News & Press Releases

Keep up-to-date with what's happening in the sport in our news section.  Full articles are shown below, for a summary of the news be sure to start at the main index page of UK Karting.  General news and press releases can be emailed to us at newsdesk@karting.co.uk, although please note that a charge is made for the publication of press releases and promotional news items. Please note that the following are the views of the contributors and not necessarily those of UK Karting. All information is published in good faith.

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Current News & Press Releases:

MSA/TKM Kart Championship   (21/05)

The British Championship with the ABkC National TKM Championships started later than usual this year, but any expectation of good weather was dashed on Saturday when all track activities had to stop for two hours due to the heavy rain. Sunday was better, once the early drizzle had cleared up and everyone got onto slicks for the finals.
 
KZ1 MSA British Kart Championship:
The premier class for the British title has moved to the gearbox, or shifter 125cc class as the original KF2 failed to attract enough entries. Henry Easthope, the CIK-FIA U18 World Champion, stunned the 125cc regulars by dominating the new class, with fastest time in qualifying, over KZ2 champion Matt Dittman and Daniel Borton.  Easthope had only sat in the kart for the first time two weeks earlier. He and Borton shared the heat wins on the very wet Saturday. Easthope had slid off the track in a heat and only started fourth for the first final.  He reeled in the hefty gap to poleman Daniel Borton to relieve him of the lead mid-race. Super One Max 177 champion Lucas Orrock has changed disciplines and came fourth behind Dittman.  In the second final Easthope enjoyed a lights to flag victory, with Borton a distant second whilst James Mudd stormed up to third after suffering a fie place penalty in the first final which had dropped him from fourth to ninth.
 
Results Final 1: 1 Henry Easthope Sodi/TM, 2 Daniel Borton BRM/TM, 3 Matt Dittman Tonykart/Vortex, 4 Lucas Orrock Tonykart/Vortex, 5 Joe Charlton CRG/TM
Results Final 2: 1 Easthope, 2 Borton, 3 James Mudd Energy/TM, 4 Dittman, 5 Orrock
Provisional Championship Points: 1 Daniel Borton 154, 2 Henry Easthope 152, 3 Lucas Orrock 142, 4 Matt Dittmann 137, 5 Joe Charlton 134, 6 Jamie Rush 131
 
MSA British Junior Kart Championship KF Junior:
The Sahara Force India supported Jehan Daruvala topped qualifying over the newcomer to the series, the Thai driver Sasakom Chaimongkol.  The latter came off in the first heat and although he came second to Daruvala in the second, he started grid 8 and never really recovered.  He  whilst Daruvala won the first final from pole.  The rest strung out behind Daniel Ticktum and Philip Rawson.  In the second final Daruvala was pushed into a spin at the start, but stormed back to finish fourth.  Chaimongkol  was excluded from that final for driving standards. All that had left Rawson out on his own until his engine lost all its coolant.  He just survived for the win, Ticktum dropping to third on the last lap in favour of Harrison Newey, son of the Red Bull Racing F1 designer, after Ticktum had tried for a pass for the win.
 
Results Final 1 : 1 Jehan Daruvala Alonso, 2 Daniel Ticktum Alonso, 3 Philip Rawson Tonykart, 4 Daniel McAuley Alonso, 5 Dean MacDonald ART
Results Final 2: 1 Rawson, 2 Harrison Newey Wright, 3 Ticktum, 4 Daruvala, 5 Charlie Barlow Zanardi
Provisional Championship Points: 1 Jehan Daruvala 154, 2 Daniel Ticktum 149, 3 Philip Rawson 140, 4 Harrison Newey 140, 5 Dean MacDonald 133, 6 Ross Martin 125
 
MSA British Cadet Kart Championship for IAME Cadet:
Oliver York set down his marker for the British title amongst the forty hopefuls, taking both final wins.  William Pettit and Oliver York had topped their respective qualifying sessions, Pettit just getting the verdict overall.  Alex Quinn and York took the heat wins, York both of his. In the first final, Teddy Wilson slotted into second as they all fought round the first few corners but he succumbed to Lewis Thompson and fell back to an eventual seventh.  Thompson got alongside York over the line, the official gap was 0.01s. Kiern Jewiss stormed up to third after poor heats, over Matthew Graham and Jonny Edgar.  In the second final Edgar relieved York of the lead on the first lap, but York found a gap in his defences mid-race. William Pettitt and Alex Quinn stormed through from their start positions of tenth and fourteenth respectively to finish third and fourth, the top four all closing up at the end.
 
Results Final 1: 1 Oliver York Zip, 2 Lewis Thompson Zip, 3 Kiern Jewiss Zip, 4 Matthew Graham Zip, 5 Jonny Edgar Zip
Results Final 2: 1 York, 2 Edgar, 3 William Pettitt Zip, 4 Alex Quinn Zip, 5 Jewiss
Provisional Championship Points: 1 Oliver York 160, 2 Lewis Thompson 146, 3 Jonny Edgar 144, 4 Kiern Jewiss 137, 5 Alex Quinn 137, 6 Matthew Graham 134
 
Formula KGP National Championship:
Mark Litchfield and Bobby Game shared the wins but only after a penalty had been applied. Luca Hirst had topped the qualifying over Game and Danny Keirle on the very wet Saturday, whilst Litchfield had a fuelling problem and didn't set a representative time.  He soon stormed through the second heat to sixth after another problem in the first. The heats were won by Game and Joe Porter, so Hirst and Game shared the front row and soon a five way battle commenced with Litchfield slicing through to the front over Hirst and Game after Keirle dropped out with an electrical problem.  Porter had slotted into second but gradually slipped down the order.  In the second final, Hirst fell out of the lead battle with a spin at the second hairpin leaving Game and Litchfield duelling hard for the win. A tiny mistake by Game was capitalised on by Litchfield with a chop into Pits corner, then Game took a wide line to run out of hairpin 2 side by side, Litchfield just getting the verdict only to receive a 5 place penalty for contact, so leaving Game the winner over Phil Smith.  Keirle had stormed up from the back to fifth, just behind Ryan Green.

Final 1: 1 Mark Litchfield CRG, 2 Luca Hirst Birel, 3 Bobby Game Alonso, 4 Josh Waring Tonykart, 5 Denis Gorman Maranello
Final 2: 1 Game, 2 Phil SmithTonykart, 3 Toby Sowery Tonykart, 4 Ryan Green DR, 5 Danny Keirle Jade
Provisional Championship Points: 1 Bobby Game 153, 2 Phil Smith 138, 3 Josh Waring 134, 4 Luca Hirst 134, 5 Toby Sowery 133, 6 Mark Litchfield 130
 
Junior TKM ABkC National Championship:
Matt Davies dominated the junior economy class in both wet and dry conditions, and took home a full points tally. Daniel Baybutt had been nearest in the wet qualifying, then Jake Campbell-Mills and Jak Watson were the heat runner-ups. Campbell-Mills retired after the start of the second heat so only started the first final on grid 11 whilst Baybutt shared the front row.  Baybutt managed to get into second at the start, but was usurped by Alex Forward, and later by Alex McRoberts whilst Campbell-Mills only reached seventh.  In the second final Davies nearly doubled his early winning gap to 8s, this time Letts waiting until mid-race to regain third from McRoberts then vault over Forward to take second.

Final 1: 1 Matt Davies Tonykart, 2 Alex Forward DSG, 3 Alex McRoberts Jade, 4 Daniel Baybutt Jade, 5 Stephen Letts Tonykart
Final 2: 1 Davies, 2 Letts, 3 Kyle Hornby DSG, 4 Dino Lee Tonykart, 5 Cameron Clarke TKM
Provisional Championship Points: 1 Matt Davies 160, 2 Alex Forweard 142, 3 Daniel Baybutt 136, 4 Stephen Letts 135, 5 Shea Pearce 130, 6 Tom Owen 126
 
TKM Extreme ABkC National Championship:
Although Will van Es topped the timed qualifying sheets over Charlie Bruce-White, he didn't fare so well in the heats, with only a third and fourth, as Bruce-White claimed both wins.  Luke Graver from grid 3 took advantage of both at the start of the first final, but was soon relieved of the lead by Bruce-White.  He and Van Es traded the lead a few times until Van Es settled into first, challenged to within 0.01s over the finish line.  Graver had fallen away by some 6s, holding off Andrew Lawrence and a train of karts at the finish.  Joe Forsdyke was not scored at all as his transponder was missing and he only reached eighth from the back in the second final.  Van Es enjoyed a lights to flag victory in the second final with Graver and Bruce-White swapping second at the end for exactly the same top five as in the first one. This year points are awarded in the heats, and this has enabled Bruce-White to take the championship lead by a point over finals winner Van Es.

Final 1: 1 Will van Es Tonykart, 2 Charlie Bruce-White Tonykart, 3 Luke Graver Tonykart, 4 Andrew Lawrence Tonykart, 5 Ryan Stronach Tonykart
Final 2: 1 Van Es, 2 Bruce-White, 3 Graver, 4 Lawrence, 5 Stronach
Provisional Championship Points: 1 Charlie Bruce-White 156, 2 Will Van Es 155, 3 Luke Graver 146, 4 Paul Monks 136, 5 Andrew Lawrence 134, 6 Ryan Stronach 131

For more information on the championship visit http://superoneseries.com.

Photographs courtesy of Chris Walker/Kartpix.net.

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BUKC Season Update   (20/05)

The 2013 British Universities Karting Championship continued during March as student teams from across the UK battled it out both on track and with the weather to compete for the coveted 2013 Champions title.
 
With the snow and freezing weather playing a part once again, Rounds 5 and 6 were held on 13 March at Buckmore Park. Race day saw some impressive driving from many drivers having to deal with challenging track conditions. Hertfordshire A took the overall win for Round 5 and Southampton finished 2nd, while Swansea Metropolitan had their best result of the championship so far by finishing 3rd. Round 6 saw Durham A step up and take first place in the Endurance races, followed closely by Oxford Brookes A in 2nd.
 
The action then headed South to Jenson Buttons' home track at Clay Pigeon in Dorset on 22nd and 23rd March. Round 2 of the Rookie Championship was held on the Friday where once again the weather wasn't being too kind. The Rookie teams seemed to cope admirably as they drove their hearts out whilst dealing with the freezing conditions. Cranfield A took the podium, followed by Coventry D in 2nd and Bristol B in 3rd.
 
Saturday's racing saw the drivers compete in Rounds 7 & 8 of the main national Championship and luckily, despite a damp morning session, the track dried up throughout the day. With Southampton A, Hertfordshire A and Oxford Brookes technically able to secure a season victory on the day, it was always going to be a frantic day of racing. After Round 7, Southampton took 1st place on the podium and it looked like they were going to wrap the title up on the day in the afternoon. However, they needed a win to secure the title in Round 8 and it went down to the last race where they were pipped to the post by both rivals Hertfordshire A (1st) and Swansea Met A (2nd). This meant that although Southampton ended up 3rd and at the top of the overall table by 1 point at the end of Round 8 leaving Hertfordshire A as the only other team able to challenge them for the title.  
 
The BUKC 2013 will therefore go down to the wire this year at the fabulous Whilton Mill circuit near Silverstone on Monday 24th June, where both Southampton A and Hertfordshire A teams will be battling it out for the 2013 title.
 
"The racing in March has continued to impress me," comments BUKC organiser, Will Tew, "And now we have the 2013 Championship being decided on the very last day of the season near the home of British motor racing. It's going to be an epic finale and one that I know I'm looking forward to watch."
 
The 2013 BUKC Finals are being held on Monday 24th and Tuesday 25th June at the Whilton Mill circuit, Northamptonshire.
 
The BUKC 2013 - March results:

Round 5 winners - Buckmore Park / 13 March:
1st - Hertfordshire A
2nd - Southampton A
3rd - Swansea Met A
 
Round 6 winners - Buckmore Park / 13 March:
1st - Durham A
2nd - Oxford Brookes A
3rd - Plymouth A
 
Rookie Championship Round 2, Clay Pigeon, Dorset / 22 March:
1st - Cranfield A
2nd - Coventry D
3rd - Bristol B
 
Round 7 winners - Clay Pigeon, Dorset / 23 March:
1st - Southampton A
2nd - Warwick A
3rd - Durham A
 
Round 8 winners - Clay Pigeon, Dorset / 23 March:
1st - Hertfordshire A
2nd - Swansea Met A
3rd - Southampton A
 
2013 remaining Championship dates are 24 June at Whilton Mill (Round 9 + Graduates Champs + Drivers Champs) and 25 June at Whilton Mill (Drivers Champs + Rookies Champs Finals).
 
For more information on the BUKC championship visit our website at www.bukc.co.uk, find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/britishuniversitieskartingchampionship, our YouTube channel is www.youtube.com/user/3tracing and you can follow us on Twitter @karting_bukc.

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Three Sisters Race Circuit   (16/05)

Three Sisters' Race Circuit, located in Wigan, Lancashire, has launched an Independent Kart Racing championship designed for owner drivers of 2 stroke karts who want to race competitively but don't hold an MSA licence.  Open to anyone from age 6 years upwards, the next race is scheduled for Sunday 19th May. Entry to a race is £45 in advance and £50 on the day, with gates open from 7am.  The circuit's café will be open all day and the bar will open in the afternoon. Four race categories are available; Bambino, Cadet, Junior and Adults.
 
Three Sisters is the North West's premier kart circuit, with a variety of different track configurations being used over the course of the championship. At the end of the season the winner of each category will not only receive a trophy but also enjoy a fantastic prize, one prize being an Intensive Race Training course worth £495.  Provided by The Racing School, this is a full day of 1-to-1 coaching from professional instructors in a saloon and a single-seater racing car. Drivers are sure to develop their skills, increase confidence and improve their speed.

For more information please visit www.three-sisters.co.uk/karting/owner_driver.asp.

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RL Drivers Bounce Back   (16/05)

Following a frustrating second round of the Super One championship at Rowrah, RL Racing Department's talented young squad returned to form in Wales (12 May), with victory for Junior star Luke Knott and a podium for Mini Max front-runner Sandy Mitchell.
 
In the Mini Max class's timed qualifying session, Jack McCarthy set the second-fastest lap, whilst Mitchell and Hugo Bentley-Ellis also made it into the top ten, finishing 7th and 8th respectively.
 
The opening heat saw Hugo lead Sandy home for a team 3-4, with Jack 9th and the inexperienced Jack Martin progressing to 12th at the chequered flag.
 
McCarthy romped to the win in the second race, with Bentley-Ellis' metronomic consistency yielding another 3rd and subsequently pole position for the final. Martin again claimed 12th but Mitchell was unfortunate not to finish, following a minor crash.
 
Hugo was cruising to victory in the final until, just three laps from home, his kart suddenly stopped out on the circuit. Having started mid-pack, Sandy picked his up to 2nd but a mistake cost him several places and he had it all to do again. He was rewarded for his efforts with an eventual 3rd. Jack McCarthy also enjoyed an exciting encounter to hang on to his 4th place, while Jack Martin's day concluded with his third, straight 12th place finish of the day.
 
Fresh from taking an electrifying 3rd at Rowrah the week before, Luke Knott showed that the slightest mistake can prove costly. After forgetting to fit his transponder to his Tony Kart EVK chassis, he was adjudged not to have set a lap time and so was made to start from the back of the grid in each of his two heats.
 
Unfazed, he finished 2nd in both races to earn pole position for the final. A near textbook lights-to-flag victory followed, with the RL driver underlining his domination of the race by setting the fastest lap and taking the chequered flag nearly two seconds clear of the next driver.   
 
"This weekend revealed that we can shrug off a difficult event, galvanize ourselves and deliver the right sort of results," said RL Racing's Steve Armstrong. "Luke walked away in the Junior Max final which is indicative of his confidence right now. The way he carved his way from the back of the grid at Rowrah and at Glan Y Gors, also shows what a cracking driver he is."
 
Reviewing his Mini Max drivers' performances, Steve said: "McCarthy made mincemeat of the opposition in his second heat, whilst Hugo showed this incredible consistency to put himself at the front of the field when it really mattered. Had it not been for his spark plug failing, he would have won comfortably. Sandy made some small mistakes that may have cost him a higher place on the podium but he deserved his trophy. Jack's pace in the wet didn't quite match that in the dry, so 4th was a positive result for him. Jack Martin is gaining experience all the time and learned a great deal, so all in all this was a beneficial weekend, in terms of our preparation for the Super One round here."
 
