2003 News Archive
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2003 News Archive |
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This page contains older news items. For the latest news be sure to visit the home page of UK Karting.
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Archive Join
The Forest Edge Party (23/12) Want to join the FEKC
party? Of course you do, so here are the details. There will be a
work party at the new circuit at Barton Stacey on Monday 29th December from
9.00am and Forest Edge Kart Club are looking for as many hands as they can get
to help. The focus will be on tree/shrub clearance on the run off areas and
giving the site a general tidy in readiness for the tarmac guys coming in. If
you have chainsaws, forks, shovels, etc., please bring these with you.
Refreshments will be provided. This is an ideal opportunity
for you to see the new track and to work off some of those Christmas calories.
So if you can spare the day or just a few hours the club would really love to
see you. You can contact Dave Trueman or Peter Bryceson if you want more
information or just come along on the 29th. Contact telephone numbers and
directions on how to get to the circuit can be found at www.fekc.co.uk [
Top ] Ross
Curnow Signs (23/12) Panther Motorsport have
signed Ross Curnow for the 2004 UK BMW Championship, Ross came 2nd in the Stars
of Tomorrow Junior Rotax Championship this year and 5th in Super 1, and in 2002
came 3rd in Super 1. In November at a BMW licence course in Valencia - Spain, he
was one of the leading participants of the 21 who took part from around the
world, he now goes back to Valencia on the 10th January to be considered for a
BMW scholarship. [
Top ] CIK-FIA
Communication (22/12) From meetings in Monaco
earlier this month comes a communiqué concerning the latest decisions of the
Executive Committee of the CIK-FIA, and the World Motor Sport Council of the FIA
regarding Karting, click here for a
full transcript. A list of the 2003 CIK-FIA
results can be found here. [
Top ] Rye
House Prokarts (19/12) To further promote the Rye
House championship, any new team wishing to enter the Prokart Winter Series 2004
will be given a free set of slicks and wets. 3 out of 4 rounds count so any
teams that missed December's Round 1 can still compete. The race dates are on
Saturdays, 10th January, 14th February and 6th March. Contact John for entry
details on 01992 460895. The Rye House Summer Series 2004 dates can be found
here. [
Top ] No Need
for Rudolph (19/12)
[
Top ] Prokart
Engineering (18/12) Ted Poole of Prokart
Engineering will be at Clay Pigeon Raceway on Friday 2nd January 2004 with his
new Briggs & Stratton powered endurance chassis and the 2004 R2 Prokart.
Both karts will be available for demonstration and testing. All interested
should telephone Ted on 02380 463467 to advise on attendance. [
Top ] Warden
Law (17/12) With the Rotax "O"
plate, Stars of Tomorrow and Super 2 coming to Warden Law in 2004, the Warden
Law Kart Club is pushing forward with circuit improvements which include
extended paddock space and a new circuit exit lane, plus a new Scrutineering
building that will be erected on the new exit lane. These improvements will
speed up race meetings and also remove the advantage of being 'set up' close to
the grid. Spectating will also be improved by making more use of the bank to the
west end of the circuit. The club is also looking at an enlarged two storey Race
Control and starters gantry for the 2004 season, and the busy WLKC committee has
decided to reduce the number of classes offered but to increase the number of
races for each class next year. Every class will enjoy 3 heats, a Pre Final and
Final. Each heat will be a minimum of 8 laps with 12 lap finals. The five
classes are: Honda Cadet (open), WTP, Mini Max, Junior Max, Senior Max. Further
details from Anne Laws on 0191 273 0830. [
Top ] Karting
North East (17/12) On Sunday 28th December, KNE
are organising a 4.5 hour Christmas endurance race for standard unmodified
Prokarts. Cost per team (min 2 drivers) is £120 in advance or £140 on the day
with fuel provided. Full details and regulations from 0191 521 4050. In addition
there will be a separate class for the new Briggs World Formula powered karts
run alongside the Honda Prokarts. [
Top ] Buckmore
Open Practice (12/12) Buckmore Park have just
announced extra open practice dates over the Christmas & New Year period. As
well as the previously published dates on Wednesday 17th & Saturday 20th
December, further dates are available as follows: Saturday 27th December,
Tuesday 30th December and Sunday 4th January 2004. All two and four stroke
classes are welcome. Karts must comply with MSA regulations as must drivers'
safety wear. All dates will run from 10am to 4pm. The cost is £40 per kart (BPKC
& RMCF6 members are entitled to 10% discount). Sunday 21st December is the
last round of the Summer Race series and attracts double points. This round sold
out last year and several competitors were turned away. Entries should be sent
to Sheila Rose (club secretary), phone: 01634 201562 or fax: 01634 686104. Entry
forms can be downloaded from the Buckmore Park website - Click
here. [
Top ] 24 Hour
Endurance Racing (10/12) The sun, the sea and a 24
hour kart race. What more could anyone want? That prospect appeals and many are
putting together teams to fly out to the Gulf States to compete in one of three
forthcoming 24 hour kart endurance races. On 29th & 30th January, and again
in February (12th & 13th) and March (11th & 12th), rounds of the popular
Middle East Endurance Challenge 2004 are taking place and for the past 8 years
these events have attracted both corporate and individually funded teams from
the UK, Europe and the Middle East all hoping to bring back the spoils. These events are supported by
local media including TV coverage and Playscape Pro Racing in London have a few
places still available for those wanting to compete in a 24 hour pro-kart race
with all equipment supplied, and also enjoy a holiday in one of the world's
fastest growing tourist destinations. Further information is
available here or by telephoning 020 8677 8677. [
Top ] 2004
Southern Pro-Max (10/12)
Teams wishing to contest the
championship can receive full championship regulations by contacting Sarah
Collins at Bayford Meadows on 01795 410707. [
Top ] Cumbria
KRC AGM (09/12) The Cumbria KRC Annual
General Meeting will be held at the circuit on Monday 15th December at 7:30pm.
All are invited to have an input in how your club is run, but votes can only be
taken from race members and existing committee members. Don't know the way? No
excuse, click here! [
Top ] Karting
Caught On Camera (08/12) Karting enthusiasts will be
delighted to see their favourite sport highlighted when Channel 4 film the last
round of the Prokart Championship live from Lakeside Karting, Thurrock on
Sunday, 14th December. Director of Lakeside Karting, Mr Giles Murray,
said: "The Lakeside Prokart Championship is one of the South of England's
premier endurance series and features prominently in the national karting press
and national press. We are delighted that the excitement of this event will be
captured on film and broadcast on Channel Four in the New Year as part of a
series of programmes with the theme 'Rivals'. The last round of this season's
owner/driver championship is very close and the TV production team are very keen
to record the exploits of the top two teams, namely Teamtec and FAB Kartsport. Gates open at 7.30am for this
event and drivers should sign on from 8am. Practice starts at 10am with the 3
hour event starting at 11am. More information is available by telephone to 01708
863070 or at www.lakeside-karting.co.uk [
Top ] F6
Awards at Brands Hatch (04/12) The number of competitions
won by Martin Hines could possibly be matched by the seemingly endless array of
shining trophies for the UK's 2003 Formula 6 South East Karting Championships
Awards held recently at the John Foulston Centre, Brands Hatch. Martin,
with three World, six British and five European Championships in each of the
last five decades under his belt, was at the venue with his son Luke to present
the awards on behalf of the Formula 6 Association. Before the evening began,
Formula 6 members watched (some from the fully glass-fronted presentation venue
that provides outstanding views of the circuit), Luke's drive in the last race
of day with bated breath as he fittingly earned another first place trophy for
his cabinet. Following Luke's own presentation, they moved in with Formula 6 at
the John Foulston Centre where Martin and Luke took turns to present the awards
to the delight of the drivers; although it appeared that Luke was favoured by
the young lady award winners and the "F6 Girlies" (as they are known)
in particular. As many of the younger Formula 6 drivers queued up for
last-minute autographs and photographs with the sharply dressed Luke, Martin
paternally acknowledged the symbolic passing of the batten when he quietly
confided with a grin "It used to be my signature they were after" but
then the youngsters turned to him - his wins in 2003 mean he is still Mr Karting
and he can't hang up his hat just yet. Martin has generously donated
a very special prize to help a lucky driver with a day's single-seater training
in the ZipFord. The lucky winner will be announced at the London Kart Show 13th
December 2003 by Formula 6. The huge 2003 Biland
Championship trophies were kindly provided and presented separately by Nick
Barrow of Saxon Motorsport. On behalf of the Members, and
over three hundred members, family and friends who were present, the last awards
were to Roger Sheffield and as a very special thank you to Ellisa Munns (the
retiring Competition and Entries Secretary) together with her husband Jim Munns
(Club photographer) after more than ten years of hard work and dedication.
However, their energy levels appeared to be anything but consistent with
retirement as they danced through to midnight. For further information on
Formula 6 click here. A list of Championship Awards
for the various classes can be found here. [
Top ] HRH at
NEC (04/12) It was confirmed by
Buckingham Palace yesterday that His Royal Highness The Duke of York, as Special
Representative for International Trade and Investment, will make an opening
speech at 10:30am on the first day of the Autosport International Show, Thursday
8 January 2004 at the NEC, Birmingham. Since leaving the Royal Navy
in 2001, His Royal Highness has worked in support of UK Trade & Investment,
the government body which supports UK companies trading internationally for the
encouragement of foreign investment. UK Trade & Investment will be
exhibiting for the fourth year at this, the world's most important motorsport
show, bringing specialist companies to benefit from business to business with
more than 22,000 international buyers who attend the first two days of the show
(Thursday & Friday). His Royal Highness's role
officially began in October 2001 and he currently undertakes a programme of
visits both within the UK and overseas devoting 120 days annually to the support
of UK trade. During his two-hour visit to the show, His Royal Highness will meet
companies within the UK Trade and Investment Pavilion; tour the Careers in
Motorsport section where he will meet students and graduates from universities
across the UK; will visit the focal point of this year's show, the Galleria
Ferrari feature, which is gathering together the most exotic official display of
Ferraris ever seen outside Italy; will take a tour of the Formula One pitlane
under the expert guidance of Louise Goodman; and will meet young national
karting champions, who may prove to be our motorsport champions of the future. With the government's recent
announcement for a £16 million pound strategy for developing the UK's
motorsport and high performance engineering industry over the next five years,
the importance of Autosport International as the world's most influential
motorsport show is now firmly in the media spotlight. The attendance by His
Royal Highness at the show is sure to give a boost to the future of British
Motorsport. [
Top ] Karts,
Engines and Go-Peds Stolen (03/12) The Campfield family are
appealing for help in recovering three karts and junior/minimax engines that
were stolen early last Monday morning from their garage in Surrey. Also taken
were two brand new go-peds, (aeroscoot). Anyone with information on the
whereabouts of this equipment can ring the Campfields on 01483 420515 or e-mail:
paul@celre.co.uk or call Crimestoppers
free on 0500 555 111. Chassis numbers are LRG 03189, LRG 03188 and LRG 02186;
Engine numbers are 781868, 781871, 781869. [
Top ] 125
Europa 2004 (01/12) RPM Motorsport have announced
that there will be a Super Four British Championship Series for the new 125
Europa Karts in 2004. Venues, though still to be officially confirmed, are
likely to be: Lydd, Three Sisters, Fulbeck, Whilton Mill, Rissington and
Shenington. Additional sponsored Europa events will be organised throughout the
year. Further details are available from RPM Motorsport Ltd on 01920 460800. [
Top ] Daytona
To Host Super 2 Rounds (28/11) Daytona is proud to be
hosting rounds of the 2004 Super Two Championship at its circuits. Milton Keynes
is hosting the Easter 2004 round of the Super Two 2004 Championship. Daytona
Sandown Park is hosting the round on 2nd May. Drivers will be pleased to
learn that Milton Keynes will be holding dedicated sessioned test days, for
Super Two competitors only, from 9am to 4pm on 7th December, 18th January, 15th
February, 7th March and from 9am to 6pm on Good Friday 9th April. There will be
sessions for Honda Cadet, Honda Junior, Honda Senior (including World Formula)
and for Libre Invitation (Biland, Ecomoto, Rotax Max heavyweights). The price
will be £30 per kart plus £1 per driver for insurance. You can call the circuit on
0845 644 5503 for more details. Daytona Sandown Park will confirm their test
days soon. [
Top ] Help
Some Girls In Need (27/11) This weekend sees the
International Kart Show taking place in Telford and the Sandbach High School
Girls Karting Team will again participate representing NatSKA. The generosity
shown last year by exhibitors donating parts enabled the team to achieve their
goal of building a Kart. This year their objectives remain to look for new
innovative ways to develop the team, which is the essence of Schools Karting. Team leader Nick Dye says,
"We realise it is not always possible for business to donate new parts for
obvious commercial reasons, therefore our appeal this year is for the exhibitors
to donate to the team the parts they might have lying around their facilities,
parts that may have been used and are no longer required or items unable to be
sold as new parts for whatever reason." Having written to many exhibitors
already, the Sandbach High School Girls Karting Team undertake to promote each
Company that donates parts to the team at the exhibition are hopeful of a
productive weekend. Nick finishes with the plea; "Don't throw it out, we
can use it!" [
Top ] Win A
Season's Racing Worth £35,000 (25/11) The world famous Silverstone
Racing School has released details of the SRS Scholarship 2004. This is a talent
searching competition where for a one-off entry fee of £1250 inc vat drivers
will undergo two full days of coaching and assessment. Entrants will take part
in a range of different driving activities using the various circuits and
vehicles available at Silverstone. Entries to the scholarship will be capped at
120 drivers, with a realistic 1 in 5 chance of making it to the free of charge
final stage. The eventual winner will receive a full season's racing in the 2004
BRDC Single Seater Championship, a prize worth £35,000! The competition is open
to anyone who will be 16 or older as of 1st March 2004. The first Round 1 has
been scheduled for the weekend of 13th-14th December 2003 and to reserve a place
or request further information call SRS on 01327 320412. [
Top ]
Manufacturers Launch 2004 Equipment
(19/11) The International Kart Show
will be the first opportunity for many to view next seasons equipment with the
following launching new karts/chassis; Andy Cox will exhibit the New
Birel 2004 range, including the R, & Q series, while the British Superkart
Association, will reveal the full details of next seasons championship. Paul
Carr will unveil the 2004 Venom TKM, & the New CIK Intrepid Karts and Tal-Ko
will launch the ALL NEW Formula TKM 2004 Karts, and the New Formula TKM Jnr’ &
Snr’ Spec 2-stroke engines. Jade Karts will reveal the New Jade TKM, & New Jade
ICC, Swiss Hutless UK will have the 2004 homologated Cadet Kart on display, and
Modus Motorsport will Launch the New HASSE Cadet, the New Vixen VB6 TKM chassis,
& the New HASSE future CIK chassis. Finally, Strawberry Racing will have the New
2004 Cadet chassis, also the New Venox 2004 and Walker Racing will unveil the
New Arrow AX8 Cadet kart. Make sure you don't miss it.
Click Here for details and a money-saving
voucher! [
Top ] New
Open Honda Cadet Class? (19/11) Billed as a sensible use of
resources and not another way of splitting grids, a new cadet class has been
suggested. Due to the introduction of the new 'T' series engine in Honda
cadet next year a new NKF class called Honda Cadet Northern is looking for
expressions of interest and support. The new class would be the
same as normal Honda Cadet but using the 'E' and 'K' series engines currently in
use but taking the seals off. This would eliminate most of the perceived
cheating as the scruitineers can do the same checks they run with the senior
honda engines. Regulations would be the same as Super 2 Honda Cadets (i.e. one
jet for the carb, same tyres, same exhaust, same fuel same chassis etc) and all
clubs affiliated to NKF could run the class so if you don't want to run the new
'T' engines in cadets you could run this. You can still run in Super 2 by buying
a new 'T' engine as you would have to do. It would also allow those
drivers who only want to run clubbies to continue as they are, without any
further expense. There would also be a National Championship in the shape of the
NKF. If successful, this could introduce a budget cadet class (if there is such
a beast). To progress the proposals
further the organisers want to know if Dads out there are willing to support the
class, and as you already have the equipment there is no reason why you
couldn't. Emails and letters of support are needed and should be sent to
Dave Hunter (BSR@eastwestworld.co.uk)
or to Malcolm Fell
(technical@cumbriakrc.co.uk). [
Top ]
Anderson Pro-Kart Theft (19/11) A reward is offered for the
recovery of a kart chassis and trailer that were taken on Saturday 15th November
between 2:30-4:00pm from a workshop in Rossendale (North-Manchester). The
kart chassis is very distinctive with orange and blue livery, an Alfano pro
steering wheel and new "futura" spoked wheels as well as many spares including
tyres, wheels & engines. The kart was also fitted with unusually large floor
pans which are painted orange. If you have any information speak to
Jonathan or Ernie on telephone 01706 222662. [
Top ]
Hanley Heads for Japan and Monte Carlo
(19/11) BRDC rising star, Ben Hanley
flies out to Japan this week to compete in the Asia pacific championship held at
the suzuka circuit this weekend. Having declined to race in the event over the
past two years, Hanley is now hoping to win the biggest kart event in Asia on
his debut outing at suzuka. Hanley said ”we have accepted
the invitation to race this year because myself and the team feel we are in a
very strong position to win the event, Japan is a long way to go just to make up
the numbers”. “the costs to race in Japan are high, and I am fortunate to have
sponsors with great belief in me to finance the trip” Shortly after returning from
Japan Ben will be travelling to Monte Carlo when he attends the 2003 champions
of world motorsport prize giving gala on December 12th. On receiving the invite last
week Ben was quoted as saying “it will be fantastic to spend the evening with
motorsports biggest teams and drivers, and maybe I will get to sit on the same
table as Schumacher” At the gala evening Ben will
receive his trophy for finishing third in this years world karting championship.
Formula one drivers Michael Schumacher, Kimi Raikkonen and Pablo Montoya will
attend the gala to collect their respective championship trophy’s, with Petter
Solberg collecting his world rally championship prize. The following evening(13th
December) Ben will attend the CIK-FIA champions of karting prize giving gala
also taking place in Monte Carlo, to receive awards for his achievements this
year. The event will incorporate celebrations for the 40th anniversary of the
CIK-FIA. [
Top ] The
London Kart Show (10/11)
The show will appeal to those
wanting to start Karting with advice, feature areas and Master Classes as well
as those experienced racers who want to see the latest homologations and buy
equipment for next season. It is of course the perfect place to buy Christmas
presents and the only opportunity to talk to manufacturers about their equipment
in a comfortable environment under one roof. The first year will boast a number
of brand new product launches including new chassis' and data equipment.
There is a whole host of championship presentations during the weekend including
F6, British Endurance Kart Championships and Club 100. A list of exhibitors and
details of the Master Classes can
be found here. [
Top ] Wilson
At NEC (05/11) Britain's latest F1 star
Jaguar driver Justin Wilson, who started racing karts when 9 years of age in
1987, will be opening the Autosport International Show at the NEC in January,
and he's delighted. "I know how difficult it can be for the public,
especially in F1, to get close to the action but this show allows visitors
unrivalled access. I can't wait to meet and thank those people who have
supported me in my first season in F1" said the 25 year old, who has
attended the show on a number of occasions previously. Autosport International at
the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham is Europe's largest dedicated motor
sport exhibition and runs from 08-11 January 2004. [
Top ] Vision
Racer (31/10) After playing a few driving
games Geoff felt that the experience could be a lot better and set about
building the first Vision Racer the only way he knew, the same way he fabricates
for motorsport. The finest materials, precision engineering, design and
attention to detail that is an obsession. These skills and attention to detail
you will find in your Vision Racer. With its full competition
spec seat available in a variety of colours and sizes mounted on an aircraft
grade super light cold formed alloy frame, using fully adjustable laser cut
aluminium seat brackets, Vision Racer is a must have for motorsport
professionals and gamers alike, providing you with the ultimate driving
experience from the comfort of your own home. Compatible with Playstation2,
X-Box and PC. For further information visit www.visionracer.com
or alternatively you can contact Geoff himself on 0151 420 3420. [
Top ] Saxon
Test Days (28/10) Wednesday 29th October -
Whilton Mill Saxon Motorsport will be
running two test days as above for drivers interested in joining the fastest
growing 4-stroke class in Europe. Mini, Junior and Senior karts will be
available. Pre booking is advisable but not essential. E-mail: n.barrow@talk21.com
or telephone: 01432 350157 for more information. [
Top ] Riki
Christodoulou Interview (28/10) After just two seasons
scrapping with the best young racing talent in Britain Riki Christodoulou is now
one of the hottest driving prospects in the UK thanks to a series of
comprehensive performances and his first Karting National Championship win
during 2003. The 15 year old from the Midlands hails from a family with a strong
Karting background and with only two years experience competing at National and
European level has already emerged as a promising star of tomorrow. From the 12 races as part of
the JICA National Championship the Tony Kart backed driver won 5, finished
second in 2, third in 2, and crossed the line fourth in just one final. Riki
topped the overall classification by two points after his two worst results were
dropped according to the scoring system. He was also victorious in a round of
the Belgian Championships held at Spa Francorchamps and now, despite his tender
years, plans to move up the ICA senior class and branch out further to
participate in more European Internationals such as the respected Belgian and
French competitions. Now starting to gain
recognition for his achievements and skills, the team's press office have issued
the following interview for people to become more acquainted with 'Christo',
hopefully a name they will be hearing a lot more of in the not too distant
future. Interview can be found
here. [
Top ] World
Karting Champs (27/10) Young British Formula 'A'
karter Martin Plowman, from Tamworth in Staffordshire, finished sixth in the FIA
World Karting Championships, at Sarno, Italy yesterday, Sunday 26th October.
