at half price! For further information e-mail: sales@gtchallenge.com
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A Perfect Score (27/10)
As Daytona Manchester approaches its first birthday, Daytona is proud to report that its North West venue has scored 100% in its National Karting Association (NKA) track inspection. The NKA, a voluntary body founded by kart circuit owners to promote safety at its member circuits, undertakes to inspect every member circuit on an annual basis to ensure that the NKA safety guidelines are met. Following the inspection at Manchester, Daytona Chief Exec Jim Graham was delighted: "We used all of the experience gained over the last 10 years to ensure that Daytona Manchester was the ultimate indoor karting venue, in terms of driving excitement, visitor safety and customer service. The 100% score achieved in this year's inspection is proof that the track design and our operating procedures at the venue are the best in the country."
Daytona is the karting division of Octagon Motorsports. Daytona Manchester is situated in a purpose built 50,000 sq ft fully heated and ventilated building in Trafford Park, just 500 yards from Old Trafford. The venue features the latest LPG-powered Biz Karts, an exciting 450 metre tarmac circuit, the latest ROC Timing systems and a comprehensive range of conferencing and hospitality facilities. For more information: Call Daytona Manchester on 0161 876 0876 or email manchester@daytona.co.uk or for Press enquiries call Maria Bellanca on 01474 872 331 or email maria.bellanca@octagon.com
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Pipe 2000 ASM (27/10)
The 2001 GT Challenge championship held their final round of the summer series at Lydd on 20th October and the final championship standings can be viewed at: http://www.gtchallenge.com/gtcreports.html GT Challenge would like to congratulate Steve Stapley and Richard Moxom of Pipe 2000 ASM on their victory and chassis manufacturers LRG for winning the constructors title.
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ProMax In The South East (24/10)
Buckmore Park in conjunction with Bayford Meadows have announced the launch of ‘The South East ProMax Spring & Summer Championships’. A two round Spring Team Enduro Championship for ProMax Owner/Drivers during March 2002, followed by a six round Team Enduro Championship for ProMax Owner/Drivers monthly from April to September 2002, featuring a 3 hour team enduro with Clubman & Pro classes.
Buckmore Park Karting has
also announced a ‘Lease ProMax Championship’ for 2002 with team paying a
yearly fee which guarantees them sole use of an individually maintained kart,
with the circuit covering the cost of wear and tear, maintenance and slick
tyres. The karts are stored in Buckmore’s maintenance workshops and teams have
the option to fit a personalised seat, steering wheel and bodywork graphics. The
Championship dates will alternate being Buckmore Park and Bayford Meadows and
the lease fee includes delivery to Bayford Meadows and the provision of a race
mechanic at all rounds. The aim of the series is to offer hire drivers a greater
driving challenge without the financial investment and hassle required to become
an owner/driver. The series will comprise a mixture of owner/driver and lease
kart teams with Clubman & Pro classes, each round includes a one hour
unofficial practice session and F1 style qualifying with 6 flying laps.
Further information on the above can be obtained by telephoning 01634 201562 or
e-mail: sales@buckmore.co.uk
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RNLI Charity Karting Event (23/10)
Are you and your friends up to the RNLI Indoor Karting Challenge? On Sunday 18th November a fundraising event for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution is being held at Karting 2000 in Manchester.
To enter contact Bev Robinson
or Toby Jeffries at: RNLI, The Granary, 50 Barton Road, Worsley, Manchester M28
4PB
Tel: 0161 728 5911 - Fax: 0161 728 5414 - Email: RO/NW@rnli.org.uk
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Congratulations (23/10)
Century Race Preparation would like to congratulate their winners at Shenington last weekend. Jonathon Barnes for his first ever win in Senior TKM at Shennington on his Project One TKM and Lee Bell as the first ever Honda Cadet winner at Shenington on his Project One Honda outfit. Lee's win was comprehensive over the Comer's, winning both his heats and the final on his first ever visit to the circuit. Drivers wanting to test either kart should contact Century Race Preparation on 07710 232813 to join the winning team.
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MHM500 (23/10)
New karting promoter Mark Hancock (Motorsport), has announced the inaugural MHM 500 at Whilton Mill on the 16th of December. This 500km owner driver endurance event is the first such of it's kind at Whilton Mill, and will feature Thunder and Pro-kart classes.
A festive end of season carnival atmosphere is the aim. As well as the action on the track, there will be a range of family entertainment available to guests and the public. "We hope to show drivers a new efficient approach to organisation, and the sport as a whole, the way the karting can be marketed as a spectator friendly event" said Mark Hancock. Further details and regulations are available from: mark@mhms.fsnet.co.uk or telephone: 07721 041363.
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Pro-Karters - Do Your Bit For Charity (17/10)
Much interest has been generated in a charity event for Pro-Karts to be held at the Langbaurgh circuit in Middlesborough and organisers are hoping for a grid of 40+ karts from England, Wales, Scotland, Ireland and Holland. Sunday 25th November is the date for this endurance race and Bob Pope of Teesside Karting has very kindly donated the tracks for the day. Practice will be available on Saturday, so dust off the cobwebs from that Pro-Kart sitting in the garage and go have some fun at this worthwhile event.
The race entry fee is just £100 for a 4 hour (Zoom Cup) endurance race on the 1200 metre circuit, which is then followed by a 1.5 hour (Biz Cup) race on the oval track. For further details and entry form telephone Ted or Sue Poole on 02380 471117.
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Second Title (16/10)
125 driver Mark Fell claimed his second British title in three years last Sunday at a rain interrupted final championship round at Shenington (Banbury). Mark knew that two good heat finishes could secure him the crown and a win and a 2nd place allowed Mark to scoop the title without competing in the 3rd heat and final.
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Di Resta Takes Top Junior Title (15/10)
Paul Di Resta grabbed second place in the final race of the year and took the Hill House Hammond MSA British Junior Kart Championship title in the last round of the 2001 Super One Series. Fellow Scot Ian Johnstone won both finals and placed huge pressure on Di Resta who got to grips with tricky slippery track conditions at Buckmore Park to clinch the title. Jordan Wise slipped to third after an eventful day.
In Junior Formula TKM it was James Sutton who took the title after a strong run throughout the day with Tom Onslow-Cole winning the final from James Bean, up from 19th on the grid. Formula TKM Intermediates saw Benjy Russell take the title without the need to actually race at the last round but a huge battle behind gave runner up slot to Jack Gurney who won the final. In Cadets it was right down to the wire with Daniel Rowbottom taking the title from James Calado, but Nigel Moore trouncing them all in the final. Junior Rotax UK saw Jason Parrot take the title with a third place, John Boyd winning the final.
That concludes this year’s Total Hill House Hammond S1 series. Full details of TV coverage and end of year presentations will be announced shortly.
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Free Tyre Draw (11/10)
Warden Law Kart Club will again hold a free tyre draw for all competitors at their next meeting on 21st October 2001, and this will be repeated at the last meeting on 18th November. The committee would like to confirm that contrary to rumours circulating, plans for the 2002 season are well on the way with the support of the circuit owner. Entry forms are available on their web-site at www.wlkc.co.uk or from Anne Laws on 0191 273 0830. Membership for 2002 (which includes Oct/Nov 2001) can be obtained from Sue Bentley on 01833 638635.
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New Indoor Kart School (10/10)
A new Kart school at Raceway Karting in Batley, West Yorkshire has opened specifically designed for 8 - 12 year olds. It has already caught the eye of Chris Stoney of Anderson CSK who has entered his son onto a course. There are three courses: Novice, Intermediate and Advanced.
Novice starts with the basics of track safety and how to achieve that all important racing line. The Intermediate course looks at the more detailed aspects of racing (overtaking, defending a line etc), and finally the Advanced course not only polishes off the finer aspects of racing but also allows the participants to look at the technical aspects of a kart. The first Novice class have already passed and some are looking to make an impression on the circuit!
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Championships
Decided At Rissy (08/10)
The top National Kart Championships were decided at the weekend with torrential rain bringing a slightly premature end to the final round of the Total Hill House Hammond S1 Kart Championships at a gale lashed
Rissington. With sheets of rain falling and the track flooding fast the organisers were forced to abandon the last four finals, effectively losing a race each for the Formula A and ICA drivers and taking grid positions as the final places for Formula TKM and Rotax Max. Championship spokesman Grahame Butterworth said:" In the extreme circumstances it left little choice. The track had flooded very badly in the terrible conditions – with more bad weather on the way."
In Formula A Chris Rogers had already taken the Hill House Hammond MSA British title at the last round, leaving Jamie Green to confirm his runner-up position from Mark Litchfield. Jason Gardner took ICA despite forgetting to put on his transponder for timed qualifying. Justin Edgar was runner-up. Formula TKM went to James Gornall with David Parker second, the lack of a final robbing us of a three way tussle for the title with Chris
Lamare, who finished third. In Rotax, series leader Glenn Ryland had to watch from the sidelines after a race driving ban – he slipped to fourth. Martin Pierce took the title from Andy Lawrence, with Michael Simpson third. Tom Wilson had already taken the 100 National title.
Next weekend sees the last round of the junior series at Buckmore Park with all five titles up for grabs.
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New Championships For TKM 4-Strokes (05/10)
Owners of the new TKM 4-stroke karts will be able to compete in a range of events next year including at least two new nationally based championships. The TKM team are currently finalising details of the package which will include both juniors and seniors racing in their own exclusive classes within the newly created National Four Stroke Championships backed by the ABkC. In addition another new series is being generated which will provide another excellent opportunity for junior drivers to display their talents on a national basis. Among plans being looked at is also the possible inclusion of a mainland Europe based event to also include the growing number of drivers in countries such as Holland, Finland, Sweden and Belgium all choosing the new engine.
Meanwhile plans are also being developed for UK based endurance racing for the new engine – a unit perfectly suited to real endurance racing of six hours and more with substantially greater performance than the current Pro-Karts used. TKM boss Alan Turney said: "We have had a large number of drivers testing the engine and a very favourable response. Drivers can of course go out and race immediately along with our Formula TKM 2-strokes in the country’s largest classes. "But naturally we want to now fully develop separate racing for the TKM 4-stroke and thanks to its quiet operation this will mean that it can be welcomed at some circuits where the two-stroke is too noisy."
Roger Abbey-Taylor, co-ordinator of the new 4-stroke series, added: "We welcome the two new TKM classes which represent a very strong new avenue of racing with high performance and long life." Further details on all of the new series and race opportunities will be announced shortly.
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Alfanalise (03/10)
There is soon to be released a new software application to download and analyse data from the Alfano Pro™ lap timer called Alfanalise.
Alfanalise is a new software application designed to download and analyse data collected whilst using the Alfano Pro™ lap timer system and is scheduled for public release in December 2001. 1st Beta release is scheduled for October 2001. The software is designed to make the most of the data available to enable the user to analyse and present the collected information in ways that best helps them to improve engine performance and lap times.
Main features: Direct download from Alfano Pro™, Display data in sessions and sequential laps; Hierarchical view of laps and sessions; User defined variables for set-up & conditions; Circuit details database; Sorted displays based on times; rev's, temp and user variables, Averages for times, rev's & temp by session and overall laps; Approximate speeds based on circuit definitions; Include / exclude individual laps from analysis; Download from multiple Alfano Pro's; Graph's based on user selected data; Printed and saved reports.
Future features: Comparisons between multiple downloads; Software version's for hand held devices; Multi language versions; Predefined race circuit definitions; Carburetion settings calculator; Predictive engine and chassis set-up tools; Trackside devices for download, storage and upload of data to PC.
Further information can be found at: www.alfanalise.com
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Racers Head For Cotswolds (02/10)
Britain’s top kart racing drivers will be converging on Little Rissington in the Cotswolds next weekend (Oct 6/7) for the final round of the Total-Hill House Hammond S1 National Championships – the series that helped create F1 superstars like David Coulthard and Jenson Button.
The concluding round in the series takes place at the Rissington circuit on a track which has hosted many of today’s top motor racing stars over the years of the Super 1 Series. The Total-Hill House Hammond S1 series brings together top drivers from 16 to 60 competing for the UK’s premier karting titles. Over a total of seven rounds the prestige honours will be decided across five titles including the F1 of British karting, the Hill House Hammond MSA British Championship.
Already Chris Rogers has been dominant and heads the points table with a massive advantage, his top Hill House Hammond MSA British title assured for 2002. But the other classes racing are still to be decided, making for great racing. Competing in the series are drivers in the UK’s largest category, Formula TKM, where tight regulations place absolute accent on driver ability rather than cheque-book. Current F1 driver Jenson Button is a former junior champion in this class. TV cameras from Sky TV are recording the action in the Hill House Hammond MSA and Formula TKM classes for showing in the UK and around the world on the popular Fastrax programme.
Racing takes place on Sunday Oct 7 from around 11am, with testing and some qualification on Saturday. Spectators are welcome with admission £5 per car. No dogs permitted. Said championship spokesman Grahame Butterworth: “The Total-Hill House Hammond series represents the very best in karting. We look forward to a continuation of the great racing we have seen so far this year, with the competition even keener as the year draws to a close.”
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ProMax (28/09)
J.A.G. Engineering and George Robinson have recently been working with ASM and Ted Poole (ekc) in the development of a new concept in endurance kart racing.
The Enduro/Junior Max FR125 engine, modified for endurance with some simple restrictors. The Enduro FR125 to be mounted on any donor Prokart Chassis. Minimum adaptation is required. The radiator can be installed on the left in the space left by the redundant Honda engine and a couple of exhaust brackets, along with bumper extensions will be required. All other specifications remain the same: Bridgestone YDS tyres, 7.5 litre fuel tank, 30mm axle, control fuel. The weight limit is expected to be around 175kg but requires further evaluation.
In testing the ‘ProMax’ proved to be approximately 2 seconds faster than a Prokart and 3 seconds slower than a Senior Max. The kart is not too physical to drive, smooth with the right amount of grip from the YDS tyres. The engine has ample low speed torque and pulls strongly through to 12,000 rpm. The Prokart chassis handles the stress of the extra speed well and its component parts are also well proven for the duration of endurance events. The unstressed sealed Enduro engine if well cared for can return up to 70hrs of trouble free racing before requiring major servicing at an average cost of £250 per service.
J.A.G Engineering have kindly donated 20 engines for Prokart teams who would like to taste the extra performance on their existing chassis, two 4hr ‘pilot’ races have now been confirmed for 29th September at Clay Pigeon and 21st October at Lydd Raceway and all 20 engines have been allocated to teams for both events, however should you wish to purchase an engine to compete in ether of the events please contact us for technical support and advice.
The new ProMax Class has created an overwhelming amount of interest, as a direct result the EKC are already making arrangements for a British Championship for 2002. An eight round Southern based Endurance Championship consisting of both 3hr, 4hr and 6hr events for the ProMax class.
The objective of the EKC is to create an affordable championship, well policed and with all competitors competing on equal equipment.
Provisional 2002 venues & dates are as follows: 10 March. Daytona, Milton Keynes (TBC). 7 April. Bayford Meadows, Sittingbourne. 28 April. Lydd Raceway, Kent. 25 May. Clay Pigeon, Dorchester. 23 June. Llandow, Nr Cardiff. 3 August. Clay Pigeon, Dorchester. 1 September. Lydd Raceway, Kent. 29 September. Bayford Meadows, Sittingbourne.
For further Championship/technical information and advice on this exciting new class, please contact the following who will be happy to help you. Ted Poole - EKC: (02380) 471117 George Robinson - Robinson Motorsport: (01329) 829200 Andrew Stapley - ASM: (01474) 852006.
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Grand Final (27/09)
This weekend (29th/30th Sept) sees the NKRA Grand Final taking place at Fulbeck in Lincolnshire, about 8 miles east of Newark-on-Trent. With the top competitors in each class having gained entry into the final some great racing is in prospect for both karters and spectators alike.
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Banbury Next Stop As Finale Nears (24/09)
The UK’s top junior kart racing drivers will be converging on Banbury next weekend (Sept 29/30) for the penultimate round of the Total-Hill House Hammond S1 National Championships - proving ground for the Grand Prix stars of tomorrow.
With just one event to go after this, the top junior championships all hang in the balance with everything to race for. Fighting for top honours in the most prestigious class, the Hill House Hammond MSA Junior British Kart title, will be two young superstars hoping to race on to Formula 1 success. Paul Di Resta from Scotland was runner up in the series last year and heads the points table. His closest rival is Jordan Wise from Essex who will be keen for another win, this time at the Shenington circuit just outside Banbury. Commented championship spokesman Grahame Butterworth: "The battle for supremacy in this top national junior class is great. It’s going to be a great race for the rest of the season."
The Total-Hill House Hammond S1 series brings together top drivers from 8 - 17 years old competing for the UK’s premier karting titles. Over a total of seven rounds the prestige honours will be decided across five titles including the F1 of British junior karting, the Hill House Hammond MSA British Championship.
Also competing are drivers in the UK’s largest category, Formula TKM, where tight regulations place absolute accent on driver ability rather than cheque-book. Current F1 driver Jenson Button is a former junior champion in this class. Freddie Martin-Dye from Surrey leads James Sutton by just one point in the Junior TKM class. Meanwhile Benjy Russell from Wisbech leads the TKM Intermediates. Both will be aiming to stay top of the pack against great opposition.
TV cameras from Sky TV will be recording the action in the Hill House Hammond MSA and Formula TKM classes for showing in the UK and around the world on the popular Fastrax programme. Racing takes place on Sunday from around 11am, with testing and some qualification on Saturday. Spectators are welcomed with admission £5 per vehicle. Added Grahame Butterworth: "The Total-Hill House Hammond series represents the very best in karting. It’s a chance to see tomorrow’s F1 drivers battling on the track."
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Tin Top Racers Visit Rissy (20/09)
Rissington Kart Club recently invited members of the Redline Racing team to attend this year's Midland Championships, to discuss the opportunities available to kart racers wishing to progress into saloon car racing. Redline Racing is one of the front-running teams in this year's Fulda Fiat Racing Challenge, with drivers Jason Greatrex - a former kart racer himself - and Chris James currently lying 2nd and 5th in the series respectively. Launched in 1992, the Fulda Fiat Challenge is one Britain's most successful budget single-make saloon car championships and the series provides a good first step into saloon car racing. Held over fourteen rounds, the series also visits many of the UK's leading circuits, including Brands Hatch, Donington Park, Snetterton and Croft.
During the course of the weekend, Redline Racing were successful in helping kart racers realize that it is possible to progress to full-time circuit racing on a limited budget. They also created a great deal of interest with the two cars, in full race-trim, that they had on display. For further information visit www.redlineracing.org.uk or www.fiatracing.com.
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Electric Kart Racing - The European Perspective (13/09)
It was a grey and damp August morning when the Gravitron Electric Racing team headed off on their 2000 mile round trip to Austria to participate in the EVN Cup, the grand finale in the Solar and Electric Cup, Europe’s annual alternative energy series. The series offers the opportunity for alternative fuelled vehicles to race in official FIA races. Classes include motorbikes, prototype road cars, production cars and karts. The largest class of the EVN event is always category V - karts in the 0-180kg range. Teams from Germany, Hungary, Italy, Finland, Switzerland and Austria participate but Gravitron has been the only UK entrant for the past four years. The Italians usually attend in the greatest numbers; this year Gravitron had the largest single team entered in the Karting category. Overall there were 25 karts entered.
EVN is the largest Electricity supplier in North Austria and is the main sponsor of the event. It is organised by the OAMTC, Austria’s equivalent to the UK’s RAC, with the racing organised, scrutineered and officiated by the FIA. MSA’s Peter Todd usually attends and this year spent time with the Gravitron team and Greenmotorsport discussing bringing a leg of the Solar and Electric Cup to the UK and the formation of a new electric racing class for the UK.
Gravitron’s Electric Racing Team was headed by MD Morgan Nicholas, in his 4th year at EVN. Debut International karters included: Luke “Cool Hand” Roberts, the driver of the Gravitron’s speed record vehicle “The Predator” Alan Thornton, newly appointed Sales Manager for Gravitron Heather Latham, Sales & Marketing Director Oliver (Ollie) Welton, currently sitting third in the British MSA EKC Clubman championship. Ollie is currently waiting for his test drive in Formula Renault in December and negotiating contracts for next season. The team was supported by Gravitron’s Sally Thornton. Greenmotorsports’ Raz and Gordon Foat attended at Gravitron’s invitation to evaluate the event with a view to promoting electric racing in the UK . Greenmotorsport was also Gravitron’s official appointed photographer. Many thanks to Gordon, Raz and Sally for all their help and support.
The team arrived tired but excited on Thursday evening, having driven through the night, stopping only for necessities. Friday dawned and the temperature climbed into the 90’s. Karts were unloaded and charging organised. Each individual team was responsible for hooking up to the free electrical supply to charge their vehicles. As you walked through the paddock, stepping over cables by the dozen, other teams stopped to talk, even those who did not speak the same language; when there is a common interest communication is always possible!! The atmosphere in the paddock was filled with anticipation as everyone prepared for the first look at the course. Different styles of karts were on display and everywhere you looked people were working on their vehicles. Unlike anywhere else, here all nations are prepared to share their experiences, tools, spares and advice.
Friday 4.30pm and we went off to scrutineering, confident that everything would be OK. At the weigh-in neither Ollie or Luke made the minimum weight of 240kg for kart and driver, and so had to add ballast to their karts. After passing scrutineering the team managed to grab some unofficial practice time on part of the track. This was a chance for the team to have some fun and let off some steam. The karts were all running well and Gravitron’s drivers were all feeling confident even though Heather was decidedly nervous!! This was her first international event and she was the only lady entrant in her class. Friday evening gave everyone the opportunity for some rest and relaxation - a well earned break.
Saturday morning and free practice was scheduled for 7.50am! The course was 1.1Km with a good fast straight, a tight hairpin and a very bumpy stretch just before the chicane. The first corner after the start line took the karts over a bump that left most airborne; it certainly made for interesting driving and viewing. After practice the teams all complained about the bumpiness of this part of the track and went to the OAMTC track officials to lodge a protest, despite this the drivers were bubbling with excitement and anticipation. Back in the paddock adjustments were made to the set up of the karts and batteries were charged. At 11 o’clock the teams were told that the track layout had been changed to eliminate the severe bump and there was a further unscheduled practice at 12.00. The new track layout was tried and tested and received the approval of the drivers.
Qualifying was scheduled for 3.20pm and would decide grid positions for the first race on Sunday. The pressure was on to complete the set-up. Tactical discussions about who was going out when continued, finally the Gravitron drivers were suited and booted and ready to go. Every one gave their best, some were held up in traffic while others discovered that perhaps their set up was not quite right. Back in the park ferme the teams waited for the official results to be posted. Morgan had put in a blisteringly fast lap - only 100th of a second behind pole position, he was to start 2nd on the grid with the others qualifying at 8th, 18th, 21st and 22nd. There are two races for each category, the overall winner is the driver with the highest number of points accumulated from the two races.
As well as the racing there was plenty of entertainment for the teams and the audience. A huge video wall transmitted the racing as it took place and in the intervals the stage show entertainment was displayed. Music and commentary blared out over the PA system. There were food and beer tents galore, an inflatable playground, electric rental karts for adults and children, alternative fuel vehicles on exhibition and available for test drives. Drivers are well catered for at this event, with everyone receiving vouchers for meals, drinks, coffee and snacks. All in all the atmosphere of the event is that of a well organised, exciting and high class race meeting. Oliver Welton and Luke Roberts, both seasoned karters, were surprised and impressed by the quality and superior feel of the whole event.