For more information about racing with RL Racing Department, call Steve today on 07843 586 416 or contact him via accounts.rlracingdept@live.co.uk. For all the latest team news, go to www.rlracingdepartmentltd.com.

Photographs courtesy of Chris Walker/Kartpix.net.

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FEKC Southern Championship   (15/05)

Forest Edge Kart Club will be hosting the 2013 Southern Championship event at the popular Barton Stacey circuit.  This will be a 2 day event run over the weekend of the 1st & 2nd June with the SC trophies will be awarded for the best aggregate result over the 2 finals, plus 3 trophies for each class with the winner of each class receiving the SC plate for the year.
 
The format will be... Saturday: normal session practice until midday followed by 3 laps official practice, 2 heats and a final, followed on Sunday by 3 laps official practice, 3 heats and a final. This is a great circuit offering Friday night access with camping and good tarmac pit facilities along with trade shops and plenty of good food for an excellent weekend racing.
 
FEKC have the largest entries in the country offering full grids and fantastic competitive racing, online entries available. Entry fees - £75 members and £95 non members for the whole weekend including practice and both days racing - visit www.fekc.co.uk.

Alternatively you can contact Carole Parsons who is the competition secretary on 01258 451097 - but no calls after 9pm please!
 
If you haven't raced at Forest Edge before you need to come along to this premier event and enjoy racing with the biggest grids in the country!

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Super One MSA/TKM   (15/05)

A new era of MSA British Championship racing commences at Rowrah this weekend, for the first round of the MSA/TKM Super One Series. The most prestigious title in British karting has transferred to the gearbox, or shifter, class of KZ1 which in the past has produced such illustrious drivers as Frank Wrathall, Dean Stoneman, Nigel Moore and Jack Hawksworth.  Wrathall, a former Ginetta G50 champion, is now a British Touring Car Independent winner and podium finisher. Stoneman won the Formula 2 series and now races Porsche Cup. Nigel Moore is also a Ginetta champion and the youngest driver to race at Le Mans whilst Hawksworth is the current Star Mazda champion and now races in Indy Lights.  For this weekend 15 KZ1 karts, capable of 90mph, will line up headed by KZ2 ABkC Super 4 champion Matt Dittman, with runner-up James Mudd expected to press him hard. Multiple Super One Max 177 champion Lucas Orrock has transferred disciplines to the shifter classes, whilst Under 18 CIK-FIA World Champion Henry Easthope is also on the list.  It will be mega-exciting to see just who comes out top at the twisty Cumbrian track. The attached image shows Dean Stoneman and Frank Wrathall battling it out at Rowrah in the past.
 
For the MSA British Junior Kart Championship, 18 young hopefuls are down to compete for the chase to the junior title. Jamie Caroline comes fresh from winning the ABkC O Plate title the previous weekend, but will face stiff competition, not least from Asia Pacific KF3 Cup winner Jehan Daruvala, the Indian driver supported by Sahara Force India Formula 1 team. Another with strong connections to F1 is Harrison Newey, son of the famed Red Bull Racing designer and Chief Technical Officer.  Many of the direct drive senior aces have turned to the Formula KGP class, including former British champions Mark Litchfield and Bobby Game.  Current champion Jonathan Davis has moved teams to Praga whilst Stefan Di Resta, brother to Sahara Force India driver Paul Di Resta has recently won the O Plate at the same circuit, and is very much on form.  Forty youngsters from age 9 to 13 will compete for the inaugural MSA British Cadet Championship using the new IAME Parilla Gazelle UK motor.  It's anyone's guess who will come out on top but Oliver York and local driver Jonny Edgar, scion of the title sponsors, have both had strong results at the track. The line up is completed by the senior TKM Extreme and Junior TKM classes competing for the ABkC National Championships.

It's an event not to be missed and everyone can follow the action on the TAG Heuer live timing at www.tagheuer-timing.co.uk/s1livetiming.

Entry lists and timetables are available on the Super One website at superoneseries.com/race_entries_msa_tkm/ 
 
For circuit details go to superoneseries.com/locations/rowrah-lakeland-stadium/ or to www.cumbriakrc.co.uk.

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Strawberry Racing Dominates   (15/05)

The Tony Kart EVK chassis and Cream-prepared engines are proving to be the perfect combination, as Strawberry Racing's Connor Hall, Guan Yu Zhou and Charlie Eastwood demonstrated at Rowrah (4/5 May).
 
The trio monopolised the top step of the Super One podium in their respective classes, putting Strawberry Racing firmly on top of the Mini, Junior and Senior Max point's tables.

Connor Hall proved too hot to handle in Mini Max, winning both finals in emphatic style. Having taken back-to-back wins in his two heats, he started the pre-final from pole position. From the start he made a clean getaway, leaving his rivals to dispute who would be the first of the runners-up, as he opened an unassailable 11-seconds lead.

Another great start, aided by crashes behind him, put Hall in charge of the main final. His winning margin was cut to a shade over four seconds, but it was an indication of the maturity and professionalism Connor is driving with, that he conserved his equipment and brought it home without unnecessarily pushing it.
Darren Keane battled gamely in the midfield to earn a top twenty finish on only his second visit to the Lakeland venue, whilst Finlay Hutchinson's first race with the team was rewarded with a thoroughly-deserved 9th.

"Connor is in top form at the moment," said Strawberry's team manager Warwick Ringham. "He seems to have everything under control, whether it is in wet or dry conditions. Darren flew in from the USA midweek and did not really get going until the final, when he showed the same speed he had at last month's club event. Finlay did far better than we could have hoped for. He had a few setbacks over the weekend but enjoyed a fantastic final."

In the Junior Max class, Guan Yu 'Joe' Zhou and Ben Hingeley claimed 1st and 3rd place starting positions for the pre-final. Their team-mates Max Aitken and Omar Ismail also qualified directly into the race, avoiding the repecharge, to line up on p18 and p23 respectively.

'Joe' held his advantage as the 30-strong field streamed into the tight, first corner with Ben following him to make it a Strawberry one-two in the race's early stages. The pair then thrilled the crowd - whilst putting their team's collective heart in its mouth - by dicing for the lead. They passed and re-passed each other with Ben finally settling matters in his favour and Guan Yu dropping to 3rd. Max took the chequered in 19th with Omar 24th.

A series of pile-ups during the opening lap brought the second final to a stop. At the re-start, Zhou deftly out-smarted Hingeley and soaked up the relentless pressure to take the win and the narrowest of leads over his team-mate in the championship table. In contrast to Guan Yu and Ben's delight, there was frustration and disappointment for Max and Omar, with both reduced to spectating by crashes.

"Ben and Joe are proving hard to beat at the moment and it's great to see them both at the front, racing for the win. Max and Omar struggled a little, mainly due to a lack of track time at Rowrah, whereas the other two have more experience of the circuit," explained Ringham.

Having started from 3rd in the Senior pre-final, reigning world number one and Florida Winter Tour champion Charlie Eastwood scythed his way past the pole-sitter, with fellow Strawberry driver Kyle Fowlie slotting in behind him. Their positions remained unchanged. Current Junior Grand Finals and Euro Max Challenge champion Harry Webb fought his way from an 8th-row start to 11th, whilst Sweden's Andreas and Jessica Backman finished 21st and 28th.

Fowlie turned the tables on Eastwood in the early moments of the main final to head the squabbling pack for the first seven laps. Having dropped to 4th, Charlie quickly regained his composure and the ground he'd initially lost to pick his way up to 2nd by lap five. After catching and passing his team-mate, he then opened a commanding, 3-seconds gap over Kyle, who in turn had a healthy margin over the driver in 3rd. Harry improved to 8th, with Jessica also making ground to cross the line in 18th spot, ahead of Andreas in 21st.

"Since the World Finals, Charlie has been pretty-much unstoppable in the major races," asserted Warwick. "He keeps coming up with the big race wins and is driving really well. Kyle had a torrid time at Round One, so to come away with two 2nd-place finishes was great for him and the team."

For more information about OTK products and Cream's preparation services go to www.strawberryracing.co.uk. Or call 0114 269 6215 / 0114 288 9933.

Photographs courtesy of Chris Walker/Kartpix.net.

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Shwartzman On The Podium   (15/05)

The third and penultimate round of the WSK Masters series (4/5 May) saw Forza Racing's Robert Shwartzman carry his successful form from Sarno to Precenicco and take another KFJ podium.
 
Just as he had done in his previous race with Jamie Croxford's Forza Racing team, Robert went straight into the Super Pole shoot-out, ultimately placing 9th overall in a close and tense session.
 
Bouncing back from a time penalty in the opening heat - for what the officials judged as a 'bad manoeuvre'- Robert finished 9th in the second heat and 6th in the last of the preliminary races before Sunday's all-important finals.
 
"With a reduced entry, the organisers changed the format of the racing to three heats and two finals. With no separate groups, this effectively made each race a final," explained Forza team owner, Jamie Croxford. "Consequently, that made the racing aggressive and quite frenetic because, to qualify for the pre-final, you had to improve throughout the meeting.  In the cut and thrust of the opening heat, Robert was a little too 'enthusiastic'."
 
Despite his earlier transgression, the Russian youngster had done more than enough to earn himself a fourth row start in the pre-final. A solid drive in the 17-lap encounter netted a fine 5th place at the chequered flag and the vital inside line of row three on the grid for the main final.
 
"We were unlucky not to have finished higher. Before the pre-final started, the wind got up and made the track really dusty and slippery. The bigger drivers could use their weight to generate more mechanical grip, and so coped better in the conditions but the lighter ones were hindered," said Croxford.
 
As the leading pair duelled over the lead, Robert made the most of his lightning start to carve his way through the traffic into 3rd place.
 
"Throughout the race Robert was under a lot of pressure from the drivers behind him. He did really well and didn't succumb to it. He was by far the best of the smaller drivers, and I've said for the past four months that it was only a matter of time before he had a podium. I knew that once he'd achieved that then more would come, and this latest success shows that he's thrown the psychological monkey off his back. His speed was never an issue but his racecraft and confidence needed to improve. Now he knows that he is capable of achieving top six finishes in every race, or at least top eight, I think we'll see him flourish."
 
The result moves Robert from 10th to 7th place in the championship with one round remaining.
 
In the KF class, Poland's Igor Walilko recorded the 17th-fastest time in qualifying and finished in the same position in the first heat.  He improved on this with 14th in the following heat, but suffered a DNF in the last; compromising his chances of qualifying higher up the order for the pre-final.
 
Undaunted, Igor delivered another solid performance that saw him move up the order to claim a respectable 14th place.
 
Starting the final from the outside row in the heart of the midfield didn't faze him. In fact, quite the opposite and he enjoyed his best race of the WSK season to date. Igor charged up into the top ten and from there picked his way forward to 7th place, delighting his team boss: "Igor enjoyed his best ever performance. He made some mistakes in the heats but drove really well in the main final. He absorbed everything he experienced in qualifying and the heats, learned from it and then came through to 7th. I was as pleased with that, as Robert's podium. Like Robert, Igor will hopefully go on and improve from there."
 
For more information and to discuss a race seat with the team or arrange a test day, compete in a club meeting or have a day of one-to-one driver coaching, please contact Jamie on +44 7921 393 940. Alternatively, visit www.forza-racing.co.uk.

Photographs courtesy of Joan Codina/Foto Formula K.

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IAME Cadet 'O' Plate   (14/05)

Trent Valley Kart Club are pleased to officially announce the date for the first ever... ABkC IAME Cadet 'O' Plate!

This inaugural title will be decided on Sunday 3rd November 2013 at the legendary PF International kart circuit - IAME's UK home.

With more details to follow in the coming weeks, you can be assured that the 2013 ABkC IAME Cadet 'O' Plate will make its debut with a bang.

To guarantee your entry at this premier race meeting register your interest today by emailing our Competition Secretary, Danielle Short, at compsec@tvkc.co.uk.

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Eastwood Rules At Rowrah   (14/05)

Charlie Eastwood dominated the second round (4/5 May) of the UK's most prestigious karting championship - the appropriately named Super One - to put himself 34 points clear at the top of the table.

The reigning world number one and current European championship points leader had travelled to the dramatic Rowrah circuit in Cumbria and was immediately one of the pacesetters.
 
In timed qualifying - in which the top 26 competitors were separated by no more than eight tenths of a second - Eastwood recorded the 4th-fastest lap time.
 
The Strawberry Racing star old then signaled his intent in the opening heat with a close-fought win over James Singleton. However, he suffered something of a reversal of fortune in the following race, when he crossed the finishing line 8th:"I started 3rd but was on slick tyres on a drying track, like the rest of the field. That meant that there was just one line through the corners and, just after the start, I arrived at the first chicane with the other top six drivers and we were all pushed off the track by the guys behind. I was able to come back through from the back of the field to salvage 8th," explained Charlie.
 
Nevertheless, his combined results were sufficient to give him 4th position on the grid for Sunday's first final.
 
The Rowrah track presents drivers with a series of high speed uphill and downhill sections, interspersed with challenging hairpin corners and chicanes. It is a place that rewards bravery, but punishes mistakes severely.
 
Eastwood delivered a perfect demonstration of how to attack the historic venue and burst through to take the lead on lap 5: "I'd been squeezed off the circuit at the start and had lost ground, but picked my way up into the lead quite quickly. I led for the last 10 laps and was keeping it calm but my Strawberry Racing team-mate, Kyle Fowlie, had reeled me in. So I got the signal to 'push, push, push'. I managed to re-open the gap to about a second, but Kyle took a big chunk out of it, so I pushed again and then stayed relaxed to the chequered flag."  
 
If he had been impressive in the first final, Eastwood was imperious in the second. Although, he suffered an anxious get away from the start-line: "You'd think from my eventual winning margin that I'd breezed it, but it was quite the opposite. As the lights flicked to green my engine spluttered and I came out of the first corner in 4th place. I managed to move up to 3rd and caught the front pair pretty quickly. Having moved into 2nd, Kyle was leading but I chased him down and once I was past, edged away. He put me under pressure but during the last two laps came under attack from behind, so had to defend and that gave me the gap I needed." 
     
Having arrived in 3rd place overall in the points, after the championship's opening round at Three Sisters in Greater Manchester last month, Charlie was delighted to return to Belfast as the points leader: "My aim is to try and stay on top in both championships now. I'm going to take it track by track, race by race, as so much can happen. Of course, I'd like to win every race, but a more technical approach is needed now."

The Super One series next moves to the stunning Glan Y Gors circuit in North Wales in June (15/16). Before then, Charlie will fly out to Italy, hoping to increase his points advantage at the Pista Sette Laghi, Castelletto, near the ancient city of Pavia, on 25/26 May.

Keep up to speed with Charlie by following him on twitter - @ce_racing_ncc - and via his Facebook page - Charlie Eastwood.

Photographs courtesy of Chris Walker/Kartpix.net.

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Spring Offers From IPK   (13/05)

IPK are pleased to announce our latest offers on our World, European and British Championship winning karts.
 
Complete OK1 Cruiser Rolling Chassis - from £1500 + VAT.
Complete Praga Dragon Rolling Chassis - from £1995 + VAT.
Complete karts ready to race in Rotax - from £3400 + VAT.
 
If you are interested in testing one of our products then please feel free to give us a call and this can be arranged. For more information on our offers please feel free to call us on 01133 222795 or send us an email info@ipkarting.co.uk.

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Vision Motorsport On Form   (13/05)

The newly appointed South West Kosmic Agent, Vision Motorsport, is enjoying a solid start to the season as a new team in the paddock. Although it is early days for this fledgling team, the hard work and effort has started to deliver good performances and consistent results.

April saw team drivers' Fletcher Trueman and Harry Carter take a great one-two for the team in Minimax at Clay Pigeon. The team then moved onto Dunkeswell where Ryan Luscombe, Brandon Patrick and Harry Carter in Minimax, and Ash Reeves in Senior Rotax all showed great pace, but race misfortunes prevented any podiums.

The May meeting at PFI saw Junior Max driver Pete Griffin put in a great performance claiming 3 out of 4 fastest laps, only to be robbed of a 2nd place in the final, but he still held on to a strong 5th.