Plowman, aged just 16 years and in only his first attempt competing in this
prestigious trophy qualified 25th fastest out of 120 drivers representing the
cream of World-class karters. Plowman was placed 16th on the grid for the 13-lap
Pre Final and finished 14th. A good start in the 20-lap final race saw him up to
tenth by the half way mark and a masterful move saw the Brit charge past both
Teemu Nyman (Finland) and Bas Lammers (Netherlands) to clinch sixth place on his
way to the chequered flag, joining third-placed Ben Hanley to be the second Brit
in the top six, with another British driver, David Gregory, finishing in 12th
place. Pleased with his form,
Plowman commented: "I am happy with my result especially as this is my
first attempt at the World Championships, but I always want to do better. It was
a great weekend overall with some good finishes in the heats, although I had to
fight tirelessly for each and every place in the Pre Final and Final. Huge
thanks go to Dino Chiesa and everyone at DC One who have all worked so hard this
weekend." CIK/FIA World Karting
Championship, Sarno, Italy. [
Top ] 125
British Superkarts (27/10) Nathan Freke confirmed his
position as top 125 driver in the UK by winning the 125 Open British Superkart
Championship. Needing to finish only 4th in one of the 2 races to confirm the
title at Mallory Park yesterday (26th October) he finished with 2 second places
to add this title to his O Plate / UK Cup win earlier in the year. Nathan would
like to thank Andy Martin from Formula One Karts for all his help during the
year, and Ian Beaumont for supplying the Pavesi engines, and Century Race
Preparation for the race support. [
Top ] Beggio
At PF International Again (24/10)
"After a successful PFI
test last November, Birel are keen to come back to support existing Birel owners
and prospective ones alike" commented Andy Cox, he added "For 2004 we
want to concentrate more effort on the Max categories, with superb performances
this season from Jon Lancaster, Mark Litchfield and Gary Catt we have proved and
will continue to show that the Birel is the kart to have in the MSA classes. It
is now important that Max owners can see the Birel as the kart to have in Max
classes too. Gianluca Beggio will demonstrate the Birel/Max capabilities at the
test as well as Birel Motorsport mechanics being available for technical
assistance to current Birel owners. John Gravett of JAG will also in attendance
to personally assist Beggio with engine set up, as it will be the first time for
the Italian in driving the Rotax Fr125 engine. Our regional Birel dealers
ProSport, WGP Motorsport, Innis Motorsport and Kart Tek will also support the
test. 2003 has been an important and successful year for Birel in the UK, our
share of the market continues to grow and the factory's attendance in PFI should
indicate to drivers that Birel are committed to the UK market and more
importantly their specific needs." For more information contact Andy Cox
Racing: Tel and Fax 01527 63984 or andycox@andycoxracing.co.uk [
Top ] Winter
Testing In The Sun (24/10) January 2004 will see the
return of the Team Simpson and friends' winter testing programme in Palma,
Mallorca. Michael Simpson comments: "You know the feeling on Boxing Day
when you're bored and stuffed full of turkey; you wish you could be karting but
the weather in the UK is just not suitable. We will be jetting off to the sun
for some vital dry weather driver and equipment training prior to the 2004
season" The equipment will be at the
first class Palma International Circuit for three weeks from 26th December to
19th Jan 2004 and drivers will be able to come and go as they please over that
period. With numerous low cost airlines serving Palma on a daily basis and a
very preferential rate negotiated with 4* hotel nearby, this will be more
economical and a lot more productive than racing in the UK in January. A few
places are still available for this relaxed testing programme. Interested
drivers can contact www.kartingmallorca.com
or Michael Simpson on 0113 278 0435 for more information. [
Top ] Fancy A
Go At Long Circuit? (23/10) A Donington Gearbox Kart
Track day is being held on Saturday 8th November between 9am and 5pm. Contact
Ian Rushforth on 01509 620702 or e-mail i.rushforth@btinternet.com
for details. Donington is perhaps the finest long circuit for karts in the
country, it has everything. Pit garages are also available for use. [
Top ] Omegaland
Revived (17/10) Former Formula 3000 team boss
Roger Orgee is reviving his Omegaland outfit to contest the 2004 Formula BMW UK
Championship. Having spent recent years
overseeing the karting career of his son Roger Jr, Orgee will be running a Kart
team alongside his FBMW squad to help drivers make the switch to circuit racing.
"FBMW offers a level playing field and straightforward, safe, cars,"
said Orgee. "So it's an ideal and reasonably-priced way for karters to move
into single-seaters without experiencing the usual culture shock." Omegaland has four seats
available, and interested drivers can get in touch via www.TeamOmegaland.com
or call Roger Orgee on 07747 014659. [
Top ] Formula
A World Championship (15/10) A decision taken at the
beginning of the season by the CIK-FIA Executive Committee means that a single
event at an Italian kart circuit later this month will decide the CIK-FIA
Formula A Karting World Champion for 2003. The event is being held on 24th, 25th
& 26th October at the 1356 metre Sarno circuit in the Campania region of southern
Italy, and whilst the winner of the event will be awarded the title of World
Champion, the team achieving the best finish with its two designated drivers
will win the CIK-FIA Karting World Cup for Teams. In total, 111 drivers of 22
different nationalities are entered in the World Championship and 15 teams will
do battle to win the World Cup for Teams. The World Championship will
be the climax of the Formula A season, of which the four event European
Championship was won by the Dutch driver Bas Lammers, ahead of Italy's Davide
Fore, the Finn Teemu Nyman and Britain's Ben Hanley. This year's World
Championship entry list also includes some drivers who are currently competing
in other areas of motor sport but will return to Karting for the weekend, they
include 2001 Karting World Champion Vitantonio Liuzzi, now 22 years of age and
currently driving in F3000, Giorgio Pantano (also driving in F3000 this year),
Ronnie Quintarelli (who drives in the 2003 Japanese F3 Championship) and Jan
Heylen (driving in the 2003 F3 Euro series). After free practice and
scrutineering on Thursday and Friday, the World Championship will start proper
on Saturday 25th October with qualifying practice and the first eight qualifying
heats. The last four qualifying heats and the second chance heat will be held on
the morning of Sunday 26th October. In the afternoon there will be a consolation
final and the World Championship pre-final and final. Results from the 2003 CIK-FIA
Karting World Championship will be available during the event on the CIK-FIA
website. [
Top ] Super
Two in 2004 (13/10) The MSA Kart Championship
Control Panel has granted outline approval to the ABkC and Ratpro to run the
Super Two ABkC Four Stroke Championship for the Honda Cadet, Junior and Senior
classes and the Senior Libre invitation Class (including Senior Biland Class).
In addition, Ratpro has been granted approval for the Super Two Four Stroke
Championship for the TKM 4-Stroke Junior and Senior classes and Formula Mondial
(World Formula). The MSA has also approved a new national series for the Formula
Rotax Max 175 Clubman Championship which will form part of the Ratpro package. [
Top ] Cox
Secures Title (13/10) Young Michael Cox was crowned
Junior TKM 4-Stroke Champion at the concluding Super 1 round at Whilton Mill
yesterday after a third place finish in the final was enough to secure the
title. This title followed wins in Super 2 and the O Plate last month.
Congratulations on a hat-trick Michael. [
Top ] Formula
TKM S1 Championship (08/10) The UK's top Formula TKM
drivers head to Whilton Mill in Northants this weekend for the finale of the Elf
Hill House Hammond S1 championships. With all five classes to be
decided on the track over the weekend it will be a fitting season end to a
championship that has seen outstandingly close racing in all classes. It is the first time that a
S1 race meeting has been held at the circuit developed three years ago. It will
also mark an important point for the new Formula TKM 4-stroke engine which was
first run on a track at the circuit and which this weekend will see its first S1
national champion. This last meeting of the year
in the series comes at a time when important price and power boosts have just
been announced for the Formula TKM classes in 2004 and hot on the heels of
confirmation of the series moving forward into next year with another six round
Formula TKM championship. [
Top ] European
Championship Winners (08/10) Swiss Hutless UK congratulate
the factory race team - Swiss Hutless International and Blanken Race Engines on
a fine performance in winning one of the most important Formula A championship
titles over the weekend of the 19th -21st September taking the 2003 European
Championship title with a number of European Championship final race wins whilst
on route to this title. [
Top ] Super 2
Championship Awards (07/10) The BAR Honda Formula One
team has invited Super Two Awards winners to visit their Brackley headquarters
for the Super Two ABkC National Four Stroke Awards Day prize giving, and an
opportunity to see their hi-tech facility. Trophy winners collecting their
awards on Saturday 8th November will be: [
Top ] Formula
TKM 2-Stroke Changes (07/10) Tal-Ko has announced a raft
of changes to the Formula TKM 2-stroke classes which have been at the forefront
of British karting for more than a decade and helped develop top racing names
like Jenson Button, Anthony Davidson, Robbie Kerr, Carl Breeze and Gareth
Howell. There's a power boost for the
seniors, kart updates for all classes, simplification of some rules - and a
price decrease for all classes despite a higher level of specification. Said
Tal-Ko Racing Managing Director Alan Turney: "We want the classes to remain
at the top and have taken these steps to keep Formula TKM in line with latest
developments. I am particularly pleased to be able to reduce costs which will
make us by far the best value class and especially help those coming into the
class." The biggest change is in the
specification of the senior class engine which in future will be known as the
Formula TKM Extreme. The engine gets a bore increase which takes it up to around
115cc, with it gaining around 10 per cent power and torque. The clever bit about
the change is that it can all be achieved in a winter-time standard rebuild on
an engine costing only around £100. All a driver needs to do is take an engine
to be rebuilt at which time it can be re-bored to the new capacity and have a
tiny amount of machining to the cylinder head. Any engine tuner can carry out
this work, though Tal-Ko will be offering special upgrade packages with the
guarantee of original manufacturer quality and precision. The power increase
will reduce lap times and because of the extra torque, also help those slightly
over the weight limit - which is increased as well. In future all new senior
engines will be known as Extreme units and will come in the large bore format -
but at a greatly reduced price, now down to £699 plus VAT. Meanwhile the Junior
spec engine gets an upgrade with the fitment of a clutch and chain-guard as
standard items - and with the price also reduced down to £775 plus VAT. New spec Junior engines will
be available November 2003 onwards, the senior Extreme spec units can be ordered
now ready for delivery early next year. They can be raced from February onwards.
There is no intention that the new Extreme spec engine will form a new class. It
is anticipated that very rapidly all drivers will upgrade, though clubs are
welcome to split grids in the short term if they feel their mix of drivers needs
this. Other changes include a
change of kart specification for the new homologation period which includes
freeing up of brake disc spec to include vented units, use of twin hole Ackerman
style steering, freeing up of stub axles, use of some lighter materials like
magnesium and use of cassette type quick release bearings. All this for exactly
the same price karts as before at £1195 plus VAT. The latest regulations will
allow use of new style CIK type bodywork and mounts so long as they meet MSA
regulations. Aside from this there is a revision of all weights which change as
follows to allow use of the new style sidepods and also to help those drivers on
the edge of the weight limits in the face of a general increase in driver size.
New weights are: Juniors - 127 Kgs, Intermediates - 138 Kgs & Seniors - 148
Kgs. Adds Alan Turney: "We
have been able to achieve the price cuts as a result of economy of scale. We
want to help and encourage drivers and aside from adding to the appeal of the
class we make the whole package more manageable overall." Visit the
new Tal-Ko website now. [
Top ] Staffordshire
Teenager Crowned Champ (06/10) Martin Plowman, from Tamworth
in Staffordshire, went down in the annals of motor racing history yesterday
(Sunday 5th October) when he sealed the prestigious CIK-FIA French International
Karting Championship in Angerville, France. In the process the teenager, who
only celebrated his 16th birthday last week, was not only crowned the first
British driver to ever clinch the honoured spoils but also the youngest. Martin has been hailed an
international karting revelation this season in his first year racing in the
elite Formula A category, against some of the best karters in the world. The
GCSE student from the Rawlett School in Tamworth, scored four victories and
several podium finishes to secure the title and enjoyed a lead of more than 90
points going into the final round. Martin will receive his
winner's prize at a star-studded awards ceremony at Euro Disney, Paris, in
December. Martin will also be chatting with visitors about how to get started in
Karting at Autosport International, 10th & 11th January 2004 at the NEC,
Birmingham. CIK-FIA French International
Karting Championship. Final Points: 1st - Martin Plowman (GB) 318 points; 2nd -
Pierre Combot (F) 223; 3rd - Damien Claverie (F) 213; 4th - Bas Lammers (F) 186. [
Top ] British
24hr Race Update (02/10) This inaugural 24hr event
organised by Paul Bowler and Ted Poole for International Kart Promotions Ltd.
will take place at Rowrah in Cumbria on the weekend of the 21st/22nd August
2004, with practice on Friday 20th August 2004. The venue was chosen not only
for its superb facilities, but also for its ability to host 24hr events, on a
track which will be able to accommodate the anticipated grid size. A dedicated
website is now under construction and full details of the site will be announced
shortly. Make a note of the dates in your diary now but bookings will not be
accepted until the website is live. [
Top ] A Ladies
Only Event (01/10) Buckmore Park is to hold its
first ever hire kart event for ladies only. The fairer sex are invited to
compete in a Prokart sprint event consisting of practice, 3 heats and a final,
commencing at 6.30pm on the evening of 16th October. Interested? Telephone 01634
201562 Ext. 201 for more details. [
Top ] Saxon
Theft (30/09) A £250 reward is being
offered by Saxon Motorsport for information leading to a conviction of persons
responsible for the theft of the following: Please contact Saxon
Motorsport with any information on tel: 01432 350157 or by fax: 01432 354448, or
call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. [
Top ] MSA
British Endurance Kart Championship (26/09) Annual Trophy presentations
for the 2003 British Endurance Kart Championship will take place at the London
Kart Show at Sandown Exhibition Centre on Saturday 13th December at 4pm. This
will be followed by an informal gathering and celebration in one of the Sandown
hospitality areas. [
Top ] British
Motor Sport Boost (25/09) Three of the biggest
supporters of British motorsport have joined forces to create a powerful
alliance which will benefit drivers and teams in both karting and car racing.
ELF, Hill House Hammond and Renault have linked together in a move unprecedented
in national motor racing. The alliance will see Renault joining Hill House
Hammond as sponsor of three of karting racing's premier categories - Formula A,
ICA and JICA - bringing Britain's top emerging young drivers closer to this
country's leading junior single-seater series, Formula Renault UK. Formula A and
Formula JICA are the elite MSA British Championships in the ELF/Hill House
Hammond Super One Series, whilst Formula ICA is this country's leading national
kart championship. British kart racing's hot
shots will now receive the following benefits as a direct result of the ELF/Hill
House Hammond/Renault partnership: Hill House Hammond will also
become joint title sponsor with ELF of the Clio Cup championship and as result
the prize fund for Britain's best one-make saloon series has been boosted to
£75,000. The insurance specialist will also be offering Renault teams
preferential rates for commercial and public liability cover. Commenting on the formation
of the ELF, Hill House Hammond and Renault alliance, Renault UK Director of
Press and PR Tim Jackson said: "The three companies are major forces in
British motor sport and by joining forces can bring unprecedented support to
both top level karting and the Clio Cup. Kart drivers will benefit enormously
from getting closer links to both Renault UK and our Formula Renault teams at a
crucial stage of their careers." "For Hill House Hammond this
alliance makes perfect sense as it brings together three brands who are
dedicated and passionate about racing", commented Hill House Hammond's Head
of Partnership Development Tony Instrall. Whilst ELF's Director of
Communications Andrew Ward added: "ELF has worked as partners with both
Hill House Hammond and Renault for many years but to bring all three of us
together is a very exciting prospect for everyone involved in karting and car
racing." The three karting series
involved will now be known as Hill House Hammond/Renault Formula A and Hill
House Hammond/Renault Formula JICA MSA British Championships and Hill House
Hammond/Renault Formula ICA Championship. Starting at the forthcoming winter
series Renault's saloon championship will be known as the ELF Renault Clio Hill
House Hammond Cup. [
Top ] NWF
joins in Clay Endurance (24/09) The new Briggs and Stratton
World Formula Engine took its place alongside the Prokarts for the first time at
Clay Pigeon Endurance Kart Championship in September. The MSA have approved the
formula to run with the Prokarts and with just a few days notice 2 teams managed
to enter the event. Special Racing Projects had been at Clay for the British
Championship Promax final round on Friday, self confessed kart addict Jason
Jones borrowed an engine from Zoom Karts, built the WF on Saturday and competed
on Sunday. The 2nd team used Ted Poole's WF demonstrator and entered as Legs and
Co. The two WF karts performed well in the 6 hour race and proved to be a worthy
and equal opponent to the Honda Prokart. [
Top ] Right
Result For Bean & Hanley (24/09) Success came for two
youngsters competing in different parts of Europe at the weekend with James Bean
enjoying success in TKM Super 1 Seniors at Lydd on the south coast of England,
and Ben Hanley enjoyed a fantastic weekend In the European Formula A Championship
at Mariembourg in Belgium. James was driving a TKM
Raider R3 and dominated the Formula TKM Senior class at the Lydd round of the
Elf Hill House Hammond Super 1 TKM series. The youngster, up into the senior
class for the first time this year, won a heat along with a second and eighth to
gain pole position for the final and was never headed throughout the race.
"We were quick all weekend with a great kart and engine from Tal-Ko,"
he said afterwards. "I was able to get into the lead and keep an eye on the
rest." In the course of the heats he also set the fastest lap of the class
for the weekend at 40.72 secs. British driver Ben Hanley
secured 4th place overall in the European formula A Championship after a
stunning weekends racing at the Belgian circuit of Mariembourg. After setting
the pace in open testing early in the week, Ben suffered engine failure during
qualifying on lap 5 but his time was still good enough for sixth position
overall. He followed this with two wins, one second place and a fourth place in
the heats, placing him on pole position for the first final. Ben finished off a
great weekend with a win in the first final and second place in final 2. [
Top ] Stars
of Tomorrow Competitors (23/09) The following statement was
issued today by Carolynn Hoy - Championship Director. Most of you are aware that
Brooklands circuit were not issued with their Licence by the MSA in time to host
Round 7 despite their repeated assurances that works requested by the MSA would
be completed in time. Without the written support
of ALL competitors signed up for the Championship it will not be possible to
move to an alternative circuit. This is not feasible and we have to advise that
the meeting scheduled for this Sunday 28 September, will not take place and
there will be no further rounds of the 2003 Championship. Championship standings will
remain as per results for Round 6 held at Nutts Corner (subject to appeals).
Confirmation of points and placings will be sent to competitors in due course as
will a letter with details of concessions for those of you who entered for this
cancelled round. I cannot put into words just
how disappointed I am to have the Championship finish in this way, especially
having received so much support from our team of officials, so many of the
competitors and their families, and from Rye House - who literally 'moved Heaven
and earth' to fit us in. There is nothing else I can
say at this time, but thank those of you who have supported the Championship. [
Top ] Roy
Mortara Memorial Meeting (18/09) The annual Roy Mortara
Memorial meeting is being held at Blackbushe on Saturday the 27th September.