Sunday was Race Day and despite the forecast of rain, the weather was scorching. The crowds arrived and the television crew were set up; the racing was to be shown live on Austrian TV. The first kart race was at 9.00am, it was already hot as teams attended the driver’s briefing. The teams pushed their karts out onto the grid to save every watt of precious battery power and get into their start positions. Electric karting is one of the only kart events that offers the opportunity of a Formula 1 style grid start. It introduces an increased measure of thrill for both drivers and spectators. FIA officials did their final checks on the grid to ensure that driver’s helmets had their certified stickers and that the karts all had the scrutineer’s stickers. The grid was cleared of camera men, team supporters and officials. The 10 second board was held aloft, then the five second board then the red lights came up one by one until all five were lit . There was a hush of anticipation as the lights went out and the karts sped off to the first corner. But disaster!! As the grid cleared Gravitron’s best-placed driver - Morgan - was still there!! We later discover that a drive sprocket had sheared due to the huge amount of torque produced by the motor and he was forced to sit out the race as the others streamed past. On the 7th lap sparks started coming from Ollie’s motor and half a lap later it was clear that the motor was on fire. Sadly another member of the team was out of the race. Alan spun out of 14th place at the hairpin rejoining in 18th place. The pace of the racing was fast and furious. Luke made some impressive manoeuvres whilst overtaking. The battle for first and second position between Italian Mazzonni and Austrian Theurer was well filmed by the TV crew and made brilliant viewing for the spectators. Mazzonni was able to maintain his pole position, whilst Kurt Theurer fell back to third place when his batteries depleted. Second place was taken by the OTL Italian team. Unlike petrol karting where fuel consumption is not an issue, electric kart racing requires the driver to race tactically, conserving energy by coasting through corners, accelerating smoothly and using the brakes as little as possible. Luke was driving conservatively but by the end of the race he had lost 2 places and finished in 10th position. He was frustrated with this result but was better able to pace himself for the next race. Heather had aimed to complete the race without mishap and was happy with a very creditable 17th position while Alan finished in a disappointing 18th.
Back in the pits after the karts had been released from the park ferme it was all hands to the deck to replace Ollie’s motor, check Alan's brakes, change Morgan’s sprocket and charge all batteries. Due to the fact that neither had completed the first race, Morgan and Ollie had to start at the back of the grid in the second. Consequently strategy and tactics for the team were hot on the agenda. It was decided that Heather, Alan and Luke would continue to race to achieve the highest placing they could but that Morgan and Ollie would put on the fastest and best display that they could to impress the crowd. The penalty for this would be loss of energy near the end of the race and the elimination of a high finishing position.
The karts lined up on the grid for the second race, the commentator began to get excited, the video wall showed the drivers getting on their helmets and sliding into their karts and the viewing stands filled to capacity. Again the 10 and 5 second board, the lights and they were off. Morgan shot up through the grid, Ollie followed closely behind; by the first corner they had made up more than ten places and the race was on. Morgan and Ollie had a lap long tussle before they were able to get past 2 Italian karts. One was blocking the track while his team mate attempted to do the fastest lap of the event, for which there is a separate award. Morgan and Ollie managed to claw their way up to 3rd and 4th position and stayed with the leaders for the majority of the race. From the stands it was possible to see most of one side of the course and watch the karts gather for the chicane with their tyres screaming for grip and the drivers battling for position. The rest of the race was watched on the video wall. Everyone gasped when another kart came into contact with Ollie on the tight hairpin; they both careered off course. A third kart arrived on the scene of the accident at speed, tyres came into contact and it rode over the top of them both, landing on the front of Ollie’s kart. Ollie pushed the offending kart off, got out and checked his kart for damage and amazed everyone by climbing back in and rejoining the race. He managed to complete the lap, but had to concede defeat and stop shortly after the finish line due to the considerable damage to his kart. He made a memorable retirement with a bow, a wave to the grandstand and huge applause. Meanwhile Luke, Heather and Alan had managed to dodge past the accidents, spin offs and break downs and were doggedly cutting through the field. Luke made some spectacular overtaking moves through the chicane, while Heather and Alan’s steady driving gained them several positions. Austrian Kurt Theurer came in third position using Gravitron’s drive system and at the end of the race Luke finished in a fantastic 4th place, Morgan came 10th (despite his show off tactics and loss of battery power), Heather 13th, Alan 15th and Ollie 19th, even after his retirement. The team were disappointed at not getting onto the podium but that’s racing and there’s always next year!
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Another Theft (13/09)
Litchfield Motorsport had their van stolen and although the van was later recovered everything had been taken. The equipment lost included 5 BT82 engines, Serial No's. 5410, 5541, 5782, 5316 and 37?? Also a complete Venom Ultima Kart, a generator, a compressor, 3 complete tool kits and lots of spare parts and tyres. If anyone is offered engines with these serial no's or any other of the above equipment that appears suspicious, please contact the police or Litchfield Motorsport 01889 590411. A reward will be offered for the recovery of these items. The police have said that there have been many similar thefts in the Midlands area.
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Charity Arrive & Drive Session Tonight (12/09)
Teamworks Karting, Bishopsgate are organising a charity Arrive & Drive session this evening (Wednesday 12th) from 6:00pm at their venue in the heart of London's financial district. Sessions will be just £10 per driver and all proceeds are going to the American disaster fund. More information from Teamworks on 0870 900 3020.
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New IAME Thermostat (12/09)
A new thermostat manufactured by IAME and preset at 50 degrees is due to go on sale in a few days priced at £69 plus vat. An adjustable version is available now at £125 plus vat. For more information contact Ferrari Racing Services on 020 8427 3301 or e-mail: info@ferrari-racing.net.
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Kartmasters On TV (10/09)
Racing from the Senior classes (TKM, Rotax Max, 100 National and Super Libre) from Kartmasters will be shown on Sky Sports this week at the following times: Tuesday 5.00pm and 11.30pm and on Wednesday at 9.00am
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Racers Head For Glasgow (10/09)
Britain’s top kart racing drivers will be converging on Scotland next weekend (Sept 15/16) for the latest round of the Total-Hill House Hammond S1 National Championships - the series that helped create F1 superstars like David Coulthard and Jenson Button. The penultimate round in the series takes place at the Larkhall circuit just south of Glasgow, on a track which has hosted many of today’s top motor racing stars over the years of the Super 1 Series.
The Total-Hill House Hammond S1 series brings together top drivers from 16 to 60 competing for the UK’s premier karting titles. Over a total of seven rounds the prestige honours will be decided across five titles including the F1 of British karting, the Hill House Hammond MSA British Championship. Currently Chris Rogers has been dominant and heads the points table with a massive advantage. But the others are keen for victory making for great racing. Also competing in the series are drivers in the UK’s largest category, Formula TKM, where tight regulations place absolute accent on driver ability rather than cheque-book. Current F1 driver Jenson Button is a former junior champion in this class. TV cameras from Sky TV are recording the action in the Hill House Hammond MSA and Formula TKM classes for showing in the UK and around the world on the popular Fastrax programme.
Racing takes place on Sunday Sept 16 from around 11am, with testing and some qualification on Saturday. Spectators are welcome with admission £3 for adults and £1 for children. Said championship spokesman Grahame Butterworth: "The Total-Hill House Hammond series represents the very best in karting. We look forward to a continuation of the great racing we have seen so far this year, with the competition even keener as the year draws to a close."
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Theft Victims (06/09)
The Richardson family were victims when thieves stole a 1998 Deavinsons Honda Cadet from their garage during the night of 25/26 August. It was a black chassis with red plastics bearing Deavinsons stickers, red suede steering wheel, Tillet seat with Graham Carroll/Silverscreen stickers on the rear, Dunlop SL1s and sealed engine (serial number GC or GL 02-5463583) fitted with Blackthorn exhaust. Unfortunately no chassis number is currently available. A 3-wheeled kart-stand (as new), 3 sets of wheels and tyres (mixture of Dunlop SL1s and wets), tyre pressure gauge and a foot pump were also taken. If anyone is offered such a kart, and/or accessories Gwyn Richardson would be very grateful if you contact him on 01780 410759, 07711 178597 or e-mail jgr@ricson.freeserve.co.uk. A reward is offered.
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New PFI Cadet Lap Record (06/09)
George Gibbons, the 10 year old Kart racer from Telford, is the new Cadet lap record holder at the P.F. International circuit in Lincolnshire. George, who drives for ex-World Champion Michael Simpson’s Motorsport Team using the new Australian Arrow chassis with Litchfield prepared engines, set the time of 54.27 secs (44.11mph) on his way to 5th place in the A final of the 4th round of the ABKC Super 1 National Kart Championship series.
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38th Anniversary Meeting (04/09)
A bumper entry is expected at Buckmore Park's 38th Anniversary meeting on Sunday 16th September. With sponsored classes and superb trophies, the meeting will be the last chance to compete at Buckmore before next month's Junior SuperOne round. The Phil Whorlow Memorial Shield will be presented to the winner of the Rotax Max Class. Open practice will be available on Wednesday 12th and Saturday 15th September. Overnight parking is available on Saturday evening. Entry forms available from Sheila Rose, Buckmore Park Kart Circuit, Maidstone Road, Chatham, Kent. ME5 9QG. Tel: 01634 201562 or Fax 01634 686104.
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Honda GX160 QHQ4 Engines & N4SKRA Events (31/08)
Honda UK have recently introduced a more ecologically friendly GX160 QHQ4 Engine. The appearance of this engine differs slightly from the one we currently use with a new shape head and barrel, flat top piston, new pull cord cover and stickers to petrol tank. Early tests of the ‘New Generation’ engines indicate a slight increase in power output. These tests are on going and so far inconclusive, therefore the effect that these new engines may have on the Championship is at this stage, questionable. However, in order to maintain continuity and to prevent unfairness between the teams at this late stage in the series it has been decided that for the remainder of this racing season, use of this ‘New Generation’ Honda engine will not be permitted within N4SKRA events.
Any teams who find themselves in need of new engines during the final rounds of this years championship should contact either Ted on 02380 463467, or Kelvin or Chris Bond for further advice.
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Stolen Equipment - Reward Offered (29/08)
Speedforce Karting are offering a reward for the following items of equipment that were stolen between Friday 3rd August and Sunday 5th August: Two TKM engines; nos. BT56901 and BT5597 Venom Ultima chassis no. 048800 (TKM stamp 05263) Venom Avanti chassis no. 01301 (TKM stamp 5838) - small seat / 20 kg lead / short pedal position If you have any information concerning the whereabouts of any of this equipment please contact Dan Hazlewood on 07733 011221.
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Free Lessons for Young Drivers! (29/08)
For a limited period only Whilton Mill Juniors, the new arrive and drive club for young drivers, are offering free lessons on their 450m outdoor circuit. Participating drivers will use one of Whilton Mill's new purpose built junior Honda karts and will receive two sessions under the guidance of a qualified instructor - absolutely FREE! Whilton Mill Juniors is open to anyone between the age of 8 to 16 and 4ft 2in to 5ft 10in. Novice drivers are welcome. For more information regarding this offer contact Dan Hazlewood on 07733 011221 or for info on WMJ visit the Whilton Mill website at www.whiltonmill.co.uk and click on Juniors.
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Few Places Left At TKM Test Day (22/08)
Tal-Ko has a few places remaining on its TKM 4-stroke engine exclusive test day to be held next Thursday 30th August at the Ancaster race circuit near Grantham, Lincs. The Ancaster date fits in perfectly with the needs of many Super 1 cadets and juniors heading to nearby PFI for their race meeting that weekend.
Says Formula TKM Co-ordinator Grahame Butterworth: “The demand to test the engine and karts is very high. This event at Ancaster is for TKM 4-strokes only and it seems very likely that we will be going back to Whilton Mill for yet another test day with two-strokes as well. “Ancaster is a good circuit with excellent facilities and easy access to the A1.” Those wishing to attend should apply urgently, ideally by e-mail to info@tal-ko.com or by phone to 01767 682020 fax 01767 691622.
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A Budding Murray Required (20/08)
This bank holiday the 165 Challenge visits Rowrah for a weekend of racing on Sunday and Monday. Unfortunately they are without a race reporter and are seeking applicants with a love of the sport to provide coverage for the website www.165challenge.co.uk as well as the regular submission to Karting Magazine and the UK Karting website. The successful applicant will receive no pay, no holiday and no healthcare benefits but will be able to brag to his / her mates about being a published author! Anyone able to cover either one or both of the days racing (or even just the finals) should write to the.challenge@virgin.net or submit a short fantasy report to the 165 Challenge message board via the website.
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Go For Rissington Glory (17/08)
Karters are offered their chance of glory next month when Rissington Kart Club hosts one of the biggest kart meetings of the year, offering racers from across the country the chance to become true champions.
On September 1st-2nd, Rissington is inviting racers to take part in the 2001 Midland Championships. One of the best established events on the national karting calendar, the Midland Championships is open to all classes - subject to minimum entries - and to any driver with a valid 'National A' kart licence. Past winners of this prestigious title have included Jenson Button and the meeting offers class winners the chance to become recognised champions, outside the ultra-competitive arena of the British Championships.
With a planned three heats and a final, the club is offering drivers great value for money and the club is also hoping to lay on a number of special features, including a Saturday night party, live on-track podium presentations after each final, and a number of stalls/exhibitors in the Paddock area.
Entry fees are just £45 for members or £55 for non-members, with testing and some heats being run on the Saturday and the majority of the race programme held on the Sunday. Spectators are also welcome, with on-the-gate tickets charged at just £5 per car, per day. No dogs allowed. For race entries and further information, contact Julie Dredge on 0118 983 6070 or visit our website at www.rissykartclub.com. The closing date for race entries is 22nd August.
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TKM Festival 2002 Date Confirmed (16/08)
Tal-Ko boss Alan Turney has paid tribute to the hard work of those running and competing at the MAXXIS Formula TKM Festival at Kimbolton, as the company confirmed the date of next year’s event. Said Alan: "With 300 plus entries it was another huge event made all the more difficult by the changeable weather which brought out wet tyres at the event for the first time ever. "We saw some great racing in sometimes difficult conditions and still managed to finish on time. My thanks goes to everyone there from drivers through to the organisers for their efforts."
Now the company has confirmed that next year’s MAXXIS Formula TKM Festival will be held at Kimbolton next August 9/10/11. An extended period of TV coverage will start soon. Dates will be announced once confirmed.
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A Lap Of Kimbolton (08/08)
This weekend 300 Formula TKM drivers will line up at Kimbolton battling for top honours within the UK's largest karting classes. For those racing at the circuit for the first time, Grahame Butterworth gives a high-speed driver's view of the track....
Kimbolton, a circuit where great accuracy and the ability to string a series of corners together makes for success, but it’s not the place to go kerb hopping.
Hug the left hand side over the kink of the finish line and keep to the left but watch for those drivers looking to come down the inside. Hit the brakes hard just past the marshal’s post, the wheels locking on the surface ripples. Straight back hard on the power as you turn in late tight across the apex of Stow and drift out wide across the track and over the white line.
This wide line gives you the perfect turn into the Willows complex. Get it right and you turn in without changing lock for a very late apex. Then you must rapidly flick the kart left for a quick turn into the second part, staying mid-track and under full acceleration as you turn into the final right hander.
Then down to one of the favourite overtaking places on the track, the Eaton Hairpin. The fastest line is to stay out wide as you brake then take a late apex and slide out. But beware because those behind will lunge down the inside, making a careful assessment of who is behind very important.
Full acceleration on the wide exit onto the flat kerb and then set up for the next right handed Goff Corner. A smooth line across the apex out wide and then back in again towards the next right hander is my method, aiming to make the last part of the corner a virtual straight line across apexes. Again watch the kerbs they can lose you time.
The next left-hander needs a smooth flowing line across the apex to the outside and then straight back across the next apex, probably with a slight dab of brakes. It must flow and it must be smooth to maintain pace. The final right hander needs a neat centre line across the apex under full power and then head down towards the Hanger Complex hugging the inside of the gentle bend.
A great corner this. Straight line the first two kerbs then brake and flick the kart into the final right hand 180 degree bend. Get it right and the kart should slide from apex to outside and then cut right across the final apex onto the straight, all under full power. If necessary just balance the kart on the brakes to keep it on line.
Speed down the critical TKM Straight is vital so head down as you head for the right hand side of the track. Next is Kestrel the most tricky corner on the track. Difficult to pick a braking point and easy to overshoot. Turn in late, hard on the apex and then slide over to the far right - but beware the drop and bumpy edge.
A good overtaking place this into Kimbolton Corner but get it right or you’ll end on your head. The fast line is from the left, braking late and then pointing the kart in under hard power as you slide around the apex for a fast and wide exit onto the straight.
Do it right and you’ll be looking at times in the 54/55 second bracket, and remember less teeth and a long exhaust pay dividends at this track.
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Bean Takes Top Win (06/08)
Junior Formula TKM driver James Bean has raced to success at the prestigious Kartmasters race meeting at PFI, scoring yet another race win for the latest TKM Raider chassis. James nipped through on the last lap to score the victory, adding to the win achieved at Super 1 and underlining him as one of the very top drivers in the UK’s largest class. The youngster from near Hull, switched to the TKM Raider chassis this year and has consistently found himself among the front-runners. Next target is the ABkC ‘O’ plate being raced for at Kimbolton this weekend as part of the MAXXIS Formula TKM Festival.
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Formula TKM Festival Approaches (06/08)
Around 300 top race drivers from around the country will be going to the Kimbolton kart track next weekend (August 11/12) for one of the UK’s largest ever kart race meetings, and it is an event that will also see a unique occasion in British karting. The MAXXIS Formula 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. 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 fifth year of this prestigious Festival of racing which is backed by Sandy, Bedfordshire-based 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.
Also featuring at the event will be the first ever race exclusively for the new TKM 4-stroke engine - a unit which is leading the path in karting over the next decade as the sport responds to environmental pressures. Racing at Kimbolton are Formula TKM karts powered by 100cc 2-stroke TKM engines capable of propelling the machines at up to 80mph. They race in different categories according to age and capability. 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. "
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. Competitors are reminded that they are not allowed into the circuit before 10am on Thursday.
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TKM 4-Stroke Test Day At Ancaster (01/08)
Tal-Ko has confirmed that it will be holding a second test day for the new TKM 4-stroke engine to be held on 30th August at the Ancaster race circuit near Grantham, Lincs. Demand for the first test day to be held this Thursday at Whilton Mill has been so strong that already a large number of drivers have been transferred on to 30th August.
The Ancaster date fits in perfectly with the needs of many Super 1 cadets and juniors heading to nearby PFI for their race meeting that weekend. Says Formula TKM Co-ordinator Grahame Butterworth: "The demand to test the engine and karts is very high. This event at Ancaster is for TKM 4-strokes only and it seems very likely that we will be going back to Whilton Mill for yet another test day with two-strokes as well. Ancaster is a good circuit with excellent facilities and easy access to the A1." Those wishing to attend should apply ideally by e-mail to info@tal-ko.com or by phone to 01767 682020, fax 01767 691622.
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Build Your Own Dyno (30/07)
Information and plans for building your own kart engine dyno can be found on the Spanish SportsDevices website at http://www.sportdevices.com/dyno/teoriaconstruccion.htm.
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World Electric Land Speed Record (27/07)
Testing a modified electric race kart earlier this week Gravitron achieved an unofficial speed of 135mph, some way in excess of the current world electric land speed record for the relevant weight category.
Tuesday 24th July 2001 saw the unveiling of Gravitron’s newly designed Speed Record vehicle at Kemble Airfield in Gloucestershire. The modified race kart has been specially built to take the World Electric Land Speed Record for a vehicle in the under 500kg weight class and the overall British Electric Record.
Luke Roberts, the pilot, got suited up and slid into the driver’s seat. Morgan Nicholas, Gravitron MD, donned his crash helmet and mounted his Yamaha R1, the pace vehicle for the test. Both vehicles sat at the very furthest point of the runway, waiting for the message from Kemble tower that it was safe to proceed. The radio signal came to give the all clear, the runway landing lights came on and the test began. Both vehicles surged up the runway. “I raced through the gears on the R1 to keep up with the outstanding acceleration of the kart.” Said Morgan Nicholas, “We had calculated that the kart would achieve a speed of 125mph in the distance available at Kemble, imagine my excitement when the Yam’s digital read out reached 135mph when I was running alongside the kart!” “The kart was still accelerating but it was time to brake, I was running out of tarmac!! I felt as though I needed to throw out an anchor.” added driver Luke Roberts “I knew we’d done well when I saw Morgan jumping for joy at the end of the runway.” The return run was equally impressive, again achieving 135 mph. “Heading back towards the Gravitron crew and support team we wanted to let them all know how well we’d done and flashed past them at 120mph, leaving it until the very last second to apply the brakes - stopping was a bit extreme!!” stated a delighted Morgan Nicholas.
Now for the technical stuff: Kemble runway is 1¼ miles long, running uphill with a ¼ mile after the crest leading down into the braking zone. Due to the short distance available it had been calculated that the kart would achieve and maintain a speed of 125 mph, but this was easily exceeded and 135mph was achieved in both directions. The kart weighs approx 250kg. Driver 60kg. A total weight of 310kg. Fitted with 2 Gravitron LAAA4002 motors and 2 HE DATA 1000 amp controllers the vehicle developed 100hp during the test run on a 60 volt system. The vehicle was powered by ten Optima red top batteries.
Gravitron are currently seeking sponsors for their record attempt, and would welcome calls from interested parties. For further information, either about the record attempt or about sponsorship, please contact Gravitron by phone; 01453 822338, fax; 01453 791355 or email; info@gravitron.co.uk.
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Kart Grand Prix (26/07)
The highlight of the Long Circuit gearbox karting season takes place this weekend (28th/29th) at the Welsh Motor Sport Centre, Pembrey, South Wales. This one-off event attracts the top drivers in long circuit racing and a selection of top short circuit racers including Nathan Freke and Mark Fell, all chasing the coveted GP plate for use during the next 12 months. Timed qualifying and heats are on Saturday, and pre-final and Grand Prix finals on Sunday. With speeds approaching 130mph an exciting weekend’s racing is in store - why not go along and watch. Pembrey is located 8 miles from Llanelli and easily accessible from the M4 motorway.
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New RPM/Temp Gauge (26/07)
Tests are currently being carried out on a Ferrari Racing 125TM and 100TM for a new competitively priced rpm/temp gauge combination that is soon to be available. A new thermostat suitable for Alfano, Bruso, Drack and Srac is also under test and new type free flow water pipe connectors are expected soon. Further information from info@ferrari-racing.net or telephone 020 8427 3301.
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Second TKM Test Day (25/07)
Such a high level of interest has been gained in the new TKM 4-stroke race engine that a second test day is being organised to help deal with the large number of drivers wanting a drive. The first exclusive TKM test event at Whilton Mill scheduled for 2nd August is now oversubscribed with the company now finalising another date, probably 30th August.
Says Formula TKM co-ordinator Grahame Butterworth: "The response has been enormous for both two and four stroke engines, underlining the continued strength of the UK’s largest karting class and the high interest level in the newest class. "Faced with such a demand we will obviously be holding another day - and more if required - during the school holidays. We will finalise details on the new date very shortly and this will probably be for just four-strokes." Those wishing to attend should contact Tal-Ko at 01767 682020, fax 01767 691622 or e-mail info@tal-ko.com. E-mails are preferred.
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Carrickfergus Road Race CANCELLED (24/07)
Over ten thousand spectators and fans of kart racing have been dealt another bitter blow this season with the announcement late on Monday 23 July that the road kart race at Carrickfergus has been cancelled. Despite frantic efforts to get a resolution the Ulster Karting Club and it's team of organisers have not been able to do anything about the situation. The event which is one of Britain’s largest on the kart racing calendar and is the largest in the boroughs events calendar has had the last hour cancellation forced on it by the governing body of motorsport in the UK, the MSA.
Although the MSA had already issued approval for the race it is understood that the problem arises from various conditions of the road closure order for the event which the MSA only realised they had not accounted for over the weekend. Even more embarrassing for MSA no doubt is the fact that the same road closing order wording has been in place for years so questions are being asked as to why they never knew of these conditions and waited so long before forcing the cancellation of the very successful event which has been run annually for over twenty years. As to whether the club will be granted a special additional road closing order is doubtful but hopefully local politicians might be able to do something to assist the sport.
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Success at Kart Control Board Launch (24/07)
Organisers have expressed their delight at the success of the launch event for the proposed Kart Control Board, held last week at Birmingham. Motor Sports Association Chief Executive Colin Hilton said: "We had an excellent turnout and great support shown for the ideas we have set out to move karting forwards. A lot of people have put in a great deal of work. "It was a very positive event and we have been given a clear mandate to move onwards with our plans.”
Grahame Butterworth of the British Kart Industry Association said: "We had a very wide cross section of attendance representing the whole industry in its widest sense - the best attended kart meeting I have ever attended. "It is clear that there is a very strong support for the KCB format which will help move karting forwards with a view to building a much closer alliance between what is currently seen as club racing, unlicensed racing and commercial enterprises. By working as one we can all become stronger. It’s a very big step forwards."