May's meeting at Clay Pigeon produced more good results with Minimax driver Harry Carter putting in a cracking performance, claiming all three heats and delivering his first Minimax victory in the final. Harry's brother Jamie also put in a great drive in the competitive Honda cadet class to get his first podium since moving from novice plates at the start of the year.

The Team would like to thank Aim Motorsport and Robinson Sport for their continued support.

For information about joining the team or any queries regarding the Kosmic chassis please contact Daryl Burgess on 07792 749566 or email Dazkartburgess@hotmail.com.

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BPKC Summer Champs   (10/05)

The second round of the BPKC summer championships takes place on Sunday 19th May with practice available on Friday 18th and Saturday 19th May.

This meeting incorporates round 2 of the Kent Kart Championships which attracted record entries at round 1. All non gearbox ABkC classes are welcome, including Junior Subaru and Bambino. Overnight parking is available.

This meeting also offers the ideal opportunity for LGM competitors to practice and race at Buckmore before their round visits the circuit in July.

For further details contact Sheila at Buckmore Park Kart Club on sheila@buckmore.co.uk or on 01634 201562 ext 210. 

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It's Here...   (10/05)

Ambition are pleased to announce the welcoming of the OTK Tonykart/Kosmic and FA Alonso Brand to the Honda Cadet Class. After its maiden visit to Forest Edge this weekend for all to see, the kart was fast from Saturday morning. Easy to set up, user friendly and proved to be a race winner on Sunday with Ryan Truman at the wheel.
 
Team Manager Paul Janes commented "We tested the kart for the first time last year with some amendments to be made, Its now come along at a great time and has already turned heads with its pace, Even beter with a Final Win on its first official race event in the Honda Cadet Category. The whole package is appealable to new and more experienced drivers and we welcome drivers to sample the kart to understand how good it is".
 
Ambition would like to thank Warwick and the team at Strawberry Racing and look forward to working with the Kart for many outings during the 2013 season.
 
The Tonykart/Kosmic/FA Alonso is available to test and buy now. Please contact Strawberry Racing, Ambition Motorsport or The Kart Shop @ Buckmore to arrange your test soon.
 
Strawberry Racing - 0114 269 6215
Ambition Motorsport - 07951 831236
Kart Shop @ Buckmore - 01634 672256
 
Ambition Motorsport are Southern distributers for the FA Alonso Brand of Kart by OTK, Bambino, Honda and All Rotax Class Karts available to buy new or used. Please contact us at info@ambitionmotorsport.com or telephone +44 7951 831236 for more details.

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Ambition Dominate   (10/05)

Ambition Motorsport UK have started 2013 with a bang. The team have taken time out from the British Championship this year to concentrate on the next generation of drivers starting karting at the young age of 6 onwards and helping them progress throughout our race schools in Bambino and Honda Cadet. The winter training programme is now earning its rewards leading into the start of this years Summer Championships at Buckmore Park, Bayford Meadows, Forest Edge and Lydd with Wins at all 4 circuits in continuous weeks in various classes.
 
Zach Ripley took the spoils within the Bambino Category at Lydd in April with a fine win with newcomer to the circuit Tristan Thorpe taking the final podium place in 3rd, Ambition driver Ollie Marsh also took a great Pole position in Qualifying in Honda Cadet Clubman and 5th in the final with Fastest Lap to his name also.
 
Rubin Stanilaus took a clean sweep of wins at Buckmore Park on his first race meeting in Honda Cadet Clubman, Ronnie Foster has also progressed very well throughout the winter period taking a strong 2nd place finish in the final the month before.
 
Rubin was also victorious again in Honda Cadet Clubman at Bayford Meadows with a strong showing from his other team mates of Owen Tolley, Alfie Prince and Ronnie Foster. Ollie Marsh and Zak Rogers improved strongly and set great times too be as fast as the front guys but both were unlucky in the final otherwise they would of been challenging the more experienced guys at the front.
 
Tyler Sullivan took his first final victory at Forest Edge in Minimax on his 3rd visit to the circuit and his 2nd meeting of Novice Plates. Tyler started grid 9 and took the lead on the last lap after making some fantastic moves throughout, Also taking fastest lap to round up a great day for the young 12 year old. It wasn't just Minimax, The Honda Cadet Final was won by a new driver to the team for the weekend Ryan Truman. After consistent results in his 3 heats to grid p3, Ryan won the final on the last corner of the last lap on his Tonykart Mounted Honda Cadet Kart celebrating not only his first win with the team but also first win on the new 2013 Tonykart (See separate news bulletin)
 
Ambition now turn there attention to the month of May and helping 6 drivers graduate from Bambino Karting into Honda Cadet with Zach Ripley, George Oxford, Theo Marsh, Max Merritt, Drew Davidson, Bradley Spickett and Jack Spickett all taking to the track in there new outfits.
 
The team would like to congratulate all of the teams drivers, mechanics and tutors for all there hard work over the cold winter and look to building a strong line up for the 2013 season.
 
Team places are available in all classes from Bambino to Senior Max and One to One Tuition is also available after school for hour or two hour sessions at our base at Bayford Meadows Kart Circuit, Sittingbourne, Kent, Throughout the Summer Months during 2013 for Bambino and Honda Drivers looking for that extra edge on the competition.
 
Visit our website at www.ambitionmotorsport.com, or contact us to book your day/weekend with the team by email to info@ambitionmotorsport.com or telephone +44 7951 831236.

Ambition Motorsport will be attending all Southern Circuits throughout 2013 and are FA Alonso Southern Distributers for all Bambino, Honda and Rotax Class Karts with New or Used Equipment available for all.

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Exclusive TKM Test Day   (10/05)

Formula TKM has teamed up with Whilton Mill to host a special test day at the Northamptonshire circuit catering exclusively for drivers of TKM 2-stroke class karts and those looking to move up into the class from Cadets and other classes.
 
The event will take place on Friday July 26 - the first day of the school holidays for many - making it a great way to kick off the summer break. It will include support from Tal-Ko, organisers of the TKM classes, as well as other top TKM class trade teams and manufacturers.
 
No MSA licence is required to take part in the test day which will provide a unique opportunity for drivers to hone their skills, test equipment, and for potential newcomers, to try a TKM kart for the first time.
 
TKM boss Alan Turney explains: "We have so many new drivers coming into the class that we felt a special day like this would benefit everyone and provide great value testing."
 
The day will run from 10am to 5pm on the Whilton Mill International circuit which has recently undergone a number of changes to barriers, run off areas and kerbing as part of a program of improvements at the track.
 
Normally a full day's testing at the track costs £50 per kart but for this event it will be just £30. Sessions will be split into Juniors, Seniors and newcomers allowing for all experience levels. Newcomers sampling a kart will pay just £10.
 
With Whilton Mill hosting the last round of the TKM Club Championship it will provide an important opportunity to test before that double header race meeting in September.
 
Whilton Mill manager Graeme Smith explained: "We are very keen to rebuild our TKM grids and wanted a way to give all TKM drivers the best opportunity to sample and learn the circuit. We are confident the day will be well received and the attendance levels healthy."
 
Aside from allowing existing TKM drivers test time, special efforts are being made to help potential new drivers to the TKM classes whether currently in Cadets or any other class. Says Alan Turney: "This is the perfect chance for new drivers to try out TKM karting. So long as they have full safety equipment and at least some karting experience we will get them out in a kart."
 
Further details of traders taking part and more detailed information will be made over the next few weeks. In the meantime any driver interested in taking part should email testday@tkmdriversclub.com to apply for an entry sheet.

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Tooley Motorsport Trio   (09/05)

After narrowly missing out on the O plate last year in both Mini Max and Junior Max, the team were aiming for both titles this year. To push this title hope the team had 5 Mini Max out but only one Junior Max, these consisted of Dan Zelos, Jordan Brown-Nutley, Josh Skelton, Cameron Roberts, Michael Macpherson and Nathan Aston. The testing went well in the dry with Jordan heading the pace for the team in mini max, battling for the top few places in each race. Aston qualified in the top 5 as well.
 
Come race day the weather changed and the testing was out the window, it was wet and after practice all looked well. Aston was 5 tenths clear of the field and Zelos was in the top few quickest. Zelos won the pre final with ease, pulling away from the field and winning by a huge gap. Going into the final Zelos knew he was the quickest and he just had to control the main final at his own pace, he did just this. Keeping the gap constant he held the lead from start to finish, a very convincing win! Macphereson had a crash at the start after finishing a great 12th in the pre final, showing a massive improvement. Whilst Skelton put in a good performance for 5th, Roberts was 9th, and Brown Nutley 10th.
 
The team have now completed the trio in Mini Max - number 1, GP, and the O plate!
 
S1 Rowrah
After the 1st round at Wigan there was room for improvement from all, after a lot of testing team principal Andrew Tooley commented "I think from a team point of view, we have moved forward massively from Wigan, and I'm positive we can have good results all round".

After a good week at the O plate 1 week prior to the S1, this proved a good test for this event.

Zelos was supporting his O, Roberts had thought about his mistakes, Skelton felt on good form after a solid 5th and Brown Nutley again on good form especially in the dry. The mini outing was looking quite strong. This was backed up in qualifying when Zelos went 2nd in group, Roberts went 3rd and Jordan went 4th. Skelton was unlucky to be in the wrong place at the wrong time and never managed to put a time in so ended up 14th. Come the finals some had work to do, Jordan set off near the back and made a good start, but to then be knocked clean off on the 2nd hairpin putting him straight to the back, this put him on the back foot for the main final and was then taken out in that again causing him not to finish. Skelton was also unfortunate and was knocked off at the top corner causing him to drop to the back of the field after battling for 10th. Roberts and Zelos performed stunningly filling out the podium in the pre-final, and again for the main final. Where they swapped positions and were only margins off halls pace, proving to be a force to be reckoned with in the future.

The Junior side of the team Consisted of Greg Mckenzie and Nathan Aston, who were both quick throughout the whole weekend. Qualifying 2nd and 5th they were off to a flying start, only narrowly missing out on pole by hundredths! Leading up to the finals Aston had a few battles and ended up mid pack, but Mckenzie had a 9th and a heat win, after beating other contenders convincingly. The finals brought miss fortunes once again; the pre finals were good with Aston getting a great 2nd place and Mckenzie getting 6th. But in the main final once again the crashes at the start claimed both of them!

Aston still lies 8th in the championship, Zelos is a good 2nd, Roberts is 4th and the others are mid pack and are hoping for better results in the future. Consistency is proving to be the key!

For more information visit www.Tooleymotorsport.com.

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Super One Rotax Series   (09/05)

Round 2 of the Edgar's Hyundai Super One Rotax Series took place at Rowrah on 4th & 5th May 2013.

Domination held sway in senior Max, MiniMax and Honda Cadet with the weather leaving something to be desired, wet for much of the finals day and cold for the second round of the Rotax - Honda - Comer series.  Exactly the same number raced as at the first round - 171 drivers for Britain's ABkC national championships.  But the driving standards in some classes were not always good, with much loading into the first corner and the Clerks were busy giving out penalties.
 
Honda Cadet:
Kiern Jewiss is on a great winning streak at the moment, and although timed qualifying didn't go quite to plan, by Heat 3 he was on top of things. He did enough for the first final pole, with Charlie Lamb alongside, Morgan Porter and Rory Hudson behind. Jewiss duly took the lead, with Porter leapfrogging Lamb on the first lap until Hudson stormed by both. The wet track was helping Myles Apps up from his row 4 start to find more speed, and soon into second. Matthew Hayden reached fourth but spun back in the tricky conditions and Jewiss just held off  Apps with Hudson close behind. Lamb successfully defended fourth from Matthew Hopcraft and Morgan Porter. A get well message goes out to Shaun Proudlock who broke his leg scrambling down to attend his son's crash. Jewiss was quick to relieve Apps of the lead in the second final, going on to pull a 6s lead on a drying track with everyone still using wet weather tyres. Hudson pipped Apps down the hill but they both fell back as Porter and Hayden came through, the latter prevailing for second. Lamb just nicked third from Porter on the line, with Mark Kimber overhauling Apps for fifth.
 
Comer Cadet:
Second in timed qualifying to Tom Wood, Alex Quinn was the more consistent to earn the first final pole position from Wood, Oliver York and Jonny Edgar and they set off much in that order but Tom Wood crashed down to the back. Edgar, who only lives a short distance from the track and scored his first big championship title the weekend before taking the O Plate title, soon burst through to lead over Quinn. Lewis Thompson was making good progress, relieving Quinn for second whilst Matty Easton did the same to York.  Wood came back to ninth. The top drivers mostly chose slicks for the second final, but nothing could help first final winner Edgar when his engine stopped on the formation lap. York and Quinn traded the lead as Matthew Graham fell away, soon to succumb to Wood for third. Losing the lead when he put a wheel on the grass, York managed to regain it for the win over Quinn.
 
MiniMax:
Connor Hall is another driver on top of his game at the moment, and he kept up the momentum at the twisty Cumbrian track, built in an old quarry. Hall was quickest over Sandy Mitchell and Josh Smith, and fastest overall with Alex Stott topping the other session. Heat wins went the way of Hall twice and Harrison Thomas but it was the more consistent Dan Zelos who lined up alongside Hall on the first final front row, Smith and Stott behind. As Hall disappeared into the distance, by the flag he was 11s ahead, Zelos newly crowned with the O Plate, tried in vain to catch up and indeed came under pressure from Cameron Roberts at the end. Alex Sedgwick stormed up to fourth as Smith succumbed, Thomas next. For the second final all the karts were on slicks and yet again Hall made a great start whilst others crashed, Jack McCarthy spinning into the first corner. Zelos eventually got the upper hand on Roberts and Thomas battled in a train of karts, finishing fourth on the track but suffering a five place penalty. That elevated Tom Gamble, Alex Sedgwick and Smith.
 
Junior Max:
Ben Hingeley and Luke Knott were each quickest in the their timed sessions but both suffered 5 place penalties relegating Hingeley to the second row for the first final behind 'Joe' Zhou and Tom Harvey. Knott was mid grid but failed to start when his engine oiled up. Hingeley, Jake Walker and Greg McKenzie took the heat wins.  Zhou leapt into the lead with a handy gap over Hingeley as Nathan Aston leapfrogged Jai Nijjar for third. Harvey was battling hard to keep fourth from Jack Bartholomew.  But the latter was flagged in for a bent sidepod, emerging a lap down. Hingeley had caught and even passed Zhou, they swapped again and again but Hingeley had the win. Josh Price came all the way from fourth last and a repechage win to fourth place. There was so much carnage at the start of the second final that it was stopped to lecture the drivers. Zhou slipped past Hingeley to lead after the restart and just held onto the advantage throughout, everyone on slicks but damp off line. Robbie Lightfoot wore down Walker's defence of third, but fell back mid race to ninth, Walker soon to follow but to fifteenth. Philip Rawson took up the position but overshot the hairpin and had to settle for fifth as Knott stormed up from the back to the podium. Harvey had been forced to start from the back after damage at the first start, and he made it to eighth but was then excluded for driving standards. Bartholomew was another slicing through the field from near last to fourth.
 
Rotax Max:
Adam Glear and James Singleton were at the top of their respective timed qualifying sessions, but Charlie Eastwood, Oliver Hodgson and Josh Collings took the heat wins. However it was rookie Adam Glear who snatched pole for the first final off Philip Morin, Eastwood and Charlie Turner, whilst Singleton was on grid 7 and the champion Sean Babington languished on the ninth row after a series of heat clashes and he never really recovered. Eastwood wasted little time in jumping Glear, the latter succumbing to Kyle Fowlie as well. John Stewart, having regained his O Plate the previous weekend had fallen to last, but would finish 19th in the first and 14th in the second.  Singleton was another in the wars, he only made 16th. Luke Hughes made steady progress and nabbed third from Glear on the last lap. Eastwood was out-gunned at the start by Fowlie, Myers -from fifth on the grid - and Hughes, but picked his way back to the front and pulled a 3s gap over Fowlie. Hodgson, another one in the final one incidents finishing tenth, stormed back into contention to pressure Fowlie after passing Connor Jupp.  Jupp had to win the repechage for his place in the finals, reaching ninth in the first one so was very happy with fourth.  Eastwood, who has already sealed a place in the Max Challenge Grand Finals, now comfortably leads this qualifying series as well.
 