This year the Roy Mortara Perptual Trophy will be awarded to the winner in the
250cc Gearbox class, with special trophies going to all other classes. All
classes are invited to take part in this annual event. The club are expecting good
grids at this popular annual meeting and for further information and entry forms
please visit the Camberley website at www.camberley-kartclub.co.uk [
Top ] Super 1
- MSA Series Champions (17/09) Following the final rounds at
PF International last weekend, the ELF-Hill House Hammond supported Super 1
championships for MSA classes were decided. Congratulations go to... Click
here for Formula A and JICA race reports. [
Top ] Autosport
International Joins Forces With MSA (16/09) Haymarket Exhibitions is
pleased to welcome the Motor Sports Association - the governing body of motor
sport in the UK - once again to Autosport International, at the NEC in
Birmingham, 8-11 January 2004. The MSA has been a leading exhibitor since the
Show's inception 13 years ago, this year Autosport International will work more
closely with the MSA, supporting initiatives within and outside the Show, with
the aim of encouraging more people - of all ages - into motorsport. From
karting, to co-driving, to autotests and off-road motorsport, any aspiring
competitor can find all the information they need to know, from how to get
started and meeting experts in the field in the National Motorsport area of the
Show. An active pre event marketing and public relations campaign to media
outside motor sport will aim to raise awareness of how easy and inexpensive it
is to get started. The opportunity to use
promotion and publicity tools via the MSA's established communication channels
will be vital to help ASI reach thousands of MSA licence holders. Recognising
that encouraging young karters is an essential element in safeguarding the
future our the sport, Autosport International has already sliced its ticket
prices for MSA Kart National A & B licence holders from £20.00 to just
£6.00 on Saturday and Sunday. Gavin Brown, Managing
Director of Haymarket Exhibitions Ltd, commented: "This year at Autosport
International we are increasing the specialist areas of the show which will
cover more than one million square feet of exhibitor space. Working with the MSA
we will be offering the total spectrum of motorsport under one roof, and this is
an ideal opportunity to encourage new people to the sport as well as helping
current licence holders. Autosport International will be 'THE' place for the
start of the motorsport season in 2004." [
Top ] The
InterNations Karting Challenge (15/09) This weekend, 20th & 21st
September, sees the 7th annual team Challenge organised by the Association of
British Kart Clubs and their colleagues in Motorsports Ireland. It's also the
second time the event has been staged in England, with both events taking place
at Rowrah on the edge of the Lake District. This hugely popular event is a
social occasion as well, with a dinner on Friday evening for the teams to foster
the spirit of friendly competition. Unusually, for a motor racing
event, individual performances take second place. The prime concern is the
performance of the team. There are six classes, each with up to six drivers from
each country running in them. The classes are: Team tactics are everything
in this event. For example, the quickest driver in timed practice may be
allocated a lower grid position by the team manager in order to make up places
and thus gain the team more points, with a slower driver allocated the top slot
and asked to maintain the place until the quicker drivers join him or her. The
team with the highest number of points at the end of the meeting, takes home the
Challenge Trophy. The previous six events have all been won by England, but the
other teams are now closing the gap and Scotland in particular are aiming to
give the old enemy a run for their money. The event is sponsored by
Fathom Debt Recovery Software, who are financing the TV coverage, with Cumbria
Kart Racing Club sponsored by Rural Regeneration Cumbria. Spectators wishing to
watch the racing this weekend can find a location
map here. [
Top ] Super
One Finale (11/09) One of the UK's premier
karting venues, PF International near Grantham, will be the fitting venue for
this weekend's final meeting of the 2003 ELF-Hill House Hammond Super One MSA
British Championships - with both the Formula A and Formula JICA titles resting
on a knife edge. In Formula A only an
eight-point gap exists between championship leader Mark Litchfield (Marston
Montgomery) and team-mate Gary Catt (Thruxton) but with the double 'drop score'
ruling taken into account that difference is down to a single point - meaning
the title really will go down to the wire on Sunday. There has been some superb
racing in Formula A this season and with four wins Litchfield's consistency
underlines just why he currently leads the championship. Catt has taken two
victories, one at Clay Pigeon and the other at Three Sisters, with Benjy Russell
(Wisbech) also visiting the top step of the podium this season. David Gregory
(Sheffield), meanwhile, has taken a total of three wins including a superb
double at Shenington last time out. The situation in Formula JICA
sees Riki Christodoulou (Sutton Coldfield) currently leading the standings by
four points from Freddie Martin-Dye (Shamley Green). This gap, however,
increases by two points when drop scores are taken into consideration.
Christodoulou has looked to be the class of the field throughout the year with
five race wins to his credit but that doesn't tell the full story. Martin-Dye
has only ever been a whisker behind the West Midlander all season and during the
most recent round at Shenington the Guildford ace achieved an excellent double
win to put the pressure back on Christodoulou ahead of this weekend's event. But
while the championship may well be a straight fight between Christodoulou and
Martin-Dye, there are still a number of other drivers in JICA more than capable
of taking race wins at PF International including the likes of Jon Lancaster (Pudsey),
Jason Parrott (Crowland), Daniel Rowbottom (Mamble) and Jonathan Legris - the
latter having taken a superb victory at Clay Pigeon earlier in the year. Provisional dates and venues
for the 2004 Elf-Hill House Hammond Super One MSA British Karting Championships
have been announced and see the series scheduled to get underway at Three
Sisters, near Wigan on 7th March. From there the championships will visit PF
International on 4th April, Lydd on 9th May, Clay Pigeon on 20th June and
Shenington on 25th July. The season will then come to a close at Larkhall, near
Glasgow, on 12th September. [
Top ] Superbike
Champ To Race (10/09) British Superbike Champion
Shane "Shakey" Byrne will be racing in Senior Rotax Max at the
Buckmore Park 40th Anniversary meeting on the 21st September. The meeting is
being sponsored by the Kent Messenger group who publish many newspapers in the
South East as well as owning the FM radio station KMfm. KM have promised both
radio and newspaper coverage of this milestone event. Contact Sheila Rose for
details and entry forms 01634 201562 ext 210. [
Top ] Maxxis
Formula TKM Festival (09/09) TV coverage of the Maxxis
Formula TKM Festival starts on Sky TV today as part of the Sports Unlimited
programme. Three separate shows will go
out covering all classes starting on September 9, with the next programmes
starting on September 23 and October 7. Each programme will have multi repeats
across the Sky Sports 2, 3 and Xtra channels. Further worldwide coverage of the
event - the largest one make karting event in the UK - will start later in the
year, in total going to more than 200m homes. [
Top ] Indikart
Of Colchester (05/09) The long established Indikart
indoor circuit has changed hands and is now under new ownership. The new owners
have considerable experience in corporate karting and kart circuit operations
and are already welcoming customers both old and new. It is their intention to
bring the venue back to its former glory and refurbishment is to commence this
month, with a first class facility in prospect. Further information will be
displayed at www.indikart.com when
available, or call 01206 799511 now. [
Top ] Ecclestone
Opens New Clubhouse (03/09)
Bernie Ecclestone joined
former Motorcycle and F1 World Champion John Surtees MBE, co-owner with Bill
Sisley of the Buckmore Park Kart Circuit, for the opening of the new £1 million
clubhouse. The new state of the art facility will be the operational centre for
the karting school, club and championship racing, corporate events and
promotional activities. The clubhouse has been
designed so as to be able to link in a new Motor Sport Training and Technology
Centre sharing some common facilities with the new Clubhouse. It is hoped that
the new Centre will bring together the motor sport industry and teams with
schools, colleges and local authorities to introduce more opportunity for
youngsters to be involved in motor sport - from driving to engineering and
design.
Ferrari Technical Director,
Ross Brawn said, "The British Motor Sport Industry must continue to lead
the world and to do that we need to develop our greatest asset - people; and
ultimately, I truly believe that the involvement of young people in such
projects, even if they decide not to continue to pursue the challenge of motor
sport, will still be of huge benefit to them in their chosen fields and to their
future lives." The development is part of a
dream held by John Surtees, the only man in the history of motor sport to hold
world titles on two and four wheels, to widen the reach of his beloved sport.
"Karting is the very grass roots of motor sport. What I would like to see
is a wider opportunity given to youngsters to participate in an exciting
learning programme. There may be another Michael Schumacher or Valentino Rossi
out there, as for too long we have not had a British World Champion Grand Prix
driver or rider. Or it may lead to a career in our thriving motor sport
industry. Or just a safer driver when the time comes to get a licence. It is a
dream, but dreams can come true." Guests at the launch
included, Minister of Sport, Richard Caborn, Chris Aylett of the MIA, John Grant
and Colin Hilton of the MSA, Pat Symonds of Renault F1, Sir Stirling Moss and
ITV's F1 presenter Jim Rosenthal. The BMW Williams Formula One
team provided its latest Grand Prix race car for display and was represented by
Jonathan Williams. Ron Dennis, CEO of the TAG McLaren Group, said on the eve of
the launch, "The experience a young driver gains and the race craft they
develop in karting is invaluable. As the grass roots of motor racing, karting is
almost an essential part of being a grand prix driver."
The influence of karting also
feeds the UK motor sport industry with technicians, designers and engineers. The
UK motor sport industry has an annual turnover of £4.6 billion, 50% of which
relates to export sales and directly employs 38,500 people. The Buckmore Park circuit has
enjoyed several years of development since Bill Sisley took over management of
the dilapidated track in the mid-80s. The track was extended in stages to its
current 1200m. John Surtees and Bill Sisley, having come together for the
creation of the new Clubhouse, and with a new Paddock facility planned for later
this year, now have the vision of creating the new Motor Sport Training and
Technology Centre. The planned Motor Sport Training and Technology Centre would
feature a fully fitted workshop and servicing areas, study and lecture rooms and
a selection of karts and components. The development of the circuit to date and
the new Clubhouse, have come from existing resources at Buckmore Park. Now the
search is on for the funds to establish Britain's first karting Motor Sport
Training and Technology Centre and to make motor sport and its exciting industry
truly accessible to more youngsters in our communities. "The British motor
sport industry is the envy of the world - let's keep it that way, and add a
British World Champion as well if possible" said John Surtees. [
Top ] Kart
Circuit Guide (03/09) For the month of September
What's On Motorsport have introduced a special discount price for their Karting
Circuit Guide. The
Karting Circuit Guide shows corner-by-corner breakdowns of all the UK and
Europe's major circuits. Contact, travel and accommodation information make it
the perfect companion to any professional or amateur Karting enthusiast. With a
20% discount for September, The Guide is now available for £23.99 plus p+p. [
Top ] On
Track To A Fortune (01/09) Fifteen year old Alexander
Sims from Pinchbeck in Lincolnshire is the only racing driver on the Royal Bank
of Scotland's projected 2020 'Rich-List' top twenty and the top rated sportsman.
Philip Beresford, who compiles the Sunday Times Rich List, researched young
people under 21 who could be among the UK's biggest earners by 2020. Sims is
placed fifth, with projected £30M earnings, whilst footballer Wayne Rooney is
put at eighth with £25M. Fifteen year old Alexander Sims, who has the backing
of the Californian company Medjool Dates, said: "I've got mixed feelings
about this, which came completely out of the blue and rather caught me by
surprise. We'll carry on with our plan regardless but it does make me think that
people are watching my progress." Sims started kart racing at age ten, and
has had numerous successes at both national and International level. Having
become the MSA British Junior Kart Champion in 2002 and winning the prestigious
Monaco Cup International race against the cream of Europe and the world's junior
kart racers, he moved up to the adult category this year, to drive for the works
World Championship winning CRG-Maxter team, based in Italy. Paul Thwaite, the Royal
Bank's Head of Youth Banking, said: "All the members of the list clearly
have the X-factor, an exceptional talent or perception for opportunity. However,
what these young people have in common is the ability to couple a natural talent
with a sound understanding of how to make the most of it and make their
financial success last." Topping the list is Internet entrepreneur Carl
Churchill, with £100M. Sims raced at the Super 1
British Championships at Shenington last weekend, and topped timed qualifying at
this penultimate round. After a fourth and fifth in the heats, he was well
placed for the finals until an errant flying kart took off the top of his spark
plug at the second corner. Starting from the back in the second final, he
reached sixth place. Sims was philosophical about the crash. "There wasn't
much I could have done about it, but we are definitely fast enough to win. It
was a promising weekend, but we need results," the Pinchbeck youngster
stated. The last round of the British series is at the PF International circuit
near Newark on 14th September, but Alexander was forced to wait for his
fifteenth birthday and missed the first round of the series. After that he will
race at the last round of the European Championships, to be held at Mariembourg
in Belgium. [
Top ] Fund
Raising Kart Racing (01/09) Rissington Kart Club is set
to raise money for a local cancer charity next weekend, September 6th-7th, as
part of one of the largest kart racing events of the year. The Cheltenham-based
Cobalt Unit Appeal Fund is the nominated charity at this year's Midland
Championships. During the race weekend, there will be a number of events
to raise money for the Cobalt Unit Appeal Fund. The charity offers a range of
cancer prevention services, including Stop Smoking Courses, Women and Health
Workshops and Breast Awareness Clinics. Last year, the Appeal - which was
launched in 1964 - contributed £25,000 to help provide Brachytherapy treatment
for early prostate cancer at Cheltenham General Hospital. One of the fund-raising
events will give drivers and mechanics the opportunity to get their own back on
Rissington's race officials, who will be placed in stocks and pelted by some
seriously wet sponges. There will also be a special remote control car track,
where children are invited to bring along their own radio-controlled cars to
race against the clock. In addition to the high quality racing on display,
spectators can enjoy track demonstrations from 130bhp saloon cars, pocket racing
bikes and vintage karts. In the paddock there will be a bouncy castle, stands
and food stalls. For further event details, visit www.rissykartclub.com.
For further information on the Cobalt Unit Appeal Fund, call 01242 535900. [
Top ] Defending
Champ Stars (01/09) Lichfield's Adam
Christodoulou the defending champion in Junior Rotax Max and Mini-Max classes
stamped his mark on the penultimate round of the Stars of Tomorrow series, and
Ross Curnow and Oliver Rowland dominated the Junior Rotax Max and Cadet classes.
Race reports can
be found here. The Ulster Karting Club
promoted meeting went off without any real incidents and with support from
Northern Ireland Events Company, Sports Council for Northern Ireland and
StenaLine was undoubtedly one of the highlights in the province's motorsport
calendar. Feedback from drivers and the championship organisation team seemed
positive and will hopefully see the series return to the circuit. [
Top ] Finnish
Star At Midland Champs (26/08)
With past winners including
Formula 1 ace, Jenson Button, the Midland Championships is one of the most
prestigious events on the national karting calendar. A variety of breathtakingly
quick machines will be in action, from the 60cc Cadet karts for 8-12 year olds
to the awesome 250cc machines, which can hit top speeds in excess of 140mph. A former kart racer,
Kovalainen has been earmarked as Finland's next racing star. Having finished
fourth in the British Formula Renault championship in 2001, the 21 year old
joined the Renault Driver Development Programme at the start of 2002. His season
in British F3 last year yielded third place in the championship, including an
impressive victory at the International F3 Challenge at Silverstone. Kovalainen
will be available to share his experiences with the rising stars of British
kart-racing at the second day of the event, which runs from September 6th-7th.
He will also be presenting trophies to successful drivers on the day. Event promoter, Chris
Hartley, commented: "We're absolutely thrilled to have Heikki as our guest
of honour. As anybody involved in motorsport will tell you, he's an immensely
quick racing driver with a very bright future ahead of him. The fact that he's
taking the time to meet and encourage some of our young kart racers is terrific.
Having Heikki there will certainly make it a day to remember." Held at the super-fast
Rissington circuit, near Stow-on-the-Wold in Gloucestershire, the 2003 Midland
Championships is expected to attract over 300 of the quickest kart racers from
across the country, and with this year's event being filmed for Sky Sports
television, the racing promises to be more explosive than ever. In addition to the high
quality racing on display, there will also be track demonstrations from saloon
cars, pocket racing bikes and vintage karts. In the paddock there will be a
bouncy castle, stalls and a special remote control car track, where children are
invited to bring along their own radio-controlled cars to race against the clock
for prizes. Racing starts at 1.30pm on
Saturday 6th and 10.30am on Sunday 7th September. Admission is just £10 per
vehicle per day, or £15 for a weekend pass. No pets allowed. For further event
details, visit www.rissykartclub.com [
Top ] Memorial
Kart Race & Fun Day (26/08) A memorial race to celebrate
the life of David Benson is to take place at Lakeside Karting, in Thurrock,
Essex. Many will know that David tragically died in a motorcycle accident
earlier this year. He was well known in Prokart circles racing with brothers
Mark & Andrew as FAB Kartsport, and the Benson family would love to see some
of their old rivals at the event. Entry is limited to 18 teams
and although any number of drivers per team is acceptable it's aimed at being a
fun day so a recommendation is made of no less than four. If you cannot make up
a team, don't worry just contact Sue Oakley via phone and she'll see what can be
arranged. Free BBQ food and refreshments will be available, so you just need to
arrive ready for an afternoon of fun and enjoyment, and feel free to bring
spectators too, the more the merrier! 400cc Prokarts and equipment
supplied at £235 per team for this 3-hour endurance race in a celebration of
the life of David Benson. This first memorial kart race
is at the Lakeside Karting circuit between 12pm and 5pm on Saturday 13th
September. Interested? Then telephone Sue Oakley on 01375 361356 for an entry
form. [
Top ] Master
Classes At London Kart Show (21/08) An exciting line up of free
masterclasses has now been confirmed at The London Kart Show featuring
well-known figures within the karting industry. Visitors will have the chance to
gain knowledge of the sport whether they are starting out or experienced kart
racers with all designed to help their success in kart racing if they attend.