The Kart Control Board aims to bring the sport together from indoor commercial tracks through to top level outdoor club facilities. It will build a new system for starter licences tied in with the existing ARKS scheme, create promoter permits and put in place sensible levels of performance to safeguard those coming into the sport. It is hoped to start operations next January with plans now being finalised.
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Maxxis TKM Festival (23/07)
Entries are still continuing to flood in for the MAXXIS Formula TKM Festival which takes place at Kimbolton on 11th & 12th August, and with entries due to close this Friday the advice to drivers is get your entries in on time or risk disappointment.
The TKM 4-stroke class will be represented at the event for the first time with a top class grid of drivers taking part in a senior class race - among them Terry Langley a previous winner of the Formula TKM ‘O’ plate. As ever the event will cover all levels of drivers with top names competing for the ABkC ‘O’ plates including some current race drivers and Formula A driver Mark Litchfield. At the same time the special format of the meeting allows for other club drivers to take part in their own Festival section of this special event right through to novices.
Says Formula TKM co-ordinator Grahame Butterworth: “We have worked hard with Kimbolton to create this unique event and the atmosphere that goes with it. We look forward to another year of outstanding racing.” Although some late entries may be permitted, the organisers stress that the closing dates are vital to allow them to finalise organisation of the event which means that those applying late could be left disappointed.
Entry forms are available from Alison Parker at 17 Sandy Close, Wellingborough, Northants NN8 5AY. Entry forms need to be with Julie Wilson by this Friday, 27th July.
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Carrickfergus Road Race (23/07)
Cancelled - see news above.
Tuesday night (24th July) sees one of Britain's fastest road kart races take place at Carrickfergus, Northern Ireland when the country’s top drivers take on the Carrickfergus Borough Council supported meeting. Over ten thousand spectators are expected for the country’s largest spectator kart event which is also the largest on the borough's series of free summer events. Roads on the Marine Highway and Scotch quarter areas will be closed from around 5.30pm to 9pm for The Ulster Karting club promoted event which has attracted an excellent entry so far. In addition to the 160mph 250cc Superkart machines, all the classes in the sport will be competing right from the youngest class for the 8 to 12 year old Junior Cadets, the junior and senior 100cc machines and the 125cc classes. Drivers take on heats and finals with racing getting underway at 6pm. More UKC details can be found at www.ukc.iwarp.com and details on Carrickfergus at www.carrickfergus.org.
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New Karting Game On The Horizon (20/07)
Infogrames and Babylon Software have just finished pre-production of a new karting video game using Trevor George's 2001 Patron Racing Knight Prokart. The game is expected to launch for Christmas 2002 on the newest games console the "X-BOX". Pat at Patron Racing will keep all informed about the game closer to the release date.
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Max Test Date Amended (18/07)
Open testing for Rotax Max owners at Buckmore Park will now be on Tuesday 24th July from 10.00 until 14.00. Open to all Rotax Max owners at a cost £30. Further information from sales@gtchallenge.com.
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Mechanic Required at New London Track (18/07)
A full time kart mechanic with some previous experience is required for a brand new track in London. If you are able to work as a team player and be flexible with duties and working hours here is a great opportunity to join a young company starting out on the road to success. The successful applicant will receive a salary according to experience. Interested? Phone Rick on 020 7538 5195.
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Warden Law Increase Owner-Driver Events (18/07)
Owner-Drivers can now race at Warden Law circuit twice a month as in addition to the usual WLKC meeting on the 3rd Sunday in each month, drivers of Cadets, Pro-Karts and now Rotax Max can now also race on the 1st Sunday every month. Karting North East at Warden Law Circuit is now running its own sprint racing championship for drivers with and without MSA racing licenses, with events fully covered by experienced marshals, clerk of the course, paramedic and scrutineer.
Cadets (Honda and Comer) have 3 heats of 10 laps followed by a final of 15 laps, Twin Pro-Karts have 3 heats of 20 laps followed by a final of 25 laps and Rotax Max have 3 heats of 12 laps and a final of 15 laps. Entry costs are £20 for cadets and £30 for Pro-Karts and Rotax Max. Grid positions will be decided by timed qualifying, and Rotax Max will have standing starts!
The first event starts 10.00 am on the 5th August and it’s possible for drivers to just turn up on the day and race! Contact the circuit on 0191 5214050 or alternatively visit www.kartingnortheast.co.uk for further information.
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Jobs at Daytona (18/07)
Daytona @ Silverstone are currently in need of staff to work at their prestigious location, supporting all karting events on both our Indoor and Outdoor circuits. The following positions are available.
Karting Instructor. This is predominately a weekend role and you will be required to instruct to highest level on Junior Kart Club, Race Training and ARKS events. On applying you will be ask for a detailed CV, that demonstrates your previous karting and instructing experience. Minimum age 18.
Event Director. Both weekend and weekday work available. We are looking for a responsible and mature individual to run karting events. You will be responsible for all customer facings, safety briefings, supervision of karting Marshall's, event safety, running of timing equipment and to ensure total customer satisfaction at all times. Minimum age 21.
Karting Marshall's. Both weekend and weekday work available. We are looking for enthusiastic and conscientious workers to support Event Directors in the running of karting events. You will be required to assist in all area's of event safety and pre/post event preparations. Minimum age 16.
Those interested in any of the vacancies above should email: karting@silverstone-circuit.co.uk.
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Championship Pace Builds (17/07)
Britain’s top kart racing drivers will be converging on Cumbria next weekend (July 21/22) for the latest round of the Total-Hill House Hammond S1 National Championships - the series that helped create F1 superstars like David Coulthard and Jenson Button.
The latest round in the series takes place at the Rowrah circuit near Cockermouth, on a track which has hosted many of today’s top motor racing stars over the years of the Super 1 Series. The Total-Hill House Hammond S1 series brings together top drivers from 16 to 60 competing for the UK’s premier karting titles. Over a total of seven rounds the prestige honours will be decided across five titles including the F1 of British karting, the Hill House Hammond MSA British Championship.
Currently Chris Rogers has taken seven out of eight victories in the finals this year and so heads the points table with a massive advantage, but the others are keen for victory making for great racing. Also competing in the series are drivers in the UK’s largest category, Formula TKM, where tight regulations place absolute accent on driver ability rather than cheque-book. Current F1 driver Jenson Button is a former junior champion in this class. Local drivers Jason and Justin Edgar from just down the road to the circuit will be among the top drivers in the ICA class.
TV cameras from Sky TV are recording the action in the Hill House Hammond MSA and Formula TKM classes for showing in the UK and around the world on the popular Fastrax programme. Racing takes place on Sunday July 22 from around 11am, with testing and some qualification on Saturday. Spectators are welcome with admission £4 for adults and £2 for children. Said championship spokesman Grahame Butterworth: "The Total-Hill House Hammond series represents the very best in karting. We look forward to a continuation of the great racing we have seen so far this year and to seeing tomorrow’s F1 drivers battling on the track."
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Exclusive TKM Test Day For 2 & 4 Strokes (16/07)
Tal-Ko, makers of the new TKM 4-stroke kart engine, are holding a special exclusive test day at Whilton Mill in August to allow potential owners a chance to try out its range of products - 2 and 4 stroke. The TKM test day is happening at the Whilton Mill circuit just north of Silverstone on 2nd August from 10am through to 4pm.
The company will make available a number of TKM 4-stroke engines mounted on its Raider R4 karts ready for test drives. In addition it will also have TKM 2-strokes with the latest Super 1 winning TKM Raider karts. Juniors and seniors are welcome to this special event which has been established to help meet the high demand for tests on the new karts and engines. The only cost to drivers will be a nominal £5 charge to meet circuit insurance requirements. Those attending do not have to have an MSA race licence but should have some karting experience. Complete novices may be accepted so long as they can show suitable competence. Drivers must bring their own safety equipment.
Announcing the event, Tal-Ko boss Alan Turney said: "We have had a very high number of requests from drivers wanting to try the equipment and this seems the best way of accommodating the numbers. We have especially chosen a date in the holidays so that juniors can attend. "Whilton Mill provides a good facility for such an occasion with an interesting track and plenty of opportunity to gauge both engine and chassis performance." It is stressed that this is an exclusive day to drive TKM equipment and not for drivers to bring their own.
Those wishing to attend must register their intention with Tal-Ko beforehand by either faxing 01767 691622, e-mailing info@tal-ko.com or phoning 01767 682020.
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Teamworks Karting Challenge (13/07)
Teamworks Karting in central London have announced a corporate karting championship in association with Compaq and CSF. Featuring the fastest indoor karts in Europe, racing an inch above a perfect asphalt race track there will be a 6 round Corporate race series open to teams of 2-4 drivers.
The series runs from August to December and some great prizes are on offer for winning teams. With no previous karting experience necessary, all race wear supplied and at a cost of £180 + VAT per team per round Teamworks are expecting this to be a highly popular race series with regular updates promised on their website. Test sessions are available and information on this and for full entry details and championship information contact the events team by phoning 0870 900 3020 or e-mail: mail@teamworkskarting.com.
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TKM 4-Stroke Forges Ahead (13/07)
Tal-Ko has completed manufacture of its first batch of TKM 4-stroke engines and is pressing ahead with plans to expand the class on a national and international basis. With an increasing number of drivers already now regularly racing in the UK, the class is fast expanding across the channel with sales into mainland Europe and plans are being finalised for the class to formally kick off there in 2002.
Alan Turney with one of the
new 4-stroke TKM engines.
Says Tal-Ko boss Alan Turney: "We have been very pleased at the response to the new engine. Plenty of orders and enthusiasm from those who have bought and driven them. "Quite naturally many drivers will choose to continue with two-stroke engines and of course Formula TKM. But there are many in other areas of the sport who have been just desperate for a fast, lightweight and realistically priced four-stroke engine. "Interest from overseas is considerable especially in countries such as Finland where two-strokes will be banned from the end of next year." Now Tal-Ko is pressing ahead with its plans to complete 500 engines ready to keep pace with expected demand. "Our manufacturing operation is working flat-out on both two and four-stroke engines, adds Alan.
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Launch For New Kart Control Board (13/07)
The creation of a new Kart Control Board to oversee karting of every type moves a stage further forward with a major launch being held on Thursday, July 19 at the Jaguar Visitor Centre, Castle Bromwich.
Circuit owners, event promoters, clubs and the trade are invited to the special launch being organised by the MSA in conjunction with key bodies like the NKA, ABkC, BKIA and ARKS. The new Kart Control Board is seen as an important step forward for the whole of karting from indoor centres right through to major outdoor venues. The MSA funded launch will include a formal launch of plans and opportunity for circuit owners and operators to air their thoughts on ways to get the whole of karting moving forward together in the future. Already many of the major names in the industry have pledged their support behind the scheme which is due to kick into place next January.
British Kart Industry administrator Grahame Butterworth who has played a central role in the establishment of the Board said: "This is a real opportunity for the whole of karting to work together in making the sport and the industry even stronger. We hope to see a very good turn-out at the meeting." Those wanting to attend are asked to contact John Ryan at the MSA on 01753 681736 or e-mail technical@msauk.org for a location map for the event.
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Turkish Delight! (12/07)
Andy Cox Racing attended the second round of the Turkish Formula A Championships at the Korfez circuit near Istanbul on the 7th and 8th July and certainly made their presence felt. Their driver Izzit Cinar won the event with team mates Erdinc Ozteknik 3rd and Oktay Cinar 4th. All used Birel R31Z chassis with Vortex engines tuned by Andy Cox. The event was screened live on the Turkish T.V. Channel ATV which pleased the drivers sponsors Cyprus Turkish Airlines and Turkcell phone network.
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Century (12/07)
Century Race Preparation congratulate all of their drivers' success over the past few weeks. Gold Karts finished 1st, 2nd & 3rd in 125 Open and 1st & 3rd in 125 National at the 3 Sisters Gold Cup with the Pavesi engines finishing 2nd in 125 Open and 2nd & 3rd in 125 National. Golds also finished 2nd & 3rd in Rotax Max. Century supplied Project One's finished 1st & 2nd in Snr TKM at the same meeting. Gold Karts won the 125 at Kimbolton where the Pavesi engines finished 1st, 2nd & 3rd on the track. Paul Smith also won the Rotax Max race on his Gold Firefox. Nathan Freke after his success in the 125 Open also finished 2nd in the Libre class on his Gold Firefox/Sonik engined outfit in its first ever race in this country. Project One also finished 2nd in Snr TKM. John Barnes drove his Project One to victory at Clay Pigeon the same weekend. Anybody who would like to join the winning team should contact Century on 07710 232813 or mail@century-karting.co.uk.
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Lodge Road Adds New Classes (12/07)
Lodge Road Kart Centre have added two new classes to their monthly race meetings held on the second Sunday of every month. The next race meeting will have classes for junior 160's/junior 70's, senior/super 70's, senior 160's, senior 125 max, junior 125 max, pro karts, comer cadets and corporate karts. Further info from Nick on 01526 344566.
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All Change At Coventry (07/07)
Coventry International Karting has recently changed owners and new Managing Director; Alex Knight has instigated a number of exciting changes at the already established circuit. The most important change has been the purchase of a new fleet of Karts from Biz. These 200cc Honda single engined Pro-Karts are considered the best available and are ideally suited to Coventry’s fast 350m circuit. The new Karts not only provide better faster racing but assist reliability to enable a top class event to be delivered to clients every time.
The Junior Kart school at Coventry continues to grow in both numbers and quality of drivers and is seen as a cost effective and fun way for youngsters to get into Karting. One person from Coventry International Karting that’s already making an impact in his first full year of MSA competition is the MD’s son James Knight who is competing at the Whilton Mill club in the 125 Rotax Max class.
After a short break the renowned open Grand Prix events at Coventry are now returning. The events allow the drivers to take part in a competitive 'Arrive and Race' evenings racing. Corporate clients are also well catered for with a number of new initiatives being introduced. For further details contact 024 7654 5454.
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Racers Head For Lincolnshire (06/07)
Britain’s top kart racing drivers are converging on Lincolnshire this weekend (7th/8th July) for the latest round of the Total-Hill House Hammond S1 National Championships - the series that helped create F1 superstars like David Coulthard and Jenson Button.
The fourth round in the series takes place at the Fulbeck circuit near Grantham, on a track which has hosted many of today’s top motor racing stars over the years of the Super 1 Series. The Total-Hill House Hammond S1 series brings together top drivers from 16 to 60 competing for the UK’s premier karting titles. Over a total of seven rounds the prestige honours will be decided across five titles including the F1 of British karting, the Hill House Hammond MSA British Championship.
Currently Chris Rogers has taken all six victories in the finals this year and so heads the points table with a massive advantage, but the others are keen for victory making for great racing. Also competing in the series are drivers in the UK’s largest category, Formula TKM, where tight regulations place absolute accent on driver ability rather than cheque-book. Current F1 driver Jenson Button is a former junior champion in this class. TV cameras from Sky TV are recording the action in the Hill House Hammond MSA and Formula TKM classes for showing in the UK and around the world on the popular Fastrax programme.
Racing takes place on Sunday July 8 from around 11am, with testing and some qualification on Saturday. Spectators are welcome with admission £3 for adults and children under 16 free. Said championship spokesman Grahame Butterworth: “The Total-Hill House Hammond series represents the very best in karting. We look forward to a continuation of the great racing we have seen so far this year and to seeing tomorrow’s F1 drivers battling on the track.”
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More Stowe Dates (29/06)
Daytona @ Silverstone have opened up more dates for owner driver practice on the Stowe Circuit, they are 31st July and 14th August. The track will be open from 6 p.m. onwards. For more details email: karting@silverstone-circuit.co.uk.
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Young Racers Head For Cumbria (26/06)
The UK’s top junior kart racing drivers will be converging on Cumbria next weekend (June 30/July 1) for the latest round of the Total-Hill House Hammond S1 National Championships - proving ground for the Grand Prix stars of tomorrow.
And fighting for top honours in the most prestigious class, the Hill House Hammond MSA Junior British Kart title, will be two young superstars hoping to race on to Formula 1 success. Paul Di Resta from Bathgate was runner up in the series last year and heads the points table after a win in the last round at his local track. His closest rival is Jordan Wise from Essex who will be keen for another win, this time at the undulating and demanding Rowrah circuit near Cockermouth. Commented championship spokesman Grahame Butterworth: "The battle for supremacy in this top national junior class is great. It’s going to be a great race at Rowrah."
The Total-Hill House Hammond S1 series brings together top drivers from 8 - 17 years old competing for the UK’s premier karting titles. Over a total of seven rounds the prestige honours will be decided across five titles including the F1 of British junior karting, the Hill House Hammond MSA British Championship. Also competing are drivers in the UK’s largest category, Formula TKM, where tight regulations place absolute accent on driver ability rather than cheque-book. Current F1 driver Jenson Button is a former junior champion in this class. Currently James Bean from Beverley near Hull leads the Formula TKM Junior class after a dominating display at Larkhall. Benjy Russell leads the TKM Intermediates. Both will be aiming to stay top of the pack against great opposition.
TV cameras from Sky TV will be on scene to feature the action in the Hill House Hammond MSA and Formula TKM classes for showing in the UK and around the world on the popular Fastrax programme. Racing takes place on Sunday July 1 from around 11am, with testing and some qualification on Saturday. Spectators are welcomed with admission £4 for adults and £2 for children. Added Grahame Butterworth: "The Total-Hill House Hammond series represents the very best in karting. The challenging nature of the Rowrah circuit and its superb setting makes a perfect backdrop for this high level ultra exciting racing as we see tomorrow’s F1 drivers battling on the track."
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Early Birds (22/06)
Daytona Karting have confirmed their continued support of Owner Driver Four Stroke Karting at their outdoor MSA circuits. In preparation for the 2002 Championships, Daytona will be running separate Winter Championships for Biz Thunderkarts and for Prokarts at all three circuits - plus the possibility of some guest rounds at other circuits. Spaces are limited so book early! Details are almost finalised and further information about these Winter Championships, as well as next year’s Summer Championships, can be obtained by calling 0500 145 155, or e-mail: sales@daytona.co.uk. [ Events Calendar ]
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Top Racers Head For Dorset (19/06)
Britain’s top kart racing drivers will be converging on Dorset this weekend (June 23/24) for the latest round of the Total-Hill House Hammond S1 National Championships - hoping for rather better weather then the downpour which caused abandonment of the junior round earlier in the year. The meeting will go ahead on the Clay Pigeon circuit between Yeovil and Dorchester, where in April racing had to be brought to a halt after torrential rain brought flooding to the track - the first time ever that a race meeting has been cancelled in the 20 year history of the series. Commented championship spokesman Grahame Butterworth: "Because of its location on a hill top the Clay Pigeon circuit has a reputation for changeable weather but in April it was non stop deluge. The seniors are now around half-way through the season so the competition is getting very close indeed."
The Total-Hill House Hammond S1 series brings together top drivers from 16 to 60 competing for the UK’s premier karting titles. Over a total of seven rounds the prestige honours will be decided across five titles including the F1 of British karting, the Hill House Hammond MSA British Championship. Also competing are drivers in the UK’s largest category, Formula TKM, where tight regulations place absolute accent on driver ability rather than cheque-book. Current F1 driver Jenson Button is a former junior champion in this class. TV cameras from Sky TV will be at Clay Pigeon recording the action in the Hill House Hammond MSA and Formula TKM classes for showing in the UK and around the world on the popular Fastrax programme.
Racing takes place on Sunday June 24 from around 11am, with testing and some qualification on Saturday. Spectators are welcomed with admission £3 for adults and children free. Added Grahame Butterworth: "The Total-Hill House Hammond series represents the very best in karting. We look forward to a continuation of the great racing we have seen so far this year and to seeing tomorrow’s F1 drivers battling on the track."
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It's A Revolution (15/06)
On Monday 18th June 2001 the newest karting experience in the Capital opens in Mile End Park, London. A 650 metre floodlit outdoor circuit using state of the art karts + electronic timing system, with changing/shower/disabled facilities available and located between the City of London and Canary Wharf.
The racing driver designed circuit includes inclines, banked corners and landscaped infield area. For further information on events, availability, prices and catering telephone Revolution Karting on 020 7538 5195 or 07960 815067.
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5 Nations (14/06)
The Ulster Karting Club promoted 5 Nations championships will go ahead on 23rd & 24th June as planned and it is hoped that the meeting will also see a return to the province by mainland competitors.
The Kartparts sponsored event is one of the largest on the UK calendar and features all the non gearbox classes with the winner in each class taking away the NC plates. Drivers take on sets of heats and finals over the two days. Special ferry fares and arrangements are on offer for visiting drivers and event details can be obtained from the competition secretary. For more club details see also www.ukc.iwarp.com.
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Job Vacancies at Matchams (13/06)
Matchams Park and Ringwood Raceway currently have some vacancies at their Hampshire location.
Events Co-Ordinator/Administrator. Confident, reliable, person with a keen interest in Motorsports, required for our Corporate Events Department. Preference will be given to applicants with administrative and mechanical knowledge, as maintenance of site, circuits and equipment is an integral part of this role. This is a full time, forward moving role, within an exciting company and offers an excellent package to the right person.
Part-time Gatehouse Receptionist/Security Person. Duties include: monitoring arrivals and departures, security, checking in of test vehicles and some administration. 18 Hours per week working every Friday and alternate Saturday/Sunday and occasional relief.
Seasonal Staff required for Arrive and Drive Fun Kart Operators. A fun role offering consistent hours throughout the summer period. Applicants must be keen, and fully fit. 20-40? Hours per week, Overalls supplied. Full training will be given.
Track Marshals required for all events. Would suit Motor Racing Enthusiasts. Uniform supplied. Full training will be given. Hours to suit.
Contact: Sarah Raven or John Slack on 01425 473305 for application form.
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ELT+ (12/06)
Electro Cases Ltd have announced that a full upgrade of the ELT lap-timer is available, this is a no compromise step up to the equivalent of the newly released ELT+. The new version is fully compliant with multiple strips and I/Red beacon use, up to 6 splits can be run, or strips can be blanked as required. ELT+ can be configured to operate on any track with single or multiple strips, and retains ELT's unique instant increment indication even on the split sectors! This ultimate of lap-timers can be used in conjunction with beacons to provide ‘narrow zone’ splits thus suiting all preferences, and meets the demanding requirements of full team organisations and the budget restricted club karter alike. Contact: www.electrocases.com or +44 (0)1624 621822 phone / 662133 fax. E-mail: ecl@enterprise.net.
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What A Picture (12/06)
Sunday 13th May was the date of the SYKC meeting in memory of Brian Wilson. A former member of South Yorkshire Kart Club and also a kart dealer and manufacturer with many championships to his credit, Brian had been responsible for many of the current members starting out in karting and his widow, Eileen presented all the trophies on what turned out to be a gloriously sunny day with plenty of exciting racing.
The drivers are as follows from L - R (Back): Steve Cobb - Snr TKM Sam Brough - Jnr Pro's Dean Bednarek - Rotax (Selected as Driver of the Day) Mrs Eileen Wilson - Widow of Brian Wilson Matthew Doherty - Jnr Pro (Heavy) Dean Hunter - Jnr Rotax Jonathan Neville - Jnr TKM Adam Willis - Snr Pro's (Front) Oliver Rowland - Comer Cadets Thomas Duggan - Honda Cadets
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Daytona Karting Sponsors UK Karting (06/06)
Daytona Karting, the largest karting group in the World, will be promoting its venues and events via the UK Karting website with a series of banners and adverts throughout the site.
"Daytona has always recognised the potential that the Internet offers to UK companies and was one of the first karting companies to launch its own website back in 1995" says Jim Graham, Group Karting Director of Octagon Motorsports. "We are always looking for ways to increase visitors to our site and UK Karting provides a one-stop shop for anyone interested in karting in the UK. Our current site www.daytona.co.uk will be updated later in June with an all new site with much more opportunities for visitors to interact with Daytona and the rest of the Octagon Motorsports group."
Daytona Karting operates venues in London, Manchester, Milton Keynes, Sandown Park and Silverstone and entertains over 250,000 drivers each year on its circuits. The circuits are fully equipped to provide safe, exciting racing and unrivalled corporate hospitality facilities.