Results

Honda Cadet
Final 1: 1 Kiern Jewiss (Project One) 15 laps in 16m56.55s; 2 Myles Apps (BRK) +00.11s; 3 Rory Hudson (Project One); 4 Charlie Lamb (BRK); 5 Matthew Hopcraft (Zip); 6 Morgan Porter (BRK).  Fastest lap Apps 1m03.73s (40.72mph).
Final 2: 1 Jewiss 17 laps in 16m56.28s; 2 Matthew Hayden (BRK) +05.69s; 3 Lamb; 4 Porter; 5 Mark Kimber (BRK); 6 Apps.  Fastest lap Hayden 0m58.79s (44.14mph).
 
Comer Cadet
Final 1: 1 Jonny Edgar (Zip) 15 laps in 16m07.58s; 2 Lewis Thompson (Zip) +02.72s; 3 Alex Quinn (Zip); 4 Matty Easton (Shark); 5 Oliver York (Zip); 6 Matthew Graham (Zip).  Fastest lap Edgar 1m03.82s (40.66mph).
Final 2: 1 York 17 laps in 16m37.21s; 2 Quinn +01.12s; 3 Tom Wood (Zip); 4 Graham; 5 William Pettitt (Zip); 6 Zachary Robertson (Zip).  Fastest lap Wood 0m57.21s (45.36mph).
 
MiniMax
Final 1: 1 Connor Hall (Tonykart) 17 laps in 16m33.79s; 2 Dan Zelos (Tonykart) +10.87s; 3 Cameron Roberts (Tonykart); 4 Alex Sedgwick (Kosmic); 5 Josh Smith (ART); 6 Harrison Thomas (Tonykart).  Fastest lap Hall 58.07s (44.69mph).
Final 2: 1 Hall 19 laps in 16m11.21s; 2 Zelos +04.65s; 3 Roberts; 4 Tom Gamble (Tonykart); 5 Sedgwick; 6 Smith.  Fastest lap Hall 0m50.24s (51.66mph).
 
Junior Max
Final 1: 1 Ben Hingeley (Tonykart) 17 laps in 16m22.88s; 2 Nathan Aston (Tonykart) +00.80s; 3 Guan Yu Zhou (Tonykart); 4 Tom Harvey (Tonykart); 5 Josh Price (Tonykart); 6 Jake Walker (Kosmic).  Fastest lap Walker 0m57.02s (45.51mph).
Final 2: 1 Zhou 20 laps in 16m12.46s; 2 Hingeley +01.98s; 3 Luke Knott (Tonykart); 4 Jack Bartholomew (Tonykart); 5 Philip Rawson (Alonso); 6 Brett Ward (Kosmic).  Fastest lap Zhou 0m47.97s (54.10mph).
 
Rotax Max
Final 1: 1 Charlie Eastwood (Tonykart) 18 laps in 16m49.31s; 2 Kyle Fowlie (Tonykart) +01.30s; 3 Luke Hughes (Tonykart); 4 Adam Glear (Kosmic); 5 Oliver Myers (Tonykart); 6 Philip Morin (Alonso).  Fastest lap Eastwood 0m54.16s (47.92mph).
Final 2: 1 Eastwood 21 laps in 16m31.47s; 2 Fowlie +02.90s; 3 Oliver Hodgson (Tonykart); 4 Connor Jupp (Alonso); 5 Glear; 6 Hughes.  Fastest lap Hodgson 0m46.47s (55.85mph).

For more information on the championship visit www.superoneseries.com.

Photographs courtesy of Chris Walker/Kartpix.net.

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Calling All Novice Cadets   (09/05)

The June meeting, held on the weekend of the 1st (practice) and 2nd (race) will have a very special trophy up for grabs.

As many of you are aware last year the karting world lost a very special lady Marge Klaassen, after long discussions with Piet we have come up with the Marge Klassen Memorial Cup for Cadet Novices. Rissington Kart Club would like to invite as many novices as possible there will be trophies and prizes.This will become a annual event with perpetual trophy as well.
 
We would love to get a good number of drivers any cadet engine allowed (Comer, IAME, Honda and WTP) If we get a large number of drivers will give them their own races and final.
 
You may even get some coaching from a former Rissington Champion!
 
More details of this event will shortly be available on the Rissington web site at www.rissykartclub.com.

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And The Winner Is...   (09/05)

Rissington On Line entry system had it's first prize draw winner, Cadet regular Tyler Read won himself a set of tyres just for entering on line. Tyler's Mum was overjoyed at the result, we needed a new set so this is great news and all I did was enter Tyler online.
 
For our next meeting in June we have another great prize kindly donated by Alan from MK racewear - a voucher worth £150 to spend at the shop that's enough for a new race suit!

Alan said "I am happy to help Rissington, its a great track great people". The voucher can be used any time so if someone wins and want to wait to spend it later in the year you can. Based down a Mr. Karting indoor kart track in Leamington spa you can visit the shop and try on suits, helmets, boot, gloves etc to make sure they fit correctly, check out their web site www.mkracewear.co.uk.

Just go to the Rissington web site www.rissykartclub.com enter on line and pay for the June meeting and you will be in the prize draw, it's so simple.

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Kartal Motorsport Success   (08/05)

Tom Geaney was jubilant after winning the Gold Cup in Comer Cadet at MBKCs meeting at 3 Sisters. He was joined on the podium by Tamzyn Buckley who was 3rd. Tamzyn also picked up her Winter series winners trophy.
 
In IAME Cadet Wes Brown was 3rd in the Gold Cup event - he also collected his Winter Series Winners trophy.
 
Joe Bleackley won the Winter Series trophy in Junior Blue following his recent good form.
 
In Junior Rotax Robbie Lightfoot made it 2 years in succession by taking victory in this well supported class, an excellent achievement.
 
Young Ben Deeming in the Cadet class was awarded a Special achievement award by MBKC following his recent success of winning Young Sports personality of the year as awarded by the Trinity Mirror Media group.
 
Kartal Motorsport would like to thank all these customers for choosing to use engines supplied by them.

Please note that we now have a fully operational FlowPerformance bench available to trade and private customers for testing carbs and airboxes  Recent customers include Lewis Seville, who after testing a combination of Rotax Carbs, air boxes and trumpets, won at PFi in Senior Max. Along with our Eddie current dyno we offer these excellent facilities to enable you to achieve the best performance possible. Get the most out of your equipment and join the winners!

Contact Alan at Kartal Motorsport for Comer, IAME, Rotax and TKM rebuilds on 07801 379880.
 
You can also find us on Facebook.

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Protrain's Wragg And Rudge   (08/05)

Kieran Wragg and Sean Rudge are certainly showing that they are drivers with talent making an almost seamless transfer from Cadet success to Mini Max success.
 
At the season opener at Whilton Mill 11 year old Wragg lined up in a new Tony Kart with 15 other karts and showed impressive pace all through practice and into race day. Despite this being his first race weekend at Whilton Mill in Mini Max his heat 2, 3 and 1 finishes including a fastest lap delivered a well deserved pole position for the final where he enjoyed a great racing battle and showed great racecraft to take his first Mini Max victory in style.
 
Out of four finishes this year Kieran has finished, 5th, 4th, 3rd and 1st and taken third place in the Shenington Winter Championship, truly impressive in this new and highly competitive class.
 
Sean Rudge has also been highly impressive in his maiden Mini Max season on the Formula K taking his first victory in a field of 30 karts at Kimbolton in April taking fastest lap in the process. Sean's finishes including two 3rds, a 4th and a 5th as well as taking a superb second place in the Shenington Winter Championship show how quickly he has also adapted to his new class.
 
Making the move from cadet to Mini Max is a massive step up and very often talented cadet drivers seem to struggle but under Protrain Racing's guidance the Rotax masters have shown that it is possible make an immediate impression on the Mini Max field.
 
These two drivers have shown that even with large grids including much more experienced drivers new Mini Max drivers with great backing and great talent will quickly see themselves at the front of the grids.
 
Kieran will be competing in the Shenington and Whilton Mill Championships and Sean will be in the Shenington, Whilton Mill and Kimbolton Championships in 2013.
 
Are you struggling to make an impression in any Rotax class? We can help you bring yourself to the front of the grids too, give us a call on 01280 814774.

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Lydd Summer Championship   (07/05)

The Summer Championships at Lydd continue this weekend, with practice available on Saturday 11th ahead of our non-MSA Race Day on Sunday the 12th.

The Summer Championships are over 6 rounds, with the best 5 scores to count for each driver - so those who missed the first round still have the chance to win the series as long as they do all the rest of the rounds.

We look forward to another great meeting to continue the trend of the last couple of months, where we have enjoyed fantastic racing and a really friendly atmosphere throughout the paddock.

We cater for all classes, with the regular classes starting at Bambino and progressing through Cadet Clubman, IAME & Comer Cadets, Honda Cadets, Minimax, Juniors, Senior Rotax 162 and 177 and the Prokarts.

If you haven't visited us here at Lydd before, then why not come along and give it a try? If you have been here before, but not been back for a while, then come back and remind yourselves what you have been missing at Kent's fastest Kart Circuit.

For more information, please visit the website at www.lyddkartcircuit.com or phone us on 01797 321747.

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ACR Are Recruiting...   (07/05)

ACR are the Sole UK Importers for Birel racing and rental Chassis and the Easykart range of karts and also distribute Freeline kart accessories.The company is one of the longest serving Birel Importers in the World dealing with the Italian chassis giants for nearly 18 years.

ACR are also the sole UK Importers for Vega tyres with products such as Vega (green) XH slicks, Vega (whites) XM slicks and the Vega W5 rain tyre. ACR are also sole UK Importer for Exced Oils and Lubricants.

ACR has competed with its Championship racing team "acrbirel" in the Super one series for over 21 years running drivers such as Tom Sisley, Mike Conway (Indycar), Michael Simpson (Ginetta), Alex Lynn (euro F3) and Jake Hughes (KGP and F4).

ACR is based 20 mins from Birmingham in Bromsgrove, Worcestershire. It operates a busy factory with the import and re distribution via mail order of it's represented imported brands. The company also caters for engine service and preparation, chassis storage and preparation and technical support for Easykart clients as well as the running of its racing team acrbirel.

Due to expansion and re-structuring ACR now has the following positions available....

Factory and Trackside Technical Support Manager
Position: Permanent (subject to a 3 month probationary period).
Salary: Starting from £20K to £25K dependant on applicant experience.
Position Based at the ACR factory in Bromsgrove in Worcestershire.
 
Applicants should have their own transport; a good knowledge of kart mechanics, racing experience would be advantageous. Applicants will receive initial support on the introduction of the role during the probationary period; however, applicants are expected to be able to work on their own initiative.
 
The position will involve the management, service and preparation of Birel chassis and Easykarts. The successful applicant would be required to assist clients with technical support over the phone and at trackside at race events.
 
The position will also involve the PDI of new karts and registration of chassis and engines on official databases. The role will also involve taking mail order requests over the phone, stock control and distribution of parts to clients. 
 
Basic PC skills would be required as well as a good level of competence for completing service job cards and records.
 
Applicants would also be required to attend the Easykart UK Championships and work in our team as trackside technical support. Travel and subsistence at these races would be covered by ACR Ltd. There may also be an opportunity to work with our associated company Kart Grand Prix UK Ltd at Super One KGP events.
 
Applicants should have a genuine passion for karting/ motorsport and be self motivated with a good personal level of initiative as well as being a team player.
 
We are looking for a person to become an integral part of the ACR team for the future.
 
Interested applicants should send their CV and covering letter FAO: Jayne Moore, ACR Ltd Lissone House, Harris Business Park, Stoke Prior, Bromsgrove B60 4DJ or you can email your covering letter and CV FAO: Jayne Moore at acraccounts@btconnect.com. Closing date for interested applicants is Friday 20th May 2013.

The second vanacy is...

Factory and Trackside Kart Mechanic
Position: Permanent (subject to a 3 month probationary period).
Salary: Starting from £12k to £15K dependant on applicant experience.
Position Based at the ACR factory in Bromsgrove in Worcestershire.
 
Applicants should have their own transport; a good knowledge of kart mechanics, racing experience would be advantageous. Applicants would be supervised during the probationary period.
 
The position will involve the service and preparation of karts featuring the Easykart and Birel Motorsport range of karts.  The position would also involve the PDI of new karts and equipment.
 
Basic PC skills would be required as well as a good level of competence for completing service job cards and records.
 
Applicants would also be required to attend the Easykart UK Championships and work in our team as a trackside kart mechanic. Travel and subsistence at these races would be covered by ACR Ltd.
 
Applicants should have a genuine passion for karting/ motorsport and be self motivated with a good personal level of initiative as well as being a team player.
 
We are looking for a person to become part of the ACR team for the future.
 
Interested applicants should send their CV and covering letter FAO: Jayne Moore, ACR Ltd Lissone House, Harris Business Park, Stoke Prior, Bromsgrove B60 4DJ or you can email your covering letter and CV FAO: Jayne Moore at acraccounts@btconnect.com. Closing date for interested applicants is Friday 20th May 2013.

For more information on ACR visit www.acrbirel.com.

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2013 Welsh Championships   (07/05)

Only a couple of days left to enter Wales' Premier Karting Event for the nationally recognized "C" plate. All classes are welcome for a great weekends racing.

For only £85 you get timed qualifying and a heat on Saturday and timed qualifying, heat, pre-final and a final for all classes on Sunday. All class winners will be awarded the "C" plate for their class to race at any ABkC recognised event for 12 months.

Llandow will have IAME's for the first time this weekend and would welcome some more.

Entries close on line at midnight this Wednesday and by first post Thursday.

For more information visit www.llandowkartclub.co.uk or call Colin on 07817 449671.

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Connor Hall And Strawberry   (07/05)

Connor Hall was in sensational form at the second round of the Super 1 series at the Rowrah circuit in Cumbria.

He started off by placing his Strawberry Racing Tonykart on pole for the heats, which he converted to pole position for the pre-final.  In a wet race which also saw him getting a big hit from behind at the start, Connor drove away from his rivals opening up a lead of over 8 seconds at the flag.

For the Main final it was a fast drying line around the track and slick tyres was the choice. It was essential to make a good start and this he did. After a couple of cautious laps finding the grip, he soon got into his rythm and managed to stretch a 3 second lead at the flag and take his second clean sweep in the championship.

Despite this Connor is fully aware that it is a long season and there are some very talented drivers in the class that will be snapping at his heels all the way.

Connor would like to thank Body Management for all of their help with his diet and training, all at Strawberry racing for the Tonykart EVK and Cream Racing engine along with their massive effort and especially his Mechanic Harry Cockill for doing a great job all weekend.

You can keep up to date with Connors progress at www.connorhall.co.uk

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TVKC & PFI International Races   (07/05)

Trent Valley Kart Club and PF International kart circuit are set to host three major International race events this Summer...

RGMMC Rotax Euro Challenge: 17-21 July 2013
Kartmasters British Kart Grand Prix: 1-4 August 2013
CIK-FIA World KF Championships: 28 August-1 September 2013

Preparations are well under way for these landmark events. The latest developments are the dedicated websites which TVKC have just launched specifically to cover each event individually. 
 
The websites include all the information about the events - for both competitors and spectators alike. Whether it is how to find the circuit, the cost of admission tickets, what's happening during the course of the weekend or to find accommodation - it's all on there. The sites will be constantly updated with the latest news and information as we move closer to the date.

Visit these brand new sites directly at...
www.tvkc.co.uk/euromax
www.tvkc.co.uk/kartmasters
www.tvkc.co.uk/cik

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Tal-Ko's Veloce Kart   (07/05)

The latest Tal-Ko made Veloce kart driven by Joe Forsdyke has taken the prestigious ABkC Senior Extreme 'O' plate title at Rowrah.
 
In pouring wet conditions for the final, Forsdyke took an early lead from his second row grid position and pulled away to win by a dominant 21 seconds from second place Rob Wallace.
 
Afterwards a delighted Joe said: "The Veloce kart was fantastic. In the dry the kart was really good but when the rain came down it was in a class if its own."
 