Speakers already confirmed at the Show and further information can
be found here. In addition to the free
classes visitors can expect to see over 60 exhibitors, where they can buy all
their karting requirements for the 2004 season. The dates of the show are
Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th of December 2003. Opening times are 10am to 5.30pm
daily. Free stickers, posters and ticket application forms are available by
e-mail to info@londonkartshow.co.uk
or by phone on 01273 833884. [
Top ] Are
Karters Tough Enough? (20/08) Channel 4 are looking for
21-35 year old men to take part in a really tough challenge that they will be
filming in October this year for an exciting new series to be screened over
three 60 minute episodes during the early part of 2004. We have managed to
convince them that kart racers are a tough bunch and always up for a challenge
so now it's up to you. Can you handle military
training? Do you need a boot up the backside? Have you got what it takes to
become an all-round hero? If you think you could handle a challenge that will
sort the men from the boys and are available for filming in October then contact
the team at Channel 4 now on tel. no. 020 7013 4283 or e-mail: heroes@rdfmedia.com
for more information. [
Top ] Jaguar
Racing To Invite Karters (19/08) Jaguar Racing is set to give
young motor racing talent a unique chance to step inside the world of Formula
One at this year's ultimate karting challenge: the 2003 Midland Championships,
and more than 300 drivers from across the UK will be in attendance. Both of Jaguar Racing's
current Formula One team drivers, Mark Webber and Justin Wilson, began their
motor racing careers in karting and many of this year's competitors will be
looking to follow in the very rapid footsteps of their heroes. As part of their
support for the event, Jaguar Racing will be inviting winning drivers to tour
their state-of-the-art Milton Keynes facility, to gain a rare behind-the-scenes
insight into the running of a Formula 1 team. Event promoter, Chris Hartley,
commented; "We're incredibly grateful to Jaguar Racing - this is a dream
prize for the drivers. Few people get to see a Formula One team working at close
quarters and I can't think of a more fitting reward for the race winners. As you
might imagine, the drivers are all Formula One fanatics and no doubt some of the
young, ambitious drivers will be hoping that it's the taste of things to
come!" In addition, Jaguar Racing
will also be providing successful drivers at the event with an array of
team-branded merchandise, and for the first time ever, the September 6th-7th
event is being filmed for Sky Sports television, giving the drivers and teams
welcome national exposure. Racing starts at 1.30pm on
Saturday 6th and 10.30am on Sunday 7th September. Admission is charged at just
£10 per vehicle per day, or £15 for a full weekend pass. No pets allowed. For
further details visit www.rissykartclub.com [
Top ] Masters
Of The Dragon (19/08) Century Race Preparation
would like to congratulate their 3 Dragon Masters at GYG last weekend. Nathan
Freke in Rotax Max and Roger Holding in Rotax Max Heavy both on TopKart /
Century prepared Rotax Max engines, and Lee Morgan in Junior TKM on his Project
1 chassis and Century prepared BT82. Congratulations also to Michael Lennon for
3rd in Junior TKM on his P1 / Century BT82, Gemma Wainwright 2nd in J TKM Inters
on her Century pepared BT82, and Rob Parry 2nd in 125 on a TopKart / Century
Pavesi in his first ever gearbox race. Interested drivers can contact Century on
01562 632032 or 07710 232813. Also well done to Dragon KC and Eddie at GYG for
an excellent meeting and stunning trophies. [
Top ] Blistering
Irish Grand Prix (19/08) A superb turnout of kart
racers helped make Ireland's largest meeting a huge success over the weekend of
9/10 August. The Chambers Coach Hire sponsored Irish Kart GP saw large entries
in every class, and together with enthusiastic spectators and hot sunny weather
it was a recipe for an excellent weekend with lots of exciting racing. Race
report here. [
Top ] Stars
Brooklands Switch (14/08) Brooklands have agreed to run
Round 7 of the Stars of Tomorrow Championship on 27th & 28th September
instead of Kimbolton, and rather than the Championship lose momentum by waiting
until the originally scheduled October date for what would have been Round 8,
the Surrey circuit will now become the final round of the Championship. The
official test day will be on Friday 19th September with all the action taking place
the following weekend. Brooklands is currently open
for bookings, owner-drivers, etc., but at this moment in time the track is due
to shut down at the end of October, with plans for the land to be used as
Country Park following the sale of Brooklands to Mercedes-Benz. Discussions are
however still continuing with the local council and everyone involved are
hopeful of a stay of execution. [
Top ] 100mph
Cars At Karting Event (11/08) Powerful 130bhp saloon cars
will be in action at Stow-on-the-Wold's Rissington kart circuit next month, as
part of this year's ultimate karting challenge: the 2003 Midland Championships. One of the most prestigious
events on the annual kart racing calendar, the event - which runs across the
weekend of 6th-7th September - is set to attract an enormous entry of over 300
drivers from all corners of the country, and this year, the racing is expected
to be more frenetic than ever as the drivers try to give a good account of
themselves in front of the Sky Sports TV cameras, which are filming the event
for the first time in its history. In between the racing,
spectators will be treated to a number of on-track demonstrations, including the
100mph, 130bhp saloons from the T-Car championship. A ground-breaking series, T
Cars is the only championship that enables 14-16 year old drivers to go
wheel-to-wheel at some of the UK's best race circuits, including Brands Hatch
and Donington Park. With intensive track tuition and media skills training
available to the competitors, the series organisers aim to hone the skills of
up-and-coming racing talents. Current British Touring Car drivers, Tom Chilton
and Tom Boardman both graduated from T Cars, as did current British Formula Ford
championship leader, Tom Kimber-Smith. As a front-running team in the T Cars,
Kent-based outfit, Advent Motorsport, is bringing some of its cars to the 2003
Midland Championships for the crowd-pleasing on-track demonstrations. In
addition, there will be a static display in the paddock where spectators can
inspect the 1600cc machines at close quarters. In addition, spectators can
look forward to track demonstrations from the pocket-sized minimoto racing bikes
and 1960's vintage karts. In the paddock there will be a bouncy castle, stalls
and a special remote control car track, where children can bring along their own
radio-controlled cars to race against the clock. Admission will be charged at
just £10 per vehicle per day, or £15 for a weekend pass. No pets allowed. For
further event details, visit www.rissykartclub.com [
Top ] TKM
Racers Head For Kimbolton (07/08) More than 230 top racers from
all over the UK and some from overseas, will merge on the Kimbolton kart racing
circuit this weekend, 9th & 10th August, for the country's biggest single
make kart race meeting of the year. The MAXXIS Formula TKM
Festival brings together drivers of all ages and abilities racing for top
honours in the country's most closely contested categories. The drivers all use
race karts powered by the same TKM engines, so finding extra fractions of a
second in performance really counts. That's a formula that adds up to incredibly
close and competitive racing. Not surprising therefore that top racing drivers
like Jenson Button from F1, Carl Breeze from Touring Cars and Robbie Kerr from
Formula 3000, are all ex top drivers in the class. With five main classes across
all ages from juniors through to veterans, the action starts Saturday morning
and will run right through to the finals on Sunday afternoon - all covered by
Sky TV for three programmes within Sports Unlimited. With more than 40 TKM
4-strokes and over 190 TKM 2-strokes the grids will be packed with a minimum of
six sessions on the circuit for every driver counting towards the final
trophies. The event is organised by the
Hunts Kart Racing Club and backed by MAXXIS, a world leader in the manufacture
of specialist tyres, and Tal-Ko Racing the UK's largest manufacturer of kart
race engines. Spectators are welcome at the track, located just outside
Kimbolton towards Stow Longa. [
Top ] Southern
L/C Kart Club (06/08) A group of enthusiasts are
looking into forming a southern long circuit kart club similar to the one at
Darley Moor. The club would be based at Lydden International Race Circuit near
Canterbury in Kent and offer just two classes, allowing for anything 125 to be
raced i.e. 125 National, Open or ICC in the 125cc class, and 250 National /
International or E could race in the 250cc class. The circuit would be shared
with a car club called SEMSEC (South East
Motor Sports Enthusiasts Club) and although still in the formative stages
the idea was put to Lydden International Race Circuit and SEMSEC and both have
indicated their willingness to help put on such meetings. As much interest as possible
is needed to get this club off the ground and the more people they can get to
race the cheaper the entry cost will ultimately be. With 20 drivers per class
the normal long circuit entry fees could be halved. If you are interested then
don't delay, e-mail: chris@audanet.com
now to register your interest. [
Top ] Donington
Superkarts (06/08) The second round of the
Division 2 event in the CIK European Superkart Championship this weekend on the
full GP circuit at Donington will have young Nathan Freke on the grid. At the
age of 19 he will be the youngest driver there and will be the first driver to
race a 250 in the Europeans as his first race in a 250! Nathan is also the
only driver in the UK to race 100cc, Rotax Max, 125cc short circuit, 125cc long
circuit and now 250cc Superkart at National level in the same season. He will be
ably assisted by the experienced Andy Martin of F1 Karts who has also supplied
the kart. [
Top ] Bernie
Ecclestone At Buckmore (05/08) Bernie Ecclestone is to join
former Motorcycle and F1 World Champion, John Surtees MBE and Bill Sisley,
owners of the Buckmore Park Kart Circuit, for the opening of the new £1 million
clubhouse next month. The new state of the art facility will be the operational
centre for the school, club and championship racing and corporate activities for
which Buckmore is famous. The clubhouse has been designed so as to be able to
link in a new Motor Sport Training and Technology Centre. It is hoped that the
planned Motor Sport Training and Technology Centre will run in conjunction with
schools, colleges and local authorities to introduce more youngsters into motor
sport - from driving to engineering and design. The development is part of a
dream held by John Surtees, the only man in the history of motor sport to hold
world titles on two and four wheels, to widen the reach of his beloved sport.
"Karting is the very grass roots of motor sport. What I would like to see
is a wider opportunity given to youngsters to participate in an exciting
learning programme. There may be another Michael Schumacher out there or it may
lead to a career in our thriving motor sport industry, or just a safer driver
when the time comes to get a licence. It is a dream, but dreams can come
true." Members of Parliament, local
authorities and heads of the motor sport and motoring industries are to be
invited. The Motor Sport Training and Technology Centre will feature a fully
fitted workshop and servicing areas, study and lecture rooms and a selection of
karts and components. The development of the circuit to date and the new
Clubhouse, have come from existing resources at Buckmore Park. Now the search is
on for the funds to establish Britain's first karting Motor Sport Training and
Technology Centre and to make motor sport truly accessible to more youngsters in
our communities. [
Top ] Stolen
Equipment (04/08) Martin Pattison of Revolution
Karts in Matching Green, Essex, asks all karters and kart circuit owners to look
out for equipment that was stolen last Thursday evening, 31st July. His
fledgling company suffered a break-in and the theft of 3 Pro Karts, their van
and all tools. All three karts are of a design by Doug Shepard (late of Swift
Karts) and have been refined. The front stub assembly is unique to Revolution
Karts, having adjustable camber/caster connection rods, with lower rose joints
attached to the chassis. A reward is offered in return for information leading
to the return of these karts and a prosecution. Please contact Martin Pattison
or David Toynton on 07774 988556 with any information. [
Top ] GoKart
From France (04/08) Dreamkarts International the
UK's sole importer of the French GoKart racing chassis will be running a test
day at Rye House for the new TXRM Champion Rotax Max kart on Wednesday the 13th
of August. Anyone who wants to try it out should contact them on 0208 518 7744
or 07870 564 503/2 or just turn up on the day. Dreamkarts International are
also looking agents for GoKart racing chassis in the north and other areas of
the country, anyone interested should contact them on the above number. All
enquires will be treated with complete confidentiality. [
Top ] The UK
F1 Drivers Challenge (31/07) Want to follow in Mark's footsteps? If you believe you can then read on. More... [
Top ] Bridgestone
YDS DR5 Tyres (30/07) Biz Karts have advised that
they now have large stocks of Bridgestone YDS DR5 tyres available to
competitors. The N4SKRA have confirmed that currently competitors are free to
use these non-NFA marked tyres. Contact Biz on 020 8443 3300 for further
information. [
Top ] Rowrah's
40th Anniversary (30/07) Rowrah celebrates its 40th
anniversary on the 9th/10th August with an exciting schedule. Saturday will be
given over to static displays including a classic Williams F1 car, a World Rally
Ford Focus courtesy of M Sport, the leading car in this year's Alfa Romeo
championship, classic rally machinery and a factory racing car from TVR at
Blackpool. On track displays will come from MiniMoto and SuperMoto bikes and
various racing machinery, as well as the normal club kart practice that includes
the WTP Challenge, and might even feature a grid of junior gearbox drivers.
There will also be a VIP opening on Saturday of the new clubhouse which has now
been completed, and which went down very well at the recent Stars of Tomorrow
meeting. Sunday will be the WTP
Challenge raceday in conjunction with the normal race meeting, although special
trophies will be awarded to the winner in all classes! Admission is £4 per day for
adults, children under 16 free. Entries available from Marion Fell on 01229
463748 and the usual address. [
Top ] European
Superkart Championship (29/07) The 2003 CIK-FIA European
Superkart Championship, which began in Spring in the Moravian city of Brno in
the Czech Republic, has its second and concluding round at Donington Park on 8,
9 & 10 August 2003, with free practice sessions for the Superkarts on
Friday, qualifying on Saturday and the main action on Sunday. The meeting also
includes a round of the FIA Sportscar Championship with a 2.5 hour race on
Saturday afternoon, and on Sunday there's a round of the FIA Championship for
Thoroughbred Grand Prix Cars (historic F1) and a round of the Euro 3000 (F3000). The entry lists for Donington
comprise of 59 drivers (27 in Division 1 and 32 in Division 2), and seven
different nationalities are represented (Great Britain, France, Germany, Sweden,
Denmark, Norway and the Czech Republic). Frenchman Damien Payart, twice the
winner in Brno, is in with the best chance of winning the title in Division 1
(twin-cylinder Superkart category), but expects stiff competition from his
fellow countryman François Vinualès and from Britain's Martin Hines - the four
times World Champion and reigning European Champion, as well as Mark Owens who
still has an outside chance of the title. There's some good racing in prospect
with many Championship outsiders keen to achieve at least one victory, including
60 year old Swedish veteran Bobo Westman (currently lying 5th in the
Championship), British driver Graham Barker, the Dane Poul Petersen and Sweden's
Thomas Johansson, as well as the Franco-British driver Steve Edwards. In Division 2
(single-cylinder engines), it should be a straight fight for the title between
Andrew Agnew from Northern Ireland (twice the winner in Brno) and the Czech
Michal Bartak, although several front runners of the 2002 European Championship
who were absent in Brno are also likely to feature prominently, namely John
Riley, Peter Lazzari and Malcolm Crowe, and if they cannot win the 2003 European
crown they will at least want to do well in front of their home crowd and race
for the full 13 laps, unlike in 2002 which had a premature end for many involved
in a pile-up at the very first corner! The results of the Donington
event will be available during the event on the CIK-FIA
website. [
Top ] Swiss
Hutless (23/07) The new Swiss Hutless website
is now fully operational, containing information on the Swiss Hutless chassis,
spares and equipment, including a catalogue available as a PDF file. Visit www.swisshutless.com
for further details. Swiss Hutless UK have also
announced the appointment of DF Motorsport as south of England agent for the
full range of Swiss Hutless Kart chassis's, spares and equipment, including
Swiss Hutless clothing. A full comprehensive stock of spares will be carried to
most major UK races. For further details and a free brochure contact DF
Motorsport directly on 07789 640184 or 01189 470426. [
Top ] Midland
Championships (22/07) The Renault F1 Team is to
offer prizes to rising British motor racing talents at this year's ultimate
karting challenge: the 2003 Midland Championships. This prestigious annual race
meeting, held at Rissington circuit, near Stow-on-the-Wold, is set to attract
over 300 of the quickest kart racers from across the country. Past winners of
the event include Jenson Button and many of this year's competitors will have
the same burning desire become the next British F1 world champion. The Renault F1 Team is set to
encourage success by offering a healthy selection of branded team merchandise to
the best drivers at this September's event. The Enstone-based outfit currently
lies fourth in the World Constructor's Championship with drivers Fernando Alonso
and Jarno Trulli - both of whom are former kart racers - is to encourage success
by offering a selection of branded team merchandise to the best drivers at the
event. Event promoter, Chris
Hartley, commented; "It's terrific that the Renault F1 Team are supporting
young talent in this way. There will be an abundance of skilled racers
contesting the 2003 Midland Championships, many of whom have the necessary drive
and ability to progress to the top of the motorsport ladder." For the first time ever, the
September 6th-7th event is being filmed for SKY Sports television, giving the
drivers and teams welcome national exposure. In addition to the high quality
racing, there will also be a variety of track demonstrations, paddock displays
and family entertainment to keep the spectators happy. Admission will be charged
at just £10 per vehicle per day, or £15 for a weekend pass. For further event
details, visit www.rissykartclub.com [
Top ] A
Double & A Perfect Haul (22/07) Mark Litchfield regained the
Championship lead in Formula A following a double win at the weekend, whilst
Riki Christodoulou kept himself firmly in the driving seat in the Formula JICA
Championship after a perfect points haul, all at Little Rissington in the 4th
round of the ELF-Hill House Hammond Super One MSA British Karting Championships.
More... [
Top ] The
Treehouse Trust (21/07) Registered charity The
TreeHouse Trust have organised a 3 hour pro-kart endurance race to take place at
the Lakeside Karting circuit in Thurrock, Essex on Sunday 31st August. The cost
per team for up to 6 drivers is £235, and after registration each driver will
receive a sponsorship form and must commit to raising a minimum of £30. All
equipment is supplied and up to 20 teams will be competing. The minimum number
of drivers per team for this event is three, and the maximum six. The TreeHouse Trust is an
educational charity established in 1997 by a group of parents who all had
children recently diagnosed with severe autism. Autism is a serious neurological
disorder, which affects 1 in 110 children. It is still not known what causes
autism and there is no cure. If you would like to have
some fun and at the same time help TreeHouse to help thousands of children with
autism across the country then contact Simon for more information and bookings;
tel: 01708 863070. [
Top ] UK
Distributors Sought (21/07) Following successful summers
in France over the past 3 years French chassis manufacturer GMD Kart Racing are
looking to expand into the UK market and are seeking an importer. Although not
homologated for any MSA Championships, GMD Racing France would like to hear from
businesses that can help them market their GMD marked chassis' for Rotax Max and
Biland in the UK. Contact R.Malinconi on telephone number 0033 5633 833 26 or
e-mail: r.malinconi@free.fr [
Top ] Selena
Cup, Romania (18/07) On the brand new Bacau racing
track in Romania, the most modern circuit in Eastern Europe, the "Selena
Cup" will be held on 15 -17 August 2003. It will be entered onto the
CIK-FIA International Sporting Calendar and organised by AS Selena Motor Sport
in cooperation with the Romanian Automobile Club - Romanian Federation of
Automobile and Karting. The following three
categories will be eligible: ICA-J, FA and FC, and for this first event the
organisers are offering some of the most valuable prizes in the history of
Karting. The winners of each category will receive 5,000 Euros (€) and Drivers
finishing in the following positions: 3,000 €, 1,500 €, 700 €, 500 € and
300 €, plus 500 € to the Driver achieving the fastest lap. With
approximately 1.42 Euros to 1 Pound Sterling, it means there's over £3,500 up
for grabs by our reckoning. But that's not all, to
encourage a high level of participation, the organisers have decided to offer
start money to Drivers, which will cover their travelling expenses (fuel
expenses), as well as accommodation and meals for the Driver and a Mechanic, for
four nights beginning on Thursday 14 August. Since the number of participants is
limited, the organisers reserve the right to select Drivers dependant upon their
list of results. It's free of charge to enter and you have until 06 August 2003
to do so. For further information and for entries, please apply to the
Organisers: Selena Motor Sport - Bacau. Tel: 0040 234 585 695, Fax: 0040 234 585
590, E-mail: selena_ms@rdslink.ro or
to the Romanian Federation of Automobile and Karting (FRAK) Tel: 0040 21 2224
124, Fax: 0040 21 2224 123, E-mail: frak@dnt.ro [
Top ] Super
One Visits Rissington (17/07) Little Rissington, near Stow
on the Wold in Gloucestershire, hosts the fourth round of the ELF-Hill House
Hammond Super One MSA British Karting Championships this Sunday, 20th July, as
the Formula One stars of the future battle for title glory, and while current
karting sensations Riki Christodoulou (Sutton Coldfield) and Gary Catt (Thruxton)
bid to hang on to their respective Formula JICA and Formula A series leads, on
the very same day a few miles up the road at Silverstone the British Grand Prix
will be taking place where the current crop of Super One karters hope to one day
be racing. In Formula JICA Christodoulou
in particular has been on fire this season having only dropped 10 points from a
potential 300. The West Midlander has shown his class at every circuit so far
this season but he's being closely followed by Guildford ace Freddie Martin-Dye
who is only 12 points adrift in second position. Jason Parrott (Crowland) has
moved up to third in the standings following a very good weekend's work last
time out at Three Sisters, near Wigan, but is only six points clear of Clay
Pigeon race winner Jonathan Legris (Bournemouth). Formula A was a tense affair
during round three of the season at Three Sisters with arch rivals Mark
Litchfield (Marston Montgomery) and Mark Rochford (Wincanton) renewing their
heated battles from last season with a collision that ultimately handed the lead
in the title chase to Catt. The Hampshire karter heads the standings 10 points
clear of Litchfield with Ian Johnstone (Carluke) in third place a further six
points shy. Benjy Russell (Wisbech), who had a very positive outing at Three
Sisters, has moved up to fourth in the championship ahead of James Sutton (Corringham). Practice ahead of the fourth
round of the championships takes place on Saturday, 19th July, with qualifying
scheduled to begin at 17.00. Sunday's on-track action gets underway at around
10.00. Formula A points
(provisional): 1st Gary Catt, 270pts; 2nd Mark Litchfield, 260pts; 3rd Ian
Johnstone, 254pts; 4th Benjy Russell, 252pts; 5th James Sutton, 251pts; 6th
Duncan Tappy, 249pts. [
Top ] Stars
At Nutts (17/07) Stars of Tomorrow drivers
intending to race at Nutts Corner over the August Bank Holiday weekend are
reminded that the Ulster Karting Club has organised special ferry fares for
visiting teams using Stena Line. The special offers are not available through
agents or directly from the ferry company. All details can be obtained on the
club's web site www.ulsterkartingclub.com [
Top ] British
24 Hour (16/07) Paul Bowler and Ted Poole
have confirmed that arrangements are currently underway to stage The British 24
hour ProKart Endurance Race in late summer 2004. This will be a joint venture
between PB Promotions Ltd and the EKC Ltd, supported by the N4SKRA. The joint
organisational abilities will establish this event as the UK's premier endurance
race and one, not to be missed. Information regarding the venue, date, entry fee
and format, will be announced shortly. [
Top ] Practice
& Race Before S1 (10/07) As there is no August two
stroke meeting at Buckmore Park, the BPKC Summer Championship Round over the
weekend of Saturday/Sunday 19th & 20th July will be the last chance for
Super One and Rotax Challenge competitors to race at Buckmore before the Super
One Round on the 6th and 7th September and the Rotax Challenge Round on the 21st
September. The 21st September also marks the 40th anniversary of the circuit and
a special BPKC race meeting will be promoted, backed by the Kent Messenger
Group. Practice is available on
Wednesday 16th July and Saturday 19th July between 10am and 4pm at £40 per
Kart. BPKC members are entitled to a 10% discount! Overnight parking is
available on Saturday 19th July at £10 per vehicle. The Circuit's new Clubhouse
is now fully operational and all competitors and their families are welcome to
use its ground floor facilities including the cafeteria, showers and toilets.
For further information contact Sheila Rose on 01634 201562, extension 210. The
BPKC now has on-line race entry and membership forms available by clicking
here. [
Top ] Rowrah's
August Extra (10/07) Cumbria Kart Racing Club are
putting on a support race for the mixed Cadet classes during the Super 4 meeting
on 16th & 17th August. The races will not count
towards the Club Championship and are aimed at the newer people into the sport
as many of the 'old hands' will be at the Whilton Mill O Plate. The first 30
cadets entered will have three heats and a final and race for some special
prizes rather like the mountain bikes and remote control cars we had last year.
Entry will be a special one-off fee of £25, with a once only and never to be
repeated pre-race practice rate on Saturday 16th. Entries to Marion Fell, 50
Newton Road, Dalton-in-Furness, LA15 8NF please. [
Top ] MAXXIS
Formula TKM Festival (09/07) Regulation packs for the
MAXXIS Formula TKM Festival commencing August 09 at Kimbolton have now been
posted to more than 400 karters for what looks sent to be another bumper event.