For more information:
| Sales | sales@daytona.co.uk | 020 8961 3616 |
| Press | maria.bellanca@brandshatch.co.uk | 01474 872 331 |
| Website | www.daytona.co.uk |
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Stowe Open Practice (06/06)
Practice sessions are taking place every two weeks commencing 19th June 2001. The track will be open from 6 pm onwards and practice will cost £15 per kart (maximum of 2 drivers). For details email: karting@silverstone-circuit.co.uk.
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Premier Championship Revs Up (04/06)
The UK’s top junior kart racing drivers will be converging on Scotland next weekend (June 9/10) for the latest round of the Total-Hill House Hammond S1 National Championships - proving ground for the Grand Prix stars of tomorrow, and fighting for top honours in the most prestigious class, the Hill House Hammond MSA Junior British Kart title, will be two young Scots hoping to follow in the wheeltracks of Scottish F1 legends, David Coulthard, Jackie Stewart and Jim Clark.
Paul Di Resta from Bathgate was runner up in the series last year and comes to Larkhall near Glasgow, as a hot favourite for the championship win. But his likely closest contender for the title is 13-year-old Daryl McDonald from Edinburgh, current title holder in the closely fought Formula TKM class. With a race win each in the last round the sparks will fly, with Essex-based Jordan Wise the current points leader adding to the spice. Commented championship spokesman Grahame Butterworth: “The battle for supremacy in this top national junior class is great. It’s going to be a great show for the Scots on home territory.”
The Total-Hill House Hammond S1 series brings together top drivers from 8 - 17 years old competing for the UK’s premier karting titles. Over a total of seven rounds the prestige honours will be decided across five titles including the F1 of British junior karting, the Hill House Hammond MSA British Championship. Also competing are drivers in the UK’s largest category, Formula TKM, where tight regulations place absolute accent on driver ability rather than cheque-book. Current F1 driver Jenson Button is a former junior champion in this class.
TV cameras from Sky TV are featuring the action in the Hill House Hammond MSA and Formula TKM classes for showing in the UK and around the world on the popular Fastrax programme. Racing takes place on Sunday June 10 from around 11am, with testing and some qualification on Saturday. Spectators are welcomed with admission £3 for adults and £1 for children. Added Grahame Butterworth: “The Total-Hill House Hammond series represents the very best in karting. With appalling weather flooding off the season opener we hope for fine weather and fine racing in Scotland as we see tomorrow’s F1 drivers battling on the track.”
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Fancy A BBQ? (04/06)
Matchams Kart Club Summer Racing Extravaganza is coming soon and features a Rotax Max 3 hour Endurance Race and the "Master of Matchams" "M" Plate - Friday 3rd to Sunday 5th August 2001.
The programme of events gets underway at 7pm on Friday 3rd August with a 3 hour Enduro for Rotax Max, up to 18 teams, min 3 drivers per team. On Saturday 4th August all classes are catered for and on Sunday the 5th August there’s heats and a final for the Master of Matchams ‘M’ plate.
BBQ on Friday night and entry to watch Banger Racing on Saturday evening, what more could you want. Further information, application forms and regulations from Sarah on 01425 473305 (office hours).
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ProKart Series (02/06)
Kingdom Kart Klub are holding a summer series of 9 non-MSA ProKart events for both 160cc and 200cc classes. Entry is £60 for members and an additional £10 for non-members. For dates see the Kingdom Kart Klub entry in the Events Calendar, for regulations and entries contact John Adam on 01592 644200.
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Search For F1 Superstars Continues (30/05)
Britain’s top kart racing drivers will be converging on Banbury this weekend (June 2/3) for the latest round of the Total-Hill House Hammond S1 National Championships - proving ground for the Grand Prix stars of tomorrow. The demanding Shenington circuit just outside Banbury is the venue for the next round featuring senior karters racing in four different classes - many of them with their hearts set on making it to the very top in full size motor racing. The Total-Hill House Hammond S1 series brings together top drivers of every age from 8 years upwards competing for the UK’s premier karting titles. Over a total of 14 rounds the prestige honours will be decided across 10 titles including the F1 of British karting, the Hill House Hammond MSA British Championship.
Also competing are drivers in the UK’s largest category, Formula TKM, where tight regulations place absolute accent on driver ability rather than size of cheque-book. Current F1 driver Jenson Button is a former junior champion in this class from just a few years ago. TV cameras from Sky TV are recording the action in the Hill House Hammond MSA and Formula TKM classes for showing in the UK and around the world on the popular Fastrax programme.
With so many top race car drivers like David Coulthard, Dario Franchitti, Jason Plato and James Thompson all graduating through from karting and the S1 series it is the natural place to look for tomorrow’s stars. Topping the bill at Shenington will be the top British class which saw its first race of the season in cold wet conditions. They will be hoping for very different conditions at Shenington. Racing takes place on Sunday June 3 from around 11am, with testing and some qualification on Saturday. Spectators are welcomed with admission £5 per car. Said championship spokesman Grahame Butterworth: “The Total-Hill House Hammond series represents the very best in karting. We look forward to this event and to seeing tomorrow’s F1 drivers battling on the track.”
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First Win (30/05)
Young Aimie Gardner from South Wales took her first Formula EcoMoto win at the 24th May Buckmore Park club meeting. Aimie is not only the first female to compete in this class but also the youngest.
Amy Gardner
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Congratulations (30/05)
Congratulations from WGP Motorsport to both of their drivers for their hard work and effort during Rounds 2 and 3 of the Ulster Cup. Andrew Armstrong is the reigning Libre Champion in NI and has only recently joined the massed ranks of the Max Class. Now driving the new R32Z Birel, he has achieved instant success. Round 2 second overall, Round 3 fourth overall and the best has yet to come. Gary Arrell in only his fourth race came a creditable thirteenth on the R932 Birel.
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Fit To Be A Kart Champion - Finalists Chosen (22/05)
Motor Sports Association (MSA) and the Association of Racing Kart Schools (ARKS), in conjunction with the Sports Injury and Human Performance Centre at the National Sports Centre at Lilleshall in Shropshire, have announced the finalists in their "Fit to be Kart Champion" scheme to develop the careers of aspiring young kart drivers. The following applications were successful: James Beacroft (Kent); Darren Burke (Kent); Rory Chamberlain (Lancashire); Paul Di Resta (West Lothian); Martin Ellingham (Bedfordshire); Nathaniel Freke (Worcestershire); Rodolfo Gonzalez (Norfolk); Luke Johnson (Lincolnshire); George Lovell (Dorset); Mathew Nicoll-Jones (Worcestershire); Mark Sargent (Somerset); Jordan Wise (Essex); Adam Wright (Warwickshire); Christopher Wright (Oxfordshire). A reserve place has been offered to Alexander Wilkinson (South Yorkshire).
Aimed at 14 to 17 year olds, the "Fit to be Kart Champion" programme commences with a first assessment at Lilleshall in August. It has been developed to combine elements of sports fitness and training, diet, nutrition, sports science, mental focus and preparation for competition. Recognising the special role which parents and guardians play in karting, the course includes a separate short session for the parents or guardians of successful finalists, led by an experienced sports psychologist.
Allan Dean-Lewis, MSA Training & Development Executive commented: "The range of applications received reflected well on the committed approach already shown by these young kart drivers, who aspire to become national and international champions, and the selection panel studied each application in considerable detail before coming to their final decisions."
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Bayford Lap Record Lowered (18/05)
Lee Hollywood on his LRG/EcoMoto reduces 'Outright Lap Record' at Bayford Meadows to 46.19 secs (AMB Timing System) at the 5th May Formula 6 meeting.
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Surtees & Herbert Join Sisley at Buckmore (16/05)
Motor-racing legend John Surtees has become a major investor and joined the board at Buckmore Park Karting Ltd.
John Surtees and Johnny Herbert
with Bill Sisley
It's welcome news to the Karting fraternity and even more welcome news to those who have watched Bill Sisley develop Buckmore Park from humble beginnings to the brink of becoming the most prestigious karting facility in the UK. With the estimated bill for his much publicised circuit improvements totalling a cool £1 million, from a purely business angle few would have criticised Sisley had he sold up to finance the circuit's future but anyone who knows him well would have struggled to imagine Sisley giving it all up. To him Karting is more than a business. He lives it, breathes it and Buckmore Park is his passion.
Bill says "To be honest we did have the option of selling the company to a major motor-racing group to help finance the new Clubhouse, pedestrian bridge and paddock building but with John's help we can now continue to improve the venue as an independent company. John shares my vision of Buckmore becoming a centre of excellence for Karting, both from the driver and engineering point of view. His involvement will benefit both owner/drivers and our many corporate customers.
Johnny Herbert also wants to get involved because he wants to put something back into the sport and his name carries a lot of weight. He will be a roving ambassador for the circuit and becomes a non-executive director. He has already supported the Karting here for many years being President of the Buckmore Park Kart Club.
Construction of Buckmore's new Clubhouse will commence on the 1st November with the grand opening in mid March 2002.
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Biggest Club Event in North (14/05)
Just a few weeks to go before the biggest club karting event in the north of England, the Gold Cup meeting held at 3 Sisters by Manchester & Buxton Kart Club (MBKC). The meeting this year will be held on the renowned Valley Circuit for all classes, a circuit which is both challenging and fast. Entries are strictly limited to 260 so be sure to get your entry in soon for this popular 24th June event. Everyone welcome, for more information and an entry form visit the MBKC website at http://mbkartclub.com/ or phone 01257 253742.
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Lazalign Importer/Distributor (11/05)
The appointment of Hawkley International as exclusive UK and European Importer/Distributor for the Lazalign Chassis Alignment System has recently been announced. An alignment system that incorporates Class 2 Lasers to simultaneously indicate perpendicular squareness to the rear axle as the front end is being adjusted it is claimed that results are stunning with perfect alignment every time, - side to side and front to back. Eliminate 'crabbing', reduce rolling resistance, reduce tyre wear and achieve more even handling to both sides say Lazalign, if it's not straight (perpendicular to the rear axle) then it's not as fast as it could be.
According to Brian Millar, Managing Director of Hawkley International, "Lazalign is a precision built quality product and will compliment Hawkley's existing range of specialised karting measuring equipment." For further details of the product please contact Hawkley International Limited by telephone: 01420 476500, fax: 01420 476500, or visit their website at www.hawkleyint.co.uk.
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TKM 4-Stroke Engine (09/05)
Tal-Ko’s new pioneering TKM 4-stroke kart racing engine has been released to the first customers as production of the high performance new unit moves up a gear. First paid orders for the much awaited new engine were taken in January, exactly one year on from the unit being unveiled at the Autosport International Show. Already the first batch of engines being produced is sold out. But with 500 of most components now in stock the company expect to be in a position within days where they have engines on the shelf ready to deliver.
For Tal-Ko owner Alan Turney delivery of the first new engines comes as culmination of a massive effort over the past three years to take the engine from being an idea to a production item. “It’s a fantastic feeling to know they are out there and racing. It has been a very big project but we feel we have fully met with our target – to produce from a clean sheet of paper a small, lightweight, powerful and reliable 4-stroke able to fit onto traditional 2-stroke karts.” This weekend will see the first TKM 4-stroke karts racing – running on the back of Formula TKM 2-stroke grids. Already there is the promise of special races for the 4-strokes at this year’s MAXXIS TKM Festival at Kimbolton. In addition they are free to race within the open class within the Honda Challenge. Added Alan Turney: “We have a very high level of interest in both junior and senior versions. Many people wanted to see them out there racing before they placed their orders and now they have the chance.”
Tal-Ko has received the green light from the MSA for the new Formula TKM 4-stroke class which will allow use of 40mm rear axle and three rear axle bearings. In most other respects it is similar to the Formula TKM 2-stroke class – though without the need for karts to be UK manufactured. The new TKM 4-stroke engine is 200cc and produces 18BHP in senior form. It has a higher performance than its 2-stroke sister unit while also being substantially quieter. Great emphasis has been placed on making the engine very easy to install and use. Anticipated major rebuild time for the engine is around 100 hours. Cost of the engine is £1595 plus VAT, ready to go. A complete TKM Raider R4 kart with engine ready to drive is £2,795 plus VAT. Full details and regulations are available from Tal-Ko at Sunderland Road, Sandy, Beds SG19 1QY. Tel 01767 682020. Fax 01767 691622.
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Blyton KRC (09/05)
The Blyton Kart Racing Clubs' proposed meeting on 19/20 May has been postponed for 1 week. Sincere apologies from the organisers but due to circumstances beyond their immediate control the meeting will now take place on 26/27 May. All those already booked should contact Wayne on 01472 882960 to confirm they are able to make the revised dates.
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Search For Young Superstars Continues (09/05)
Many of Britain’s top kart racing drivers will be converging on Wigan this weekend (12/13 May) for the second round of the Total-Hill House Hammond S1 National Championships - proving ground for the Grand Prix stars of tomorrow. The ultra fast Three Sisters circuit just outside Wigan is the venue for the next round featuring senior and junior karters and a first ever round for the new Rotax Max class. The Total-Hill House Hammond S1 series brings together top drivers of every age from 8 years upwards competing for the UK’s premier karting titles. Over a total of 14 rounds the prestige honours will be decided across 10 titles including the F1 of British junior karting, the Hill House Hammond MSA British Championship. Also competing are drivers in the UK’s largest category, Formula TKM, where tight regulations place absolute accent on driver ability rather than cheque-book. Current F1 driver Jenson Button is a former junior champion in this class.
TV cameras from Sky TV are recording the action in the Hill House Hammond MSA and Formula TKM classes for showing in the UK and around the world on the popular Fastrax programme. Topping the bill at Wigan will be the top British junior class which saw its first race of the season abandoned two weeks ago at Clay Pigeon, Dorset, because of track flooding in torrential rain. They will be hoping for drier weather on the very fast sweeps at Three Sisters. Racing takes place on Sunday May 13 from around 11am, with testing and some qualification on Saturday. Spectators are welcomed with admission £5 for adults and under 16s free. Said championship spokesman Grahame Butterworth: “The Total-Hill House Hammond series represents the very best in karting. We look forward to this event and to seeing tomorrow’s F1 drivers battling on the track.
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Stowe Circuit (02/05)
Daytona @ Silverstone have announced two owner driver practice sessions in May on the popular high speed Stowe Circuit. The dates are 8th and 22nd May and the cost per kart will be £20 (Limited to 2 drivers per kart, additional drivers must sign on at a cost of £5). The track will be open from 18:00 and practice will cease at 20:30. The session is open to Twin Engine Pro, Thunder and Rotax Max karts.
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Watch Out There's A Thief About (02/05)
More sad stories of karts and equipment being stolen. After Bradley Sargeant lost his Junior Royale from outside of the Bobbin Apple restaurant in Sittingbourne, Alex Waters from Bath has had his unraced Formula TKM outfit and trailer stolen from the driveway of his home on the evening of Friday 27th April. The kart had grey chassis, grey sidepods, nassau and nose cone, Tillet racing seat, brand new ECL electronic timer and spares. The trailer plain white twin axle with a roller shutter door. If anyone has any information please call 01225 311877 (Mr. Waters) or contact the police. A reward is being offered for safe recovery.
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The End Is Nigh! (30/04)
Karting Direct the UK's leading on-line and mail order supplier of karting spares and accessories will be picking the winner of their Prize Draw on Tuesday 1st May so you only have until Monday to enter. The winner will spend a fantastic day out driving six Supercars around one of the countries fastest race tracks. It's easy to enter and full details can be found at http://www.kartingdirect.co.uk/.
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MSA British Kart Championships (30/04)
Dates, venues and contact information of the major championships. View Info...
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S1 Junior Opener Abandoned (23/04)
Torrential non-stop rain brought flooding to the track and the enforced abandonment of the opening junior round of the Total-Hill House Hammond S1 national kart championship. It is the first time ever in the 20 years of the S1 series that an event has been abandoned, but with conditions getting worse it was not even possible to get through all the heats. Just over half of the heats were completed but then as pools started to build at high speed parts of the Clay Pigeon circuit, racing was delayed for an hour to see if there was any improvement. At that point the meeting was then abandoned.
The situation means that drivers will now race over a series with one less event, but will still have one dropped score. So for all classes except JICA it will mean best 4 results from 5 meetings. In JICA - the MSA Hill House Hammond Junior British Kart Championship - the same applies, though they have more races. Championship spokesman Grahame Butterworth said: ”It is a very sad situation after all the work that has gone into the event from competitors and officials. But when you walk around the circuit and see the pools of water you appreciate that it was the correct course of action. Even the commentary box was starting to flood! We hope the next round is rather drier.”
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N.I. Kart Racing (23/04)
Pending any restrictions resulting from the Foot and Mouth crisis, Northern Ireland kart racing drivers will be hoping to be out in force on Saturday 5th May at Nutts Corner Motorsports centre for the Ulster Karting Club's opening round of the tough Ulster Cup series. Drivers in all classes will take on two heats and a final with points from the heats also counting.
Easter Monday and Tuesday saw one of the largest ever turnouts at Nutts Corner for the Nibbles Catering sponsored Ulster Kart Racing Championships. The event comprised of three heats per class on each day with the best two results on each day counting which really showed off the consistent performance of drivers over the two days . The Ulster Karting Club promoted event was the opening event of the season as a result of the previously planned Ulster Cup and NIKA championship rounds which were forced to be cancelled due to the foot and mouth crisis.
Drivers are reminded that the unique Five Nations Championships is slightly earlier this year on 23 & 24 June. Entries will soon be opening and with some very special ferry deals on offer the event will hopefully see a good entry from mainland contenders. Event details as usual from the competition secretary. Special SteanLine offers through the Belfast office Tel 028 9088 4072 including offers for N Ireland drivers racing at mainland events. Club details and any changes due to the foot and mouth crisis can be obtained on the club's temporary web site www.ukc.iwarp.com.
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New Scheme To Develop Future Kart Champions (18/04)
The Motor Sports Association (MSA) and the Association of Racing Karts Schools (ARKS) have announced the launch of "Fit to be a Kart Champion", a new scheme to develop the careers of up to 20 aspiring young kart drivers.
In consultation with the Sports Injury & Human Performance Centre at the National Sports Centre at Lilleshall in Shropshire, a programme has been developed which combines sports fitness and training, diet, nutrition, sports science, mental focus and preparation for competition. Recognising the special role which parents and guardians play in karting, the course will include a separate short session (at no cost to the parents or guardians of successful finalists who wish to attend) led by an experienced sports psychologist. MSA Training & Development Executive Allan Dean-Lewis said: "This initiative follows our successful rally programme last year and is designed to encourage a professional and committed approach from young kart drivers aspiring to become national and international champions."
Entries for the "Fit to be a Kart Champion" initiative are open to kart drivers aged between 14 and 17 on 31 March 2001, who are in membership of an MSA-recognised kart club, hold a 2001 MSA Competition Licence at National A status or above, finished in the top ten of the Super 1, Super 4, Champions of the Future or Honda Challenge series in 2000 and are competing in one of those championships during 2001. Entry is by completion of a detailed questionnaire, available by sending an A5 stamped addressed envelope (marked for the attention of Allan Dean-Lewis, Training & Development Executive) to MSA at Motor Sports House, Riverside Park, Colnbrook, Berkshire SL3 OHG.
Entries close on Monday 30 April 2001. Shortlisted candidates may be called for interview prior to final selection, with announcement of the finalists during May 2001. All successful candidates will be required to attend the Lilleshall Human Performance Centre for two separate one-day sessions, scheduled for the 8 August and 24 October 2001, culminating in certification and award presentations.
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Young Racers Head For Dorset (18/04)
Britain’s top junior kart racing drivers will be converging on Dorset this weekend (April 21/22) for the opening round of the Total-Hill House Hammond S1 National Championships - proving ground for the Grand Prix stars of tomorrow. The meeting will go ahead on the Clay Pigeon circuit between Yeovil and Dorchester, after top level talks to confirm the advisability of running the event amidst the current foot & mouth problem. Special steps will be taken including use of disinfectant on the circuit entrance and a total ban on all domestic animals. Commented championship spokesman Grahame Butterworth: “The decision was not taken lightly. But because the government are actively encouraging people to go out into the country, it seemed fully responsible to proceed.”
The Total-Hill House Hammond S1 series brings together top drivers from 8 - 17 years old competing for the UK’s premier karting titles. Over a total of seven rounds the prestige honours will be decided across five titles including the F1 of British junior karting, the Hill House Hammond MSA British Championship. Also competing are drivers in the UK’s largest category, Formula TKM, where tight regulations place absolute accent on driver ability rather than cheque-book. Current F1 driver Jenson Button is a former junior champion in this class. TV cameras from Sky TV will be recording the action in the Hill House Hammond MSA and Formula TKM classes for showing in the UK and around the world on the popular Fastrax programme.
Racing takes place on Sunday April 22 from around 11am, with testing and some qualification on Saturday. Spectators are welcomed with admission £3 for adults and children free. Added Grahame Butterworth: “The Total-Hill House Hammond series represents the very best in karting. We look forward to the start of this year’s action and to seeing tomorrow’s F1 drivers battling on the track.”
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MAXXIS TKM Festival OK At Kimbolton (17/04)
The MAXXIS TKM Festival has been given the green light to go-ahead after the foot and mouth disease brought a temporary halt to racing at Kimbolton circuit.
Racing will resume at Kimbolton in May after a three month lay-off caused by the disease. Commented club Chairman Mick Nairn: “It’s a great relief to be racing again. The good news is that the Festival will be going ahead as planned.” Full regulations for the event will be available in May from Kimbolton club race secretary Julie Wilson. The MAXXIS TKM Festival takes place on August 11/12 with testing on the Friday. The event is a major occasion with drivers attending from all over the UK. Aside from the Festival races, it also incorporates the prestigious ABkC ‘0’ plate titles for TKM juniors, intermediates and seniors. Full TV coverage for this largest UK kart race meeting of the year will be beamed world-wide and a post-event video available, in addition to the opportunity for motor racing scholarships.
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EcoMoto Sets Lap Record (11/04)
Lee Hollywood driving his LRG/EcoMoto at the recent Formula 6 meeting at Bayford Meadows on Saturday 7th April took the circuits 'Outright Lap Record' with a time of 46.77! The following day at the Trackside EcoMoto/Rotax Max Endurance series Peter Sanders on Nigel Hughes' Hasse/EcoMoto put their kart on Pole in Qualifying and then set the Fastest Lap of the day with a 46.90 secs. For further information on either the EcoMoto or the Trackside Series, contact: barry@invictakarting.fsnet.co.uk.
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Yamaha 'O' Plate Back On (09/04)
The Bridgestone Formula Yamaha '0' Plate will now take place at Fulbeck on the weekend of 21st/22nd April. The format will be three heats and a pre-final, followed by a 28 lap '0' Plate Final. Control slicks will be used along with Parc Ferme for the meeting and Bridgestone YBN's will be supplied as part of your entry package. For further details and entry forms contact: Anne Laws at LKRC on 0191 272 2989.
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FEKC Meeting On (09/04)
Forest Edge Kart Club have now had confirmed from DERA their landlords that the May meeting scheduled for 5th/6th May can go ahead. The extra practice day that was also scheduled for Sunday April 22nd as well as the normal practice the day before the race is also confirmed. DERA have said that racing can go ahead with strict disinfection procedures in place. Full details are being placed on the FEKC web site at www.fekc.co.uk or can be obtained from the Comp Sec - Joy Tolhurst on 01256 893663.
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Summer Series' Commence (06/04)
The Buckmore Park Kart Club Summer 2 stroke Series kicks off on Easter Sunday 15th April. The 8 round championship takes place on the 3rd Sunday of every month (except August). All ABkC non gearbox classes are welcome including Libre and EcoMoto and non BPKC members are also welcomed. Open practice is available on the Wednesday and Saturday immediately preceding each round between 10am and 4pm. Cost is £40 per Kart. Further details from Sheila Rose, Competition Secretary on 01634 201562 ext 210.
Tockwith have the first round of their Summer Series scheduled for this Sunday 8th April with following rounds on Sunday's 13th May, 3rd June, 8th July, 12th August, 23rd September, 28th October, 25th November and 23rd December. Classes include Honda Cadet, Comer Cadet, Senior Prokart, Junior Prokart and Snr/Jnr Rotax Max with practice for all classes on Saturday. Primarily a non-MSA starter club it has a number of drivers that have moved on to National Championships but come back from time to time to race including Adam Willis, James Clink and Trevor George. For more information please contact Carol Moore at Tockwith Motorsport on 01423 358501.