The Junior 'O' plate title was taken by Matt Davies from Stephen Letts, also in wet conditions.

For more information on the Valoce Kart visit www.tal-ko.com.

Photograph courtesy of Chris Walker/Kartpix.net.

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A Touch Of Nostalgia   (07/05)

Owners of historic karts are being invited to join in one of the UK's top karting events - the Maxxis TKM Festival which celebrates its 15th year at Kimbolton in August.
 
With historic karts becoming more popular by the year and with both Tal-Ko and Kimbolton being trail-blazers in karting with histories going back to its birth more than  50 years ago, it is a perfect addition to this special celebration of TKM karting.
 
Any kart using a TKM or Hewland Arrow engine will be eligible to take part in what will be an on-track demonstration on Sunday, August 11. And under agreement with the MSA governing body, provided drivers use full safety wear and have kart racing experience, race licences will not be required.
 
Tal-Ko boss Alan Turney said: "This is great news. We started making TKM engines back in 1978 and it will be great to see some of the old models out on the circuit where they used to be raced many years ago.
 
"Over the past year or so interest in historic karts has been accelerating rapidly and we have been pleased to help those with older equipment by supplying spares which we still have on our shelves."
 
The organisers are also hoping to encourage along drivers who used to race at the Kimbolton circuit over its 54 year history for a special reunion.
 
As usual the TKM Festival will be covered for Motors TV and the historics will be expected to appear as part of that adding a touch of nostalgia to the highly competitive nature of the annual event.
 
Says Martin Chesterman, Chairman of the Hunts Kart Club which runs Kimbolton: "This circuit has such a long history stretching back to the very earliest days of karting so it will be great to bring some old names and equipment back to the track."
 
Drivers who would like to take part should send written requests with full details of the kart, engine and driver experience to alan.turney@tal-ko.com.

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Live Timing This Weekend   (03/05)

Round 2 of the Super One Rotax series as well as the Trent Valley Kart Club meeting are taking place this weekend, and if you can't make it to your favoured event why not follow the action live on-line?

Whether it's the national championship at Rowrah or club racing at PFI you're missing, TAG Heuer will be streaming live timing from both events at www.tagheuer-timing.co.uk.

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SaxMax Arrive & Drive   (03/05)

Team Dynomite have arrive and drive spaces available for the BARC 2013 racing season where you can race or test in our fully race prepared Saxmax. The next round is Oulton Park on the 27th May.

The team are pleased to anounce they will be competing in the 2013 SaxMax Championship.  Rookie Tom Parker has been joined by ex-karter Adam Hatfield for the the 2013 championship, and running as a 4 car team this means we have 2 'Arrive and Drive' packages remaining, as well as and 1 owner driver space available.

Fancy a test? We have fully prepared cars just waiting to go!

Well done to Team drivers Tom Parker, Adam Hatfield and Martin Poole for finishing 4th, 5th and 6th in the second round at Croft last weekend.

A 2014 scholorship is available - email or call for details.

Also, Team Dynomite in conjunction with Sportdevices.co.uk have their own in-house rolling road, engine dyno, shock absorber dyno and a newly developed Flowbench. These tools, coupled with 30 experience in motorsport, offer a formidable package.

So if you fancy progressing from karts to cars email info@sportdevices.co.uk or call us on 0800 6126977 for more information.

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Instructors Required   (03/05)

Due to continuing expansion Racing Perfection have several part time instructor positions available.
 
Minimum requirements for instructors:
- Proven history of competing successfully at national level Karting or Car racing or higher
- Very good communication skills
- Very good people skills
- Live within a sensible commuting distance of either Eastleigh or Lancing (30 minutes or less).
- Available to work on Sunday mornings once a month
 
Applications are to be sent to Steve Bell of Racing Perfection at steve.bell@racingperfection.co.uk.

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ART Grand Prix Impress   (01/05)

Dean MacDonald collected an impressive runner-up spot at the British Open Championship at Rowrah last weekend and if not for some bad luck for Josh Smith the top 5 would have seen 2 ART Karts in the top 5 positions. An impressive start in the debut year for ART in the Rotax class, and it's also the first year in the class for Cadet Champion MacDonald and Super One Cadet runner-up Josh Smith.
 
Rotax Team Manager Jamie Allen commented; "We are really happy with the results we have achieved so far this year and I'm very impressed with all of our team drivers and how they have adapted to the class. The step up from Cadets is a big one, so to be able to collect a podium and have both Dean and Josh running at the front this early in the season gives me a lot of confidence for the rest of the year."
 
Alfie Brown was also in action in the ultra-competitive Junior Max class. Alfie had a mixed weekend but pace wise he showed good speed. Jamie commented; "Alfie's testing programme for this year has mainly been based around KF3, so to jump straight into the Rotax and have the pace of many of the older and more experienced drivers is great and gives us a solid base to work from."
 
ART Grand Prix's next race is the 2nd round of the Rotax Super One championship where all drivers will be looking to build on the results gained at the O Plate meeting.
 
The ART/RSF/Zip team currently have one place spare for either a Mini Max or Junior Max driver at Super One in 2013. Any interested drivers should contact Zip Kart on 01327 855310 or email info@zipkart.com.

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Make The Most Of Spring   (01/05)

Now the sun has finally broken cover, it's time to clear out all your old equipment and have it tested on our Rolling Road. This facility is proving to be invaluable in assessing the ancillliaries of your engine such as the exhaust, carb, coil and airbox. These can then be confirmed on track to gain you those extra few tenths you're looking for.

We also have our own range of IAME engines - anybody interested in a free test should get in touch using the contact details below.
 
April saw some very impressive results with Elliott Harvey and Luke Oliver winning at Shennington, Brett Ward on the top step at Belgium's BNL first round, and Andy Rees-Reynolds enjoying his first win for some time at Whilton in Seniors!
 
We've also been successful in Malaysia with ART Gran Prix Asia. A 1st, 3rd and 4th in seniors, plus 3rd in juniors providing great results for the team there.
 
Lastly, our congratulations to Dean McDonald in his 2nd place at the O Plate race at Rowrah - his first time on Grice motors.
 
We are still running our special offer for full rebuilds and these details can be found on our website. If you have any questions on rebuilds, rolling road evaluation or engine hire, please contact Ricky on...

Telephone 01268 727847 (workshop), 07768 047253 (mobile), email Ricky.grice@virgin.net or visit our website at www.griceracingengines.com.

[ Top ]

Swede Dreams In Belgium   (30/04)

The opening weekend of the BNL Karting Series took place at Genk last weekend (20/21 April) and saw Strawberry Racing's Swedish siblings Jessica and Andreas Backman competing in the senior and DD2 classes.

The BNL operates around a double-header format, with qualifying, heats and finals taking place on both Saturday and Sunday.

A large grid had entered for the Senior Max class but reigning Swedish Junior Max champions Jessica was instantly on the pace, setting the 3rd fastest time in the qualifying.

She overcame her disastrous first heat by winning the second and making the cut for the A Final. A blistering drive, saw Jessica carve her way into the lead and from there pull away to win by over three seconds.

"It was a fantastic drive," said Strawberry Racing team manager Warwick Ringham. "Jessica made a really good start and slowly picked off the drivers in front of her. Once she'd got to the front, she kept putting in really good lap times and just drove away from the chasing pack."

On day two, two 4th place finishes demonstrated the young Swede's consistency and turn of speed. However, a tougher race saw Jessica pushed down to 8th position and in a lonely position of neither having an attacking opportunity or defend from the driver one second behind her.

 "Her intelligent driving and keeping out of trouble meant that she banked more valuable championship points," explained Warwick. "Jessica's now in a strong 2nd place in the championship and that's a great start for her."

With a different race schedule giving the DD2 class two finals - but no heats after time qualifying - on each day, Jessica's older brother, Andreas, was able to demonstrate that he is a rising star in the burgeoning twin-speed karts.

He claimed a fine 2nd in the first final and completed the day with 3rd in the following race.

Like Jessica, Andreas found Sunday a slightly tougher proposition. His Tony Kart EVK chassis with Cream-tuned motor ensured that he was able to compete at the sharp-end of the grid but he was unable to repeat the previous day's results.

However, his 9th and 5th places combined with the points from Saturday put him in a strong 4th place overall with two rounds remaining. The next race takes the drivers to Ostricourt in France (11/12 May) before returning to Genk for the August (24/25) finale.

"Andreas' results did not do justice to his pace. If he can sort out his starts, then he will be in a better position to challenge for the wins that his natural speed deserves."

For more information about OTK products and Cream's preparation services go to www.strawberryracing.co.uk. Or call 0114 269 6215 / 0114 288 9933.

Photographs courtesy of Bas Kaligis.

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Brian Wilson Memorial Meeting  (30/04)

The SYKC Annual W Plate meeting held in memory of Brian Wilson will take place on Sunday 12th May 2013.
 
Brian was an active member of SYKC from 1970 until his untimely death in 1992. His involvement with karting started when his 11 year old son, Mike Wilson, took up karting at Wombwell. Mike had great success in karting and at 18 years old moved to Italy to work as a team driver for Birel and eventually won the World Championship 6 times.
 
Whilst Mike raced for Birel, Brian continued his involvement at SYKC and started a kart business producing the Premier Karts and providing track side support at all meetings, along with working on the club committee; maintaining the track and trying to improve the club.
 
Following his Death in 1992 the club decided to recognise his contribution by holding an annual memorial meeting, which is always supported by his wife Eileen and members of the Wilson family.
 
Mike Wilson donated one of his World Championship trophies to be awarded to the Driver of the Day chosen by Eileen and her family.
 
If you would like to compete in this very special event please ensure your entry reaches the SYKC Competition Secretary before the 4th May 2013.

Entry forms are available on www.sykc.co.uk.

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Fabulous Forsdyke   (29/04)

Clarke Karts / Tal-Ko Race Team would like to congratulate Joe Forsdyke on his success in the TKM Extreme class at the 'O' Plate at Rowrah last weekend.

Ably assisted in the pits throughout by his father/mechanic Ken, Joe took the lead on the first lap of the final after starting in 5th, and led all the way to take the chequered flag over 21 seconds clear of his rivals.

For more information on Clarke Karts, who run Lydd Kart Circuit in Kent, visit www.lyddkartcircuit.com.

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X30 Chassis Run Riot   (26/04)

Having utterly dominated the 2012 OEKC series with the X30 chassis, the GMS supplied teams in the 2013 series showed no mercy at Rye House in March, with the latest 2013 edition of the chassis leading home the field under the control of the Screw Loose Racing team.

In an event featuring a tricky mix of track conditions, the brand new machine led home the field as part of an all X30 top seven, proving it speed and durability in a strong, twenty-three team field. Series veterans Box Tech and reigning champions Team Specsavers completed the podium. This was followed up by an equally dominant showing from the chassis at Sandown Daytona last weekend, with Team Specsavers coming home five laps ahead to lead another X30 podium sweep.

Designed by the GMS team, the 2013 X30 frame is crafted by world renowned chassis specialists, Gillard Karts, before being equipped with GMS spec parts at the team's Kent facilities. The new machine is already proving to be a marked improvement over the versions that took numerous victories and fastest laps at Super One in the past three seasons, with the first production run already sold out.

The X30 is available for immediate test drives by interested customers, and usually retails at the rolling chassis price of £2795 + vat. However, any customer who gets in contact to arrange chassis testing/ordering before the 2nd May will receive a special discount down to £2595 + vat, saving around £240 off the full price of the fearsome blue machine.
 
In order to find out more about the GMS Team and the X30 Chassis or to contact the team, visit www.gms-x30.co.uk without delay to take advantage of this limited time offer.

Photographs courtesy of Rene Lubbock.

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Charlie Enjoys Flying Start   (25/04)

Fresh from his sensational triumph in the Florida Winter Tour, Strawberry Racing's Charlie Eastwood got his European and UK Rotax campaigns off to a superb start with victory in the opening round of the Euro Max Challenge and the runner-up spot in the first race of the Super One championship.

Building on a remarkable 2012 in which he triumphed at the annual Rotax Grand Finals - regarded as the world championships for the Rotax category of karting - at Portimao on the Portuguese Algarve (1 December), the 17-year old from Belfast, carried his rich vein of form into 2013 with victory in the Florida Winter Tour, in March (24). 
 
The prestigious series attracts entries from 28 different nations and takes place over three rounds spanning from January to February. Charlie faced stiff competition from 60 drivers - including ex-F1 star Nelson Piquet Junior - and saw him travel to Palm Beach, Miami and Ocala. This gave Charlie and his team plenty to look forward to as the first race of the Euro Max Challenge beckoned.
 
His subsequent victory in a thrilling and hard-fought run to the chequered flag in Genk, Belgium (31 March) not only gave him the early points lead, but also confirmed his position as one of Irish sport's most exciting prospects.
 
A week later, the globetrotting youngster was back at the wheel of his Tony Kart EVK, aiming to put points on the board in the opening fixture of the Super One championship at Three Sisters near Wigan.

Despite a tough and sometimes bruising weekend, Eastwood returned home 3rd overall in the championship table, with ten points-scoring races remaining until the season finale in October.

"It's been a great past few months," said Charlie. "Winning the Grand Finals was a dream come true and to do it wearing the colours of Ireland was extra special. Consequently, I was invited to take on nearly sixty other drivers in America off the back of my victory in Portugal which was an amazing experience. Everyone knows the connection that exists between Ireland and the USA but I was still surprised by the response I got in Florida. It was like being a rock star! Everyone was so welcoming, enthusiastic and helpful. Even when I beat their top drivers they kept on cheering for me."

Eastwood - whose family appropriately run's Northern Ireland's premier karting circuit, Nutts Corner at Crumlin - is targeting a successful defence of his world crown and winning the Euro and British titles for the first time.

"It would be nice if I could do the treble. Winning the Euro Max, Super One championships and retaining my world title would be awesome, as these are three of the hardest karting championships anywhere in the world. So far, I'm in a strong position and have a great team behind me, plus lots of support from my family and friends. It's all to play for!"

Keep up to speed with Charlie by following him on twitter - @ce_racing_ncc - and via his Facebook page - Charlie Eastwood.

Photographs courtesy of Chris Walker/Kartpix.net (racing) and Bas Kaligis (podium).

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KZ1: Still Time To Register   (24/04)

KZ1 is being held open for new registrations now that the Motor Sports Association (MSA) and Super One Series have confirmed that the 2013 MSA British Short Circuit Kart Championship title has been transferred to the 125cc gearbox class. Just go to superoneseries.com to register and enter on line, or go to the Contact section to download all the necessary forms.  Don't delay to have a chance at the top title in British karting, this is an opportunity not to be missed.   As well as benefiting from all the usual Super One prizes, including receiving a TAG Heuer timepiece, the champion and a guest will be invited to the MSA's Night of Champions at Pall Mall, London.
 
The 2013 championship for KZ1 will comprise three rounds:
May 18-19: Rowrah (Cumbria Kart Club)
June 22-23: Glan Y Gors (Dragon Kart Club)
October 12-13: Shenington (Shenington Kart Racing Club).

John Hoyle, Super One Series promoter, said: "This should be a huge boost for gearbox karting in the UK following the great popularity this purist class has had on the continent, and we invite anyone interested to register without delay."  Entries for the first round should be lodged with Cumbria Kart Club by 5th May if possible.
 
Colin Hilton, MSA Chief Executive and Kart Committee Chairman, added: "The MSA is delighted that the British Short Circuit Kart Championship title will now be awarded to the KZ1 class this year. These are difficult times for KF2 but in KZ1 we have a competitive and well-supported category that is worthy of the UK's premier karting title."
 
The KZ1 class will run at a class weight of 180kg, and use the Dunlop DEH slick and KT13 wets to have the minimum of differences to the KZ2 class that was to have been the support races.  It will be differentiated from KZ2 by having yellow number plates with black numbers, and CIK homologated chassis will be required.

With all rounds counting towards the British title, everything will remain as already advised to the gearbox drivers.  The Super One Series looks forward to an exciting battle for the British title, and all details and registration is available on http://superoneseries.com.

[ Top ]

Shwartzman Uses The Forza   (24/04)

Reigning KFJ European champions Forza Racing returned to the WSK Euro Series podium with a superb 2nd place for Robert Shwartzman at Sarno (21 April).
 