The regulation booklets have been sent to all of this year's S1 TKM competitors
as well as those who took part in the festival last year. Further packs have
also been sent to those requesting them. Any other drivers wanting
packs should send a 42p stamped addressed large envelope to Alison Parker, 17
Sandy Close, Wellingborough, Northants, NN8 5AY. Entries should also be sent to
this address. This year's event takes a
slightly revised format and includes timed qualifying for all drivers counting
for points, three heats and a pre-final and final. Drivers will get extra time
on track with the most racing ever at the Festival. The prize fund tops £5000
and the event will be featured on Sky TV and around the world to more than 200m
homes. Classes racing include the three main 2-stroke classes as well as
veterans and heavyweights. Four-strokes will also race in Junior and Senior
sections. [
Top ] Sizzling
Summer at 3 Sisters (07/07) The prestigious Gold Cup will
see Comer Cadet, all Rotax Max classes (including the heavy 175), TKM classes
and 100 National racing on the awesome Valley circuit, whilst the gearbox
classes (125 and 250) get their only opportunity in 2003 to race on the full
1500m international circuit - longest short circuit in Britain. In August all four Rotax Max
classes compete in the largest Rotax Max event in the North for the largest cups
you have ever seen! Super 4 visits with the final round of the short circuit 250
championships. Races for all regular MBKC classes as well. September 28 brings the ABkC
Open Championship to 3 Sisters with events for 125 Open, National 125 and 250
National. 250E also visit to compete for the Hesketh O plate and the 210
Challenge visit as well for a feast of short circuit gearbox karting round the
Perimeter circuit. Races for regular MBKC classes on the Valley circuit as well. A sizzling summer at 3
Sisters for gearbox classes, 3 races on 3 different circuits. A sizzling summer
at 3 Sisters for direct driver classes, with the best of competition in 3 races
on 2 different circuits. For more information, regulations and entry forms see http://mbkartclub.com [
Top ] A Better
Deal For Karters (04/07) Autosport International 2004
will open its doors on 8-11 January at the NEC in Birmingham, bringing further
support and more good news for karting and the grassroots of motorsport.
The National Motorsport area will return in 2004 to build on the foundations of
last year's success, with some exciting changes in store. The area will
introduce a "try and buy" initiative, allowing karters to try out
equipment on the indoor kart track before they part with their cash. Kart
manufacturers will also have the opportunity to showcase their newest machines
in the Kart Manufacturers Pavilion for the first time. A unique karting display,
adjacent to the indoor karting track - linking the karting area and the track in
Halls 11 and 12, will be another new attraction to National Motorsport. More
details will follow soon. Motorsport News will once again enhance this
area with a platform and focal point for National Motorsport. Set to star
celebrity drivers from both national and international arenas, visitors will
enjoy chatting with experienced drivers and future stars alike. To help the pockets of future
racing stars, Autosport International 2004 will be offering an exclusive reduced
entry price for karters. Kart National and International A&B licence holders
will pay just £6.00 to get in on Saturday or Sunday. Further special ticket
offers will be leafleted at kart circuits and via trackside banner advertising. There's even more good news
for karting companies, with the introduction of new sales packages, allowing
exhibitors to choose between showcasing on just the two consumer days on
Saturday and Sunday or all four days, including trade on Thursday and Friday.
Contact Haymarket Exhibitions for further information about special karting
rates for two or four days, or the Kart Manufacturers Pavilion. Once again, National
Motorsport will feature the Constructors Pavilion and Club Motorsport - these
areas will highlight possible paths of opportunity, especially for karters
looking for career guidance and support as they graduate from the junior ranks
into both national and international arenas. Club representatives from across
the national championships will be on hand. The Karting area and National
Motorsport will continue to be promoted as 'the' place to find out how to get
started in motorsport - at all levels. [
Top ] CIK-FIA
Committee Meeting (01/07) The Executive Committee of
the CIK-FIA met on 24 June 2003 in Paris and in view of the current world
economic downturn decided to reduce the number of meetings for 2004 by grouping
several Championships together, as shown below. It will be mid October 2003
before circuits and organisers are known. The Formula A World
Championship will be one single event run over the weekend of 24-26 September
2004. The Formula A European Championship will be reduced to three events with
the
first two rounds run at meetings also hosting the 125cc Gearbox European
Championships (ICC & Super ICC) on 14-16 May and 25-27 June 2004, and the third and final round topping the bill with the European Junior Championship
Final on 20-22 August 2004. The European ICA Championship Final has been
scheduled for 03-05 September along with the Super ICC World Cup and the
final round of the European ICC Championship. The three European ICA and Junior
Championship regional qualifiers that were introduced in 2001 will continue as
before and will take place on 10-11 July 2004. It is expected that other
CIK-FIA Championships, Cups and Trophies (Asia-Pacific & PanAmerican
Championships, Viking Trophy and Monaco Kart Cup) will continue as before. The Executive Committee also
rejected a proposal from the Manufacturers' and Technical Committees to modify
the regulations from 01 January 2004 of the Formula A, ICA and JICA classes and
in doing so reconsidered its decision earlier this year to introduce rev
limiters in ICA and JICA and to impose on-board starters in JICA. There'll be no changes for
2-stroke engines technically due to the imminent appearance of 4-stroke engines.
The homologation of these 4-stroke engines will begin at the end of May 2004,
with their introduction into the World Championship scheduled for 2005. The Committee also
unanimously voted for the updating of Circuit Regulations and the introduction
of a grade D licence in addition to the current A, B and C licences. The grade D
circuit licence is designed to meet the requests of countries emerging in
Karting, in order that they may initially launch and develop with less powerful
karts, 15HP or under. [
Top ] Superb
New Clubhouse (30/06) Designed primarily for
corporate and group use, the first floor incorporates a 200-seat
conference/briefing room, toilets, full corporate catering facilities and a bar.
Large folding acoustic screens allow the area to be divided into smaller
hospitality suites or meeting rooms, each of which is bathed in natural light
and has independent access to a balcony offering outstanding panoramic views of
the circuit. Audio-visual equipment on the first floor includes a large plasma
screen, TV, VCR and DVD units, a built-in light and sound system. There is also
the facility for access to the Internet. The new venue offers the
opportunity to combine a business meeting, product launch or conference with a
karting or multi-activity event, and is also ideal for stand-alone events. For
further details, please contact Dawn Wymark on 01634 201562 ext. 203 or e-mail: dawn@buckmore.co.uk This is the first of many
exciting developments at Buckmore Park that are scheduled to begin later this
year and next. Further information will be available in about two months time,
so watch this space. [
Top ] Chassis
Setup Book (24/06) With the Kart Chassis Setup
Technology book continuing to be their best-selling kart publication, Steve
Smith Autosports the California based publisher is now planning to start work on
a new karting publication and series of videos with Jim Hall, author of the Kart
Driving Techniques book and owner of the highly respected Jim Hall Kart Racing
School, the longest running kart racing school in America. For more information
on Steve Smith Autosports popular Chassis Setup and Driving Techniques books and
other auto racing publications click here. [
Top ] NFA
Championship (20/06) Zip Kart are supporting NFA
Championship drivers by reducing the cost of Bridgestone NFA YDS Slicks and
Bridgestone YDK Wets. Martin Hines stated,
"The 4-stroke arena is a very valuable market for us, and indeed, the
Bridgestone YDS and YDK tyres were developed for Zip Kart specifically for this
type of market, where quality, performance and durability are the premier
ingredients. To ensure that our support for this arena of karting goes directly
to the competitor we have reduced the price by £6 on a set of slicks and £10
on a set of wets." [
Top ] Engineers,
Designers, Petrol Heads (19/06) Do you have what it takes to
transform a 25 year old banger into an awesome 25 foot long stretched car and
then race it around a 5 mile track? If the answer is yes then you might be
needed as Leopard Films are seeking contestants for a new Thunder Races series
they are making. Thunder Races is a
high adrenaline engineering challenge television series for Discovery and
Channel 4 and they are looking for teams of 3 to apply now. Series 1 was shown on
Discovery last year and was a storming success worldwide and filming is about to
start on series 2, so if you want to apply you need to do so immediately. Call
Andy on 020 8233 2924 or e-mail andyclarke@leopardfilms.com
for more information. [
Top ] Super
Two at Warden Law (18/06) Paul Wilkins did the double
last weekend by winning the Honda Senior class and also taking the Libre with
his Biland. Other winners were Jordan Chamberlain in Honda Cadet and Jake
Clifford in Honda Junior. The TKM 4-Stroke victors were Michael Cox in Juniors
and Chris Needham in Seniors. [
Top ] Rogues
Help Cancer Charity (17/06) Rogue Racing are a Pro Kart
team currently racing in Paul Bowler's Pro Kart Endurance Championship at
Sandown Park and Daytona International, but next month they are venturing across
the channel to take part in the Le Mans 24hr Kart race on 5th & 6th July
2003 in an effort to raise as much money as they can for Cancer Research UK.
"This will be the first time we have taken part in this event" said
Aidan Kirwan (team principal), who along with the rest of the team is very proud
to be racing on behalf of such a worthwhile charity. "We are a clubman's
team who still enjoy the fun element of karting and would like to thank all
those who have supported us including Zip Kart, Kart Smart, HIFX Windsor and
Waitrose" added Aidan. Anyone wishing to help the team to reach their
target for Cancer Research UK can e-mail Aidan at kirwan@waitrose.com [
Top ] Cadet
& Junior Manx Kart GP (16/06) As a follow-on to the 2003
Manx Kart Grand Prix being held at the legendary Peel 'round-the-houses'
circuit, the Isle of Man Kart Racing Association are staging the 2nd Cadet &
Junior Manx Kart Grand Prix. The event is being held at the Jurby Race Circuit
on Sunday 29 June. The event will be a
tremendous opportunity to see some of the racing stars of the future take to the
track, racing at speeds of in excess of 60mph. With over 30 young competitors
taking part from both the Isle of Man and the UK, it promises to be a great day.
In fact, the racing is often so close that it makes Formula 1 look positively
boring! The action starts at 11am, light refreshments are available and best of
all, entry is free. Finally, the organisers would
like to remind competitors that entries must be received by no later than 22
June. If you would like any further information, please call Steve Graves on
01624 817353 or 07624 498818. [
Top ] Christodoulou's
F1 Test Visit (12/06) Riki currently leads the
Formula JICA category of the ELF-Hill House Hammond MSA Super One British
Karting Championships, having only dropped 10 points from a maximum 300 so far
this season, and he's seen as one of the true potential stars of the future. Not
only did Christodoulou get an opportunity to see behind the scenes of the
Renault F1 Team in action, he also received a full guided tour of the pit
garages and had the chance to meet Renault F1's Spanish star Fernando Alonso. Commenting on his exclusive
day out with the Renault F1 Team, Riki said: "I had a really fantastic time
at the test and it was excellent getting to see so closely behind the scenes of
a leading team like Renault F1. I was surprised at how close we were allowed
near to the cars while they were in the garages and it was brilliant being able
to meet a top driver like Fernando Alonso." Formula Renault UK
Championship Manager Simon North said: "The entire day with the Renault F1
Team was superb and I'm delighted that all of the drivers we invited enjoyed
themselves and found the day a real benefit. We're pleased to be able to allow
opportunities such as this for some of our competitors, and also for young
karters such as Riki, as Formula One is obviously the pinnacle of motorsport and
where most young drivers aim to progress to." The picture shows Riki
Christodoulou with Renault F1 Team driver Fernando Alonso at the recent
Silverstone F1 test day. [
Top ] Stars
of Tomorrow Round (11/06) The Hunts Kart Racing Club (HKRC)
have confirmed they advised Stars of Tomorrow at the beginning of April
that it would not be able to fulfil its obligation to run the scheduled event,
thus giving Stars of Tomorrow 5 months notice of the facts, and 5 months to
re-arrange the event. "Due to a Huntingdon
District Council Local Authority Planning issue HKRC would not be able to run
the Round and at no time since has the answer been any different" said HRKC
Competition Secretary Gary Parker. The HKRC have always wished to run the Round
but were not aware of the planning issues when Round 7 of the Stars of Tomorrow
Championship was accepted, and they say they still would have organised it if
planning issues had been resolved. However, as it stands at present HKRC would
be breaking the law and run the risk of being closed down if they were to run
the Round now. Gary Parker further
commented; "It is an unfortunate situation but one that has been
unavoidable and the notice issued in the club program was done in the knowledge
that Stars of Tomorrow had been advised on 2nd April regarding this issue,"
and he added that "the forthcoming TKM Festival in August was agreed 12
months ago and does not in any way conflict with the planning issues that we are
dealing with due to the fact that it takes place on the 2nd Sunday of the month
which is when we race each month, unlike Stars and S4." [
Top ] Stars
Round Date Change? (09/06) Round 7 of the Stars of
Tomorrow Championship due to take place at Kimbolton over the weekend of 27th
& 28th September will not take place and Championship Director Carolynn Hoy
is seeking legal advice over the postponement. After receiving notification
recently from Kimbolton saying that it was no longer possible to run on these
dates Hoy said; "Stars of Tomorrow have a signed contract with Kimbolton
and we are currently negotiating with the circuit as the round is important to
us. We are therefore extremely distressed that a notice appeared in the
programme of the Kimbolton Club meeting at the weekend which informed 'drivers
concerned' that the Stars of Tomorrow September meeting (and Super 4 August
meeting) has been cancelled." Hoy was appalled at the
insensitivity of the 'cancellation notice' appearing in the Club's programme,
effectively advising competitors of changes in her Championship, and she
questioned why Kimbolton ran Super 1 and intends to run the TKM Festival when a
club spokesman advised that a long standing planning problem made it necessary
to cancel all meetings except Clubbies. Hoy concluded; "If, and
when, there are to be any changes to Round 7, I will notify our competitors
accordingly and in a professional manner. In the meantime, I am consulting my
lawyer." [
Top ] Summer
Kart School (05/06) Playscape Racing are
launching a weekly summer kart school at their popular indoor track in south
west London for 8 to 16 year olds, led by Martin Howell, their Managing Director
and Senior Instructor who reports that many youngsters have already signed on. Commencing on 30th July,
visits from stars such as 2000 World Kart Champion Colin Brown, former European
Formula A Kart Champion and McLaren rising star Lewis Hamilton, and Motorsports
Motor TV commentator and Atomic Kitten Touring Car Driver Gareth Howell are
expected. Scheduled to run on six Wednesday mornings during the school holidays,
those attending will be able to put into practice on the track what they learn
in the karting classroom and further information can be found on the Playscape
Pro Racing website. [
Top ] Surrey
Karting Ace At Thruxton (30/05) The 14-year old, who at the
halfway point of the 2003 ELF-Hill House Hammond MSA Super One British Karting
Championships is a comfortable second in the JICA category, visited the
Hampshire circuit to get a first-hand look at the UK's premier junior single-seater
category and also meet some of the championship's top drivers. Martin-Dye
watched as Fortec Motorsport's James Rossiter (Oxford) took his first win of the
season to move into third in the championship and Freddie also got the
opportunity to meet ex-karting stars, and current Formula Renault frontrunners,
Paul Di Resta (Bathgate, West Lothian), Alex Lloyd (Port Soderick) and series
leader Mike Conway (Sevenoaks). Speaking on his exclusive day
out at the races, Freddie said: "I had a really great time as a guest of
Renault and it was fantastic meeting up with Paul, Alex and Mike who all started
their careers racing in karts like I am now. "It was a very exciting race
to watch and Formula Renault is where I'd like to be when I'm old enough. It's
the best single-seater category in the country and it's the ideal step up for
karters, like me, who would like to eventually race in Formula 3 or even Formula
One which is what I'm aiming for." Simon North, Formula Renault
UK Championship Manager, commented: "We were delighted to welcome Freddie
to Thruxton as our guest and it's always good to give talented karters an inside
look at a category like Formula Renault. We recognise that people like Freddie
are the Formula Renault champions of the future and as such it was a pleasure to
give him this opportunity." Picture shows Freddie
Martin-Dye (second left) meeting Formula Renault UK hotshots Paul Di Resta
(left), Alex Lloyd (second right) and championship leader Mike Conway during
round four of the series at Thruxton. [
Top ] Super
Two At Llandow (28/05) The Super Two double header
took place in south Wales at the Llandow circuit over the May Bank Holiday
weekend and resulted in Paul Wilkins (Wright) winning both Honda Senior finals,
Simon Mills (MS) cleaning up in Honda Juniors, Liam Clifford (MS Biland) won
both Libre Invitation races and Chris Needham (CRG) won the TKM 4-Stroke Senior
finals on both days. In Honda Cadet the winners were Lewis Reeves (LRG) and Ryan
Denton (Bowman) and in the TKM 4-Stroke Junior class the victories went to Tom
Griffiths (KCR Jade) and Michael Cox (KCR Jade). [
Top ] Formula
TKM 4-Strokes (23/05) Says Tal-Ko Racing MD Alan
Turney: "The last time we did such days they were very successful and we
have plenty more requests from drivers wanting to sit in the karts." Those
interested should register their requests to Tal-Ko Racing at email info@tal-ko.com
or tel: 01767 682020 / fax: 01767 691622. Tests for the new 2004 style
TKM 2-stroke outfits will be scheduled for later in the year. [
Top ] Catt
& Christodoulou Ahead (20/05) Gary Catt and Riki
Christodoulou lead the Formula A and JICA classes
respectively of MSA Super One championships after the weekend's action at Three Sisters, near Wigan and in
doing so have won a visit to a forthcoming Formula One test at Silverstone as
guests of Renault UK. Catt now leads FA by 10 points from Mark Litchfield whilst
Christodoulou maintains a 12 point lead over nearest rival Freddie Martin-Dye. More... [
Top ] Surtees
Visits Rowrah (14/05)
He was also interested and impressed with the new karts bought with grant aid on
behalf of the Racing for Buttons scheme. John has been looking at introducing a
similar scheme at Buckmore Park, as he has been impressed with the standard of
driver coming through the ranks at Rowrah. He sees it as an ideal
opportunity to get parents involved in the sport in order to protect its future
against environmental pressures. John is pictured with some of the Racing for Buttons drivers and the two new
machines. [
Top ] European
Formula A Round 1 (14/05) Team Simpson International
driver, Ian Johnstone (16) from Carluke had a fantastic start to his European
Championship season on Sunday, beating stiff competition from some of the
world's top international kart drivers. With 85 drivers from 4 continents
competing, Ian took well to the French circuit of Angerville just south of
Paris, qualifying fastest in group and 5th overall with a time of 48.917. After 4 gruelling heats he
lined up grid 8 for race one. Paul Lemmens (karting mentor for Jenson Button and
Jos Verstappen) commented "he used his head well and kept calm, he has good
tyres for the final." Two long finals followed over 50km with the young
East Lothian driver coming in strongly 12th and 11th respectively. Johnstone is
now ranked 10th in Europe. Ian said after the finals
"The Birel - TM - Bridgestone combination worked well all weekend. It was
so easy to drive and we could get our tyres to last so well. I feel so much more
confident after this result and I will be looking for a podium position in
Finland." Team Manager Michael Simpson comments "I am very pleased
with Ian's performance this weekend, he has showed maturity beyond his
years". He went on to say "Now the professional drivers from Super A
are racing in the same class it makes things much harder for the young guys.
This result must now put Ian up with Europe's elite young drivers." Rounds
3 and 4 are to be held in Alaharama, Finland on 6-8th June. [
Top ] Southern
Championships (13/05) FEKC host the Southern
Championships this year over the weekend of 31st May & 1st June. The format
will be the same as last year with practice on the Saturday morning, 2 heats and
a Final on the Saturday, then 3 heats and a Final on the Sunday. The overall
result of the 2 Finals will determine the Champions for 2003. Get your entries
in quickly as it's reported that places are going fast. Check out the website www.fekc.co.uk
or telephone the Competition Secretary Joy Bryceson on 01256 893663 for details.
All entries should be sent to FEKC Comp Sec. by 24th May. [
Top ] Super
Two At Larkhall (07/05) The Summerlee Raceway in
Scotland hosted the opening round of the Super Two championships on 4th May
which saw some fine racing in unpredictable weather. More... [
Top ] Attention
Stars of Tomorrow Drivers (06/05) Round two of the BPKC Summer
Series at Buckmore Park on 18th May will be the last chance for Stars of
Tomorrow drivers to race at the circuit before their round in early July (due to
clashing dates in June). Practice is available on Wednesday 14th and Saturday
17th May. For further information, contact BPKC secretary Sheila Rose on 01634
201562 ext 210, or via email to chris@buckmore.co.uk [
Top ] Wins for Catt, Litchfield,
Legris & Christodoulou (28/04) Inclement weather and
unpredictable action made for an enthralling weekend of karting at Clay Pigeon,
Dorset, on Sunday as the ELF-Hill House Hammond MSA Super One Championship
resumed for its second outing of 2003. More... [
Top ] MSA S1
Returns To Dorset (22/04) Mark Litchfield (Marston
Montgomery) and Jon Lancaster (Pudsey) will be looking to extend their
respective Formula A and Formula JICA championship leads when the 2003 ELF-Hill
House Hammond Super One MSA British Karting series resumes at Clay Pigeon,
Dorset, on Sunday, 27th April. During an action-packed first
Formula A round at a damp and overcast Larkhall in Scotland last month, a
hard-charging Litchfield overcame a first corner incident in the initial points
scoring final to claim third position before taking a welcome victory in final
two. Final one race winner David Gregory (Sheffield) will be hoping to continue
the good form he enjoyed during the first round of the season while local
interest will centre on reigning Formula A Champion Mark Rochford (Wincanton).