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Ulster Championships Are Go! (04/04)
The Ulster Karting Club confirmed today that it's two day Ulster Championships meeting should go ahead as planned on Easter Monday and Tuesday. Once again the championship has received grateful assistance from Nibbles Catering who have been a firm supporter of the club for some years. The event is one of the club's largest of the year with drivers in all classes taking on a tough series of six races over the two days. The best two results on each day count overall with the winner proving their consistent capabilities overall.
In the wake of the recent foot and mouth crisis, the event will also be the club's opening event of the new season and although subject to a few sensible precautionary measures being taken as advised by the Department of Agriculture the event should run smoothly. The opening two meetings which were opening rounds of the club's Ulster Cup series and the NIKA championship were forced to be cancelled resulting in drivers that were not able to book the circuit for private testing not getting in full race practice. To help make up for the loss of race practice, the club intends to run a full afternoon practice session on Sunday 15th April (starting at noon) in addition to the Thursday evening practice on 12th April (starting at 5pm). Drivers that took on the club's first ever winter series will undoubtedly be in better shape having raced throughout the winter and judging on some of the performances in the series some of the main names could be in for a tougher than expected run. For more club details go to the club's temporary web site www.ukc.iwarp.com.
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Briggs and Stratton (04/04)
Uckfield Motor Sport have been appointed the sole Briggs and Stratton Motor Sport dealer for the UK with effect from the 1st of April, giving a focal point for engine and technical enquires. Parts and engines will be available by Mail Order and also part and full engine rebuilds on all 4 strokes will be still be undertaken. Further information can be obtained by telephoning Uckfield Motor Sport on 01825 763913.
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Rowrah On! (03/04)
Rowrah is definitely on for this weekend. After communicating with MAFF the circuit are clear to race on Sunday 8th April. Normal precautions will be in force at the circuit entrance.
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Premier Championship Gets Under Way (31/03)
Britain’s top kart racing drivers will be converging on Lincolnshire this weekend for the opening round of the Total-Hill House Hammond S1 National Championships - proving ground for the Grand Prix stars of tomorrow.
The meeting will go ahead on the PFI circuit at Brandon near Grantham, after top level talks to confirm the advisability of running the event amidst the current foot & mouth problem. Special steps will be taken including use of disinfectant on the circuit entrance and a total ban on all animals. Commented championship spokesman Grahame Butterworth: “The decision was not taken lightly. But because there is no disease in the area, the circuit is only a very short distance from one of the busiest roads in the country and the government are actively encouraging people to go out into the country, it seemed fully responsible to proceed.” The Total-Hill House Hammond S1 series brings together top drivers competing for the UK’s premier senior karting titles. Over a total of seven rounds the prestige honours will be decided across five titles including the F1 of British karting, the Hill House Hammond MSA British Championship.
Also competing are drivers in the UK’s largest category, Formula TKM, where tight regulations place absolute accent on driver ability rather than cheque-book. Current F1 driver Jenson Button is a former junior champion in this class. TV cameras from Sky TV will be recording the action in the Hill House Hammond MSA and Formula TKM classes for showing in the UK and around the world on the popular Fastrax programme. Racing takes place on Sunday April 8 from around 11am, with testing and some qualification on Saturday. Spectators are welcomed with admission £2 for adults and £1 for children. Added Grahame Butterworth: “The Total-Hill House Hammond series represents the very best in karting. We look forward to the start of this year’s action and to seeing tomorrow’s F1 drivers battling on the track.”
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Success At Whilton Mill (31/03)
It was smiles all round for the SRS Racing team at Whilton Mill on the 25th March. SRS drivers dominated the Rotax Max class in the heats and finals, Steven Johnson won the final in fine style aboard his SRS Biesse kart along with Tom Rossiter and Simon Mason also sharing the glory with heat wins and fastest laps recorded in the heats. Information on the SRS Racing team can be obtained by contacting Stuart Ziemelis at www.srsracing.co.uk.
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165 Dummy Grid About to Close (30/03)
Just a quick reminder for all those people wishing to compete in this year's 165 Challenge that your registration forms must be received by Julie Wilson no later than Thursday 5th April. Details of the challenge can be obtained from the events section on this website under Series, or by logging on to www.165challenge.co.uk.
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TKM Karts Top S1 Qualifiers (30/03)
Tal-Ko manufactured TKM Raider karts have topped the tables in both Junior and Senior Formula TKM qualifying sections of the Total-Hill House Hammond S1 National Kart Championships. James Bean in Juniors and Tom Seward in Seniors head both closely contested categories having selected the new 2001 TKM Raider karts as their choice. The latest spec chassis has already taken a number of wins this year in both wet and dry conditions underlining its competitiveness. Two alternative models are available - the R1 and R3. Details from Tal-Ko at 01767 682020.
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WLKC Summer Series (30/03)
On behalf of WLKC the circuit operators are pleased to announce that an agreement has been reached with the City of Sunderland council allowing the club to run its summer series staring 15th April. Because it is apparent that Foot & Mouth is a long term problem the council has agreed disease control measures with Karting North East allowing it to continue to operate normally. See the KNE website or telephone the circuit for details on 0191 521 4050
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Free Entry to Charity Karting Events (28/03)
Wessex Cancer Trust are organising a series of karting events this year with the top four drivers from each event qualifying for a Grand Final later in the year.
Entry is free, but with the condition that entrants raise sponsorship money for Wessex Cancer Trust. WCT is a major regional cancer charity focused on cancer care, education, prevention & research. There are some major motorsport prizes lined up for the event winner and also those who raise the most money for the charity, including rides in Ferraris and Porsches at Thruxton, tours of the Williams Factory, and at least ten other significant awards. Race dates are expected to be;
6th May - Eastleigh, 3rd June - Andover, 17th June - Aldershot, 8th July - Gosport, 7th October - Christchurch, 14th October - Swindon. Further details and entry forms are available from the event organiser, Liam Sweeney, on 023 8026 6876.
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Honda Cadet Championship (28/03)
Cumbria Kart Racing Club, operating from the Rowrah circuit, have announced that they will be running a Honda Cadet Club Championship for the first time ever in 2001. This is in response to increasing grids and the need to support and reward those drivers who support the Club. Club Vice President, Malcolm Fell, said "We have seen an increase in numbers in this class and see a need to maintain their interest in the Club and the circuit. With the increased performance from the Honda's, we feel that they deserve their own race and will certainly give them that if the entries warrant it. For the time being, they may race with the Comers - but are challenging for their own Championship."
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Well Done (28/03)
Well done to James Russell, Project One Racing and Andy Waterman on winning the Bayford Meadows Senior Max Winter Championship. 15 year old James came from Junior Royale and moved into senior Max from 1st January as probably one of the youngest Max drivers in the UK. He bought a Gold Firefox chassis and has been helped by Project One Racing and Andy Waterman, clinching the title in the final round on Sunday. As well as winning the championship James also managed to squeeze in wins at PF and an endurance too.
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CotF Web Site Launched (27/03)
The Official Champions of the Future website has now been launched. Fixtures, results, driver profiles and more are already on-line and regular site updates are promised, particularly prior to each round due to the current Foot and Mouth crisis. For more information visit www.champions-of-the-future.tv.
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More Congratulations (27/03)
Century Race Preparation would like to congratulate their driver Nathan Freke on winning the 125 Open Long Circuit O Plate / UK Cup at Cadwell Park 20/3/1. Nathan won all three races during the day from a very strong field, setting the fastest lap in each race. At 17 he is the youngest winner of this event, driving his Beaumont Pavesi / Century prepared Gold Kart outfit. Any body interested in taking up 125 gearbox racing and trying this equipment should look at www.century-karting.co.uk for details.
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Congratulations (23/03)
Kart-E-Quip would like to send congratulations to Matt Hamilton on winning the Buckmore winter series convincingly on the new Cool Kart. From 9 races he won 7, and came 2nd in the remaining 2. Good luck in the Super 1 British Champs.
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Foot and Mouth - Food for Thought (22/03)
Cancel all sporting activity, don't venture into the countryside, be prepared to be disinfected, batten down the hatches! Scary headlines, but what more if anything should be done regarding Foot & Mouth disease?
Here is an article received earlier this week.
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Kart Race Industry Suffers (19/03)
The UK's kart racing industry is being severely hit by the foot & mouth restrictions on the sport - highlighted still further with the cancellation of the final junior qualifying round of the Total-Hill House Hammond S1 National Championships.
The British Kart Industry Association reports a serious downturn in business for its members as race meetings are cancelled around the country - often at short notice, but there is anger that while some race meetings have been forced to shut, the circuits involved have then run test days with large number of competitors attending. Anger too that other events such as football are still taking place.
The BKIA, which represents the main professionals within the industry, says members are losing significant amounts of business as a direct result of the disease and will be seeking opportunities for the Government to offer compensation for the losses. BKIA spokesman Grahame Butterworth explained: "Naturally we are concerned over the impact on the farming community but ultimately we have to look to the continuation of our own businesses. What seems very unfortunate is the rather haphazard way in which events are cancelled and then replaced by test days - with maybe as many or more people attending. In other cases it just means drivers travel further to race. Such a situation does no-one any good. Furthermore we see no signs of football matches being shelved - events which carry many times more people around the roads than our own sport. We understand the need to take steps but such steps need to be better thought through, better organised and where necessary, backed by compensation."
The effects on the industry are widespread across manufacturers, retailers and teams. Many thousands of pounds are being lost every week. Alan Turney, boss of Tal-Ko, the UK's largest kart engine manufacturer and Chairman of the BKIA says: "The effect has been swift. For example tyre sales have plummeted this month. Everyone within the trade is being hit and some businesses will not only have to put staff on short-time but actually go under. We need good planning and compensation to help us through this difficult period. The kart industry is being devastated by others."
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Munns & Scott (19/03)
Trackside Karting are pleased to announce that they will be entering a team in this year's GT1 Challenge. The Drivers have been announced as Edward Munns and Danny Scott who raced in Trackside's own Rotax endurance championship as team Ace Wines. The team will be running on Eglem's new Le Mans chassis for which Trackside have been appointed UK distributor, with backing from Ace Wine Stores, Teng Tools, Pit Displays International and Sprint Engineering UK. Trackside can be contacted on 01795 47 33 00.
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Fairmont Driver Support (16/03)
Fairmont Motorsport Insurance are pleased to announce that in conjunction with the launch of their web site, www.fairmontinsure.com they will be supporting Viktor Jensen and Dan Burke in the Junior Rotax championships this year.
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S1 Junior Qualifier Cancelled (15/03)
The Super 1 series has been forced to cancel this weekend's final junior qualifier for the Total-Hill House Hammond kart championships following a last minute decision by Sunderland council who own the circuit. Late Wednesday afternoon the council insisted on the meeting being cancelled in the face of the growing Foot & Mouth crisis. With no more time for another round it means that qualification will be taken from the first round held at Lydd a few weeks ago. Competitors will be notified of their points. However at present the senior qualifier due for the following weekend at Buckmore Park is still on. Commented S1 organiser Neil Hann: "We are obviously very disappointed with the news but in the face of the current situation there is nothing we can do and no more time to run another round."
Warden Law is still open to owner drivers wishing to do any normal testing, and at the present time the club meeting is still scheduled to go ahead on Sunday 15th April.
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Yamaha '0' Plate Postponed (13/03)
This event is no longer postponed. Click here for details.
The Yamaha '0' plate due to take place at Fulbeck later this month has been postponed until the weekend of 21/22 April.
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Karting Fun Night (13/03)
On the evening of Friday 20th April, DJ Motorsport are holding a fun event at Buckmore Park using twin-engine Honda Prokarts. A 1 hour endurance race for 2 driver teams with 15 minute driver changes, full driver briefing, presentation ceremony with trophies, a special husband & wife (or similar!) class, and more. Do something different on a Friday night, get some friends together for a fun night of racing! For more information call Phil on 01634 719791 or e-mail: fun@djmotorsport.co.uk.
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S1 Qualifiers (12/03)
The final two qualifying rounds of the Total-Hill House Hammond S1 National Kart Championships have been given the go-ahead subject to no major changes in the foot & mouth situation.
The qualifiers for Formula TKM, Cadets and Rotax Max are scheduled for Warden Law this weekend (juniors) and Buckmore Park on March 25 (seniors). First rounds of the full championship which includes the junior and senior MSA British kart titles are due for seniors at PFI on April 8 and at Clay Pigeon on April 22 for juniors. If any changes occur in the situation they will be announced immediately.
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Preliminary Deals (12/03)
Early indications from Quote4insurance are that their 'Spotters' have awarded Luke Caudle from north London £1000, and Gary Freeman of Barnet is to get sponsorship in 3 stages and an offer of a 10 year sponsorship deal. They have been surprised by the number of letters received from karting sponsorship hopefuls giving details of their achievements and the company is currently looking to increase their commitment to the sport.
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NIKA Championship Blow (11/03)
For the second week running, it looks like The Ulster Karting Club will be forced to cancel a kart race at Nutts Corner Motor Sports Centre.
The club was due to hold the opening round of the NIKA championship on 17th March and although the circuit owners Antrim Borough Council are not being committal at present it is most likely that the event will be cancelled. The statements yesterday on national press by Briege Rodgers, Minister for Agriculture, indicated that the situation regarding the foot and mouth disease is still extremely serious and for event organisers to continue with event cancellations.
Despite some controversy over the types of events not being cancelled and that venues like Nutts Corner can still be privately hired by groups of individuals, the club is determined to be a part of the prevention of any further outbreaks of the agriculture crippling disease. If the cancellation of events continues, other karting clubs will also soon suffer. The club has also opened a temporary web site www.ukc.iwarp.com for anyone interested in monitoring the situation and includes the race dates for this season in the club. This site will also be updated until the club's own site is launched later this month. The club gratefully requests that drivers monitor the usual media sources, and the various web sites for up to date information. Hopefully the calendar of events for April will go ahead as scheduled.
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Peel Kart GP (08/03)
Due to circumstances beyond their control the Isle of Man Kart Racing Association have announced with deep regret that this year's Kart Racing Festival at Peel scheduled for the 27th to 30th June 2001 has been cancelled.
The road is currently undergoing major work, and information initially received gave the completion date as end of May, but it has now been confirmed that this will not happen and works are not now scheduled to finish until 17th August 2001. The inconvenience this has caused is regretted both for the many that enjoy the racing at Peel and for the club themselves who look forward to running this event. All possible alternatives were investigated but at the end of the day their only choice was to cancel. The Association have received assurances from local companies that for those who have already booked, you will be able to receive full refunds. Should any problems occur please contact either Ian Smith on 01624-629060 or Brett Hammonds on 01624-617158 who are in the process of issuing refunds to those people that have already paid their entries.
The Isle of Man Kart Racing Association look forward to seeing everyone in 2002 and assure everyone they’ll be back, bigger and better!
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Ulster Cup Update (07/03)
This Saturday was planned to see the provinces kart racing drivers roar into action again at Nutts Corner Motorsports centre for the opening round of the Ulster Karting Club's Ulster Cup series. However, like a number of other sports the event has unfortunately been cancelled as a result of the Foot and Mouth disease.
Up until last weekend, motorsport events at permanent race circuits were not affected with events in Southern Ireland and events using the likes of public roads being those most affected, some being cancelled right up to 5th April. However on Tuesday afternoon the club was notified by the circuit owners, Antrim Borough Council, that a decision had been take following consultations with the Ministry of Agriculture.
Last Saturdays opening practice meeting was also forced to be cancelled by the Council mostly due to the track being covered in ice following the previous weeks snow falls. Like all sports organisers cancellations are a bitter blow but the club is well aware that this particular disease must be prevented. Hopefully the race programme can be resumed as soon as possible.
The club has opened a temporary web site www.ukc.iwarp.com for anyone interested in monitoring the situation. This site will also be updated until the club's own site is launched later this month.
The club would be grateful that competitors do not ring them at present as the situation is out of their hands. Event rescheduling will be relayed via the media and the Web site.
The Ulster Cup championship is one of the most challenging with drivers scoring points in both the two heats and the final at each championship round. With consistency overall therefore being vital to good results the early rounds would have undoubtedly be well attended. The championship follows hot on the heels of a well attended Winter Series which was a first for the club. But with a number of last years top Ulster Cup drivers not taking part in the winter series, the drivers that were competing are still in full race fitness and could well take the early championship lead. The rescheduled and possibly shortened championship will now be even more competitive than ever.
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Green Light Given (06/03)
Buckmore Park:
The E.K.C. Round, Club Meeting and Super One qualifier are going ahead. As of
today's date the BPKC has been advised by the MSA that the above three MSA
licensed events scheduled for the weekend of the 10th/11th, 17th/18th and
24th/25th March need not be cancelled. All access to Buckmore Park is via the
motorway system. The MAFF has also advised Buckmore Park that they have no
objection to any events taking place at the park. Therefore all entries for the
above meetings should be made as normal. If for any reason the situation
changes, the BPKC will notify drivers via the UK Karting website and the club
phone voice mail Ext. 210.
Ellough Park:
Following yesterday's news of
track closure, Ellough Park Raceway has now been allowed to reopen. There will
be two stroke testing there this Saturday (10th March). For further details call
Dawn on 01508 493822 or Richard on 07798 606518.
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160 Challenge Gets Heavy (05/03)
New regulations mean that the successful 160 Challenge has been renamed 165 Challenge and now carries a minimum weight limit of 165Kgs. The 2001 series starts at Buckmore Park on 15 April and those wishing to submit last minute applications should take a look at the UK Karting events calendar (under series) for further information and registration details. The series will consist of 9 rounds with 6 to count and all applications must be received by 05 April 2001. Website at: http://www.165challenge.co.uk/
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Ellough Park Raceway (05/03)
Ellough Park regret Great Ormond Street have withdrawn from the "Grand Opening" event on 5th May and have reluctantly decided to cancel the event. An alternative event is being planned... Watch this space for news. Due to the Foot and Mouth outbreak, the circuit was closed on Friday 2nd March. However, the circuit land owners have been in regular contact with the authorities and hope to have a meeting tomorrow (Tuesday) to look at ways of reopening as soon as possible. It is likely that the circuit can be reopened for the testing session this weekend (Saturday 10th). Please call 01603 486655 for up to date information. On a more positive note, the construction of the new clubhouse and race control is now well under way and is already drawing plenty of complimentary remarks!
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Ulster Cup (03/03)
Saturday 10th March is planned to see Northern Ireland's kart racing drivers roar into action again at Nutts Corner Motorsports centre for the opening round of the Ulster Karting Club's Ulster Cup series.
However, all drivers and spectators are asked to maintain a close watch on the various media sources over this week as the MSA, the governing body for motorsport in the UK, may force the cancellation of the meeting due to the potential for foot and mouth disease to be spread. To clarify some comments in the recent local press, motorsport events at permanent race circuits were as of Saturday 3rd March not affected with events in Southern Ireland and events using the likes of public roads being those most affected, some being cancelled right up to 5th April. Saturdays (3rd March) opening practice meeting was forced to be cancelled by the circuit owners Antrim Borough Council mostly due to the track being covered in ice following the previous weeks snow falls. However, they too could impose restrictions on the event pending reviews this week between them and MSA.
The club has opened a temporary web site www.ukc.iwarp.com for anyone interested in monitoring the situation. This site will be updated until the club's own site is launched later this month. Assuming that this Saturdays meeting does go ahead as planned, drivers will get extra practice.
The Ulster Cup championship is one of the most challenging with drivers scoring points in both the two heats and the final at each championship round. With consistency overall therefore being vital to good results the early rounds will undoubtedly be well attended. The championship follows hot on the heels of a well attended Winter Series which was a first for the club. But with a number of last years top Ulster Cup drivers not taking part in the winter series, the drivers that were competing are still in full race fitness and could well take the early championship lead.
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Super 1 Qualifier Goes Ahead (01/03)
This weekend's senior qualifier for the Total-Hill House Hammond S1 kart championships has been given the green light to proceed despite the current Foot & Mouth disease scare.
The event, to be held at the Three Sisters Circuit, Wigan, has been approved by the circuit operators, by Wigan local authorities and Motor Sports Association, and has been referred to the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries.
Since the circuit is based in an industrial area right by key motorway links the event will proceed, though even at this stage the Ministry could force a last minute ban if there is a sudden change in the current situation.
The event is the first senior qualifier for the top national kart championships with drivers from the popular Formula TKM and Rotax classes competing to make it into the main series.
Announcements on the forthcoming junior and senior qualifiers will be made at a later date.
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GT Challenge Junior Max Enduro Sprint (01/03)
Following the success of the GT Challenge Rotax Max Endurance, Organiser Graham Morris has announced the launch of a new Junior championship. The GT Challenge Junior Max Enduro Sprint. Beginning in June at Buckmore Park, the series will give the juniors a taste of a different format of racing and will create a natural breeding ground to develop the single seater drivers of the future. The eight round series will comprise of a fifteen minute timed qualifier followed by a ten lap Pre-Final. The event will conclude with an enduro-sprint of sixteen laps. This format, with longer than usual races, will allow the juniors to consider their tactics and think through the strategy for the event as a whole rather than the mad dash, do or die of conventional sprint meetings and more in line with mainstream motor race events.
Eight rounds are planned from June to November, the series will be contested at the three circuits favoured by the Max drivers in the main GT Challenge. Buckmore Park (June 17th, July 15th and September 16th) Bayford Meadows (August 26th, October 28th and November 25th) and Lydd (October 7th and November 4th.) Each round of the championship is integral to the normal club race calendar for each circuit which permits those drivers with brothers, sisters or even dads who race in other classes to fit this new championship into already busy diaries.
Run under the usual M.S.A licence and to the standard M.S.A rule book, the series makes a welcome addition to the ever more popular world of Rotax Max racing. As with its big brother, the GT Challenge, future plans include television coverage and a possible scholarship to assist young talent to pursue a planned path up the motor racing ladder, irrespective of income. Further information is available from Graham Morris at M Sport motor racing and promotions, who can be contacted on 01795 439705 or via e-mail: gkmsport@aol.com The incredible success of the GT Challenge over the last three seasons has proved that there is a huge demand for reliable, fast and competitive two-stroke racing. The new Junior Max Enduro-Sprint series provides the perfect breeding ground for the future.
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Cancelled Meeting (01/03)
The Forest Edge Kart Club meeting due to take place this weekend (3rd & 4th March) has been cancelled due to the 'Foot and Mouth' epidemic. http://www.fekc.co.uk/.
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Century (01/03)
Century Race Preparation have been appointed authorised distributors for Teng Tools in the karting arena. Enquiries for more information should be directed to Century via e mail to sales@century-karting.co.uk Trade enquiries are welcomed.
Century would also like to congratulate their race team for the results at 3 Sisters and Whilton Mill last weekend with Nathan Freke winning the 3 Sisters 125 Open on his Pavesi / Gold outfit, and Project One's finishing 1, 2, 3, 4 & 6th in Senior TKM, and also Rotax Heavy winners. Whilton Mill 2, 4, & 5th in senior TKM.
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Rissington Meeting Cancelled (28/02)
Rissington Kart Club regrets to announce that its season opener on 3rd/4th March has had to be cancelled, due to the national 'Foot and Mouth' epidemic. The club has been refused permission to use the circuit on the grounds of public health, making the meeting the latest in a long line of national sporting events to be called off this weekend. Anyone that had entered the meeting will have their fees automatically carried forward to the next event on April 1st. However, drivers are advised that they must still send in a new entry form for the event, but without enclosing payment if applicable. For full details, visit the club's new website at www.rissykartclub.com.
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Sponsorship Offered (28/02)
Quote4insurance.co.uk are offering sponsorship to karters. Varying levels of sponsorship will be available for up to three lucky karters and to apply all you need to do is to state in writing the reasons why you feel you should be sponsored and send in some photographs too, you must also detail any existing sponsorship arrangement already in place. Everyone that writes in with his or her achievement stories will receive a free Baseball cap and the karters considered to have sent the most apt story will be included in the Quote4Insurance awards for sponsorship scheme. So put pen to paper and send off with some photographs as you might be one of the lucky ones, and from all letters received some will be selected at random and published in the special karting section soon to be set-up on the Quote4Insurance website. All those interested should write to:
Quote4insurance Kart
Sponsorship,
FREEPOST ANG 0887,
Potters Bar,
Hertfordshire,
EN6 4BR.