Over 70 drivers had entered for the series' penultimate round, and from the outset the young Russian was among the pace-setters.
 
In timed qualifying, Robert automatically made the cut for the Super Pole session and enjoyed a strong run in the heats with ever-improving results, taking 4th, 3rd, 2nd and 1st respectively. His reward was p3 on the starting grid for the first pre-final. Due to the large field, two races were required in order to determine the starting positions for the single, main final.
 
Shwartzman confidently won by half a second and set the race's fastest lap, handing him pole position for the final.
 
"At the start he dropped to 4th," explained Forza team boss, Jamie Croxford. "However, Robert held his nerve and stormed back to 2nd. He threw everything he'd got at the race leader and I believe that if there had there been one more lap, he would've won. Robert simply ran out of corners but it was still a fantastic result for him."
 
Jamie added: "He's come a long way and really matured. Robert put on a great show at Sarno and he's flicked a switch in his mind. He should now be consistently performing at this level. He was 2nd in Super Pole during the 2nd round of the WSK Masters series, so we know he has the necessary speed within him and the equipment (Tony Kart EVK chassis with GFR-tuned TM engine) is certainly good enough. This result has been coming since then, and thankfully all our hard work has paid off."
 
Keen to highlight the vital contribution of his colleagues and team partners, Croxford said: "Big thanks to Gordy (Gordon Finlayson of GFR Engines) and Robert's mechanic Shane McFadden, it was a great all round effort."
 
Forza's 60 Mini driver, Ronan Graves, experienced contrasting fortunes which Jamie described as "seriously tough". After a difficult time in qualifying, Ronan was on the backfoot for the rest of the meeting. "It was a good first experience for him and he learned a great deal," said Croxford.
 
KF driver Igor Walilko marked his second meeting with Forza with an encouraging 15th place in the main final. His progress to that point had not been smooth but the Polish youngster automatically qualified for the pre-final, albeit at the tail of the grid. He picked his way forward to cross the line in 24th place and again delivered a strong drive in the second final to claim 15th.
 
"He got as high as 12th and we began to think that a top ten finish might be on the cards, but it wasn't to be," Croxford shrugged. "However, Igor showed he's a fighter and that he's got tons of potential. We're looking forward to the next round of the WSK Masters championship at Lignano Sabbiadoro  (4/5 May)."
 For more information and to discuss a race seat with the team or arrange a test day, compete in a club meeting or have a day of one-to-one driver coaching, please contact Jamie on +44 7921 393 940. Alternatively, visit www.forza-racing.co.uk.

Photograph courtesy of Sport In Photo.

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RL Maintains Momentum   (24/04)

RL Racing Department kept up its rich vein of form with successful visits to Rowrah (14 April) and Larkhall (21 April), seeing Jack McCarthy claim the top honours in Cumbria and Scotland's Sandy Mitchell taking a fine 2nd place on home soil with team-mate Tushar Vivekanandan 3rd.
 
Round three of Cumbria Kart Club's summer championship was RL Racing Department's rehearsal for this weekend's (27/28 April) Rotax 'O' Plate and the Super One series' second round, a week later (4/5 May).
 
Mini Max front-runner Jack McCarthy put his name forward as 'one to watch' with what his team boss, Steve Armstrong, described as a "top job" in the final. After starting on the second row of the grid, McCarthy hit the front on lap 3; he then underlined his superiority by further extending his lead in the last two laps.
 
His team-mate, Hugo Bentley-Ellis also ran well - setting the fastest lap before tangling with a backmarker as he diced for 2nd place. The incident dropped him out of contention and was scant reward for another fine performance throughout the day.
 
Sandy Mitchell, however, enjoyed another strong day behind the wheel. He took a heat win before crossing the finishing line 5th in the final. Jack Martin's drive from the midfield into the top ten further delighted his team, as he took the chequered flag in 9th place.
 
The team's Junior driver Luke Knott stormed from the back of the grid to grab 2nd place with a terrific drive.
 
Buoyed by this, the team made the trip to Larkhall looking to build on their recent positive results. Steve was delighted to see his talented young squad open their account with an RL Racing 1, 2, 4 result in the very first heat.
 
In the following race, Tushar Vivekanandan claimed an eventual 3rd after challenging for the win, whilst Sandy Mitchell wasn't able to repeat his heat one victory and settled for 6th. Jack Martin battled from the rear of the grid to finish 11th.
 
Sandy returned to the winner's circle in the third heat and thus claimed pole position for the final. A crash dented Tushar's chances of a better grid slot but jack Martin's 8th place result gave him p5 for the start of the final.
 
Sandy led the race through the initial stages but was caught and passed just after the midway point. Knowing that he was comfortable in 2nd, he maturely opted to bring his kart home safely, rather than scrap for the win. He was able to lead home Tushar, who had carved his way to a thoroughly-deserved podium, whilst Jack banked another top ten finish with his fine run to 8th.          
 
"I'm pleased with the boys' individual performances," said Armstrong. "Sandy did the right thing and was very professional. Tushar showed pace and great determination, whilst Jack continues to improve, learn and go for consistent finishes. They're all in a very good place right now."
 
For more information about racing with RL Racing Department, call Steve today on 07843 586 416 or contact him via accounts.rlracingdept@live.co.uk. For all the latest team news, go to www.rlracingdepartmentltd.com.

Photographs courtesy of Chris Walker/Kartpix.net.

[ Top ]

Superb Shenington Results   (23/04)

Following on from the recent run of good form the Protrain team arrived at a sunny Shenington on Saturday ready for the hard work before race day.  With the good weather lifting everyone's spirits a great deal was achieved and the nine drivers in the awning everyone left ready for some good racing.
 
We were not disappointed, by the end of the day we would have pole position in Iame, Minimax and Seniors and top five positions for six of our nine drivers including a fantastic second place for  our Honda driver in his first yellow plate race.
 
The Iame's were first out with Joe Turneys heat results 2, 1, 1 putting him in pole position for the final. In a nailbiting race the action was between the front three drivers but Turney drove a great race to take the chequered flag, his third this year at Shenington.
 
Next out was the Minimax drivers Sean Rudge and Kieran Wragg who had both been dominant all day. Kieran's 1,2,4 heat results placed him on the front row next to pole sitter Sean Rudge who finished 1,1 and 3 in his heats.  Wragg was hit by another kart on lap nine costing him valuable places and limiting his time to get back to the front but eventually came third. Rudge was even more unlucky, following an early incident which put him back to fifth he drove back to take the lead when a driver took him out at the last corner, the exclusion of that driver did nothing to help Rudge who ended fifth and took the fastest lap but was robbed of the win.
 
The successes didn't stop there, not to be outdone Jack Saffery's pole position was maximised from start to finish with the win never looking in doubt, another dominant performance from the number 10.
 
Perhaps the star of the weekend though was Honda cadet Thomas Bennett who came home second in his first ever yellow plate race. Bennett drove a very solid race and in the last four laps found himself taking five places with some great driving.
 
Team mates Oliver Pidgeley, Joe Byrne, Tim Penny and James Bailey all had days of highs and lows as is often the case in Karting.  Pidgeley took fourth in Junior Max, in seniors Byrne struggled with a power valve issue in the final and finished seventh, Penny was involved in a crash at the first corner leaving him last but managed to drive back to 10th, while relative newcomer Bailey set his best lap time at the circuit.

Gary Chapman said afterwards "What a great weekend for our team. I am really pleased with the whole team performance we achieved some great results which were well deserved but I am really disappointed for Sean, he showed great pace and racecraft all weekend and to be denied the win in this way is extremely upsetting."
 
The good weekend in Shenington was matched in Graz, Austria where Protrain Driver Thomas Preining won both his finals to kick off the Austrian championship in great style, well done to him.

The team moves on to the O Plate in Rowrah and to Whilton Mill's first club round of the season.

Are you getting the best results? You could be part of our winning team, give Chapman now on 01280 814774 or 07802 966064 - it could be the best call you ever made.

For more information please see www.formulak-uk.co.uk or www.protrainracing.co.uk.

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Stunning Start For Strawberry   (23/04)

Fresh from its strong start to the Euro Max Challenge, Strawberry Racing carried its winning momentum into the opening round of the Super One championship, at Three Sisters (7 April) - claiming victories in the Mini and Junior Max classes, with reigning Grand Finals champion, Charlie Eastwood runner up in Senior Max.

The Mini Max entry of 42 drivers - the largest field - presented early season favourite, Connor Hall with a stern challenge. However, the youngster from Bristol emerged from the heats with flying colours to take pole position for the pre-final.

A perfect start saw Connor hold onto his startline advantage as the rest of the pack jockeyed for position behind, allowing him to escape with another driver. Setting a blistering pace and not putting a wheel wrong, the number five seed extended his lead to some 8 seconds, as the chasing group began to dispute 2nd spot. The gap stabilised at this margin, and from there Hall stroked his kart home to take first blood. Connor's teammate, the American Darren Keane, made a good fist of his first experience of Super One competition. Darren qualified 13th on the grid for the first final, but was a victim of some of the mid-pack action and ultimately crossed the line in 25th spot.

Hall again made no mistakes at the start of the main final, initially easing away from his closest rivals. However, they were able to claw him back when an official dashed onto the track and into his path, forcing him to brake sharply. The Strawberry ace then had to firmly defend his advantage before settling himself and pulling away once more. This time his margin of victory would be nowhere near as emphatic as before, but he crossed the line over half a second clear to take maximum points and the points lead. Darren fared better and finished inside the top twenty to get his challenge underway.

Guan Yu Zhou is arguably one of, if not the, most exciting motorsport talent to emerge from China and for the past two seasons has promised a big win. It finally came at Wigan and he was visibly delighted to seal his maiden Super One victory - and on his S1 debut in the Junior Max ranks. He laid down a marker with wins in both his heats and was joined on the front row of the pre-final grid by teammate Ben Hingeley, with fellow Strawberry driver Max Aitken directly behind him on p3 and Sweden's Jessica Backman qualifying on the 6th row.

It was Aitken who out-gunned Zhou on the run into the first corner, but the former Shanghai resident quickly fought back and was never headed again. Similarly, Max was able to go clear of the fight for 3rd involving Ben.  Try as he might, Hingeley could not find an opening and had to settle for 4th. Jessica's hopes of a good race were sidelined by an opening lap crash, leaving her with work to do in the following race.

Loading up is something a of a 'feature' in this class and Three Sister's monster straight means that the driver at the front of that train arrives at the first corner far faster than he, or the officials, would wish. Guan Yu was lucky to avoid a big accident as the field barrelled into Turn One. Max was less fortunate and dropped to 8th in the ensuing chaos. Damage to his Tony Kart EVK chassis meant that he plummeted to last place, although he bravely soldiered on. Completing the 22 laps just a handful of places ahead of him was the similarly luckless Jessica. In contrast, Ben's efforts were rewarded with 3rd place and his first silverware with the team.
 
Proving that he has lost none of the form that carried him to the Rotax 'world' title last December, Charlie Eastwood claimed pole position for the Seniors' first final, with reigning Junior Euro and Grand Finals champion Harry Webb on row two. Andreas Backman qualified on p12 with Kyle Fowlie just making the cut for automatic qualification in 25th spot.

Once the initial skirmishes had settled down, the race saw little further action leaving Eastwood to drive for points on the board and take 2nd, with Webb adopting a similar view in 4th. Andreas finished where he started but Kyle was classified 18th after being given a five-place penalty.

A controversial start to the second final saw Eastwood drop to 6th before colliding with another driver and losing more ground, eventually finishing 9th. Webb battled hard but had to be content with 5th. Also unable to make significant progress, Backman received the chequered flag in 14th. Fowlie gave a strong indication of what might have been had things fallen his way sooner, with a superb drive from the back of the grid to 8th.
 
"We've traditionally gone very well here, so I was really pleased to see that our material and drivers were right up there in all three classes," said Strawberry team manager Warwick Ringham. "Connor is on fire at the moment and deserves his latest success. The same can be said for 'Joe' (Guan Yu Zhou) after the disappointment of Genk he deserved the result."
 
He added: "We have a talented young squad with different levels of experience, so to see Darren do well in a totally new environment was great, whilst Andreas and Jessica are also making improvements with each outing. Being world champions, we expect a lot of Harry and Charlie and it's easy to forget that Harry was a junior until recently. Senior Max is very hard this year, so we have no excuses. We did okay but there's a bit more we need to do before the next round but I'm confident we'll be where it matters, when it matters."
 
For more information about OTK products and Cream's preparation services go to www.strawberryracing.co.uk. Or call 0114 269 6215 / 0114 288 9933.

Photographs courtesy of Chris Walker/Kartpix.net.

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2013 Welsh Championships   (22/04)

Llandow Kart Club will be hosting the prestigious Welsh Championship at South Wales Karting Centre on Saturday May 11th and Sunday May 12th.

This two day event is the major karting meeting in the Welsh calendar and gives the class winners the right to race the nationally accepted "C" plate at all ABkC approved events for 12 months.

Two days racing at one of the best circuits in the UK for only £85 for the whole event. All classes will get two timed qualifications, two heats, a pre-final and a final over the two days.

To enter follow the entry form links at www.llandowkartclub.co.uk, email llandowcompsec@hotmail.co.uk or call 07817 449617.

Remember, the sun always shines in Wales and the racing is wonderful!

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Cadet Wet Tyres Update   (19/04)

Dunlop and Anderson CSK wish to thank everyone involved with the issues that arose on the Dunlop Cadet KT3 Wet weather tyres over the winter for their forbearance and understanding.

The exchange programme has now come to an end as from 19th April 2013. Very many tyres, both new and used, have been replaced under the exchange programme offered by Dunlop.
 
For any further information contact Anderson-CSK on 01977 603838.

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Easykart Round 2 Preview   (18/04)

The sun is shining, the days are longer and for the first time this year, the easykart community are preparing themselves for a beautiful race. Round 2 of the easykart championship is being held at Clay Pigeon this coming weekend. After the ferocity and unpredictable weather of round 1, many will be determined to change the running order of the established few and to make a point.

In Cadet, the grid may be small but the competition is fierce. After a sensational debut by Morgan Wroot, he must be looking forward to going a few steps further and taking top spot in the final at Clay. Harry Barlow will be beaming with confidence despite Wroots presence after dominating the final and It will be fascinating to see which of these two young chargers will come out on top. But don't discount Jacob Wardle who brilliantly took the lead initially to only be displaced by Barlow soon after. The best lessons are those learnt the hardest and with this in mind, I for one would watch out for Shayne Harrison who, after a luck-lustre start to the season will be itching to show his competitors just what he's made of.
 
Junior hopefuls, Thanassi Barnicoat and Zack Nickson will be locking horns yet again in what is - an amazing duel which is developing between the proposed title contenders. After dismal luck at Whilton, Nickson is fired up and ready to state his claim where nothing short than a clean sweep of wins will do. I'm sure Barnicoat will have other ideas. Looking at spoiling the party will be Jordan Sanders, James White, Callum Croxon and Matas Grigalauskas. All of whom have the pace to be a front runner. If only they can work together, push each other forward and race smart, there's no telling what they could do.

The Lightweights - Barnaby Pittingale. Patrick Lay. Jamie Summerhayes. James Lay. Kieran McCullough. Steve Youle. AJ Morris. Owen Jenman. Where to begin? Pittingale was on fine form at Whilton but the cynic would argue the conditions favoured the multiple Champ. With proposed sunshine for Clay, Pittingale will have the opportunity to show any naysayers the science and the magic behind the man. Looking for a little luck will be Jenman and Youle who were unfortunate at Round one and will be eager to upset the proposed order. Almost unnoticed to the eye at Whilton was Brandon Williams. With mechanical gremlins compromising his qualification, the established junior winner demonstrated great maturity with a fantastic display of race craft that set him apart from the rest, by forcing his way through his competitors to salvage what he could from his earlier problems with a very respectable 4th place. In this game, 'points mean prizes' and those points could be invaluable to Williams, come the season closure. 