Rochford will be aiming for a reversal in fortunes at Clay Pigeon after enduring
a difficult weekend north of the border last time out. Sixth position in race
two was the best he could manage during round one and he currently sits in 12th
position in the standings. In Formula JICA it was Jon
Lancaster who was the most consistent driver of the day at Larkhall having
backed up his second place in final one with a win in final two. However, going
into the second round of the season his championship lead is a mere two points
from Sutton Coldfield's Riki Christodoulou after the latter's win and third
place. Jonathan Legris (Bournemouth) is currently third in the Formula JICA
championship, seven points shy of Lancaster, after taking a fifth place and a
second last time out while Dorset's own Richard Puddle (Wimborne) will be aiming
to build on 16th position in the standings. [
Top ] To Find
An F1 Racing Driver (19/04) Some months ago the Exchange
& Mart publication launched their 2003 UK F1 Drivers' Challenge, designed to
test competitors skills in all that is required of a Formula 1 driver with the
aim of finding a potential Formula 1 champion of the future. From the thousands
that registered their interest, 1000 were selected to contest the first stage
and on Easter Monday evening, 21st April at 20.30 (8.30pm) the first of a six
part series is being screened on Channel 5. Be A Grand Prix Driver
follows the action, the joy and the heartache of F1 wannabees as the thousand
are whittled down over 6 rounds to leave one winner who will get a drive in a
Tyrrell 012 in the FIA European Thoroughbred Grand Prix (for historic F1 cars)
at Monza in Italy on 25th May 2003. The judges included Tiff Needell, Tim
Matthews and Martin Stretton and the programme will be presented by Vicki
Butler-Henderson and current Formula 1 driver for B.A.R. and former British kart
champion Jenson Button. [
Top ] 2003
Ulster Cup (17/04) Kart racings Ulster Cup
series of races at Nutts Corner Motorsports Centre has got off to a rapid start
this season with three rounds of the championship already over. With capacity
grids in some classes, the series looks likely to be the best supported Ulster
Karting Club championship in recent times. Click
here for Championship reports. [
Top ] Lyell
Has The Drive (17/04) His performances impressed
Neil Dodson of 7Kart so much that Martyn will now join the 7Kart team as a works
driver for the S2 Championships this year. Martyn joins the team as number two
to current junior Pro-Kart star Chris Lipscomb, who finished 6th in last year's
series. Neil Dodson of 7Kart
explained, "With Chris's talent and experience, I believe we have a very
good possibility of winning the championship. What we see in Martyn however, is
a talent that we want to help develop this year, working with the team; we think
it is a realistic proposition for Martyn to join Chris at the front of the
field." Martyn is really excited to join the 7Kart team and says he is
looking forward to racing on lots of different circuits. [
Top ] 2003
European Superkart Championship (16/04) Successfully revived in 2002,
the CIK-FIA European Superkart Championship will comprise of two events this
year, at the prestigious Brno and Donington Park circuits. The first visit is to
Brno, the second largest city in the Czech Republic (25-27 April), then it's on
to Donington Park in Derbyshire, England (8-10 August). The long Brno circuit (5.4
km) has become a Mecca for motorcycle Grand Prix racing and has hosted several
FIA motor sport championships; it will surely be unanimously praised by those
Superkart drivers soon to discover it. At Donington (4 km), the European
Superkart Championship will be integrated in a resolutely international
competition that includes a round of the FIA Sportscar Championship, a round of
the Thoroughbred Championship (historic F1) and a round of the Euro 3000
(F3000). As in 2002, Superkarts are
divided up into two categories: Division 1 groups together 250cc twin-cylinder
karts (power of approximately 95 HP, for a total weight of 210 kg, driver
included), and Division 2 brings together 250cc single- cylinder karts (power of
approximately 70 HP, for a weight of 200 kg). 53 drivers representing 9
nationalities are entered in the first Championship round, 31 of whom in the top
category. World Champion four times over in the 1980-90's (when Superkart was
still called Formula E), the British driver Martin Hines celebrated his return
to competition in 2002 with a European Champion title after nine years in
retirement. Aged 56, Hines has proved that he's still the role model in that
category and fully deserves his No.1 this season. However, his competitors
are determined to give him a hard time. He's facing two generations; the older
ones, whom he has known for at least 20 years, are led by the indefatigable Bobo
Westman (60 years old!) and the former twice World Champion Poul Petersen (54
years old), and the younger generation, led by Britain's Mark Owens and the
double French Champion Damien Payart, both of whom are 28 years old. For top
positions or even a win, the Swede Johansson, French drivers Vinualès and Lozza,
the Briton Barker and Germany's Huber and Breckwoldt must also be reckoned with.
In the absence of the Englishmen who dominated the 2002 championship in Division
2, the continental drivers, in particular Germans' Wagner (the outgoing
Vice-Champion), Kracht and Beck, or the Czech Michal Bartak on his home soil,
seem to be the most likely competitors who will fight for victory. Finally, the
fairer sex will rely on two representatives, with Sweden's Monica Strath in
Division 1 and Germany's Kristin Breckwoldt in Division 2. The results of the Brno event
will be available on the CIK-FIA website at www.cikfia.com
during the event. [
Top ] Clubman
Drivers' Association (15/04) The UKCDA (UKC Drivers
Association) are currently putting together a database of drivers who may wish
to join their own association and have some input as to how Karting is run
rather than leave it all to the manufacturers. As there are thousands of
drivers in the UK an enormous volume of enquiries are expected, so please be
patient as it may take a little while to process them. It's requested that an email
is sent to; ukcda@kemara.co.uk with the
following information included: Name, email address, place of residence
(town/city), engine and normal race venue(s). If you want to include your full
address and contact phone number please do so but initial contact will only be
made by email due to the number of drivers showing an interest, and also the
fact that the cost of telephoning or writing via normal mail would be
prohibitive and very time consuming. It is intended that the UKCDA
will send information by email within 28 days of receiving your enquiry, but
they ask for you to please bear with them if there is a slight delay. [
Top ] David
Lloyd Helps Youngster (15/04) Many kart racing teams and
drivers spend considerable amounts of money, time and effort on equipment and
testing, relying on these factors alone to find those extra fractions of a
second per lap which can make a difference of several places by the end of a
race. Fitness is often taken for granted, with the result that the benefits to
be gained by seriously developing a personal health and fitness strategy are
invariably overlooked. Simon Pritchard, the General Manager of the David Lloyd
Club, Manchester was keen to help, "we were delighted that Andrew
recognised the need to work at the less glamorous, yet essential, fitness regime
required by a sportsman who strives for success, whatever his, or her,
particular discipline." [
Top ] Kart
Championships on TV (14/04) TV coverage of the opening
round of the Formula TKM National Championships held at Rowrah commences this
week (14th April) on Sky Sports 2 & 3 within the Sports Unlimited programme,
and there's many thrilling finals to be seen. As part of the Elf Hill House
Hammond S1 series, every round of the TKM series is being screened on SkySports
as part of an exclusive deal that will take coverage to more than 200million
homes around the world. On Channel 4 on Saturday 19th
April, there's about 30 minutes of action from round 1 of the MSA Super 1
Championships that took place at the Summerlee Raceway, Larkhall, Scotland last
month. Although there likely to be a few less than 200million tuning in this
Saturday morning, those that do will witness some exciting racing, and except
for you early birds, be sure to set the alarm clock or the video as the
scheduled screening is at 07.00! [
Top ] Top
Karters Converge On Kimbolton (14/04) Many of Britain's top kart
racing drivers will be heading for the Kimbolton race track near Huntingdon,
Cambridgeshire this weekend, 19th & 20th April. The Formula TKM National
Championships are the closest fought part of the Elf Hill House Hammond S1
championships and more than 150 drivers will be competing over the Easter
weekend at the Kimbolton circuit, one of the oldest in the UK but recently
re-designed and upgraded. The drivers range from just 11 years upwards through
to seniors - with most of them set on making motorsport their career. The Formula TKM karts are
entirely UK built using identical engines made 'just down the road' by Tal-Ko
Racing at Sandy, Bedfordshire and as a result it has a reputation of nurturing
the very finest drivers. The expanded race series this year has the added
attraction of the ultra quick and reliable new TKM 4-stroke engine being
included, marking a new path for racing. The six round Championship
will again have cameras from Sky Sports capturing the action. Commented Formula
TKM organiser Grahame Butterworth: "The first round saw some fantastic
racing and I'm sure the same pattern will be continued at Kimbolton."
Qualifying takes place on Saturday with the main racing on Sunday. [
Top ] Buckmore
Summer Series (10/04) The 8 round summer series
starts at Buckmore Park on the 20th April. Run to ABkC regulations, all classes
are welcome and this year additional classes have been added for WTP cadet and
Senior TKM 4/. Entry forms are available from club secretary Sheila Rose on
01634 201562 ext 210 or by email to chris@buckmore.co.uk
Open practice is available on the Wednesday and Saturday preceding the meeting. [
Top ] London
Kart Show (09/04) A steering committee has been
formed by four well known and like minded individuals, all with a common goal of
providing an international shop window for Karting in the UK. The four are;
Roger Sheffield - Chairman of Formula Six, ARKS Examiner and CoC; Ian Ward -
Managing Director of Bayford Meadows Kart Circuit Ltd; Gerard Cox - Chassis
manufacturer and race team director, and Philip Bunn - Managing Director of
Primary Sport Management Ltd - Organiser. To host the first exhibition
Sandown Park Exhibition Centre has been selected, not only for its state of the
art facilities, but also its location within the M25 and its close proximity to
the M3, M4, central London and both major London airports. Waterloo is only 20
minutes away by train. It is expected there will be in excess of 70 exhibitors
including Kart manufacturers, clothing and accessory suppliers, and with a
chassis homologation due in January 2004, there will be plenty of new products
on display. In addition to the
exhibitors, there will be a series of free hosted master classes specialising in
different subjects. Topics will include chassis set-up, sports psychology,
sponsorship, driving techniques as well as presentations on 'Taking the Myth and
Mystery out of Engine Maintenance', and other thought provoking subjects! There
are plans to build a themed area for clubs and championships to stage their
award presentations from the summer season. Philip Bunn, Managing
Director of Primary Sport Management and principle organiser said, "Having
spent a number of years involved in Karting, I believe that a professional
exhibition is needed to consolidate and develop the sport. After all, it is
common knowledge that many of our top drivers start in Karting and putting the
message out on the street that it is fun and affordable can only help to bring
more people into what is best described as an exciting way to spend your leisure
time." For further information on
either visiting or exhibiting, telephone 01273 833884 or e-mail: info@londonkartshow.co.uk
The London Kart Show at the Sandown Park Exhibition Centre, near Esher in Surrey
will be held over the weekend of 13th & 14th December 2003. [
Top ] Buckmore
Park Kart Circuit (02/04) The recent unexpected closure
of The Scout Association facility at Buckmore Park does not affect the circuit
in any way. Buckmore Park Kart Karting Ltd. is a totally separate concern and
the temporary closure of its neighbour is not an issue for them. So it's
business as usual for the circuit who hope to have their superb new clubhouse
open early next month. [
Top ] Shenington
Winter Finale (01/04) Congratulations too to Jon
Lancaster on winning the JICA Winter Series championship, Jon tied up the
championship on Sunday with a fifth place. "It has been a good start to the
year for Jon, considering he only changed to the Birel chassis last November, a
lot of time and effort has been put in by Jon and his team with intense testing
over the winter months, but it is all now starting to pay dividends"
commented Andy Cox, further adding that "a special thanks should go to Mark
Rose, as not only did he do a fantastic job as Jon's mechanic but also was the
brains and co-ordinator who organised the Winter Series for the all the JICA
drivers and their associated teams." [
Top ] European
Formula A (31/03) 11 kart racers from Gt.
Britain and 1 from Ireland have entered to contest the first round of this
year's CIK-FIA European Formula A Championship. Pippa Mann is the sole British
female pilot and is joined by Ian Johnstone, James Miller, David Gregory, Ben
Hanley, Alexander Sims, John Lockhart, Mark Litchfield, Gary Catt, Sam Quinlan
and Martin Plowman, along with Niall Breen from Ireland. Click
here for the 2003 CIK-FIA race calendar. [
Top ] Matchams
Kart Club (31/03) Despite many rumours to the
contrary, Matchams Kart Club will be running race meetings in the upcoming
season. Dwindling attendances, circuit surface deterioration, crippling
increases in insurance costs and changes in the business organisation of the
circuit owners, were all reasons thought to spell the end for this 'grass roots'
club that has introduced so many new drivers to the sport. However, a meeting
held last week addressed all the issues, and the outcome was a co-operative
formed between the circuit owners and drivers which will organise the
continuation of both racing and practice days, at least up until November when
current insurance expires. Arrangements are progressing to commence activities
again in April. [
Top ] IOM
Award (26/03) Isle of Man junior Honda
driver, 15 year old Wesley Dowling, has been awarded the Tarlton Hodgson
Scholarship by the Isle of Man Sports Council to help with his Kart racing in
the Super Two National Championships in 2003. The awards will be presented by
Steve Cram MBE, Chairman of the English Institute of Sport at The Hilton Hotel
in the Isle of Man on 24th April, 2003. Wesley will be in the best of
company with Neil Hodgson (World Superbikes), Steve Hislop (British Superbikes),
Doug Lampkin (World Trials Bikes), Steve Colley (World Trials Bikes), David
Knight (World Enduro Champs), Alex Lloyd (Formula Renault Champs) plus dozens of
top athletes that either were born on the Isle of Man or live there and
represent the Island at top level sport all over the world. Wesley would
like to thank everybody who has helped him up to now including LRG Karts, ASM
Engines, G & C Motorsport and JAK's Bar and Restaurant on the Isle of Man
and all the other junior Honda competitors he has got to know in the UK. [
Top ] Midland
Championships (24/03) This September, Rissington
Kart Club is set to stage the biggest, most ambitious event in its 40-year
history, with the first ever-televised Midland Championships. During the winter break, the
club has been working on plans to film the event, which runs over the weekend of
6th & 7th September, with Frank Johns Associates and their production
associates Pro-Active Television. As the largest producer of televised karting
in the UK, Frank Johns Associates is an expert in the field and already has
ongoing commitments to the Super One Championship and the AbkC Formula TKM
Championship, amongst others. The end result of the project will be a
thirty-minute highlights show, to be aired on SKY Sports television, with the
programme set to feature the best of the weekend's action, driver interviews and
some behind-the-scenes footage. A spokesperson for the club
commented; "Securing national TV coverage of this year's event is a major
coup for Rissington. It's part of an ongoing effort to reinvest in the club for
the benefit of members and to raise our profile, so that we can continue to
attract new members and new sponsors. The championship has already developed
into a major, national karting event over the past few years, but televising
this year's contest will really boost its status to the level it deserves.
Ultimately, we want this event to be regarded as the one unmissable race meeting
on the British karting calendar." The club is confident that,
together with several other plans that are being worked on, the presence of TV
cameras at Rissington will help to attract a record number of entries and
spectators. The club is also working to secure sponsors for the 2003 event, and
is offering businesses a variety of options, including full event sponsorship,
class sponsorship, trackside banners/hoardings and advertising space in a
special full-colour race programme. To discuss sponsorship opportunities, please
call Chris Hartley on 07730 420812, or e-mail chris@connect-group.com For further information on
this year's televised championship, look out for regular updates on www.rissykartclub.com [
Top ] Free
Club Membership (20/03) With the summer championships
approaching, Lydd International Raceway and Kent Kart Racing Club are giving
Gearbox drivers free membership for the 2003 season in order to promote their
classes at the circuit and the club. The Club's race dates and contact
information can be found
here. [
Top ] Monaco
Kart Cup (20/03) Due to redevelopment work
that will be taking place around the harbour area affecting the Formula One
circuit, the scheduled 9th running of the Monaco Kart Cup in October 2003 has
been cancelled. It'll be sad news for the Brits as this popular event had 9 GB
teams running in last year's endurance race, won in 2002 by an Italian team
that included current Club 100 racers
Luigi Mazza and Giuseppe Ferro in their line-up. The next Monaco Kart Cup event
will be held in October 2004. [
Top ] Top
Kart Racers Head For Cumbria (19/03) Many of Britain's top karting
racing drivers are heading to Cumbria this weekend for the opening round of the
race series that could lead them on the route to Formula 1 stardom.
The Formula TKM National
Championships are the closest fought part of the Elf Hill House Hammond S1
championships, the series which has produced F1 drivers like David Coulthard and
Jenson Button. More than 150 drivers will be competing over the weekend of 23rd
& 24th
March at the Rowrah kart track in junior and senior classes starting from just
11 years old. The Formula TKM karts are
entirely UK built using identical engines which puts real pressure on the
drivers to get the very best from their equipment and from their driving. As a
result it has a reputation of nurturing the very finest drivers, and for the
first time, this year the expanded race series has the added attraction of a new
TKM class - this one using the ultra quick and reliable new TKM 4-stroke engine
which marks a new path for racing. The six round championship
sees races spread throughout the UK, the last of which is in Northamptonshire in
October. Cameras from Sky Sports will be at Rowrah and all rounds to capture
this high powered close action. Commented Formula TKM organiser Grahame
Butterworth: "This is a class well known for its close racing. With top
national titles at stake the action is going to be red hot." Qualifying
takes place on Saturday with the main racing on Sunday. [
Top ] FAI
Kartline (18/03) A new company dedicated to
the supply of spare parts to commercial indoor and outdoor circuit operators has
launched. Run by ex Stratos and Zip Kart man Martin Gilbert, Kartline's range
comprises all of the day to day consumable items that operators need, and even
Kartline's own brand of tyre and chain which is available in both 219 & 428
pitch. "This sector of karting has now had a decade to mature. Much of the
product has traditionally been sourced from the race kart parts bin and adapted.
We felt that it was time to bring the whole thing together, manufacture
dedicated product where necessary and illustrate it all in a nice, colour price
list," said Martin. An online shopping site is under development, but those
too eager to wait can call 01525 370752 or e-mail martin.gilbert@kartline.co.uk
for a price list. [
Top ] Daytona
& P B Promotions (17/03) It was announced today that
Daytona Karting and P B Promotions have signed a new 2 year contract in respect
of 'The Prokart Championship' at Daytona's Sandown Park and Milton Keynes
circuits, and for the multi-formula 'Open Championship' at Milton Keynes. This
now allows for the continuing success of both Championships and ensures
continuity for the contesting teams. [
Top ] Karting
Boss Ready For The Off (14/03) The Managing Director of
Brentwood Park Karting Centre at Warley Gap will be switching from four wheels
to two skis for a 48 hour endurance challenge when he flies out to Austria on
Thursday, 20th March. Director of Brentwood Park
Karting Centre, Mr Giles Murray, said; "For three days in March I am aiming
to ski 24 white peaks in Austria to raise money for the charity SCOPE, but it is
some time since I have been skiing so some extra training has been necessary.