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New Buckmore Clubhouse (28/02)
Buckmore Park boss Bill Sisley has recently received full and final planning approval from Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council of the radically revised plans for the circuit's new £1m clubhouse. Bill explained: "The original plans, which were passed a few years ago, became outdated as the circuit grew in popularity. The new design takes advantage of the latest in building techniques and will comfortably cater for our 150,000 visitors each year. Initially we planned to start construction this spring but we didn't want the work to disrupt our summer season. The project will now get underway on 1st November, with completion scheduled for March 2002."
The ground floor area includes an 85-seat cafeteria/restaurant, bar, kitchens, changing rooms with showers, toilets, medical centre, lift, merchandise area, viewing terrace and access to a new corporate pit lane. The top floor will feature a 200-seat conference/briefing room with internet-linked audiovisual facilities, toilets, additional catering facilities and a licensed bar. Large folding screens will allow the main room to be divided into smaller hospitality suites or meeting rooms, each with access to the balcony offering panoramic views of the circuit and surrounding woodland. Further development at Buckmore includes: a pedestrian bridge to link the paddock with the new clubhouse; an additional small paddock building incorporating a fast-food restaurant, medical room and toilets; and a children's karting area for 3-8 year-olds.
Click on the pictures below for larger images.
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| The new bridge. | Circuit Plan incorporating the new developments. | Plans of the new Club House. | Front view of the new Club House. | Front view of the new paddock. |
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Raider Heads The Pack (27/02)
Formula TKM newcomer James Bean scorched to victory in the first round of the Total-Hill House Hammond S1 junior qualifiers at Lydd, underlining the outstanding speed of the new TKM Raider R1 kart. Bean, runner up in the S1 Yamaha class last year, switched to the new TKM Raider kart this year and looks set to be a front-runner in the Junior TKM class. Bean is one of a number of front running drivers making the new TKM karts their choice for top honours in 2001. In past years TKM karts have taken numerous top titles.
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Prices Reduced (27/02)
Karting Direct the UK's leading on-line supplier of karting spares and accessories has reduced the price of race tyres from Bridgestone, Dunlop, Maxxis and Vega. They hold large stocks at the best prices for free next day delivery. For every set of tyres purchased you get two bonus entries in the Karting Direct prize draw. See the web site for further details http://www.kartingdirect.co.uk/.
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Yamaha '0' Plate (26/02)
The Bridgestone Formula Yamaha '0' Plate will take place at Fulbeck on Sunday 25th March. The format will be three heats and a 18 qualifying final (which will also qualify for points for the 'Yamaha Challenge Winter Series') this is followed by a 28 lap '0' Plate Final. Control slicks will be used along with Parc Ferme for the meeting and Bridgestone YBN's will be supplied as part of your entry package. For further details & entry forms contact: Anne Laws at LKRC on 0191 272 2989.
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Super 1 Expands (23/02)
Total joins Hill House Hammond as Title Sponsor for premier talent finding Kart Series Super 1. Britain's premier karting championships will be bigger and better than ever in 2001 with a new title, expanded classes, new format and additional race meetings.
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The Total-Hill House Hammond S1 National Championships is the new title for the series, with the Total brand name replacing that of its sister Elf company - though Elf fuels and lubricants will continue to be used within karting and S1. The other main title sponsor is Hill House Hammond Insurance Services, which continues its long association with the series and also puts its name to the two Motor Sports Association classes for British Junior and Senior titles. Tal-Ko continues its long running support for S1 as does control fuel supplier Atol and a host of other smaller sponsors including tyre companies who help take the prize value for the championships to well past the £50,000 mark.
A record entry of around 550 drivers makes it the biggest S1 series ever with Rotax Max junior and senior classes added for the first time this year. The Yamaha class has been dropped because of its poor entry level. Formula TKM is again the largest category with a massive entry for Junior and Senior requiring qualifiers and more than 30 in Intermediates.
The format of the series has undergone a change in line with competitor needs. The Irish round for JICA and Formula A has been dropped but in its place there are now a total of eight senior rounds and six junior. All junior classes will race at all junior rounds, though the JICAs have an extra senior round at Three Sisters in May. Meanwhile in Senior there is a rota of classes that will have two rounds off for each class except FA which has just one round off. There's also a change in format to allow for more race time and give the teams a better chance of getting their set up right for timed practice in both JICA and FA. These two classes will now qualify late on Saturday afternoon at the end of testing in traditional 3 lap format. Also introduced for the first time is timed qualifying for the ICA class which will be held on Sunday morning and will effectively replace their first heat. The system has been introduced at driver request and will take the form of two 10 minute sessions with drivers drawing for which session they go in. They can do as many laps as they wish but set up adjustments within the pits or on circuit will not be allowed.
The Total-Hill House Hammond series will again feature strongly on TV with an end of year compilation video. Final details of the coverage spread are currently being finalised with UK and world-wide satellite coverage already guaranteed. Newsletters and communication with competitors will be continued and increased, while an upgraded level of PR activity will provide further promotional opportunities for drivers under the guidance of experienced motor sport PR specialist Impact Public Relations. Other features include a new information and presentation centre as well as the introduction of a new driver conduct format.
Neil Hann, the man behind the series says: "S1 is bigger and better in a number of ways and looks forward to a highly successful year. We welcome Total as a new joint title sponsor with Hill House Hammond, and say a big thank you to those companies who have continued the support which has enabled S1 to maintain its own growth. We look forward to some great racing."
The provisional calendar can be found in the Events Section...
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New TM's (23/02)
The new TM engines have arrived and are now being tested. For the 100 classes there is the K10 Piston Port, the K11 Reed for ICA and the K12 Rotary for use in Formula A. Having previously made only gearbox motors, these water-cooled engines are TM's first venture into the 100cc market where they are confident of achieving success. Orders are now being taken at Ferrari Racing and you can place yours by contacting Bruno Ferrari on 020 8427 3247 or e-mail: sales@ferrari-racing.net
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Websites Launched (23/02)
The Williams F1 Karting Team and Rissington Kart Club are launching new websites.
The WilliamsF1 Karting team have announced the launch of their new website along with their sponsorship line-up for 2001. After a mixed season in 2000 the WilliamsF1 Karting drivers are looking forward to more success in 2001 and they will be competing in both the AutoChallenge and the Corporate Challenge as organised by the KartChallenge Series (www.kartchallenge.com) running Biz TKM's. The drivers will also be donating £1000 towards the Spinal Injuries Association, WilliamsF1's official charity. For more information, news and results of the 2001 season, go to www.williamsf1karting.co.uk.
Rissington will become one of the first major UK kart clubs to launch its own website, when www.rissykartclub.com goes on line at the beginning of March. Designed by TKM racer and long-time club member, Robin Antill, the site is designed to bring all the latest information to drivers and spectators alike and will provide a comprehensive results service, being updated with race reports and updated championship tables directly after each meeting. Surfers will also be able to access all the latest club news, study detailed circuit information, and download race entry forms. Profiles of drivers, officials and all current karting classes will also be posted on the site.
For spectators, an events calendar will be on display, as well as useful information regarding local facilities and directions for finding the circuit. For anyone interesting in launching their racing careers, there will also be a special section called ‘starting karting’, full of tips and advice for the would-be racer. Having completed the project in less than three weeks, former Rissington club champion Antill, commented; "It has been a great challenge, but a delight as it combines my love of Karting, my interest in the Internet and in website design. It also enables me to give something back to the sport and to Rissington in particular."
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Pssstt! (22/02)
We hear there's a special offer currently available on the Parilla Leopard. A complete ready to race outfit for £2000 including VAT, but be quick, there are only five available. Call Bruno on 020 8427 3247 or e-mail: bruno@ferrari-racing.net.
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Rissington Kart Club Celebrating Success (22/02)
After a highly enjoyable 2000, members of Rissington kart club gathered at the Gloucester Moat House Hotel last month, for their annual awards ceremony.
Around 200 drivers, officials, mechanics and supporters enjoyed reliving a hugely successful season for the club, which saw strong grids throughout the season and the introduction of pre-race day Saturday testing to the calendar for the first time.
"Last season was superb," said circuit commentator, Chris Hartley, "the action was closer than ever in the junior categories and we saw An encouraging growth in classes such as Junior TKM Intermediate and Formula Rotax Max.
"For me though, the highlight was watching the 250 Nationals. The field comprised some first-rate drivers and it was a real privilege for the club to host the final round of the Super 4 series in October. We're already looking forward to welcoming the Senior Super 1series for its final round this October."
As well presenting the top drivers from each class with their prizes, the club also handed out a number of special awards on the evening. These included 'Best up-and-coming Driver', with Ashley Harris taking the Junior award and Lloyd Williams taking the senior equivalent. And despite failing to win the 250 championship, Mally Witts was voted 'Best Gearbox' after a highly impressive 2000, which saw him take 3rd place in the Super 4 championship.
Easily the biggest cheer of the evening though, came when the inaugural 'Endeavour Award' was presented to paraplegic driver, Lee Shepherd, who had a highly impressive debut season in 250 Nationals.
On a sadder note, the club also gave a posthumous award to 250 International champion, Mike Young, who died tragically at the end of last year. Mike's wife was on hand to collect the award to rapturous applause, which indicated just how much Mike would be missed by all at the club.
The ceremony ended on a high, when the winners from each class were recalled to the stage, to compete in a champions version of 'The Weakest Chainlink' - a spoof of a certain BBC quiz show. The losers, who were voted off with great passion by the audience, went away with 'booby' prizes that included rags and kart-cleaner, while the eventual winner - Cadet Luke Jones - won a copy of the 2000 Formula One Yearbook.
Finally, there was a surprise 'This Is Your Life' presentation for Brian Clark, the former Isle of Man TT racer who has dedicated more than ten years of his life to Rissington, first as Club Secretary and more recently as Club Chairman. Brian was presented with a special gift, to show the club's gratitude for all of his hard work during the past decade.
The club would also like to pass on their sincere thanks to all of the unsung heroes, who helped to make the 2000 season such a success.
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Parilla Engines Are Here (16/02)
The 2001 Parilla's have now arrived and the first examples of the all new TM 100cc engines are due next week, Jica, Ica, FA, as well as the K99 125 reed. Further information from Ferrari Racing at 020 8427 3247 or e-mail: bruno@ferrari-racing.net Jica, ICA, FA and LC conversions, and of course the Leopard.
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Red Lodge Plans Approved (16/02)
Plans for the first purpose built rallycross circuit to go alongside the already established Red Lodge Karting Circuit were unanimously approved by Forest Heath District Council this week. If East Cambridgeshire District Council do likewise, the Karting Centre will develop pit garages for karts, cars and conference and leisure facilities, including ten pin bowling, for a comprehensive motorsport family day out. For more details about the centre and their ongoing plans visit their website at www.redlodge.co.uk
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Just Missing Out? (15/02)
Do you often just miss out on picking up a trophy? If so, you should consider joining an Advance Leisure hire-kart event on the 29th April as they still have a few spaces on the grid for teams to take part in a Pro-Kart event at Sandown Park, and trophies for the top five finishers are up for grabs. There’s 30mins practice/qualifications on brand new 75mph JB Pro-Karts (exclusive to the Advance Leisure series), free team action photos, a race report and 30+ teams at every race. For further information call Danny on: 01689-861336 or email: danny@advanceleisure.com.
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Gearbox '0' Plate (09/02)
The Gearbox 0 plate for 125 National, 125 Open, 250 Int, 250 National and Junior Gearbox will take place at Rowrah on the 3rd and 4th March. Super 4 competitors will be mailed an entry form automatically, anyone else wanting regs/etc should contact Marion Fell on 01229 463 748 or marion@markfell.co.uk.
Also hurry, hurry, hurry, - Junior Gearboxes will be racing at the Rowrah club meeting this weekend, if any junior g/box wants to race they should contact Marion ASAP.
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Silverstone Stowe Circuit (09/02)
Silverstone Karting Centre will be running 2 kart events on the Stowe Circuit in March.
There will be an Open Practice session on the 25th March from 4pm to 7pm and Pro, Thunder and Rotax Max karts are all welcome. In addition a 4-Hour Endurance Race is scheduled for the 18th March. Program kicks off at 8am. There will be two classes, Hire Kart and Owner Driver. The race is open to Twin GX160cc Pro Kart and Thunder Karts. For further information and costs e-mail; karting@silverstone-circuit.co.uk or call 01327 320425.
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Specialist Kart Insurance (03/02)
Details of Fairmont Motorsport Insurance Services' karting insurance scheme can now to be found on their website, where cover may be purchased on-line via an application form. Further details at www.fairmontinsure.com.
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The Missing Link? (03/02)
Over in Oz they believe they have found the 'Missing Link' in kart chassis alignment equipment.
Designed following a racing incident "Lazalign" is different in that most alignment systems only focus on the front end, measuring the position of one stub axle relative to the other. Lazalign incorporates Class 2 Lasers to simultaneously indicate perpendicular squareness to the rear axle as the front end is being adjusted. It is claimed that results are stunning with perfect alignment every time, - side to side and front to back. Eliminate 'crabbing', reduce rolling resistance, reduce tyre wear, and achieve more even handling to both sides say Lazalign, if it's not straight (perpendicular to the rear axle) then it's not as fast as it could be. Check out Lazalign at www.kartcom.com.au.
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WLKC Date Change (03/02)
Due to the Super One qualifier taking place on 18th March the Warden Law Kart Club meeting will now be two weeks earlier on 4th March.
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Want To Drive A Diablo? (02/02)
A new business was launched recently. Karting Direct is the web-based retailer for all your karting spares and accessories. We have combined a comprehensive range of karting products at very competitive prices with the convenience of 24 hours a day, seven days a week secure online ordering. Large stocks at low prices, fast, easy to use, convenient and secure online ordering or telephone sales, Monday to Friday from 9am to 7pm and a total commitment to the very best customer service.
To celebrate the launch of Karting Direct they are holding a prize draw. It's easy to enter and you could be driving the Lamborghini Diablo SV and five other Super Cars around one of the UK's fastest race tracks. Go to www.kartingdirect.co.uk for more information.
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Congratulations (02/02)
Century Race Preparation would like to congratulate drivers on the new Project One Evo2 chassis for their results in the last 2 weeks. Tom Onslow-Cole winning J TKM at PFI, and Jon Barnes winning Senior TKM at 3 Sisters. The chassis also won both Junior and Senior at Bayford Meadows, and Juniors at Buckmore Park. Any one wishing to test this chassis can contact Century on 01562 632032. Also making its debut at 3 Sisters was the new Pavesi LAM 98 reed valve in 125 open piloted by Nathaniel Freke. This engine can also be tested through Century.
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Maxxis Continue Support For Formula TKM (31/01)
MAXXIS Tyres, one of the world's leading suppliers of kart race tyres, has pledged another three years of support to Formula TKM and its annual Festival at Kimbolton.
Over the past three years the MAXXIS Formula TKM Festival at Kimbolton has built to be the largest kart racing event in the UK bringing together drivers of every age and level of skill from throughout the country. The hard working Kimbolton organising team has continued to expand the event each year bringing more and more drivers to compete including the first ever class for veterans. Now MAXXIS has pledged its support for another three years at least as part of its continued support of karting in the UK - a support which grows again still further with the use of MAXXIS tyres for the new TKM 4-stroke class. The backing of MAXXIS has made possible continued improvements at the TKM Festival including world-wide TV exposure with six separate programmes from the event beamed to more than 200 million homes.
MAXXIS European representative Louis te Lintelo of Harm Schuurman BV commented: "We have been delighted at the success and growth of the TKM Festival which is a superb race meeting run by a very good club. We look forward to its continued growth." And TKM's Alan Turney added: "We believe the combination of drivers of every age and skill at one race meeting makes for a great atmosphere and has really captured everyone's attention. We have further innovations which we are confident will continue to maintain the premier position of this superb event in British karting. We should all be proud of what has been established." One of the special elements of the event has been the creation of two separate levels within one race meeting with club drivers competing for their own Festival trophies at the same meeting as the top national level drivers racing for the ABkC '0' plates.
The date for this year's TKM Festival has been confirmed for August 11/12 with testing on the Friday. Full details and entry forms will be issued shortly.
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Cancer Research Campaign Endurance Race (30/01)
It's time to help The Cancer Research Campaign again in a 2 1/2 hour Endurance Karting Challenge at Streatham Kart Raceway on Saturday 10th March 2001 (5.30pm - 10pm).
This challenge offers you the exclusive chance to burn rubber and help beat cancer by raise vital funds. You are guaranteed an exhilarating and memorable evening, which can be as competitive or as fun as you would like to make it. It costs just £250 for a team of 4-10 people to take part (For a team of 10 that is only £25 per person). If you would like to raise even more money for The Cancer Research Campaign you may wish to obtain team sponsorship, e.g. £1 per lap, this is not essential. However, the team incentive prizes that are on offer may encourage some of you to do this:
There are only 15 team places per event - so hurry! If you would like to take part, please call Harriet 0207 820 6911 or e-mail londonevents@crc.org.uk.
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Laptop To Stopwatch (30/01)
Lapsmart the software that turns your laptop into a stopwatch are soon to finish offering their CD at the special introductory price. With no transponder or beacon required it's easy to use and currently available at only £10. Further details can be found at http://www.lapsmart.com/.
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Thumbs Up For Gravitron Electric Race Kart (25/01)
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Stuart Ziemelis, three
times karting champion, put the Gravitron Electric Race Kart through
its paces on the indoor track at the Autosport Show, NEC Birmingham on
Sunday 14th January 2001.
The Gravitron G60 race kart was the only electric kart demonstrated at this year’s Autosport event. The demonstration started with Stuart putting his foot down on the throttle in the centre of the track, the result being that the kart doughnutted on the spot around the feet of the track marshal! When Stuart got the vehicle out on the track, it went around at a blistering pace with tyres squealing. Observers of the demonstration were treated to the unusual spectacle of a race kart that is capable of a top speed of over 100mph, 0-60mph in less than 4 seconds and all achieved by the use of an electric motor that is capable of delivering 50HP to the rear wheels and operates at a low noise level of approx 60 decibels. |
After his drive Stuart was asked for his immediate reaction. “Very surprising and amazing. The torque and control that you got from the throttle was amazing, very good. The acceleration was outstanding, the first time I put my foot on the throttle it bought a big grin to my face. You can do doughnuts with it, it just spins on a sixpence. It was awesome, really good.”
When asked how the G60 compared to other karts that Stuart has driven he responded, “The acceleration and response was comparable certainly to that of a 250cc, but obviously without the gears.”
Stuart’s karting career has led him to become a Licensed Race Instructor at SRS Racing, one of 12 Kart schools in the UK. Stuart is of the opinion that the Gravitron karts would not only be excellent for training purposes, but should be considered as a viable alternative by tracks and clubs that are currently restricted to short and infrequent opening hours due to planning restrictions because of noise and pollution levels.
| Electric kart racing takes place every year in Europe and Gravitron have been the only British entry in the international line up for the last 3 years. All races are governed by FIA rules and require drivers to hold an international kart racing license. Electric kart racing has yet to get a foothold in the UK, but with more and more tracks being hampered by planning problems and 2 stroke engines likely to be banned in some areas, it may make sense for many to consider electric karts as a viable alternative, leading to longer opening hours, more race days and increased revenue for clubs and tracks as a result. |  |
Gravitron Ltd, based in Gloucester, are designers and manufacturers of drive systems for electric vehicles. Karts are just one of the applications for Gravitron’s products, other current projects include an electric dragster, electric motorbike and a vehicle that will attempt to take the current British Electric Land Speed Record later this year.
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Northern Ireland's Biggest Kart Show Yet (16/01)
27th & 28th January are dates for every motorsport enthusiasts diary when the 12th Ulster Kart Racing show takes place at Newtownards Leisure Centre. Show opening times are 10am to 5pm on Saturday 27th and 10am to 4pm on Sunday 28th. Profits from the show will again go to St. Johns Ambulance brigade who provide their invaluable services to all forms of motorsport. This year’s show will feature all the local kart racing distributors of machinery and spares as well as some of the mainland manufacturers, and with some very special offers being made available the show will be well worth attending.
Current and new drivers will also be able to register for NIKA number plates for the year as well as join one of the various clubs including the Ulster Karting Club and Bishopscourt Kart club. The show will again be supported by Sammy Mellon & Sons, main Hyundai dealers in Bangor who will be at the show for the fourth year running. This year’s show will be extra special as it will also feature a tribute display to Joey Dunlop which will not only hopefully see some of his machines on display but also Paris-Dakar machines too.
Exhibitors to date include kart and equipment suppliers Kart-E-Quip of Porglenone, McMaster Motorsport of Ballymoney and WGP Motorsport of Banbridge, with all three having on display a range of machines from the well known non-gearbox manufacturers. Supporting services from Ernie Coates Motorcycles, Belfast for Arai helmets, Keith Campbell of Carrickfergus for fibreglass bodywork and Toolworld of Newtownards for tools will also have special offers. Stephen Patton Motorsport who support single seater drivers will also have a Crossle on display. Mainland manufacturers will include Anderson CSK and Formula 1 karts who will have the latest spec machines on display with exhibitors of various machines and accessories including John Mills Racing the UK agents for Mari Karts, Sparx Raceware and Trackside Spares among others.
The show is on the same weekend as the NIKA dinner dance and prize giving on the Saturday night at the Beechlawn in Dunmurry. Show details are available from Terry Wilkinson, tel: 028 91814987. NIKA dinner dance details can be obtained from Keith Wilkinson at the same telephone number and early booking of tickets is strongly recommended.
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Autosport Show In Full Swing (12/01)
The organisers of this years Autosport International Show are expecting record numbers to visit with the inclusion this year of Bike Sport and PACE (parts, accessories, consumables and electrics) sections, whilst the popular Thunderdrome Live Action arena continues to attract many motor sport fans. Karting is well represented with most of the well known names exhibiting including; Biz Karts, Club 100 Racing, Deavinsons, Gatellie Racewear, HS Sports, Karting Magazine, LRG Karts, Supersport Timing Systems, Tal-Ko and Zip to name but a few. Photos from the 2001 show are available in the Photo Gallery...
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BIZ To Promote Thunder Kart Class (12/01)
For 2001, BIZ Karts are launching a major new initiative to promote the Thunder Kart Class.
Being a class with controlled engines and controlled chassis, the Thunder Kart is unique among kart racing categories and offers a cost effective formula for teams and drivers on a strict budget. Initially introduced two years ago as an alternative to Pro-Karts, the Honda single engined 4-stroke machines have become popular with many fleet operators and racers alike. Although the original Thunder Kart was designed with a chassis derived from a Pro-Kart, a new evolution chassis has now been developed from a 2-stroke chassis and offers higher levels of grip and improved driveability.
BIZ have offered a new evolution chassis, free of charge, to all the current Thunder Kart owners who commit to racing in the Daytona Summer Endurance Championship in 2001. This championship, now in its third year, is based at Daytona's Milton Keynes venue and has always provided close, exciting racing. BIZ have spent some months consulting with existing Thunder Kart owners and most have now tested the new chassis. Their feedback has been very positive with many teams taking up the offer of a new chassis.
The 2001 Daytona Championship will also benefit from full factory support, with a BIZ team truck present at all the events offering spares and technical support to all the teams running Thunder Karts. In addition, BIZ are now offering a 6-month warranty against crank fracture on all new race Thunder Kart engines.
BIZ Managing Director Mike Smith said, "It was clear that the series would benefit from more factory involvement and we are happy to be able to react to that need with trackside support at the events. With this new evolution chassis, the Thunder Kart is now substantially quicker than a full race Pro-Kart and great fun to drive."
For 2001, The Daytona Thunder Kart Endurance Championship will be run over eight 6-hour races, and for the first time, the series will run on Continental tyres. As the size of the grids develop, it is also possible that further Thunder Kart endurance events could take place at some of Daytona's other venues.
For more details contact Ian Berry on 07774 933812.
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New Formula TKM Karts Unveiled (11/01)
Two new karts designed specifically for the new Formula TKM 4-stroke class have been launched today by Tal-Ko at the Autosport International Show.