Has Roland Breadner set in motion a wrecking ball after his maiden win in the Heavyweights? Or was he the best driver on the day in the tricky conditions? This weekend will be the perfect opportunity for him to realise his dreams. Set to bring Breadner crashing back down to earth with a severe bump will be Joe Paterson. Don't discount Neil Fisher either. He has the pace of a front runner but his race craft has more to be desired. If he can get a grip when racing wheel to wheel, I'm sure he could be the surprise of the season. Fighting fit after his hard impact crash is Jack Bruce. The 'old hands' were unwise or just plain unlucky at Whilton but I've no doubts that Bruce, Mark Lawrence or Simon Mace will be ready to start their season campaign.

With Practice starting on Saturday 20th April and the final conflicts taking place on Sunday 21st - Prepare yourself for a battle royal, in hopefully what will be, beautiful sunshine at the Clay Pigeon Kart track in Dorset.

For more information on Easykart visit our website at www.easykart.co.uk.

Report by Andrew Gould.

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Maiden Minimax Victory   (17/04)

It was only his second Mini Max race at Kimbolton and the 29 other drivers who lined up on the grid with him were equally determined for success but Sean Rudge looked totally in control all weekend as he sailed to his maiden Mini Max victory in real style.
 
Following on from his recent successes at Shenington Rudge is already showing impressive form as he embarks on his first season out of cadet racing.
 
Under the guidance of Rotax masters Protrain Racing and on a Formula K chassis Rudge was excellent in both of his heats putting his kart on pole for the final. Rudge knew what he needed to do and managing to avoid the first corner mayhem he took a commanding lead very quickly and didn't look back taking the chequered flag and securing the fastest lap in the process.
 
Commenting afterwards his Dad said "The team was spot on all weekend" as was the driving according to team boss Gary Chapman, "Sean did exactly what was expected of him, he responded well to every situation he was put in and to take the fastest lap in the final when he was out on his own shows that the package was exactly right. There is no doubt that this will be the first of many victories for this mini max newcomer".
 
Have you changed classes this year? Are you enjoying the success you deserve? If not give us a call and let us see how we can help you. Call Gary on 01280 814774.

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Short Circuit Kart Championship   (17/04)

The Motor Sports Association (MSA) and Super One Series have confirmed that the 2013 MSA British Short Circuit Kart Championship title has been transferred from KF2 to the KZ1 125cc gearbox class.
 
The championship was originally awarded to KF2 (KF Senior) but insufficient entries were received.
 
The 2013 championship for KZ1 will now comprise three rounds:
 
- May 18-19: Rowrah (Cumbria Kart Club)
- June 22-23: Glan Y Gors (Dragon Kart Club)
- October 12-13: Shenington (Shenington Kart Racing Club).

John Hoyle, Super One Series promoter, said: "After we discovered there were insufficient entries in the KF2 class we were forced to consider alternatives and I am delighted to say that the MSA has agreed to it being the KZ1 class. This should be a huge boost for gearbox karting in the UK following the great popularity this purist class has had on the continent, and we invite anyone interested to register without delay."
 
Colin Hilton, MSA Chief Executive and Kart Committee Chairman, added: "The MSA is delighted that the British Short Circuit Kart Championship title will now be awarded to the KZ1 class this year. These are difficult times for KF2 but in KZ1 we have a competitive and well-supported category that is worthy of the UK's premier karting title."
 
It should be noted that the ABkC O Plate for KZ2 has been moved to 15/16 June at Shenington instead of the last round of the Super One.
 
Entrants to the KF series will have the choice of a transfer to the KZ1 class, or all their fees returned and should inform Series Co-ordinator Sonja Game accordingly.  The KZ1 class will be amended to run at a class weight of 180kg, and use the Dunlop DEH slick and KT13 wets to have the minimum of differences to the KZ2 class that was to have been the support races.  It will be differentiated from KZ2 by having yellow number plates with black numbers, and CIK homologated chassis will be required.  With all rounds counting towards the British title, everything will remain as already advised to the gearbox drivers.

The Super One Series looks forward to an exciting battle for the British title, and all details and registration is available on superoneseries.com.

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Forman Supreme In Hungary   (17/04)

Pannonia-ring in Hungary provided the setting for the opening round of this year's Central and Eastern European Rotax Max challenge where once again Protrain's Formula K drivers met with some of the very best drivers in Europe all hoping for a good start to the series.
 
Junior Driver Thomas Preining was joined by Senior team mate Jiri Forman competing against a very determined world class field knowing that every point would make a massive difference in the final calculations for this prestigious title.

Forman threw down the gauntlet immediately with impressive results in early practice continuing to show what a talented driver he is.
 
Following a totally dominant performance in timed qualifying the Czech Champion took pole position and went on to win both his first and second finals with superb driving in each. He is surely the one to beat in this series.
 
The good news didn't stop there, team mate Thomas Preining was also showing immense talent and finished both his Junior Max finals in second place with the spectators enjoying a nail biting final two which he was incredibly close to winning. Preining once again showed what a great driver he is and the frustration of his second place is only matched by his determination to seal victory next time out.
 
Gary Chapman of Protrain said afterwards "I am thrilled for the drivers and the team, we have had a few very frustrating races with on track incidents costing us dearly so it is great for these great drivers to be able to secure these results."
 
Protrain has once again shown that it's a winning team; why not see what you could achieve with them? Give Gary Chapman a call on 07802 966064 in complete confidence.

For more information please see www.formulak-uk.co.uk  or www.protrainracing.co.uk.

Photograph of Jiri Forman (86) courtesy of TSR Productions.

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MSA Karting Update   (16/04)

The Motor Sports Association (MSA) has confirmed details of Cadet kart tyres and chassis, plus non-gearbox Junior and Senior class homologations.

Formula Cadet tyre and chassis:
The existing Cadet tyres, the Dunlop SL3 (slick) and KT3 (wet), will be homologated for three years until the end of 2016. In early 2016 the MSA will nominate the tyre for the following three-year period to the end of 2019.

As stated in the 2013 MSA Kart Race Yearbook, the next period of MSA Cadet chassis homologations commences on 1 January 2014. During 2016 the MSA will homologate chassis for the following three-year period commencing 1 January 2017.

Meanwhile the current Cadet engine contract is for an initial five-year period until the end of 2017 and will be reviewed towards the end of this period, with an option for the MSA to grant a two-year extension.

Junior and Senior class homologation (non-gearbox):
All existing British and National championship kart classes can continue until the end of 2016.

The deadline for new class homologations closed on 31 March 2013. The MSA can confirm that applications have been received and are currently under consideration. Should any new class achieve homologation, the introduction date will be 1 January 2014 at regional and club level.

From 1 January 2017, all kart classes must be homologated by the MSA. This includes the homologation of existing classes, plus the renewal of any potential new class homologations. All class homologations will be for three-year periods and will include the engine and nominated tyres (both wet and dry).

Colin Hilton, MSA Chief Executive and Kart Committee Chairman, said: "This homologation programme will bring stability and transparency to the selection process and provide the most economic and sustainable structure for UK karting in the future."

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A Great Day At Lydd   (15/04)

Wow, what a day! Summer finally arrived, a few hours late maybe, and the racing was a fantastic way to start the Summer Championships here at Lydd. A really friendly, enjoyable, atmosphere was evident throughout the paddock and we had another great race meeting. Well done and thank you to all the drivers, parents and teams, as well as our hardworking officials and marshals.

Congratulations to all the winners on the day and commiserations to one or two who had problems and didn't get the results they had hoped for.

The winners were:
Bambino - Zack Ripley
Cadet Clubman - Oliver Appleby
Honda Cadet - Sam Powell
IAME Cadet - Rashan Chigorimbo
Comer Cadet - William Martin
Minimax - Taylor Harding
Junior Max - Michael Smith
Junior TKM - Michael Kemsley
Senior Rotax - Daniel Brett
Rotax 177 - Jamie McGeoghan
Prokart - Marcus Shephard

Ethan Barford was a delighted winner of the Driver of the Day trophy following a fine showing in his first Bambino event, having just moved up from hire kart sessions at the Circuit.

The Summer Championships continue with Round 2 on 12th May (practice the day before as usual), and runs through to September.

You can keep up to date with what is happening at Kent's fastest Kart Circuit by visiting the website at www.lyddkartcircuit.com.

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Victory For Strawberry   (15/04)

Reigning Rotax Grand Finals champion Charlie Eastwood won a nail-biting Senior Max final after his Strawberry Racing team-mate and fellow world number one, Harry Webb had triumphed in the pre-final. Connor Hall took a brace of 2nd place finishes in the Junior finals, with China's Guan Yu Zhou also on the pre-final podium.
 
The 2013 Rotax Max Euro Challenge kicked off in earnest at the impressive Genk circuit in Belgium (30-31 March), and once again Sheffield's Strawberry Racing was at the forefront of the action.
 
Strong performances in timed qualifying and the heats saw Connor claim p2 on the grid for the pre-final. Guan Yu qualified on the 6th row of the grid, ahead of fellow Strawberry drivers Thomas Issa (14th), Max Aitken (20th) Juri Vips (25th) and Darren Keane (28th).
 
Despite a ten kart crash at the start, Connor survived unscathed, as did the hard-charging Guan Yu. Also able to make good progress as the race developed, was Darren - who ultimately finished in 11thplace.  Hall eventually settled for 2nd with Zhou also banking valuable points for 3rd.
 
Another pile-up shortly after the start of the final caught Connor out and he lost ground to the pole-sitter, Lando Norris.   This prompted a gritty fightback from the Winter Cup champion which yielded a deserved runner-up spot at the chequered flag.
 
Guan Yu was reduced to the role of spectator by the starting crash, with Keane unable to improve on his earlier 11th and taking 12th. Aitken, Issa and Vips were all victims of misfortune and will be hoping for better luck at the next round.
 
Strawberry's senior stars faced a stern challenge from a mammoth grid of over 80 competitors. Ten heats were required to whittle the field down to 34 drivers and it was the 2012 Euro and World champion Harry Webb who spearheaded the team's attack after taking 2nd place on the grid. Charlie Eastwood sat directly behind him (on p4) with newcomer Kyle Fowlie 16th on the grid.
 
An initial three way fight for the pre-final victory, turned into a scrap between ten drivers but it was eventually Harry who claimed victory, with Charlie 3rd. Sadly, Kyle was ledft to rue what might have been following a DNF.
 
If the pre-final had been exciting, the main final ramped matters up even further. Eastwood and Webb again played their part in a thrilling contest which reached fever pitch on the last lap. A coming together saw Webb forced onto the grass and out of the reckoning for a podium, but Eastwood had saved his best until the very last lap. The Irishman seized his chance in the penultimate corner. Almost inevitably, contact was made with the defending race leader, but it was Charlie who sprinted to the line with his nose ahead. "I got a chance for overtaking and simply had to chance it," he told the waiting media afterwards. Kyle delivered a storming drive to take a stunning 5th, with Harry recovering to 8th and taking sufficient points to put him 2nd in the championship table, with Charlie enjoying the early lead.
 
Andreas Backman had looked set for another competitive showing in the burgeoning class DD2, with a top ten finish wholly possible after he finished 13th in the pre-final, but a radiator leak put-paid to his chances and he was forced onto the sidelines four laps from home.
 
For more information about OTK products and Cream's preparation services go to www.strawberryracing.co.uk. Or call 0114 269 6215 / 0114 288 9933.

Photographs courtesy of Bas Kaligis.

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Kart Coach Vacancy   (15/04)

iZone have made a major upgrade to their unique Kart Simulator and need a Kart Coach to support our expansion. The role is full time and involves regular weekend working. iZone trained drivers won 5 British Kart Championships last year.
 
The successful applicant will have to demonstrate ability to build on this success, commitment to excellence and passion for success. The job requires someone who is totally computer literate and able to fully exploit the potential of our powerful systems. On Target Earnings of £40K are achievable through a basic £20K Salary and commission based on personal sold hours.
 
Please ask for a full Job Description and send your CV to Wilma@izoneperformance.com. Our website www.izoneperformance.com has more information about the company.

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BRK Performance Delights   (12/04)

BRK are delighted with the pace shown at the first round of the Super One series at Three Sisters in the Honda cadet category.

Having won all four rounds of the PFI Winter Championship and with Morgan Porter taking the overall championship, we knew we were in good shape!
 
In qualifying one, Morgan Porter and Matt Hayden took 4th and 5th place and in qualifying two, Mark Kimber and Charlie Lamb were 1st and 2nd place up until the last lap, unable to find the toe needed for a fast time around Three Sisters also having to settle for 4th and 5th place. Charlie Lamb and Matt Hayden had some Friday test problems but despite that, showed their strengths, both pushing themselves into the top 10 in the A final.
 
Mark Kimber showing great talent throughout the weekend and looking very solid, unfortunately just lost out in 4th place on the last corner but taking the fastest lap. Morgan Porter had looked very sharp and confident all weekend but due to a problem in heat two he had to start near the back for final one and with a brilliant drive came home 5th  which gave him grid 5 for the A final. It didn't take long for Morgan to take the lead but we knew it would be difficult to break away and equally as difficult if not impossible to defend for half the race or more, falling back into 2nd and with immense pressure from the chasing group he showed just what a mature driver he has become and made a decision to take the points for 2nd place. A very credible podium for Morgan Porter.

Ben Platten, team manager for BRK, said after "Wigan is an engine circuit and was always going to be close, having seen the teams pace this weekend I'm looking forward to the next round at Rowrah."
 
Chris Hawes from BRK commented "Ben is doing a fantastic job with the team and with three seeded drivers and a very fast rookie - I feel confident we can have a good season. I would also like to welcome our new rookie Tyler Proudlock who after a couple of tough heats found himself in the repercharge, after working very hard to get himself into 3rd place to qualify for the main finals got pushed wide on the last corner."
 
If anyone is interested in testing the BRK cadet chassis or running with our race team should contact Ben at brkuk@msn.com or call 07887 538590.

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Continued Success For Zip   (12/04)

In the Honda Cadet class Zip Kart enjoyed its continued success in this fantastic budget class with Matthew Hopcraft and Keaton Samra showing great pace all weekend on their Zip/RPM Hondas. Keaton Qualified joint fastest in his qualifying group with Hopcraft lining up 2nd fastest in his group.  In the main final Hopcraft finished in an impressive 3rd in a great race with some of the best racing of the weekend coming from the large Honda grid. Keaton raced well against drivers that were far more experienced at national level until losing a chain which ruined his chances of a poduim finish.
 
With the result, Hopcraft collects a free set of Dunlop tyres for his efforts. All Zip drivers in the Honda class receive a free set of tyres or vouchers to an equivalent value for every podium they collect!
 
For information on Zip's Honda Cadet or to arrange a test day please call 01327 855310, or email info@zipkart.com.

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Enter Rissington Online   (12/04)

Rissington's new online practice and race entry system is already a winner and now there is even more reason to use this function! Book online before 27th April for the May race weekend and you could win a set of tyres.
 
Every driver who enters through the online booking system will automatically have their name put into a hat. The draw will take place just before the race weekend.
 
All you need to do is just go to the Rissington web site at www.rissykartclub.com and click on the online booking button, pay for practice and race with either credit/debit card or via Pay-Pal (you don't need a Pay-Pal account) and you could win that set of tyres - wets or slicks - you choose, and you can have them ready for the race weekend!
 
The May meeting also includes the Pelican Trophy for the Rotax guys. This is usually well attended so get online and get booked in.
 
We already have another great prize for the June race weekend so keep checking the Rissington website for more details!

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Two In The Top Ten   (11/04)

The latest Zip/ART results from Wigan Super One Round 1 are in.
 
Zip Kart/ART enjoyed a successful start to the 2013 campaign in the Super One series open at the fast open track in Wigan. The event would be the first for the Zip Team in Rotax Super One in over 12 years. The team equipped with the new ART chassis and the new RSF drivers coming straight out of Cadets were looking forward to the challenge ahead.
 
Dean MacDonald and Josh Smith adapted well to this new class.  Both enjoyed different qualifying sessions with Dean grabbing P3 and Josh unfortunately losing his chain guard meaning he would have to start from the back of the grid in all his heats.
 
Both drivers worked hard over the weekend and showed that the new team will soon be challenging for the honours in this ultra-competitive class. They both finished safely in the top 10 with Dean in 7th in the final and Josh coming home in 10th.
 
