2003 News Archive

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News Archive
2003 News Items

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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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No Need for Rudolph   (19/12)

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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2004 Southern Pro-Max   (10/12)

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.

Teams wishing to contest the championship can receive full championship regulations by contacting Sarah Collins at Bayford Meadows on 01795 410707.

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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!

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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!"

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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.

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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!

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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).

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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.

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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.

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The London Kart Show   (10/11)

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.

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.

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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.

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Vision Racer   (31/10)

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.

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.

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Saxon Test Days   (28/10)

Wednesday 29th October - Whilton Mill
Saturday 15th November - Buckmore Park

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.

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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.

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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.
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)

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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.

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Beggio At PF International Again   (24/10)

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.

"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 

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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:

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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:
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

Please contact Saxon Motorsport with any information on tel: 01432 350157 or by fax: 01432 354448, or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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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.

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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:

• Two prizes for free of charge entry into the 2004 Formula Renault Winter Championship
• Exposure for drivers on the prestigious www.renaultsport.co.uk official website
• Championship front-runners invited to Renault F1 Team testing
• Invitations to 2004 Formula Renault UK Championship races
• Championship awards ceremony at Renault F1 Team HQ

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.

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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.
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?

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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.

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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.

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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

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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...

Gary Catt - Formula A
Jason Edgar - Formula ICA
Riki Christodoulou - Formula JICA
Oliver Rowland - Formula Cadet
Justin Edgar - Formula 100 National

Click here for Formula A and JICA race reports.

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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."

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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:
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.

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Ecclestone Opens New Clubhouse   (03/09)

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.

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.

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."

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.

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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.
For more information visit http://www.circuitdriver.com/circuitguides/default.asp

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Finnish Star At Midland Champs   (26/08)

Heikki Kovalainen, a member of the Renault Driver Development programme, is to be the guest of honour at next month's Midland Championships.

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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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 

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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