Both karts have been designed to maximise the light weight and high performance of the new engine while capitalising on the class regulations which allow 40mm rear axle, adjustable castor and camber and torsion bars. From TKM comes the Raider R4 with a 32/30mm frame, 4-pot brakes, vented disc, 3 bearing 40mm axle, fully adjustable ride height and settings, Ackerman steering and rear torsion bar. Colour choice of blue or black. Ready to go price with TKM 4-stroke is £2795 +VAT and from Italian manufacturer CRG comes its T4 kart with a 32mm frame, 4-pot brake, vented disc, 3 bearing 40mm axle, fully adjustable ride height and settings, ackerman steering, and two optional torsion bars. High gloss CRG blue finish. Ready to go price with TKM 4-stroke is £2895 +VAT. Both karts are available with optional extras such as magnesium wheels. Prices quoted include MAXXIS tyres and are for ready to drive karts completely built up. Delivery will be in the Spring. Click here for Formula TKM 4-stroke outline regulations.
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Formula EcoMoto Breaks New Ground (10/01)
As of 1st January 2001 the K2-250cc, 30hp, 12,000rpm, four-stroke EcoMoto engine has become the first purpose built four-stroke to be accepted by the Motor Sports Association as a Class in its own right.
It is also the first purpose built senior four-stroke engine to be sanctioned by the MSA. This means that Kart Clubs can amalgamate Formula EcoMoto onto the same grid as the following two-stroke classes :- Formula A, ICA, 100B, 100C, 100C/160, Green and Rotax Max. This sanctioning by the MSA follows 3 years of demonstrating at 2-stroke meetings, plus 3 years actually racing at 4-stroke meetings. This enabled the MSA officials to evaluate the EcoMoto's performance, and subsequently place it in the MSA Kart Race Yearbook for 2001. Buckmore Park, Llandow, and Whilton Mill have already committed to running Formula EcoMoto at their Club meetings for 2001.
Both JADE (stand No 1073) and LRG (stand No 1119) will be displaying Formula EcoMoto engined karts at the Autosport Show on the 11th - 14th January at the NEC, Birmingham. For further information, test-drives etc., contact Barry Callen on 07973-542414 or e-mail: barry@invictakarting.co.uk.
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Parilla Package (10/01)
A Parilla Leopard package is being prepared and will be available soon with kart, engine and tyres expected to be competitively priced. Further details and information from Ferrari Racing on 020-8427 3247.
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New race days at Lodge Road Kart Centre (09/01)
Lodge Road Kart Centre have race days on the second Sunday of each month from 14th January through to 9th December 2001. All races are on their 825 metre circuit which offers good spectator viewing, an on-site Cafe and ample parking. Further information on classes and availability can be obtained by telephoning Nick on 015265-344566 or 07970-234656.
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New Manchester and 'East Coast' Tracks (08/01)
A new Arrive & Drive track in Gorton, Manchester is to be opened soon by Karting 2000, as well as a new east coast venue scheduled to open in March. Further information on this and the Automotiv Challenge endurance championships commencing in February can be obtained by telephoning Karting 2000 on 0161 231 2000.
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Le Mans 24 Hour (06/01)
Now in it's 11th year, this internationally popular Race Pro event will take place over the weekend of 7th & 8th July 2001. Further details can be obtained by calling 01642 231117.
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New Kart Circuit Planned (05/01)
Thurrock Council has just granted planning permission for a brand-new go-karting centre to be built at Lakeside - the county’s leading retail park. This announcement is the climax of more than two years’ detailed planning and discussion between the Thurrock Council and Brentwood Park Karting, the developers of the site. “It’s going to be one of the best equipped karting facilities in the country,” confirmed Giles Murray, Joint MD of the development company. “It will give Essex a premier circuit to rank alongside the very best in Britain. This track will be one of the fastest and safest in the country - a challenge for everyone from the complete novice to the highly experienced competitor.”
The Lakeside circuit has been designed for maximum flexibility. The 1,000 metre Motor Sports Association approved competition circuit can be split into two additional, self-contained tracks - both of which can be operated simultaneously to host separate events. The site’s design also features a 150-seat conference centre and lecture room, a restaurant, male and female changing rooms and shower facilities, a well stocked karting shop and an impressive 76 square metre viewing balcony. "Spectators will not only be able to watch all the action on track, they will also have a grandstand view of the ‘Go-Bal’ arena,” observes Murray. Lakeside will have the world’s first outdoor stadium for this high-speed unisex game that combines the skills and popularity of football with all the excitement and drama of motor racing. Using powerful, ultra-manoeuvrable B-Karts that can turn on the spot and accelerate to 20 mph, ‘Go-Bal’ brings an exciting new dimension to karting. “It also creates a level playing field for all players, of all ages,” adds Murray. “Because these B-Karts are so stable and easy to operate - everything is controlled from two push-pull levers - this is one sport where disabled people can compete on equal terms.” Clearly, access for disabled people was a planning priority from the outset. Equally, so was the attraction of corporate customers. With its catering, conference and lecture facilities, the complex can host a whole range of hospitality and team development events.
Less than one mile from the M25, close to the Dartford Bridge/Tunnel and adjacent to the new A13 dual carriageway that connects London with Southend, this new Lakeside development could not be more central. Strategically sited at one of the main entry points to the Lakeside Shopping centre, this circuit will have a very visible presence with the 58,000 people who daily visit the retail park. “We have been given the go-ahead for one of the most exciting and important leisure developments in Essex,” affirms Murray. “This karting centre will offer not only a high-speed, high-profile sports amenity but also the prospect of new full and part time employment opportunities for many people in the area.” For further information contact: Dan Attfield at Brentwood Park Karting, 2nd Floor, 105 High Street, Brentwood, Essex. Telephone: 01277 221979 or email: dan@brentwood-karting.com.
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TKM 4-Stroke Makes Autosport Show Debut (05/01)
A world leading new race engine which brings Formula 1 technology to karting goes on sale at the Autosport International Show exactly a year after being previewed there.
The new TKM 4-stroke engine sets a new standard within karting by combining high power with low weight and compact size to provide a long term solution to the growing constraints of noise and emissions being faced by two-strokes.
Priced at a ready to go figure of just £1595 plus VAT first orders for the engine will be taken on Thursday, January 11 with a stream of callers already anxious to be among the first to be able to race the new engine.
The all-British engine has been conceived and built by Bedfordshire-based Tal-Ko, the UK's largest manufacturer of kart racing engines with more than 40 years experience in the industry.
The company's stand at the show is expected to be very busy with drivers placing their orders for the trend setting new power unit which will be released in the Spring in the UK and later right around the world.
The new TKM K4S is 200cc capacity and produces 18BHP with an ultra strong torque curve right through the rev range from 4000 - 12,000rpm. Both junior and senior versions will be produced with the only difference being an air restrictor costing just a few pounds. Class regulations will be released at the show.
The engine is packed with F1 technology to enable such a large power output from such a compact engine yet also retaining outstanding reliability over many hours of racing. It is small enough to fit onto virtually any two or four-stroke kart making it ultra easy to use.
Although the concept of 4-stroke engines is not entirely new to karting, in the past they have been mainly converted generator or motor cycle engines, often with high weight and size. The new TKM unit has been designed specifically for kart racing with small size and weight of great importance. As such it leads the way forward for the sport internationally. Already its governing body have decided to go to 4-stroke for its top F1 type class in 2004.
The man behind the project is former British kart team member and owner of Tal-Ko, Alan Turney, who says:" We already make the engines for Formula TKM, the UK's largest karting classes so when we looked ahead we felt we had to make a major step forward.
"There's no doubt that two-strokes will be around for a long time yet, but at the same time the environmental pressures make use of a 4-stroke highly desirable for the future. We felt this was the way forward and all of our testing has reinforced that feeling. The demand is enormous."
Not only will the engine go on sale at the show but will also be demonstrated each day on the Silverstone Kart Track within the NEC.
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Superkarts Circuit Extended (04/01)
A newly extended and re-routed circuit is now open at Superkarts in Letchworth with a 100 metre straight and covering some 500 metres overall. Other new additions include a control tower, lighting system and first floor heated viewing area. In celebration, a Lucozade Sport 'Lap of the Month' competition is being held on 31st January. Further details at; www.superkarts.co.uk/lucozade.htm
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For Single Drivers or Teams (04/01)
Llandow are to host a 3 hour team-race for Pro-Karts of all shapes and sizes on Sunday 21st January as there will be classes for Juniors, Seniors and Heavyweights. Bring your own team of 3, or phone for places if you are a driver without a ride. Tel: 01446-795568.
Advance Leisure are holding several indoor endurance events for teams of 1-6 drivers over the coming months at Streatham Kart Raceway in south west London. All equipment is supplied and further information can be obtained by telephoning 01689-861336.
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2000 News Items
BDKC Winter Series (30/12)
Beccles and District Kart Club have provisionally booked dates for a winter series at Ellough Park Raceway, near Beccles in Suffolk. These are: Practice: 27th January, 24th February and 10th March, and race dates on 28th January, 25th February and 17th March. The practice dates will definitely go ahead, but the race dates are dependent on getting enough support. So if you wish to race please contact Dawn on 01508 493822 or Richard on 07798 606518 a.s.a.p. All two stroke classes are welcome to this M.S.A. circuit.
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Ellough Park "Grand Official Opening" (30/12)
Ellough Park Raceway will be holding a "Grand Official Opening" race meeting on 5th May. This will take the form of an 8hr enduro for (hired) Pro-karts with proceeds going to Great Ormond Street Hospital. There should be one or two "names" around plus some special attractions, demonstrations etc. (and TV coverage!). If you are interested in getting involved please call Nick on 01603 486655.
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2001 Prices (22/12)
Ferrari Racing Services now have prices for new engines and water conversion kits available as well as some sale items including a new PV 100 Super. See them here.
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WLKC Saturday Practice (21/12)
WLKC and Karting North East have agreed that all WLKC meetings will include Saturday practice from 10.00 am until 5.00 pm. This will be in sessions with no lunch break. The new season starts on the weekend of 20th & 21st January 2001.
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New Facilities (21/12)
Building starts in January at Karting North East on the new Club House, providing an enlarged cafe, offices, toilets and showers. In addition a separate building is to be built to include an enlarged shop (HRS), circuit workshop and toilet block. The newly tarmac'd pits are now available some of which include electrical hookups for caravans etc.
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Congratulations (21/12)
Century Race Preparation would like to congratulate all of their club champions. Ben Robinson 3 Sisters snr TKM Champion, Stuart Gough 2nd, Century drivers also finished 1st, 2nd, 3rd at the final meeting of the year in TKM and 2nd and 3rd in Rotax. Daniel Hands, Inter TKM champion at Whilton Mills and Clay Pigeon. Oliver George Snr TKM champion at Whilton Mills. Any body wishing to test the new project One Chassis or talk about engines should contact Century on 01562 632032, you too could be a champion. In addition Century will be offering 125 gearbox and Rotax test days on the British Championship winning Gold Karts.
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MSA British Endurance Championship (13/12)
Following the conclusion of recent negotiations it has been announced that the MSA British Endurance Kart Championship will be organised and administered by Ted and Sue Poole from the EKC in association with N4SKRA, for a period of three years commencing 2001.
Championship dates and venues for 2001 are:
11th March. Buckmore Park
25th March. Daytona International
8th April. Lydd International Raceway
6th May. Langbaurgh
27th May. Warden Law
24 June. Llandow
22nd July. Sandown Park
12th August. Bayford Meadow
26th August. PF International
23rd September. Ellough Park (To be confirmed)
7th October. Clay Pigeon Raceway
This amalgamation has been agreed in the best interests of the future of National Prokart Endurance Racing and the organisers are confident that these recent developments will be beneficial to all concerned within the Championship. Further information will be available shortly on the www.prokart.co.uk website.
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2-Stroke Ban? (13/12)
Following concerns recently expressed on the Notice Board about the possibility of a switch to 4-stroke engines only by 2004, UK Karting set off to discover if there was any truth in the rumour. The following was received from the MSA, who said;
1. That there is no ban proposed by the CIK for two-stroke Karting.
2. It is intended that four-stroke Karting is as well as two-stroke Karting, not instead of.
3. It is intended that individual countries are free to pursue either or both, depending on National legislation. You may be aware that two-stroke engines are already specifically prohibited in certain countries, but not this one.
All 2-stroker's can now sleep soundly, or can they?
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TKM 4-Stroke Goes On Sale (08/12)
Tal-Ko will be taking sales orders for its new world-leading TKM 4-stroke kart engine at the Autosport International exhibition from 11 to 14 January 2001 at the NEC, Birmingham.
The 200cc engine was unveiled at the exhibition earlier this year and has since undergone extensive testing and development. Now for the first time Tal-Ko will be taking orders for the engine with a price tag of £1595 plus VAT. Delivery of the first engines is due in early Spring. Says Tal-Ko's Alan Turney: "We have made excellent progress with the engine and have already manufactured large quantities of components. We have a small amount of items we are waiting for and then we can go into mainstream production.
"People have been trying to place orders for the past year but we did not want to proceed down that route until we were close to having the engine ready for release. Now we are getting ready for race launch." Junior and senior versions of the engine will be offered with minor carburation variations to effect the power change making for a quick and easy transfer from junior to senior spec. Engines will be sealed with Tal-Ko themselves carrying out rebuilds and re-sealing. Formal class details will be released at the show, with the expectation of a much more open chassis specification than in the current Formula TKM class - but still with MAXXIS tyres. Tal-Ko will be selling a choice of karts with the engine to provide a complete ready to go option. Adds Alan Turney: "We want to make it very easy for drivers to go down this new route. We'll be providing a full back-up service."
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N.K.R.A. (08/12)
The National Kart Racing Association's new website is now up and running and contains information from last year's championship, 2001 dates, affiliated clubs, a photo gallery and some links. http://www.nkra.co.uk/.
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Beggio's Kart (08/12)
Andy Cox Racing will be exhibiting the 2001 range of Birel Karts at Autosport International 11th - 14th January 2001 (stand 1071) which will include Gianluca Beggio's World Championship winning kart. The company will also be showing Vortex engines, Junior and Senior FR125 Rotax engines and associated kart packages along with new products from Rock Oil, Champion Spark Plugs and Motorquality brake pads. For more information email andycox@andycoxracing.co.uk.
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Yonny Weeden (08/12)
During the coming winter months, Yonny Weeden still only 17, will be back on the kart tracks in the UK. Yonny would like to compete in selected in- and outdoor events across Britain. He will us this period to keep in form and sharp, in preparation of his motor racing season of 2001, in which he will contest the British Formula Ford Zetec Championship, in a works supported team, details which should soon be revealed.
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New 2001 Chassis' (29/11)
ARC Karts will launch their newly homologated karts at this weekends' International Kart Show, Trentham Gardens. They believe these superb new chassis' are offered at unbeatable 'All Inclusive Prices'. New lower prices are available on the K-Zero 4 (TKM/Yamaha), the K-Zero 4/t (TKM) and the Sprinter (Cadet). See them at the show or call 01582 573335 for prices and further information.
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EcoMoto Sales Hit 50 (29/11)
The 50th K2-250 4-stroke EcoMoto to be sold in the UK will be handed over to its new owner this weekend. 15 year old Amie Gardener from South Wales will be taking possession at the International Kart Show at Trentham Gardens and Amie's father Deri will be fitting it to a Jade chassis in time for her to start competing at Llandow and in the South East in the New Year.
The EcoMoto is Europe's first, fastest, and fully developed purpose built 4-stroke. It is in the 2001 Kart Year book and will be officially allowed to race at 2-stroke meetings as of 1st January 2001. A number of EcoMoto owners are planning on entering the Buckmore Park winter series. Invicta Karting Promotions are offering both sprint and endurance drives on EcoMoto powered SOLO's for 2001. If you would like a test drive, talk to Barry at the show. Invicta will have three different chassis on display at the show.
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Kart Show (28/11)
The 12th International Kart Show is being held this weekend (2nd & 3rd December) at Trentham Gardens, Stoke on Trent. Open from 10.00 to 17.00 there will again be the popular free forums and this year speakers include George Robinson (Rotax Max), Grahame Butterworth (TKM 4-Stroke) as well as Alan Turney, Martin Capenhurst and Chris Cowels. Entry is £5 for adults and half-price concessions, car parking is free. The Annual General Meeting of the ABkC is being held there from 14.00 on the Saturday.
Exhibitors include ARC Karts, Electro Cases Ltd., Formula 1 Karts, Invicta Karting, John Mills Racing, Mark Wimbleton Racing, Paul Carr, racewear.co.uk, Tal-Ko and many other top names in the world of karting. The all new Swiss Hutless cadet kart will be displayed on the Swiss Hutless stand and Ferrari Racing Services will be showing three of the 2001 Parilla engines along with many other bargains. Tal-Ko will be launching the new TKM Raider karts and showing their 'star', the world leading 4-stroke engine (Click here for more info...).
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Elf Masters On TV (28/11)
Eurosport will be screening the 8th Elf Masters Karting live from Bercy, Paris at 21.00 on Saturday 9th December. Most international kart racers are expected along with F1 stars Jenson Button, Johnny Herbert and others. There will be a repeat screening on Eurosport on Wednesday 13th December at 21.00.
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Circuit Upgrade (22/11)
Deavinsons are well advanced with upgrades to the circuit at Rye House. The new race control is now finished and has been fitted with the latest timing equipment from HS Sports and AMB, bringing lap scoring and timing up to ABKC standards for 2001. Transponders will be available from the shop at around £110 + VAT. More recently Paul Deavin met with Mike Conway of F.M. Conway Ltd to discuss resurfacing and extending the circuit at Rye House. The plan is for this work to be carried out in January 2001 and the end result will be an increase in the Rye House circuit to more than 1000 metres.
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Parilla Leopard (22/11)
Regulations have been approved for this Class and the application for an N 1 3 is currently being dealt with. Engine information can be found on page 1214 of the December issue of Karting Magazine or contact any of Dream Karts, Torque Racing or Patron Racing. New engines are scheduled to be available in a few days and it is expected that a Junior Leopard class will be announced very soon. Further information can be obtained by e-mail to; bruno@ferrari-racing.net.
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SA250 4-Stroke (22/11)
Deavinsons have been appointed sole distributors for the SA250 4-stroke engine from Biland in Switzerland. The engine has 2 cylinders with an overhead cam and is fitted with an electric starter, and weighs in at approximately 15 kilos. Two versions are available with power outputs of 18 and 28 hp. The engine will be on view at the Deavinsons stand (no. 1025) at the NEC Birmingham in January. Price will be around £2000 for the 28hp version and it will come with a six month guarantee. A 6 round championship for 2001 is being organised with MG tyres being used.
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All Change At Kings Cross (17/11)
The Raceway in York Way, London have announced the arrival of a brand new fleet of Bowman karts for the Johnny Herbert Karting Challenge on the 26th November. They will be the first indoor track to use Honda 270cc engines (producing 9hp) with wet clutches, kevlar belt drive and powered by LPG gas. These karts are a totally new concept for indoor racing and should provide closer than ever competition. The Raceway can be contacted on 020 7833 1000.
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Brentwood Park Expansion (15/11)
A planning application has been made to extend the track at Brentwood Park to three times its current size. Included in the application is a purpose built building including full facilities for corporate use and owner drivers (noise restrictions will apply). It is proposed that this development will take place in the New Year creating the largest outdoor karting facility in Essex. It is believed that noise restrictions will limit the circuit to 4 strokes only, but watch this space.
There will be a restricted number of debentures available to purchase, enabling the debenture holder free (no charge) practice for a specified period. Further details and a copy of the proposed layout are available via e-mail to; info@brentwood-karting.com.
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Only Here For The Beer (15/11)
Advance Leisure are taking 25 teams of racers to race at Belgium's finest indoor race circuit, the 900 metre Kojdrik track. The race itself is a 3 hour endurance with 30 minutes timed practice/qualification. The track is overlooked by a licensed bar so after the race either drown your sorrows or celebrate to the max! Travel and accommodation has been organised, leaving on Saturday 2nd December in the morning, and back on Sunday 3rd night time. All those interested in this superb weekend should contact Advance Leisure on 0831 182551 for further information.
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Test Days (11/11)
Century Race Preparation will be holding open test days for the new Project One Racing chassis, the successor to its double British Championship winning kart. This test day will be of particular interest to cadets moving up who have yet to buy equipment, as the karts will be available for testing complete with engines and tyres. The test days will take place on Friday 8th and Saturday 9th December at Three Sisters. All interested parties should contact Clive on 07710 232813 for details. There will also be an opportunity for serious drivers interested in 125 open or national to test the British Championship winning Gold Karts, and the powerful Pavesi engines. Contact Century for further information. Alternatively see Century at the Kart Show at Trentham Gardens on 2nd & 3rd December.
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JRD Wetbox for TKM (09/11)
JRD are now selling a brand new wet weather protection box for the TKM market. The Wetbox which has full TKM approval is available for sale priced £30 including p+p. It can also be viewed or tested this weekend at the Clay Pigeon Club Championship round. The Wetbox stops water getting into the air trumpet and even has a device for choking the engine. Anyone wishing to see the new Wetbox can visit the JRD awning in pit space no. 7 behind race control at Clay or contact them on 01225 783088 or email to: jrd@oxbridgeinnovations.co.uk
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Rowrah's New Website (09/11)
It's early days and content is still being added but the official website of Cumbria Kart Racing Club is now up and running and can be found at http://www.cumbriakrc.co.uk/ It appears the webmaster is hoping to benefit from the forthcoming season of goodwill by appealing in the Archive section for a scanner! Any Santas' out there?
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Race Pro hand back MSA Endurance Championship (06/11)
Race Pro has formally handed back the MSA Championship and they have appointed N4SKRA to oversee the Championship for the future. The members of N4SKRA have made a commitment to improve the Championship and give it the financial support it deserves. With backing from Brands Hatch Leisure, in the form of Daytona, Bill Sisley of Buckmore Park, Ian Ward of Bayford Meadows, Sandown Park and of course Race Pro, all are looking forward to a successful future and with the inclusion of Le Mans in next year's calendar, it can only add prestige to the Championship.
Changes being made include all appointed officials attending each and every round and being totally independent of the promoters and organisers this is intended to add consistency. A race director from each circuit will be appointed to oversee the organisation of each event.
For more information see www.racepro.co.uk.
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Yamaha Challenge Winter Series (02/11)
Now in its fourth year the five round Yamaha winter challenge will commence on the 3rd December at PF International. For the last three years the series has been over subscribed with over 28 drivers competing. The challenge gives those drivers, moving into the class the ideal opportunity to get up to speed in a friendly atmosphere before the major championships commence. If you would like a registration form contact Peter Sherwen on Tel: 01928 712194 Fax: 01928 710324. E-mail: peter@sherwenstudios.co.uk or click on this link for a printable version.
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Test The New Cool (30/10)
The all new 'COOL' Cadet Kart homologated for 2001 will be at PF International this Friday and Saturday, 3rd & 4th November. Anyone interested in a test drive should contact Tommy Motorsport on 01484 859000 or 07798 881100.
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Congratulations (26/10)
ARC Karts would like to congratulate Philip Keen, Snr Rotax plate 6 and southern Champion NKRA; George Lovell, Jnr TKM Plate 3 Super One and 2nd in Jnr TKM O Plate; Charlie Watts, Jnr TKM Midland and Welsh Champion; Philip English, Jnr Yamaha Round 5Winner and Plate 4 Super One. Well done everyone and best wishes for every success in the future. ARC can be reached on 01582 422522.
Century Race Preparation would like to congratulate all of their drivers for the results over the past 2 weeks. Nathaniel Freke won the 125 meeting at Shenington on his Gold kart / Pavesi outfit. Century supplied Project One Racing chassis in Senior TKM's finished 1st, 2nd, 4th, 5th, & 6th at 3 Sisters, with 4 of the engines also prepared by Century. In Rotax Max Glenn Critchett won first time out on his Gold Firefox chassis, with 2 other Golds in the top 6. Anybody who would like to test any of the above karts / engines or the new 2001 Project One chassis should contact Century on 01562 632032 or 07710232813.
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TKM Champion Of Buckmore (18/10)
Some places are still available for this end of year event, which is set to become a regular fixture in the growing TKM only race meetings. Racing is taking place over two days (28th and 29th October) with timed qualifying for the 'Elite' classes and some extra long races to give great value for money. With the results for the Formula TKM Junior 'O' plate title now resolved, prizes from that event will be handed out at Buckmore on Sunday. If you want to enter do so NOW to the club on 01634 201562 extn 210.
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Super One Series (08/10)
The Super One Series, the UK's premier karting championship, is delighted to confirm that it will be continuing to run the junior and senior MSA British karting championships for the next three years. The Motor Sports Association has confirmed it will be renewing its contract with Super One for the Formula A and Junior Intercontinental British titles - the only two MSA titles within 100cc karting.