Thanks to the team at the Brentwood Ski and Snowboard Centre at Warley Gap in
Brentwood I have been able to perfect my technique as when they heard about this
charity challenge they offered me free skiing time." Giles added; "The
real test will be when we start on the first of the 24 peaks which is the 2096
metre high Saalbach Hinterglemm Ski Circus in the Austrian Alps. I am hoping
that by completing this 24 peak challenge in the 48 hour period I will raise
around £2,400 for SCOPE, money that is much needed by the charity to help
finance further research." Pledges are continuing to
arrive and anyone wishing to help by sponsoring Giles for this event, whether it
be a few pennies or a few pounds, can contact him on 01277 260001 for more
details. SCOPE is the charity which helps people suffering from cerebral palsy;
a physical impairment that most commonly occurs as a result of a part of the
brain failing to develop, often resulting in extreme difficulty in movement for
the affected person. [
Top ] BMKC
Amend Format (14/03) Bayford Meadows Kart Club
have amended the format of its summer 2003 club sprint championship. The
championship will be divided into the 'Challenge Championship' to be held on the
2nd Sunday monthly commencing 11th May for competitors in Junior/Senior
Pro-karts, Honda Cadet Rookies, Junior Royale and Standard, and the 'Clubman
Championship' on the 4th Sunday of every month for competitors in all other
classes. Both series will use the existing timed qualifying format. Further
details, regulations and entry forms from the Club on 01795 479599. [
Top ] Stock
Taking (13/03) Pro-Kart specialists Pedigree
have a stock taking surplus sale taking place now. Honda junior heavyweight, and
lightweight pro-karts are particular specialities of this Staffordshire based
company and some of the bits on offer can be found
here. Everything for pro-karts is what they say, you can reach them on 01283
544345. [
Top ] 100
Octane Fuel (12/03) Nutid Limited, who provide
high quality oil based products to the performance market are offering Karters
100 octane MSA legal racing fuel with next day delivery. The 76 & R racing fuels
and lubricants range is being sold to increasing numbers of motor sport
enthusiasts, but did you know that 76 is part of Conoco, one of the largest oil
companies in the world. R racing fuel is one of the top European racing fuel
brands and is blended in the UK, it's also the official fuel for the British F3
and GT Championships. For more information call 01929 551557 or visit their
website at www.76racing.co.uk which has
an online ordering facility. [
Top ] Litchfield
& Lancaster Ahead (11/03) Derbyshire's Mark Litchfield
leads the 2003 ELF-Hill House Hammond MSA British Formula A Karting Championship
after a hard-fought battle during the first two rounds of the season, whilst Jon
Lancaster and Riki Christodoulou impressed with a win apiece during their
opening rounds of the British Junior Intercontinental A Karting Championship at
Larkhall, Scotland, on Sunday, 9th March. Race reports and points can be found
here. [
Top ] Larkhall
Super One (10/03) A delighted Team Botech
Motorsport offer congratulations to their official Maranello team driver, Jamie
Croxford, on two superb drives in wet and dry conditions at the Scottish
Larkhall circuit last weekend in the first round of the 2003 MSA British
Championships. [
Top ] S1 TKM
Drivers' Buckmore Practice (05/03) Due to clashing dates in
April, the final round of the BPKC 2 Stroke Winter Championship will be the last
opportunity for Super One TKM drivers to practice at Buckmore Park before the
first round at the circuit in early May. Open practice is available at the
circuit on Wednesday 12th March and Saturday 15th March, with the race meeting
on Sunday 16th. For a race entry or other queries, telephone club secretary
Sheila Rose on 01634 201562 ext 210. [
Top ] Rotax
Max L/C Is On (05/03) BSA series co-ordinator Ian
Rushforth has advised that contrary to rumours currently circulating, the
British Superkart Association Long Circuit Championship for Rotax Max is
definitely on, commencing at Cadwell Park on 30th March. Further details and
entry forms can be obtained by contacting Ian on 01509 620702. [
Top ] Glan Y
Gors Test Day (04/03) Glan y Gors Park have a Test
Day for owner drivers this coming Saturday, 8th March 2003 commencing at 10am
until 4pm. If you have not previously visited, the circuit has a superb location
in north Wales only 25 miles from the English border. [
Top ] F6
Practice at Buckmore (03/03) All those racing in the F6
meeting at the weekend will be pleased to know that a practice session has been
arranged on the full international circuit at Buckmore for this Friday (7th
March) in preparation for the Formula 6 meeting. Practice will run from 12 noon
until 5pm at a special price of £30 per kart. All four stroke classes will be
welcomed and marshal and ambulance cover is of course included. [
Top ] Endurance
Racing At Spa (03/03) A weekend at the Spa
Francorchamps Kart circuit in Belgium over the Summer Bank Holiday weekend in
August has been organised by Club 100, well known for their 100cc 2-stroke
Arrive & Drive racing. Spa is one of the top
European kart circuits and located inside of the F1 circuit. The weekend
consists of two 6 hour races and on offer to the winning team are four return
flights and an entry into the Minardi F1 24 hour Pro-Kart race in October 2003
in Tuscany, Italy. Interested? Click here for more
information. [
Top ] European
& World Championships (28/02) The closing dates for entries
to the 2003 CIK-FIA European Formula A Championship and the 2003 CIK-FIA World
Championship have been extended until Friday 07 March. Regulations and
homologated equipment information can be found at www.cikfia.com [
Top ] Tonykart
in Kent (27/02) The Kart Shop at Buckmore has
been appointed an exclusive Tonykart agent for the south of England. They will
stock both the Venox and Krypton chassis as well as large stocks of spares. [
Top ] Burt
Takes Up The Challenge (26/02) Former F3 Champion, BTCC
Works Driver and former test driver for Jordan and Arrows, Kelvin Burt who
started off in Karting at the age of 14 years is set to return to his
roots. He is to take up the challenge in the name of charity; Kelvin has
kindly agreed to drive a one-off round of the UK Clubman Charity Challenge at
Little Rissington in August. The challenge set up this year to run the Junior
and Senior Clubman class to raise money for children's charities. One of the challenge
organisers who worked with Kelvin as his Chief Mechanic during his time with the
Ford Mondeo BTCC Team in the late 90's, asked Kelvin if he would consider a
drive in the charity challenge, Kelvin responded with a positive yes. It had to
be worked around his current commitments to Ferrari UK's European GT team for
whom he is driving this year. The Rissington round of the charity challenge in
August was decided upon, which is also a round of the Wessex Regional
Championship. So if you want to see how the
professionals do it then don't miss this meeting, or maybe you want take up the
challenge yourself. We would like to wish Kelvin the best of luck in this years'
European GT Championship and the Le Mans 24 Hour. For more details go to www.clubmankarting.co.uk [
Top ] Winning
Combination (25/02) Nathan Freke and a 2003
TopKart Evo powered by a Century Race Prepared Rotax Max was the combination
that powered to victory at 3 Sisters last weekend in the presence of most of the
Super 1 contenders for the following weekend's 1st round of the National
Championships. Winning the final by 150 metres and setting the fastest lap of
the day in the 2nd heat Freke commented, "the kart is a real step forward
from 2002, and combined with a new carb setup and top class engine preparation
made the win achievable," and it followed on from good results and testing
at PF International. Max, Junior Max, and Mini Max drivers wanting to
increase their chance of winning in 2003 can contact Century on 01562 632032
or 07710 232813, or e-mail: mail@century-karting.co.uk
Test drives are available in all classes. [
Top ] Cadets
Roar Into Lakeside (25/02) The closure of the F1 City
Karting circuit at London Docklands has led to a new Cadet Club being launched
at the Lakeside Karting centre. Director of Lakeside Karting, Mr. Giles Murray,
said; "While we are sad that the F1 City Karting circuit in London
Docklands has closed we are delighted to welcome the Cadet Club which was based
there and has chosen Lakeside Karting as its new home." The Cadet Club is
open to anyone between the ages of 12 and 17 and at least five feet tall and it
meets each Sunday from 8.30am. The first meeting took place
with more than 20 Cadets racing their way around an exciting 900 metres long
'Grand Prix' circuit with them encountering camber, undulation, chicanes and
hairpins in its 10 corners, as well as the heart stopping Devil's Drop. The
Cadet Club allows young would-be drivers to be trained in the skills of Karting,
the safety routines that are essential for successful racing and then to put in
to action the training they have received and all for just £25 per session. One aim of the Cadet Club is
to start entering teams in inter-club competitions and hopefully compete at
regional and national level. Lakeside Karting is based on the A1306 near the
Lakeside shopping centre. Those wishing to join or find out more information can
do so by visiting www.lakeside-karting.co.uk
or telephoning 01708 863070. [
Top ] David
Benson (24/02) From Tony Benson (Father),
Mark (older brother) and Andrew (his twin brother) at FAB Kartsport to the many
teams that they raced against at Lydd and Sandown Park and remembering the happy
times had by all, comes the sad news that tall, blond David died yesterday 23rd
February in a motor-cycle accident. He will be very sadly missed by all. [
Top ] BKIA
Seeks New Chief (24/02) Motor sport specialist
Grahame Butterworth has announced he is stepping down from running the British
Kart Industry Association in the wake of ever growing pressures on his time.
Grahame took over the BKIA around seven years ago and has dramatically increased
the size and scope of the organisation which represents the industry
manufacturers and traders. He has played a leading role in helping to set up the
new MSA backed Kart Control Board and in establishing the BKIA as a recognised
body within the sport. He told the annual meeting of the BKIA: "I am
pleased to have been able to move things forward but there is still a long way
to go and much that needs refinement within the sport to ensure its continued
growth and solidarity." While he has announced his
intention to quit the BKIA, he will remain there until a suitable replacement
can be found. Those interested in the post should apply to info@bkia.co.uk
Meanwhile Grahame will continue his long-standing involvement with the Formula
TKM karting classes and with the MAXXIS Formula TKM Festival, Super 1 series,
etc. He added: "Since establishing a major new car race series last year -
the Uniroyal Team Challenge - there are increasing requirements on my time. I'm
afraid faced with the choice of sitting in long meetings or driving racing cars
for the TV cameras, the latter wins every time!" BKIA Chairman Alan Turney,
who at the same meeting agreed to stay in the position for another year, said:
"Grahame has done a great deal of work in building the BKIA. It will be
difficult to find anyone to be able to replace him." [
Top ] Kart Club
Change Name (24/02) Kingdom Kart Klub have
changed their name to East of Scotland Kart Club to coincide with being
registered as a limited Company. The Scottish AbkC member was advised a couple
of years ago to change to the status of a company limited by guarantee, (i.e. a
non profit making organisation) which they have now done. The club's race dates
can be found in the Events
Calendar. [
Top ] Jon
Russel Daltrey 1977-2002 (17/02) I would just like to thank
everyone who has shown his or her respect to my father and myself about the
passing of my brother Jon Daltrey. It has taken me back to some very fond
memories we all had. I could not believe the response by so many people that has
been shown, and even though it's a mark of respect it is never nice to have more
grievance cards than Christmas cards by the fireplace. If you would have seen my
brother about the pits then I am sure you would have seen me tagging along with
him too. Now I have lost my only brother and my best friend and I do not really
know what to do with myself. I will carry on racing in Rotax Max at Rissington
in March as I know it was what he would have wanted and that I have a slight
advantage over the rest of the competitors as I have my brother sitting next to
me on the grid and when I race. It's hard to say how much I
appreciate the response that people have shown. So on behalf of the Daltrey
family and on behalf of my brother too I would just like to say, thank you! [
Top ] East of
Scotland KC (17/02) The all new East of Scotland
Kart Club website is now online. 2003 promises to be a busy year at the club
with a calendar of 10 club events, a round of the Champions of the Future winter
series on 16 March 2003, and the ASKC are coming to the circuit on the 18 May
2003 which also sees a round of the NKRA being run on the same day. For £100
per year members of the club can enjoy a practically unlimited amount of
practice, the only exception being on race weekends. Access the new site at www.eskc.net [
Top ] 7Kart
Components Launch Website (17/02) The new 7Kart Components
website at www.7kartcomponents.com
has been launched with some special pricing for those wishing to purchase
on-line. The website features the entire 7Kart Components and 7 Racing Kart
range and will continuously be added to as new products arrive. "Supplying quality
karting parts and equipment, 7Kart Components is a company run by karters, for
karters" said Managing Director Neil Dodson, and added: "Our aim is to
provide a quality service and deliver a massive range of components 'on time',
at competitive prices throughout the UK and Ireland. Stocked lines are set to
include Alfano, Kartsmart, KG, R3, Ridolfi, WildKart and many more." [
Top ] Forest
Edge KC (17/02) With another winters' work
behind them the Forest Edge Club are pleased to invite everyone to see the track
improvements that have been carried out. The Gorse and bushes have been removed
from Parabolica making it possible to see 99% of the circuit from the spectator
area. The barriers at Bus Stop chicane have been renewed and the run off area
increased. There is now a much wider run off area all along the back straight
too. There have also been various other improvements made to the circuit making
it safer for everyone. The FEKC committee would like to thank Qinetic for their
assistance. The new season starts on 2nd March. [
Top ] Advance
Leisure (14/02) Fancy racing a Formula TKM
2-stroke kart in an Arrive & Drive endurance race? If you do then Advance
Leisure are on the lookout for additional drivers to join them on Saturday 22nd
February at Buckmore Park in Kent. Using Club 100 race prepared 100cc karts, a
30 minute practice session precedes a 3 hour endurance race that will see 30+
karts contesting the event. For more information call Advance on 020 8304 5740
or e-mail: advanceleisure@hotmail.com [
Top ] Seen
This Kart? (14/02) [
Top ] 2003
Area Distributors (13/02) Andy Cox Racing (tel: 01527
63984) has announced its network of new Birel sub distributors in the UK and
Ireland. "As Sole Importer/Distributor for the Birel brand we feel it is
necessary to have better representation for clients in all areas" commented
Andy Cox, "we need outlets where new clients can view the product for
themselves and also receive trackside support and test drives from a local
dealer in their area" he added. The dealer network for 2003
is: Pro Sport, 0191 4926014 (north of England); WGP Motorsport, 02838 832003
(Northern Ireland); Innis Motorsport, 00 353 868233993 (southern Ireland - Eire;
Griffiths Motorsport, 01732 850858 (south east England), and Kart Tek, 01327
349615 (Whilton Mill and Kimbolton circuits). [
Top ] New
Sodikart Models (13/02) CIK 'crash test' approved
pods by Rigetti Ridolfi, the Italian plastics manufacturer, have been
incorporated into the new Sodikart SR3 although at present they are not approved
by the MSA for racing in the UK. More information on this exciting new addition
to Karting can be obtained by e-mailing; george@george-robinson.co.uk [
Top ] Dragon
Kart Club (12/02) The club has advised that
race date and licence information contained in the MSA Gold book (the 2003 Kart
Race Yearbook), is basically incorrect. Club events at the Glan-y-Gors circuit
in north Wales commence this Sunday 16th February and follow on the third Sunday
monthly up until the 'winter warmer' in November. A National B category licence
only is required. For a full list of the clubs' dates click
here. [
Top ] Endurance
Challenge (07/02) Eddie Davies has created an 8
round series for Pro-Kart owner-drivers that he's calling 'A real drivers'
endurance challenge'. Taking place at the new and exciting 1100 metre MSA
circuit at Glan-y-Gors Park, the series commences on 2nd March with following
rounds taking place on the first Sunday of each month until 5th October. For
further details contact Eddie on 01490 420770 or 07977462170. [
Top ] 2003
Single Seater Launch (07/02) Silverstone Racing School
organisers of the BRDC Single Seater Championship have released details of its
2003 programme. Now firmly established as a sensible and most cost-effective
starting place for anyone launching a single seater career. The championship
will act as the only single seater support race at the 2003 British F3 & GT
events. It will visit all major circuits over the UK, including Grand Prix
circuits at both Brands Hatch and Silverstone. Click here for more
information. [
Top ] Shenington
Rearranges Test Day (06/02) As January's test day was
cancelled due to snow cover, the Shenington committee has re-arranged it for
Thursday 20th February, hopefully in the school holidays for most people.
Starting 10 a.m. as usual, the club caters for all 2-stroke classes and Cadet
4-stroke. TKM 4-strokes, Bilands etc are also permitted on practice days, whilst
Junior Gearbox are permitted on Thursday test days only. The circuit is over one
kilometre in length and test days are operated in sessions with full ambulance
cover. The club thanks everyone who
helped to clear the snow and ice off the track last Saturday. [
Top ] Stunning
(04/02) Other good news for Birel
came from the Sarno circuit in Italy where the Winter Constructors's Cup took
place. Birel again took the honours in ICA with Todisco, in FA with Salvatore
Gatto, and
in ICC World Champion Francseco Laudato completed a fantastic weekend for the
Lissone based company. 8th place was the reward for recent convert to the Birel
chassis, Ian Johnstone. [
Top ] 125
Europa (30/01) Class promoters RPM
Motorsport have announced that Motorsport Engineering will be supporting the
class during 2003. Rather than creating yet another championship they will be
providing a prize fund for the 125 Europa class at 10 separate club events,
which will ensure that the maximum number of competitors benefit from the
sponsorship. RPM are scheduling a number
of test days throughout the year. The next date will be Wednesday 12th February
at Whilton Mill. Anyone interested in joining one of the friendliest classes in
karting should telephone Russell or Lee at RPM on 01920 460800. Information
about the class is now at www.europakart.co.uk [
Top ] MBKC
Switch Track (30/01) MBKC planned to use the new
Hairpin track at 3 Sisters for the 23rd February meeting, however the track has
not been approved by the MSA. As a result of this and also a lot of interest in
further practice opportunities from Super 1 Rotax competitors, the MBKC meeting
on the 23rd February and practice on Friday and Saturday will use the Valley
circuit as used in Super 1. See http://mbkartclub.com
for details. [
Top ] Lloyd
Goes To MRS (29/01) Photos
courtesy of Paula Hamilton [
Top ] New
Premises (29/01) WGPMotorsport, sole agents
for Birel Karts in Northern Ireland, have recently moved to a new address in
Craigavon, Co. Armagh. The new premises include a shop area, workshop, office
and store and allow for an increased range of products to be stocked.
WGPMotorsport also offer their congratulations to Gareth Conn on his second
place in round 3 of the Winter Series at Nutts Corner. [
Top ] Top
Karters Head For Williams (28/01) The UK's top karting drivers
will be at the Williams Grand Prix Conference Centre at Grove near Wantage this
week for the presentation of the 2002 Elf Hill House Hammond S1 Karting
Championship awards. So large is the event with around 150 drivers together with
their parents and teams, that three separate presentations are being organised
together with a special opportunity to look around the superb F1 displays. This Friday, 31st January, is
the date of the event with Cadets and Rotax classes at 11.30am, TKM classes at
1pm and the remainder including the top MSA British Senior and Junior titles at
3pm. Senior representatives from the sponsors will be present to present the
awards for this, the UK's largest Karting Championship. [
Top ] England
- Australia Marathon (28/01) Although nothing to do with
karting, motor sport enthusiasts may be interested to know that the famous
London to Sydney marathon is on again next year, and novices can take part in
showroom cars costing from £12,000. The London-Sydney Marathon in
1968 made motoring history. It was a full-on competition over 10,000 miles
between heroic drivers in the showroom cars of the day. Scotsman Andrew Cowan in
a humble Hillman Hunter won it from Ulster rally hero Paddy Hopkirk in a BMC
1800. Ninety-six competitors started and sixty-odd finished. The rough roads
through Persia and Afghanistan took their toll, as did the harsh Australian
outback. Now it's on again in June
2004, and not just for seasoned rally drivers, novices can take part in showroom
cars under 2-litres - no turbos or 4wd. Event Director Nick Brittan, himself a
competitor on the original 1968 event, said: "This new category really does
make it possible for an enthusiast to take something like a 2 year old Vauxhall
Astra or a Peugeot 307, bring it up to rally specification and do the event.
There are people out there who remember the original event and tell me it's
their dream to be able to do it. For £12,000 it's easily possible to put a car
together that will do the job." Brittan's TWE company has
organised many marathon re-enactments over the past ten years and a recent
personal message from Tony Blair to Brittan wished him and competitors well, and
recognised the event as one of the great motoring adventures. It's a 30-day, 10,000-mile
blast through France, Italy, Greece, Turkey, India and Australia with up to 3
timed racing stages over closed roads each day. Some are gravel, some tarmac,
anything from 10 miles to 40 miles in length. Sensibly, the route in 2004 avoids
the places that were exciting 36 years ago. "I'm sure Iran and the Khyber
Pass would be exciting today, but for different reasons," said Brittan.
See www.twerally.com for further
information. Competitors will pay an entry
fee of £23,000, which covers two people and the car and includes hotels, air
lifts, ferries and shipment of the car home from Australia and a pair of air
tickets as well. There are 95 places on the event and 30 of those were snatched
up in the first month since the announcement. "It's still one of the
greatest car adventures on the planet," said 1968 winner Andrew Cowan.
"I've lost count of the rallies I've done, but the London-Sydney is the one
I remember." [
Top ] 4 Stroke
Open Practice At Buckmore (25/01) Buckmore Park have arranged a
four stroke only open practice day on Saturday 1st February. This is combined
with the Formula 6 warm up day. The cost is just £30 per kart, and as it's a
special price no further discounts will apply. All karts must be to current MSA
regulations as must all drivers' safety wear. Dependant on numbers, the practice
may be run in sessions. As usual, the day will be fully marshalled and medical
backup is included. Full details 01634 201562 ext 210 or e-mail: sales@buckmore.co.uk [
Top ] Team
Sprint (24/01) The inaugural Team Sprint
event organised by Martin Capenhurst, England Internations team manager, due to
take place at Lydd International Raceway next month has been postponed.
Apparently, communication difficulties meant that information on the 3 round
series was not publicised as originally intended and a decision was taken to
postpone this first event. A totally new concept to any
series ever run before, the first round will now be on 16th March at Llandow,
with the postponed Lydd event being rearranged to take place after the second
round at Rowrah. Further information can be obtained by telephoning 01162 88 35
06 or visiting www.profilephotography.com/teamsprint.htm [
Top ] Sheni
Restarts (24/01) Shenington Kart Racing Club
restarts for 2003 in January with test days on Thursday 30th January and
Saturday 1st February, prior to the Club meeting on Sunday 2nd February. A small
increase in costs means that Members will pay £38 and non-Members £48. All
entries to Sonja Game as usual. Contact details and further information at www.sheningtonkrc.co.uk [
Top ] Kart
'n' Parts Appeal (22/01) The on-going appeal by the F1
Junior Karting Club in Glasgow has progressed well. Aimed mainly as an
introduction to the sport for those who do not have the resources to get into
karting immediately themselves, enough donations of parts have been received to
allow the club to complete three rolling chassis', and thanks to the generosity
of many parents up and down the country they now aim to be practicing outdoors
at Larkhall in a few months time and gain enough experience to perhaps begin
competing in 2004. Special thanks go to Mrs.
Bird of West Byfleet, Surrey for the donation of a complete kart and a spare
engine, it will be well used and appreciated. Still required are items such as
engines (old or new), all types of spares and parts, and tyres are welcome too.