Commenting on the decision, Super One boss Neil Hann said: "We are delighted and proud that the MSA wishes us to continue running these two very prestigious championships. Now we will be able to press ahead with our plans." Current championship sponsors Elf/Atol, Hill House Hammond and Tal-Ko had already pledged their continued support to the series whatever its final format. A senior and junior series is again on the agenda.
A number of changes are planned for the series including a revision of classes, fresh look at timed qualifying and a number of promotional upgrades all aimed at further enhancing the series, which has continued to grow over the past 20 years. Added Neil Hann: "We want to keep the same elements which have made the series such a success but at the same time revise some areas to keep moving forwards as the sport itself comes of age and classes develop."
Over its two decades Super One has proved a real star-maker. Top drivers such as David Coulthard, Johnny Herbert, Jenson Button, Dario Franchitti and Jason Plato all came to fame through the series. 2001 dates and classes will be announced shortly.
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Honda Challenge (07/10)
Tentative dates and venues for next year's Challenge can be found by following the '2001 Provisional Dates' link in the Events Calendar.
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England's Sandown Enduro Teams (06/10)
After the success of the England Pro Kart Sprint Team in the Internations Challenge, the team have now turned their attention to the endurance arena. They have entered 2 teams for the final round of the Sandown Park Championship on 14th October.
The all star driver line up will include; Peter Stott (No 2 plate), Paul Wilkins (No 3 plate), Adam Willis (No 4 plate), Kelvin Hassall (No 5 plate), Allan Armbrister (No 6 plate), and the England team manager Martin Capenhurst, who is standing in for Neil Dodson who is recovering from an operation. The chassis used will be Anderson and Stratos. The team are fully aware that the regular teams include some of the best in the country, with 7 or 8 of them regularly recording lap times within half a second of each other, and appreciate that it will be a tough challenge, but they are all looking forward to it. This will be a rare opportunity for the endurance drivers to pitch their talents against the nations current top sprint drivers, both in the race and in the practice on the Saturday before the event. England's team manager is hoping that the sprint drivers will not have to pit for a rest every 15 laps!
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TM Engines (05/10)
TM are preparing new reed and modified rotary engines for the 125 classes. A 100cc rotary is being homologated and they will soon be launching a 4-stroke engine. Congratulations to all TM drivers, having won both championships in the UK.
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Win Free Le Mans Entry (04/10)
The Challenge is offering a FREE entry into next year’s Le Mans 24-hour kart race for the winners of its indoor winter series. The five-round competition will take place at Eastleigh (11th November), Northampton (9th December), Didcot (20th January), Aldershot (17th February) and Streatham (10th March). Each race will be a three-hour endurance and the entry will be limited to the first twenty teams to apply. There will be a fixed number of driver changes in each event and the best four of the five rounds count toward the final score.
The prize of a FREE entry into the 2001 Le Mans will be awarded to the top scoring team and can be used in either the ‘corporate’ class or owner/driver class depending upon whether the winning team owns a Prokart. For more information contact John Burton on 07802 291902 or e-mail retend@globalnet.co.uk
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New Jade TKM (03/10)
Shrewley Kart Shop have produced an all new Jade TKM for 2001 with successful testing already completed. A fastest lap was set by Ross Allen during testing at the South West Champs in Dunkeswell recently. Contact Jade Karts on 01295 678188, e-mail: lesley@super4.co.uk or via their website; www.jadekarts.co.uk.
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Silverstone (02/10)
Silverstone Drive Karting Centre will be hosting endurance races this winter on probably the UK's fastest Pro Kart circuit. Hire Kart - 4-Hour Endurance on Sunday 10th December. Racing commences at 09:00. 4-Hour Race, 1-Hour Practice Qualifying on Twin 200cc JB Karts. Owner Driver - 4-Hour Endurance on Sunday 17th December. Racing commences at 09:00. 4-Hour Race, 1-Hour Practice Qualifying. Call 01327 320425 or email karting@silverstone-circuit.co.uk for further information and prices.
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Limited Offer (02/10)
For a limited time anyone owning a laptop computer can now buy the Lapsmart CD for just £10 including post and packaging. Time up to 6 karts at once with Lapsmart, record all your setups with each laptime, keep track of your engine hours, run your own race times, etc. See www.lapsmart.com and also on the Companies Directory.
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Success for JRP (01/10)
Jupiter Race Preparation would like to congratulate its drivers on a successful month. Following a 4th place finish at Bayford Meadows in Formula Rotax, the team went on to 2nd and 3rd place finishes at Buckmore Park with fastest laps in 2 heats and the final. The following weekend brought more success with a convincing win in Rotax on the Saturday and another in Prokarts on the Sunday, the team winning by over a lap in the Bayford Meadows 6 hour endurance race. All results were achieved on LRG Karts with ASM prepared motors. For more information about JRP, contact Mark Berryman on (01474) 853685.
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A Free Crate Of Beer! (26/09)
Get a team of between 4 and 10 drivers to compete in endurance kart race, raise over £100 in sponsorship and not only do you help a worthy cause but you get to have an exhilarating evening and a crate of beer too.
Streatham Kart Raceway is hosting three events that will help raise vital funds for The Cancer Research Campaign. On Saturday evenings, 25th November 2000, 10th February and 10th March 2001 fifteen karts will take to the popular 400 metre south west London track for a 2½ hour endurance race. Cost is £250 per team and if you would like to raise even more money you can obtain sponsorship forms so that friends and colleagues can sponsor you for £1 (or 1p) a lap, - it€s not essential though. Entry forms and further information can be obtained from Harriet Cutts at The Cancer Research Campaign on telephone no. 020 7820 6907.
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TV Coverage (18/09)
TV coverage for this year's Maxxis Formula TKM Festival at Kimbolton starts tomorrow (Tuesday September 19) within the Sports Unlimited programme on Sky TV. Six different programmes have been prepared from the record breaking event which will cover all the action together with special features. Each programme will be screened several times and will later be transmitted around the world to more than 200m homes. The programmes will also feature action from the new TKM 4-stroke engines - the first time they have been screened on TV.
First screening is due for Skysports 3 at 7pm Tuesday, with the series then running over the next six weeks through to October 24. In each case the repeats are within a few days of the original showing and feature on Sky 2 and 3. A full-length video featuring all the action will be available in November.
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Kart Masters 2000 Video (14/09)
Lodgemark Press (the publishers of Karting magazine) now have stocks of this year's official video of the P.F. International Kart Masters meeting. The video is two hours long and costs £18 including p&p and VAT. Contact them on tel: 01689 897123, fax: 01689 890998 or email: support@karting-mag.demon.co.uk
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Piston Ring Uncertainty (13/09)
Formula TKM has moved quickly to decisively clarify and resolve the issue of piston rings following a technical inspection on a number of pistons which were impounded at recent rounds of the Elf Hill House Hammond Super 1 Series.
The inspection could not find any sign of an additional material such as glue. In each case the top piston ring was held in place by a severe build up of combustion 'coke'. However it was noted that the bottom ring was clean and free to move. In the circumstances the technical inspection carried out under MSA procedures found the pistons to be legal. However the issue has raised a grey area in the Formula TKM regulations which state that the engine should be raced as supplied. Today (Monday September 11) Formula TKM has issued an official Technical Bulletin which clarifies that in future both piston rings must at all times remain free to operate and move in the manner in which they were designed. Coked in piston rings are illegal with immediate effect.
Explained Formula TKM co-ordinator Grahame Butterworth: "Quite clearly it has always been the intention that these pistons should have two operating rings. While we are not happy with what has occurred we accept the fact that there was not a clear wording banning it. Our clarification now leaves competitors under no illusions.
"We are firmly committed to maintaining a level playing field for all drivers within Formula TKM and will always move quickly to alleviate grey areas should they occur for the benefit of all the class.
"Let no-one be under any misunderstanding. From this point forward any engine with piston ring or rings not free to move will be illegal."
Carburettors
At the same time Formula TKM has issued an official warning to drivers
over the danger of using carburettor settings outside those recommended by
Tal-Ko. In particular it points out that the use of a small opening for the high
jet (under a quarter turn) can lead to insufficient lubrication at high revs and
resultant severe premature engine damage.
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Extra Test Days (12/09)
With a busy two months in prospect Buckmore Park have added some extra test days at the circuit. Events Calendar...
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MBKC Gold Cup (07/09)
The MBKC Gold Cup meeting on 24th September 2000 will use the 1500m circuit for gearbox karts and the Valley circuit (as used for Super 1 ) for direct drive classes; both circuits provide the fastest short circuit karting in the UK, at Three Sisters, nr Ashton, Wigan, Lancashire. This is the first time for many years that drivers have had access to these circuits at a club meeting. Both circuits are challenging, and will provide exciting racing for both the driver and spectator. Entries are limited to 250 so get your entry in quickly to the club secretary; Kath Bott, Launswood, Wigan Road, Shevington, WN6 8LY, telephone 01257 253742. There are still a couple of opportunities for traders to sponsor individual classes, if your interested please contact Kath Bott.
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Kartracing Magazine no more (07/09)
After just 6 issues the magazine 'Kartracing' has ceased publication. Relaunched in March this year as part of the WV Publications stable it's demise is reported to be due to lack of advertising support from all but a few businesses involved in the karting industry. Subscribers are asked to contact WV Publications on 020 7331 1000 concerning refunds.
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Whilton Mill KC Meetings (06/09)
All ABkC classes are now covered at their 2-stroke meetings which take place on the fourth Sunday monthly, with testing on the Saturday. 4-stroke meetings are every first Sunday monthly (no MSA licence required) with testing on the Saturday for all Honda classes, Thunderkarts, EcoMoto, F6, etc. Wednesdays are test days at 'The Mill' and it's open to all 2-stroke and 4-stroke drivers. Honda 'O' Plate on Sunday 1st October is open to all 4-strokes; testing is on the Saturday. All entries 2 and 4 stroke to Rita Chapman, 23 Foxglove Close, Castle Meadow, Buckingham MK18 1FU Tel 01280 816512 Fax 01280 814007. Just a reminder for members that a General Meeting will be held Wednesday 20th September in the Mill Bar at 8-00pm
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Kestrel Now Re-Charging (01/09)
The ECL and Kestrel range of precision gauges has now been upgraded to use Nickel Metal Hydride fully rechargeable batteries. Units may be charged at any time, and continuous over-charging is permissible. Car cigarette lighter adaptors come as standard, and mains charging adaptors (Euro and GB) are available as accessories.
This concerns EDT+ tachometers, ELT laptimers and EWT water temperature gauges. All previous models will continue to be supported by the manufacturer. Why not dig out that old Kestrel with a tired battery as in some instance upgrades will be available. Manufacturers Electro Cases Ltd. (ECL) can be reached at: Tel: +44 (0) 1624 621822 or e-mail to ecl@enterprise.net or visit their website at http://www.electrocases.com
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Going…Going…Go (31/08)
Due to the expiry of their lease Slipstream Racing at Camberley will be closing their doors on 11th September 2000 and of interest to current or potential kart track operators could be their equipment that includes karts, overalls, helmets, spares and much more. Also available at no cost are tyres and barriers already bolted together to make a circuit.
Slipstream Racing will be carrying on with their single seater Formula Ford Zetec racing and they have drives available for any young karters wishing to move up into single seater racing for Winter Series 2000 and next years' Avon Junior Formula Ford Zetec Championship. All enquiries to Van Kaiser on 01344 883158 or e-mail: karting@slipstream-racing.co.uk.
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The Challenge goes 2-stroke (29/08)
The Challenge and AutoChallenge, Britain’s longest running corporate kart-racing championships, have teamed up with Club 100 for 2001. The aim of the association is to give drivers the chance of driving 2-stroke karts in expertly prepared TKM machines in a series of three and six-hour events. Club 100 will be providing and maintaining an exclusive fleet of karts for The Challenge/AutoChallenge and race preparation will be carried out at their Streatham facility. The series will maintain its exclusivity to corporate entries and continue to operate its unique league system that allows teams of varying levels of skill the opportunity to win races.
Series organiser John Burton said "I’m thrilled at the prospect of working with Club 100. Their preparation is first class and our customers are going to enjoy the experience of racing ‘proper’ karts that will enhance their driving skills. With over fifty teams we have one of the most successful competitions this year, and the response for the 2001 championship is rapidly growing with a number of new teams already committed to the series. We are hoping to increase this number for the coming season and I’m sure that the prospect of longer 2-stroke endurance races will appeal to many drivers"
Club 100 director John Vigor commented "I am looking forward to this new partnership with excitement and foresee a strong and long association between Club100 and Challenge/AutoChallenge. Three and six hour endurance racing on 2-stroke karts is very much a first in this country thereby creating a unique attraction."
The championships will benefit from exclusive use of Club 100’s latest fleet of BIZ-TKM machines and as usual the competitions will be restricted to teams with recognised sponsors or from companies, organisations or registered charities.
For more information contact John Burton on 07802 291902 or visit www.kartchallenge.com
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The TKM
Champion of Buckmore Races (25/08)
Saturday 28th / Sunday 29th October
The inaugural end of season bash for all TKM competitors will take place at Buckmore Park and will feature all TKM 2 stroke classes for both Super One (Elite) and Clubman competitors. The Elite driver classes format will be similar to European championship style with timed qualifying, heats, repechage, pre-final and final. There will also be demonstrations of the all-new TKM 4 stroke engine. Entries (maximum 200) are available into the following classes:
Elite Classes| Elite Junior TKM | This class is open to drivers who have completed this year's Super One Championship and is also optional for drivers who hold a Kart National A licence. |
| Elite Junior TKM Intermediate | A separate class with the same qualification criteria as the Elite Junior TKM |
| Elite Senior TKM | A separate class with the same qualification criteria as the Elite Junior TKM. |
Event format for Elite
drivers:
Friday Open practice in sessions (optional - not included in entry fee) Saturday
3 laps carburation practice. 15 mins timed qualifying (all drivers will be on
the circuit at the same time). 3 qualification heats. Sunday Repechage (if
necessary), pre-final and final.
Note: A new set of tyres must be purchased from the Club (with entry). Heat start positions will be determined by timed qualifying.
Clubman Classes| Junior TKM Clubman | Not open to drivers who have raced in the 2000 super one championship. Clubman and novice drivers welcome. |
| Junior TKM Intermediate Clubman | If sufficient entries are received then a separate Junior TKM Intermediate class will be run. Details as above. |
| Senior TKM Clubman | Details as per Junior TKM Clubman above. |
| Senior Formula TKM Heavy | The weight limit for this class is 160kg |
| Senior Formula TKM Veteran | Competitors must be 40 years of age or older. This class may be combined with the above. |
Event format for Clubman
drivers:
Friday Open practice in sessions (optional - not included in entry fee) Saturday
3 laps untimed practice, 3 heats per driver Sunday Repechage (if necessary),
pre-final and final Note: Clubman drivers are restricted to one set of tyres,
which do not have to be new.
For full details and an entry pack, please send an A4 size SAE to Sheila Rose, Competition Secretary, Buckmore Park Kart Club Ltd, Buckmore Park Kart Circuit, Maidstone Road, Chatham, Kent ME5 9QG. Enter early as the number of entries is limited to 200.
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EcoMotos Are Coming (22/08)
The following amendment to the MSA Blue Book was published in the Summer 2000 edition of the MSA publication 'Motorsports Now'. "Other 4 Stroke engines of equivalent performance may be raced with 2 Stroke Karts in the same race subject to MSA authorisation. Applies with immediate effect. Buckmore Park are hoping to have EcoMotos out at their Club meetings in the very near future. Watch this space!
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Daytona Acquires Sandown Park Karting (21/08)
Brands Hatch Leisure Group is delighted to announce that Daytona, its karting division, has acquired Karting at Sandown. Daytona operates indoor circuits in London (Daytona Raceway) and Manchester (opening October 2000, namely Daytona Manchester), and the UK's brand leading outdoor circuit, Daytona International, in Milton Keynes.
Karting at Sandown Park was established in 1995 and has proved very popular with owner-driver pro-karters and with both private and corporate groups, in the fleet of single-engined karts. Whilst all of the current team at Sandown Park will continue to operate the venue, Daytona will provide a fleet of twin-engined pro-karts for hire, and has an ongoing investment plan in the circuit.
As well as providing the fleet of pro-karts and all the usual Daytona extras (such as Sparco race-suits, AGV helmets, computer timing with on-kart dashboard displays), Daytona also plans to replace the existing clubhouse with a brand new enhanced clubhouse, offering competitors and guests the very highest levels of hospitality.
Commenting on the acquisition Jim Graham, Daytona Chief Executive, said, "Following the success and popularity of our Milton Keynes circuit, we are confident that we can repeat this at Daytona Sandown Park. The circuit and location are just perfect for us and the fact that the venue also boasts golf, dry-slope ski-ing and squash courts makes it very attractive for corporate hospitality and company days out. We are very excited about the future for Daytona Sandown Park."
Daytona Sandown Park is located inside the famous Race Course, in Esher, Surrey. The circuit is approximately two miles from the A3 and 5 miles from the M25 Junction 10.
For further information please contact Alison Jones, Sales Manager, telephone 020 8961 9646
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Obituary - Colin Richardson (16/08)
Cumbria KRC regrets to announce that one of its greatest friends, Colin Richardson, lost his lengthy battle against cancer on Tuesday 1st August. He was 41.
Colin was best known to many people as the face behind RRS Racewear and latterly First Overall, but his wit, style and refusal to take himself too seriously, made him much more than that. He came into the sport as an extension of his racewear business and supplied many racers up and down the country from their boots upwards. One of the few people around who could make you smile just at the mention of his name, Colin could prick anyone's pomposity with a few well-chosen words but readily accepted his own limitations as a kart mechanic with a smile and a shrug of the shoulders.
When his son, Ben, started racing, Colin became even more involved in the sport and the TV Masters at PFI a couple of years ago provided his proudest moment when Ben took a well-deserved Yamaha win.
The annual Presentation Night was an opportunity for Colin to show his wit to its best effect and no-one was ever spared, although the mickey taking was never done maliciously. He once even set up what was supposed to be a fashion show for his new kartwear range but turned out to be a strippagram arranged for yours truly!!
His battle against cancer was borne with great dignity and humour and he was in fine form right up to the day before his death, typically enquiring about a race entry for Ben.
Although his funeral has already taken place, his family have requested that, in lieu of flowers, a couple of benches are erected in his memory at his two favourite places - one where he used to go fishing, and the other at Rowrah circuit. If anyone wishes to make a donation in Colin's memory, please send it to Cumbria KRC c/o 36, Newlands Lane, Workington, Cumbria.
Colin is survived by his wife, Fiona and their children Kim, Ben and Emily. Our thoughts, prayers and love are with them at this time.
Iain Blair
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Success for Century Race Preparation (15/08)
Century Race preparation's race team had an exceptionally successful outing at Chasewater on 13th August with Nathan Freke winning by almost a lap on his Gold Kart / Rotax max outfit, Ryan Vann achieving his first victory of the season in a full grid of Senior TKM's on his Project One Racing kart and Century Race Prepared engines and Oliver George finishing 3rd on the same combination. The front row of the Junior TKM was also occupied by a Century Prepared outfit with Adam Jackson on board, unfortunately an exhaust manifold break robbed Adam of a win. Century were also running Charlie Clegg in his first ever outing in Junior TKM, under Century's guidance Charlie won the novice trophy finishing 11th in the A final and lapping the other novice runners. Anybody wanting more information or to test these karts should contact Clive Freke on 0410 232813.
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New
Chassis Homologations (04/08)
ARC Karts, manufacturers of pace setting chassis' for the TKM and Cadet classes since their inception have announced that they are to homologate (official production) 3 new models for the next period (from January 2001). The 2 models for TKM will be the 'K-Zero 4' (32mm) and the 'K-Zero 4/t' (28mm 'torsion' variant). The company's all new offering for the Cadet classes is to be named the 'Zero 3'. ARC are confident that with the subtle changes to the design of these chassis' they can still move forward from their hugely successful K2000 series. Testing of the final prototypes is now in progress, prior to the production runs being given the green light. Further details available soon. Contact ARC Karts (at their new warehouse premises), Unit 19, Scott Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU3 3BF Tel: 01582 573335, Fax: 01582 573337 or pay them a visit at the Kimbolton TKM Festival on August 19th & 20th.
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Try a Leopard (04/08)
The first deliveries of the new Parilla Leopard are expected next week and some could be on the track by the following weekend. There then follows the Italian holiday period so no further deliveries will be made during the month of August. However, if you would like to try a Leopard before then there will be demonstration units at PF International this weekend. Please telephone Bruno at Ferrari Racing on 020 8427 3301 or e-mail bruno@ferrari-racing.net
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Junior
Club 100 (03/08)
As an
introduction to an exciting new series for Cadets and Juniors, Club 100 have
organised two test days this month. Cadets (8-12 years) will run on Honda Cadets
and Juniors (13-16 years) will run on governed 100cc karts.
These test days will be run along the same lines as a Club 100 Test Day
with each Cadet/Junior receiving four 15 minute sessions. Cost is £75
inclusive.
In 2001 Club 100 are to run a 4-6 Round Championship for Cadets and Juniors using Honda and 100’s as described above. This exciting new series for youngsters is to be launched at the Autosport International Show at the NEC Birmingham in January 2001.
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Winners
(03/08)
Congratulations
to Terry Catt from Hampshire and Andrew Carr from East Yorkshire who were the
lucky winners in our recent competition to win a copy of the Super 1 Karting
game from Midas Interactive Entertainment.
Commiserations to all others that entered.
Despite the answers to all questions being available on this website,
over 20% of answers received were incorrect with question number two (how many
different circuits are included in the game) catching most people out.
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Maxxis
TKM Festival (01/08)
The MAXXIS Formula TKM Festival looks set for another record entry. Kimbolton
competition secretary Julie Wilson has already received more than 300, with late
entries still coming in. Topping the list is the senior festival section which
has more than 100 entered, underlining the continued success of the event and
the class.
A number of former top drivers are expected to come out of retirement for the
event including former British Grand Prix winner Stuart Ziemelis in the
veterans, double champion turned Formula Ford racer Gary Catt, and fuel supplier
Ian Mulliner.
A feature of the event will be the first ever public display by the new world beating TKM 4-stroke engine.
The event will be covered by six programmes on Sky TV and beamed around the world to 200m plus homes. It will again be used as the basis for the Formula Ford/Formula TKM scholarship scheme run in conjunction with Silverstone Driving Centre. Previous nominees have included Jenson Button, Daniel Wheldon and Anthony Davidson. Although the entry closing date has now passed, late entries may be accepted in some classes subject to a small surcharge.
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Daytona Is Coming To Manchester (28/07)
Brands
Hatch Leisure Group is delighted to announce the forthcoming opening of its
brand new indoor karting centre in Trafford Park, Manchester, namely Daytona
Manchester. The venue will
officially open on the 1st October 2000, bookings can be made now on Freecall
0500 145 155. Currently under
construction the brand new 50,000 square feet building and state-of-the-art
circuit will be available to host Corporate Race Events, Open Races, Arrive and
Drive Practice and Juniors Karting (for 8-13 year olds).
Daytona
Manchester offers: Three track layouts - including the 450 metre GP circuit -
200cc karts - capable of 45 mph - Computer timing with on-kart dashboard
displays - Sparco Race Suits and AGV Crash Helmets - Full conference and meeting
facilities - Licensed Bar and a full range of catering options - Over 100 free
car parking spaces. The circuit is
located approximately two miles south west of Manchester City Centre, on
Trafford Way, approximately ¼ mile from Manchester United's Old Trafford
Stadium. Junctions 9 and 10 of the M60 Orbital Motorway are within one mile of
the centre, and these provide speedy access from the M6 and M56.
Daytona Raceway opened its first indoor circuit in London in 1990, they operate Daytona International, the outdoor Prokarting circuit in Milton Keynes and were acquired by the Brands Hatch Leisure Group in 1999, and this new indoor karting venue for the North-West is the first of a string of new centres that will open over the next few years. For further information please contact Alison Jones on 0500 145 155. All press enquiries should be addressed to the Press Office at Brands Hatch Leisure Group on telephone 01474 872331 or by fax 01474 874766. Website address: www.daytona.co.uk
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