Anyone with an old awning they don't need, or perhaps would sell at a reasonable
rate to help keep the kids dry, please get in touch. Contact David O'Neill on
0141 882 4193. Everyone donating parts will
be given a chance to win two tickets to the Westlife concert at the SECC,
Glasgow, - all tickets to the 8th July 2003 concert have been sold. If you are
willing to travel to Glasgow a free raffle ticket will be sent offering a chance
to win two concert tickets, plus a chauffeur driven luxury car ride to and from
the concert (from a west or central Scotland collection point only!). The
tickets were donated by a local Scottish company keen to support in some way
this initiative for the community. The raffle is to be drawn on 18th February at
Scotkart in Clydebank. [
Top ] TKM
4-Stroke National Championships (16/01) Tal-Ko Racing has joined
forces with the organisers of the Super 1 and Super 2 kart championships to
create an innovative new triple championship for the fast growing Formula TKM
4-stroke classes. The combination will create a new championship structure to
help develop the classes and give drivers the maximum possible amount of racing
at all levels. Roger Abbey Taylor, who
started the first title for the class last year with the backing of Tal-Ko,
said: "We are expanding the opportunities for drivers to race at every
level and to do as much or as little as they wish. By splitting the series we
can help cater for drivers of every type and pockets of every size." Neil
Hann from S1 said: "We are pleased to house the TKM 4-stroke class within
our events. We recognise the need to move forward and welcome the developments
in the sport." Alan Turney of Tal-Ko Racing added: "We want to support
clubs and provide top level racing for the drivers in front of the TV cameras.
This novel scheme allows us to do all of those things. We welcome the backing
and flexibility of the organisers and MSA in making this possible." Further details and
registration forms are available from Roger Abbey Taylor, 10 Island Close,
Staines, Middlesex, TW18 4YZ. Tel: 01784 462624 (First Division) and Sonja Game,
16 Graham Road, Bicester, OX26 2HP, Tel: 01869 320157 (Premier Division).
Drivers are urged to register before the end of January to secure their places. [
Top ] WTP At
Rowrah (15/01) Cumbria Kart Racing Club
intend to hold a Cadet WTP Club Championship at Rowrah commencing March,
providing there are sufficient numbers. All those interested should contact Mark
on 01900 63896 for further details or simply send an entry form into CKRC
stating Cadet WTP class. Entries must be in before the end of February! [
Top ] Live
Action (13/01) Following the success of the
karting in the live action arena at the Autosport Show last weekend and the
interest shown in the Junior Gearbox class, Midland motorsport team Century Race
Preparation are again making the offer of Junior Gearbox test days to any driver
who would like to try these very quick karts before deciding whether to compete
in the class. Interested competitors should contact Century on either 07710
232813 or e-mail; mail@century-karting.co.uk.
Also available for test will be Mini Max, Junior Max, Senior Max and 125
Gearbox. [
Top ] Talon
Sprockets (13/01) As from January 2003 Zoom
Karts have taken over from Kartell Racing in the Worldwide distribution of the
famous Talon Kart Racing Sprockets. All enquiries should now be directed to Zoom
on telephone no. +44 (0)1482 321753. [
Top ] Congratulations
From FEKC (13/01) The Committee of Forest Edge
Kart Club would like to congratulate all its Club Champions of 2002. The first
three in each class will be receiving their Championship trophies at the
presentation evening on 1st February. 250 Gearbox - Darren Lewis,
125 Gearbox - Andy Parr, Rotax Max - Nick Strong, Senior TKM - Martin Collins,
Junior Clubman - Adam Underhill, Junior TKM - Adam Gale, Honda Cadet - Jack Gover and Comer Cadet - Lee Stibbs. If you are a Cadet (age 8 to
12) or a Junior (age 11 to 16) and would like to get into Karting go along and
visit Forest Edge Kart Club on Barnsfield Heath just outside Bournemouth on 15th
February. If you are also interested in a test drive please telephone Peter
Bryceson on 01256 893663. [
Top ] Junior
TKM's At Warden Law (13/01) BOGOF - Buy One Get One Free.
If you enter a Warden Law club meeting in 2003 you will receive a free entry for
the following meeting. So if you are doing the full 10 club championship rounds
you'll only have to pay for 5 of them! Telephone Warden Law Kart Club on 0191
5238390 for further details. [
Top ] Autosport
2003 (10/01) The annual Autosport
International Exhibition is now in full swing and continues until 6pm on Sunday
12th January. It's still the place to visit for all motor sport aficionados but
many will be disappointed this year, especially with the Karting section which
has reduced in size and has a number of previous exhibitors missing. The overall
area of the exhibition also appears to be much smaller this year. Here are some of the stands
in the Karting area waiting to help... [
Top ] Buckmore adds WTP &
TKM 4 Stroke (08/01) The Buckmore Park Kart Club
has announced that they will now include classes for WTP cadet and TKM 4 stroke
(both junior & senior) for the club's winter championship. Round 1 of this
three round series is just ten days away on Sunday 19th January, with open
practice being held on Wednesday 15th and Saturday 18th. Telephone Sheila Rose
on 01634 201562 ext 210 for entry forms. [
Top ] Win A
Season's Racing (08/01) Team Lovell Racing are
coordinating and running a talent search competition that will see the winner
receive a fully sponsored drive in the Mini-Max or Junior Rotax Championship. If you think you can be a
winner, here's your chance. By entering the Team Lovell Racing scholarship
competition you could win a full season of racing in the National Super One
Championship with top class equipment and full team support. Telephone 01202 631
630 for further information. [
Top ] WTP
Grows (07/01) The new Cadet formula WTP
Championship is evolving into what could be one of the largest cadet series in
2003. Following on from 2002, it promises to be bigger and better and will be
run over 8 rounds with 7 to count, - none of which clash with Super 1 or Champs. The circuits to be visited
this year are Fulbeck, Warden Law, P.F. International, Little Rissington,
Whilton Mill, Dunkeswell, Rowrah and Kimbolton. Race dates can be viewed
here. Further details of the championship can be obtained by calling
telephone no. 01909 474 633. [
Top ] Race at
Spa Francorchamps (07/01) Uniroyal, the world famous
tyre manufacturer, is launching a nationwide search for motor racing talent in a
£25,000 competition being launched at the Autosport International Show (stand
10207). Two top prizes will offer enthusiasts the opportunity to race in the
famous Spa 25-hour race. Runner-up prizes offer four more drives in races at
circuits in the UK. Prior to that all 18 selected finalists will take part in a
special talent trial at a top circuit to determine the six who will go for final
training into the race cars. Uniroyal are launching this amazing package of
prizes as part of a major promotion for its new Uniroyal Team Challenge race
series which made a tremendously successful debut in 2002. The Uniroyal Team Challenge
offers endurance racing for teams of drivers in races usually between 4-6 hours.
Every team drives a specially designed mid-engine car fitted with a glass-fibre
body looking like the traditional VW Beetle. This type of racing first started
in Belgium seven years ago and is now hugely successful there and is now
spreading in the UK. Among winners of a similar competition last year were two
former top kart racers. The competition is being run
from the Uniroyal Team Challenge stand at Autosport International (Birmingham
NEC, 9th-12th January). Says Uniroyal Marketing Manager Tim Bailey:
"This is a tremendous opportunity for anyone who has ever wanted to race.
Full driver training, an MSA race licence, and the chance to race either in the
UK or at the Spa Francorchamps circuit, one of the most famous circuits in the
world. "Team Challenge is designed to make motor sports more accessible and
affordable so what better way to promote the series than to offer the chance of
racing to everyone at the show." All entrants have to do is
complete a simple entry form on the stand. The competition is open to anyone,
with or without race experience, but they must hold a full UK car driving
licence. Adds Tim Bailey: " We know we are going to give the ride of a
life-time to enthusiasts and we hope we may find some budding stars of the
future at the same time." [
Top ] Rising
Star Joins Strawberry (07/01) Edinburgh teenager Daryl
McDonald has recently joined the highly successful Strawberry Racing Team based
in Sheffield, South Yorkshire. The Trent Valley Kart Club member will be racing
junior Max and the new junior gearbox class. [
Top ] Search
For Motor Sport Writers (06/01) Writers with an interest in
motor sport are being given the chance of work within the sport by leading motor
sport public relations company, Impact PR. Impact, who have extensive
involvement in karting, motor racing and the motor industry, are looking for
writers to help their further increased promotion of motor sport in 2003.
Managing Director Grahame Butterworth explained: "We expect a need for
several new people to help on a part-time basis. It is an ideal way for
relatively inexperienced people to gain experience within the sport."
Impact's involvement includes the UK's largest karting class, Formula TKM, the
Super 1 kart championships and the Uniroyal Team Challenge car race series. Potential applicants must
have excellent English written skills, good computer literacy, driving licence
and a good understanding of and interest in motor sport. Trainee journalists are
ideal candidates. Written applications only should be sent to impactpr@btinternet.com [
Top ] Autosport
International (06/01) The annual Autosport
International show is almost upon us and promises to be another excellent
exhibition again this year at the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham. Open
from 9th to 12th January between 9am and 6pm on all days, Saturday and Sunday
are the designated public entrance days. Karting is represented by
many well know names including 7Kart, Andy Cox Racing, Club 100, Karting
magazine, ROC Timing Systems, RPM Racing Engines, Supersport Timing Software
Systems and Tal-Ko Racing. 7Kart will be launching its
components division and also featuring products from R3 Racing, and Andy Cox
Racing will have the new 2003 Birel chassis range on show and TM engines
prepared by 2002 FA World Cup winning tuner Paul Lemmans (GKS). You can sign up
to the 100cc 2-stroke Arrive & Drive racing with Club 100, and purchase the
latest Karting magazine and a host of karting books from Lodgemark Press. ROC
Timing will have a special Show price on AMB Personal TranX 160 Transponders,
and Supersport Timing will be demonstrating their latest software allowing live
updates to the Internet. [
Top ] New
Importer (06/01) Besides running a successful
UK/European race team Botech Motorsport have now been appointed UK importer for
Maranello Racing Karts and Lucky Design helmets and paint designs. [
Top ] Top S1
Kart Drivers at NEC (06/01) Top drivers from the Elf Hill
House Hammond Super 1 kart series will be making a guest appearance at the
Autosport International Show to receive awards and be interviewed on the
Motorsport News stage at the NEC. The top three drivers in each class have been
invited to the events which will be held over two days. Seniors will be on stage
on Friday 10th January at 4pm with the Juniors lining up at 1pm on Saturday 11th
January.
[
Top ] [ News
Summary / Site Index | Current News ] News Archives : [ 2000 ] [ 2001 ] [ 2002 ] [ 2003 ] [ 2004 ] [ 2005 ] [ 2006 ] [ 2007 ] [ 2008 ] [ 2009 ] [ 2010 ]
2003 News
Items
Taking a break from
preparations for Christmas Eve, Santa and one of his elves dropped into Lakeside
Karting last Sunday. The visit coincided with the last round of the venue's
Prokart Endurance Championship and Santa took the opportunity to shakedown a
potential new delivery vehicle. Santa commented that he was unlikely to use the
kart as it lacked space for all the presents and was concerned about his
coordination bearing in mind the brandy often consumed on the night. An extra
treat for all the boys and girls (good and bad) was Santa, without elf,
performing pace kart duties for the rolling race start. Expect Santa to be
resort to his usual transport for the big night and if you've been good drivers
this year there may be a surprise or two for you on Christmas Day.
The popular Pro-Max endurance
series received a boost recently with the announcement that Bill Meeks, of
'Allied' fame has agreed on a sponsorship package for the Summer 2004
Championship. Bill's support and enthusiasm will no doubt enhance the already
popular championship. The Summer 2004 Championship will be contested over six
rounds and will be based at Bayford Meadows with away rounds at Buckmore Park
and Clay Pigeon.
Set in the 23 million pound
refurbished Sandown Exhibition Centre, this exciting new show that is being held
over the weekend of 13th & 14th December 2003 will guide drivers through the
transition from cadet racing into single seater and saloon car racing.
For a guy that produces
exquisite components for some of the leading members of the motorsport
community, cutting corners is not an option. The guy is Geoff Turton the company
is GNT Engineering, every day is different in their workshop, you may find Geoff
fabricating suspension components and intercoolers for WRC cars, next time you
go in its gurney flaps in carbon fibre for a FIA GT.
Saturday 15th November - Buckmore Park
1. Wade Grant Cunningham (NZ) 2. Arnaud Kozlinski (F) 3. Ben Hanley
(GB) 4. Ronnie Quintarelli (I) 5. Markus Niemelä (FIN) 6.
Martin Plowman (GB)
Sole UK Birel importer Andy
Cox Racing is pleased to announce that five times World Champion Gianluca Beggio
and members of Birel Motorsport team will return to test at PFI International on
the 5th & 6th December 03.
Honda Cadet (Provisional): Lewis
Reeves, Ryan Denton, Jordan Chamberlain.
Honda Junior: Jake Clifford, Chris Evans, Matthew Pritchard.
Honda Senior: Paul Wilkins, Garry Meikle, Darren Stacey.
Biland: Liam Clifford, Paul Wilkins, Martin Capenhurst. Best Heavyweight:
Duncan Kent.
TKM 4-Stroke Junior: Michael Cox, Tom Griffiths, Tom Bridge.
TKM 4-Stroke Senior: Chris Walsh, Chris Needham, Matthew Parr.
Biland SA250 Engine No. AO2477
Biland SA250 Engine No. AO2479
Biland SA250 Engine No. AO2577
Biland SA250 Engine No. AO00390
Note: Biland engine no's are on the front right bottom of the engine behind the
front engine mount, stamped on a machined face. Do not confuse with the casting
number directly on the cast block further up on the left.
Mike Wilson (Blue) Chassis No. 1124
Mike Wilson (Blue) Chassis No. 995
Birel R32 Chassis No. 261831
Testing and evaluation will continue but from what we have seen so far we have
to pose the question: Is this the way to go?
Gary Catt - Formula A
Jason Edgar - Formula ICA
Riki Christodoulou - Formula JICA
Oliver Rowland - Formula Cadet
Justin Edgar - Formula 100 National
Junior Cadet - for drivers between 8 and 12 years old.
Junior 125 - drivers aged 11 to 16 driving Rotax engined outfits.
Senior Twin - drivers 16 plus driving twin Honda engine karts.
Senior Gearbox - drivers again 16 plus, but driving 125cc six-speed gearbox
engined karts.
Senior 125 - drivers 16 plus but driving higher performance Rotax outfits.
Senior 100 - drivers are 16 plus and drive highly tuned 100cc karts.
Timed practice determines the grid order for the heats, heat performances
determine the grid position for the final.
Bernie Ecclestone today
opened the new clubhouse at Buckmore Park Kart Circuit, and John Surtees MBE
announced his vision of widening the opportunity for youngsters with the
development of a Motor Sport Training and Technology Centre.
The launch at Buckmore
highlighted the strong link between karting and Formula One. Bernie Ecclestone
said, "I am very pleased that John has got behind karting, which is a very
important part of motor sport. I am also pushing Formula 1 circuits to build
kart circuits where we could include a series in F1 weekends."
For more information visit http://www.circuitdriver.com/circuitguides/default.asp
Heikki Kovalainen, a member
of the Renault Driver Development programme, is to be the guest of honour at
next month's Midland Championships.
For Mark Johnson, the 2003
winner of the Exchange & Mart backed UK F1 Drivers' Challenge, it was a
dream come true. His prize was a drive in the FIA European Thoroughbred Grand
Prix, for historic F1 cars, at Monza in Italy earlier this year, and starting
from the back of the grid Mark drove a fantastic race and in doing so secured a
seven-year management contract with Essentially Sport and is now looking forward
to a career in motorsport.
Formula JICA points (provisional): 1st Riki Christodoulou, 290pts; 2nd Freddie
Martin-Dye, 278pts; 3rd Jason Parrott, 261pts; 4th Jonathan Legris, 255pts; 5th
Jon Lancaster, 253pts; 6th James McCarthy, 249pts.
This summer, MBKC welcomes a
panoply of visitors to 3 Sisters, Wigan the fastest kart circuit in Britain.
Events kick off July 27 with the Gold Cup, and continue with the Rotax Max Cup
on August 31 and the ABkC Open Championship for Gearbox classes on September 28.
All club championship classes are catered for at each meeting.
Buckmore Park Kart Circuit's
new Clubhouse features the very latest in design technology. Both floors of the
spacious, multi-functional building are packed with state-of-the-art equipment.
Facilities on the ground floor include an 85-seat cafeteria/restaurant, product
display arena for up to 180 guests, toilets, disabled facilities, showers,
changing rooms, medical centre, lift, outside viewing terrace and access to the
circuit via a corporate pit lane. Audio-visual facilities include a
terrestrial/satellite TV and a bank of monitors displaying lap-by-lap race
action.
Sutton Coldfield karting ace
Riki Christodoulou was one of a handful of special guests invited by Renault UK
to join the Renault F1 Team at an official Formula One tyre test at Silverstone
last week. The rare opportunity for the 14-year old to see behind the scenes of
a top Formula One team in action was made possible by Renault UK's Director of
Press & PR Tim Jackson who also invited leading drivers from the Formula
Renault UK Championship and ELF Clio Renaultsport UK Cup.
Formula JICA karting
sensation Freddie Martin-Dye (Shamley Green) took a glimpse into his future
during the Bank Holiday weekend when he was invited as a guest of the Formula
Renault UK Championship to attend round four of the series at his local track,
Thruxton.
Tal-Ko Racing are organising
more test days for those wanting to try their trend setting 4-stroke engine.
Juniors and Seniors will be able to test during July at various venues. Details
of venues are currently being finalised and will be decided in line with where
most people are coming from. A nominal charge of £30 will be put on the tests -
refundable against the cost of buying equipment.
The only man ever to win
World Drivers' Championships on two and four wheels, former Formula 1 star and
bike legend John Surtees was in attendance at Rowrah last Sunday, watching his
son Henry race in advance of the Stars of Tomorrow meeting in July.
Young Scottish Pro-Kart racer
Martyn Lyell (13) named in works team line-up for 7Kart had his debut race in
early February in his 7TDB Junior Pro-kart and certainly appears to have the
drive for success after putting together a string of impressive results,
including winning his first ever MSA race, and some impressive front-running
performances against the established front runners and works stars in the S2
warm-up meetings at Larkhall and Warden Law, and all this while he was a novice
and starting from the back of the grid.
Andrew Potter, aged 11 from
Westhoughton, near Bolton, is competing for the first time in this year's
National Kart Championship, a series of six races at venues throughout the UK.
To help build his strength and stamina, Andrew has secured the help of the David
Lloyd Fitness & Racquets Club, Manchester who have provided a personal
trainer who will work with him on a one to one basis to improve his overall
fitness, and increase his chance of success.
The
sun shone for Sunday's final round of the Winter Series at the Shenington
circuit near Banbury in Oxfordshire and Maranello racing karts & Maxter
engines proved to be a winning combination for JICA and Super Libre with Freddie
Martin Dye successful in the JICA final, and Jamie Croxford leading the pack
home in Super Libre despite starting from grid fifteen, taking the win from Mark
Litchfield on the last lap.
The following classes are all welcome; Cadet, WTP, Junior TKM, Junior
Intermediate, Mini Rotax Max, Junior Rotax Max, Senior TKM, Senior Rotax Max,
100 National (water cooled) and 125 Gearbox.
For further information contact Eddie at the circuit on 01490 420770 or
07977462170, or e-mail: edavies@gygkarting.co.uk
An adapted TKM racing kart
fitted with GX160 Honda engine on the left hand side was recently stolen from
the Thames Valley area. Described as having a black frame, black plastics all
round and a Honda GX160 engine serial no. GOO28048093. A floor tray ali chequer
plate, NatSKA full round ss rear bumper, Tillett padded seat off set and a black
padded wheel. Stickers when stolen late January 2003 were Hankoe, French
Brothers, Jet Wheels, Triumph Digital, racing no's. white 2 on red background.
Also taken were 2 sets of rims and tyres penned WF Bridgestone wets MJ Jags
Maxxis wets. If you know the whereabouts of the kart or any parts of this
equipment please telephone 01784 439626 or 07770 665894, or Thames Valley police
on 01753 831990.
Jon Lancaster cruised home to
an important JICA win at the PFI club meeting at the weekend. It was a stunning
debut for the 2003 Birel R32SR and a first win aboard the new 2003 chassis, also
setting a fastest lap of 47.59 in cold conditions. "The kart was
great" commented a jubilant Lancaster.
Sussex based MRS Management
Ltd. have announced that they have entered into a management association
agreement with Buckmore Park Kart Club member Lloyd Biddulph. Paula Hamilton of
Paula Hamilton Media Services will be assisting in providing the Biddulph Team
with a public relations service and both parties are very much looking forward
to their forthcoming association with this talented young driver.
The Formula TKM 4-Stroke National Championships will race at club and national
championship event level to provide three title possibilities and cater for
drivers of all abilities.
The Premier Division will race over six events at the Formula TKM rounds of the
S1 series. It will use control tyres and fuel and is expected to decide the
coveted race 'numbers'.
The First Division will race over eight rounds at the S2 championship events
based around club meetings and including the Formula TKM Festival at Kimbolton.
A TKM 4-Stroke Super Champion title will then be decided based on the combined
results of both the above series. It will feature major prizes and a special
plate for the winner.
Drivers must have a National A licence to compete in any of the championships
but will be able to race in both series.
Karting Magazine
Gatellie Racewear
Supersport Timing
Club 100
Tal-Ko
ROC Timing
Andy Cox Racing
7 Kart
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