Jamie Allen, Team Manager for the Zip/ART Rotax team said "I am really pleased that we managed to get our two drivers in the top ten. The teams that compete in this Championship have been doing so for many years, so to be able to compete and beat some of them from the off is a very positive start. We have a great kart and a busy development program for 2013.  I am very happy with our debut and know that we will get stronger as the year continues".
 
The Zip Cadet kart continues to dominate in the new MSA Comer National Championship with the Top 10 drivers all on board Zip karts and all 12 of the new Rookies also choosing the Zip brand!
 
Drivers are reminded that ALL rookies for the Comer Super One Championship will receive their tyres FOC for the first round that they compete in.

Photograph courtesy of Chris Walker/Kartpix.net.

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IPK And The OK1 Chassis   (11/04)

Team IPK has started the year well again with even more victories and great results from our drivers, exceeding all of our expectations. The chassis is also proving to be a success with other teams.
 
Stephen Letts in Junior TKM has proved yet again that his jump from Tonykart to OK1 was the right decision, winning nearly every heat and final that he has competed in since the move late last year. He comfortably wrapped up the Trent Valley Winter Championship at PFI with a sensible and mature drive at the last round. As the Super One draws closer he is sure to be the one to watch for this years British Championship.
 
Elliot Harvey has recently joined Team IPK on an OK1 chassis after a successful year in Honda Cadets last year and he has adapted to minimax faster than we could have hoped for. After only his fourth race he took his first minimax victory along with the winter championship at Shenington. We were excited for him to compete in Super One this year, but unfortunately he has had to pull out for financial reasons, which is a real shame for a kid with such pure natural talent.
 
In Honda Cadet, Matthew Hopcraft has grown in confidence over the winter months and started the season with a bang, winning at the opening round at Shenington this year. With some more classy displays of his ability he too wrapped up the Winter Championship at Shenington with ease. At Super One with a strong grid of 35, the youngster never looked out of place qualifying 2nd overall. Having led every race at some point over the weekend, Matthew showed great pace in the finals but with an unfortunate tangle with one of his rivals dropping him to seventh. This is where he started the main final, and yet again he slowly made his way to the front of the pack where the top three frantically exchanged positions. As Matthew saw his opportunity to progress to the front again, he pulled out to overtake, however the front pair decided that this was their moment to defend for the rest of the race. Matthew played it safe to pick up the points finishing in third place. He now lies second in the championship.
 
Our other drivers are also progressing nicely with Jack Fabby making the A Final at Super One in minimax after only five races in the class. William Tregurtha, at only twelve years of age, has moved into Junior Max for the rest of the season, and he has quickly got used to the extra speed and looks very comfortable in the class. Unfortunately he wasn't able to compete in the first round of Super One, but is excited by the challenge that lies ahead this year.
 
In other news, the reigning British Champion in KGP, Jonathan Davis, has decided to stay on the IPK brand after testing all of the other chassis available. He has switched from the orange of OK1 to the blue of Praga for the forthcoming season. Pre season testing has gone well and he along with the rest of the KGP drivers using IPK chassis are looking to have yet another strong year.
 
For more information about the team or the chassis please visit our website www.ipkarting.co.uk or by calling us on 01133 222795.

Photographs courtesy of Chris Walker/Kartpix.net.

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New Homologated Race Suits   (11/04)

We would like to introduce what we believe is the best value Level 2 homologated race suit on the market.  The Concept 1 Level 2 homologated suit is on offer at the introductory price of £35.95.
 
The Concept 1 suit is a great quality suit which can be used in all levels of karting, from the indoor hobby race through to Super 1.
 
The suit features:-
- Elasticated back panel
- Velcro belt
- Elasticated cuffs and ankles
- Slim fit
- Towel lining
- Black with white stitch detailing
- Velcro collar
- Double zip
- No epaulets or box stitching for more modern design
 
The Concept 1 suit is available in cadet sizes 120, 130, 140 and 150. And senior sizes 50, 52, 54, 56, 68 and 60.
 
We are also offering a 100% satisfaction guarantee on this suit. If you are not happy with your purchase just send it back in the same condition and you will receive a 100% refund.
 
This suit is exclusively available through our eBay shop http://stores.ebay.co.uk/Shop-Concept-1.

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Delta Karting   (10/04)

With over 30 years' experience in the sport, Delta Karting have now launched their eBay shop to help you with the credit crunch. You should be able to find everything - helmets, karts, engines, tyres, etc, etc. If you cannot find what you're looking for just email us for the best prices.

Our stock list includes Tonykart, Rotax, Comer, TKM, DID, CZ, Koden, Mojo, Dunlop, Maxxis, Douglas, Beta, OTK, Silkolene, Shell, Millers, Kartcare, the list just goes on.

Over the years Delta Power has won just about everything in the UK. We have been a Rotax & Comer service centre for many years and we are now doing large quantities of Iame motors. Don't get left behind this year!

Visit our eBay shop at http://stores.ebay.co.uk/dkracing2011, or contact us by email to dean@deltakarting.com or deltakarting55@yahoo.co.uk.

You can also reach us by phone on 01792 792485, 07968 150535 or 07970 524150.

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Leaders In Kart Training   (10/04)

When looking for the best in kart training and development the Federation of Automobile Sports Clubs of the Peoples Republic of China (FASC) are not alone in approaching Protrain Racing to develop their top 11 finest drivers. Clubs and organisations worldwide regularly access this resource that we are lucky enough to have on our doorstep.
 
In excess of 3,500 drivers have now benefitted from Protrains highly successful driver development and ARKS testing days mostly at the Northants based Whilton Mill Circuit. Over the past 15 years over 1,000 drivers have taken ARKS tests and many more have enjoyed one to one driver tuition; several of them have developed skills enabling them to achieve international karting success.
 
Imperative to Protrain is the quality of coaches and instructors they employ, each one of them is MSA qualified and individually selected to operate at the highest possible level to achieve maximum results. Unsurprisingly therefore the training division meets the impeccably high standards of being an MSA Accedited Training School.
 
Every training day delivered is focused on the individual needs of the driver from stretching the talents of highly experienced and talented karters to nurturing and coaching those sitting in a kart for the very first time.
 
Protrain MD Gary Chapman still loves the sport he excelled in commenting "I thoroughly enjoy weekends racing but there is something highly rewarding about working one to one with a driver who is at the top of his game and seeing an improvement, equally taking a young enthusiastic novice and seeing them develop confidence and racecraft is a great pleasure."
 
Protrain has a long established reputation for excellence in training and with ex Protrain driver's such as Jack Hawksworth, (2012 Champion of the Star Mazda, Indy Lights Driver and Autosport McLaren driver of the year candidate), leading on the world stage Protrain is regularly receiving calls from karting newcomers to high achieving drivers worldwide wishing to hone their driving skills to achieve that extra edge.
 
It's never too late for expert coaching, give Protrain a call and see how you could benefit. For more information on Professional coaching for you or your driver call Protrain on 01280 814774 or call Gary directly on 07802 966064.
 
We are taking bookings now for the next school holidays at Whilton Mill.

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RS Racing @ Forest Edge   (09/04)

Round 2 of the Forest Edge club championship took place on 7th April.  With Jack Mayle topping the championship table after round 1 on his new Wildkart and with a full grid of 34 drivers entered for round 2, it was all set for some great racing in the senior max class at this much improved circuit.

Nathan Harrison made a good start to the day by setting the fastest lap time on the new Lotus Kart whilst making up 14 places to finish 5th in the first heat and then continued with a strong 4th place in the second heat and a win in heat 4 to secure a front row place for the final. The rest of the RS Racing team continued to show their pace on the new Wildkart with some strong drives in the heats mixed with some bad luck but still manage to secure 5 drivers in the top 10 for the final.

Nathan Harrison ended the day in style by finishing first and setting the fastest lap in the final on his debut in the Lotus Kart with Jack Mayle and Jonny Drabble coming through to finish the race 5th and 6th on their Wildkarts and Angus Mainland finishing 8th on the Gillard in his first race of the year giving RS Racing 4 places out of the top 8 in this very competitive final.

It was more success for Mark Redding in the 177 Masters class on the Gillard. Mark set the outright fastest lap of the final in this combined 177/Masters class on his way to reeling in the leading two 177 drivers and he managed to finish 2nd overall taking a comfortable victory in the Masters class and a good lead in the championship.

The Team are looking to build on this solid start to the season and will be attending the 3rd round of the Clay Pigeon Championship next weekend and are always happy to provide help and advice, for information on all the services we can provide please see our website at www.rsracing.org or call John Parsons on 01256 760633 or mobile 07795 486957 to discuss your requirements.

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Edgar's Hyundai Super One   (09/04)

The Edgar's Hyundai Super One Rotax Series Round 1 took place at Three Sisters on 6th/7th April 2013;

With over 170 starters for the first round of the new season, it has to be said that the Super One Series is in a very healthy state.  Promoter John Hoyle brought the new race control display vehicle, kitted out to show the live timing from TAG Heuer on a large screen, along with videos from partner GoPro and several new exciting sponsors. The circuit used at Three Sisters, which is near to Wigan in north west England, was the 1060m Valley layout, which has one of the longest and fastest straights in the UK leading to lots of drafting and passing. This year the heats count for points as well as the two finals to try and prevent do or die lunges.  Unfortunately the Max 177 and Masters class did not have sufficient entries to run this time, many of the protagonists having moved to DD2 for the EuroMax.
 
Honda Cadet:
This economy Cadet class just keeps growing and growing, with about 15 newcomers to the series, however it was the experience of top seed Kiern Jewiss who prevailed in both finals, along with a clean sweep of his heats for a maximum score. Jewiss had a great game of snakes and ladders in the first final, quickly losing the lead to Rory Hudson, getting back to the front, then falling as far as sixth mid-race.  He battled back, as Matthew Hopcraft took a turn at the front, then rookie Tom Canning deposed Hopcraft to fourth. Once ahead with a few laps to run, Jewiss defended against the building train behind until the chequer. For the second final there were a few spinners at the start and Luke Whitehead from eighth had a puncture. Jewiss was only out of the lead for a short period mid-race by Hudson, soon leapfrogging Hopcraft and re-taking Hudson. Canning fell out of the top group to 11th, and Hudson was hung out to dry leaving insufficient time for him to battle back, he finished 8th. So once again Jewiss defended cleverly, backing up a train of seven karts to take his second victory over Morgan Porter, Hopcraft, Myles Apps and Ollie Hall.
 
Final 1: 1 Kiern Jewiss (Project One)19 laps in 16m22.83s; 2 Tom Canning (Project One) +0.06s; 3 Rory Hudson (Project One); 4 Mark Kimber (BRK); 5 Morgan Porter (BRK); 6 Chris Lulham (Project One). 
Final 2: 1 Jewiss 19 laps in 16m26.48s; 2 Porter +0.07s; 3 Matthew Hopcraft (OTK); 4 Myles Apps (BRK); 5 Ollie Hall (Project One); 6 Kimber. 
 
Comer Cadet:
Comer Cadet in the UK has been displaced by the new IAME Parilla Gazelle class for the main British Championship but the MSA has authorised three years of a national championship with the result that many drivers are racing both classes, one in each of the parallel Super One Series. Along with a dozen rookies, the grid numbered 23 in total where Alex Quinn dominated and only missed out on a clean sweep by coming third to Oliver York in the first heat. Lewis Thompson made a super start from the outside of the front row on the first final to sweep into the lead over but a mistake at the Pits corner left him in a spin with a damaged kart.  He fell back as Quinn and Tom Wood broke away, the order staying the same to the end despite Wood having a good look down the inside on the last lap. Behind the leaders a massive battle ensued, finally York breaking free to split the gap to Wood.  Alex McDade lost out on third when hung out on the first corner, finishing sixth, behind Jonny Edgar and William Pettitt. In the second final Wood led York and Quinn for most of the race whilst Thompson, on a replacement kart, was leapfrogging his way to the front, reaching fourth with a move on Pettitt, also displaced by Edgar. As York tried to get up the inside of Wood, taking them both a little wide, Quinn grabbed his chance using a tow by York and slipped inside both for the win.
 
Final 1: 1 Alex Quinn (Zip) 19 laps in 16m06.08s; 2 Tom Wood (Zip) +0.05s; 3 Oliver York (Zip); 4 Jonny Edgar (Zip); 5 William Pettitt (Zip); 6 Alex McDade (Zip).
Final 2: 1 Quinn 19 laps in 16m09.65s; 2 York +0.52s; 3 Wood; 4 Lewis Thompson (Zip); 5 Edgar; 6 Pettitt. 
 
MiniMax:
This year MiniMax is the largest class, 42 karts entered so it was bound to be busy at times. Connor Hall, top seed and fifth last year, was in the driving seat with Tom Gamble beside him and Dan Zelos and Sam McKenzie behind for the first final grid. As Hall and Zelos grabbed big gaps at the start, Gamble struggled to stay in line through the first turns, others having to take evasive action. Gamble was quickly set back by Harrison Thomas, he in turn put back a couple of places by Thomas and Alex Stott. In this mighty slip streaming lottery, Stott got to the front of the group to find Zelos drifting back towards him leaving Hall some 8s clear. Thomas made an audacious move round the outside of the train at turn one to grab third and give Zelos a breather.  For the second final Hall again eased away at the front, only to suddenly drop back and start to defend.  Apparently he had come across an official on the track, having to brake. Eventually he got clear again, whilst Gamble, Thomas and Stott stayed in station behind. Initially second, Zelos fell to fourth early on, then plunged to an eventual ninth.
 
Final 1: 1 Connor Hall (Tonykart) 21 laps in 15m55.21s; 2 Dan Zelos (Tonykart) +8.14s; 3 Harrison Thomas (Tonykart); 4 Tom Gamble (Kosmic); 5 Alex Stott (Tonykart); 6 Dean MacDonald (ART). 
Final 2: 1 Hall 21 laps in 15m57.11s; 2 Gamble +00.60s; 3 Thomas; 4 Stott; 5 Anderson; 6 Hugo Bentley-Ellis (Tonykart). 
 
Junior Max:
Guan Yu Zhou was ecstatic to take his first Super One wins in his maiden appearance in the Junior Max class at national championship level after finishing fourth in MiniMax last year.  The UK domiciled Shanghai youngster fell briefly to second after the start of the first final, but soon re-took Max Aitken and forged a 4s victory. Aitken was little troubled by the fight between Josh Price, Ben Hingeley and Tom Harvey behind as Hingeley became impatient with Price's defence.  Zhou only just avoided disaster at the start of the second final when everyone loaded up behind, causing some chaos through the first turns and several taking to the escape road. Lemuel Pay had an exclusion in a heat, came through the repechage to 15th in the first final then was given the mechanical flag in the second. Aitken was caught up at the start and fell to eighth, but finished a distant last. Price, Hingeley and Harvey battled and traded third again, finishing in that order with Philip Rawson and Jai Nijjar behind them.
 
Final 1: 1 Guan Yu Zhou (Tonykart) 22 laps in 16m07.79s; 2 Max Aitken (Tonykart) +4.02s; 3 Josh Price (Tonykart); 4 Ben Hingeley (Tonykart); 5 Tom Harvey (Tonykart); 6 Philip Hamprecht (Kosmic). 
Final 2: 1 Zhou 22 laps in 16m09.62s; 2 Price +01.52s; 3 Hingeley; 4 Harvey; 5 Philip Rawson (Kosmic); 6 Jai Nijjar (Tonykart).
 
Senior Max:
Although not on pole, current Max champion Sean Babington soon got into his stride for the finals, relieving Charlie Eastwood of the first final lead on lap three by darting to the inside on the run up to turn one. Oliver Hodgson was excluded from timed qualifying, still making 8th on the grid, whilst James Singleton and Kyle Fowlie suffered heat exclusions. Babington, Singleton and Eastwood took the heat wins.  From sixth, Luke Hughes lost all his good work when flagged in with a missing chain guard. John Stewart had just passed him for fourth, and continued to leapfrog Harry Webb and settle in behind Babington and Eastwood. Each of the first two just started to open the gaps so no challenges were possible on the closing laps, with Hodgson behind Webb for fifth.  Singleton stormed up to eighth at the chequer. There was a horrible start for the second final, even after all the drivers had been stopped and Babington warned about coming too fast to the line. Babington just survived but Eastwood suffered on the outside, dropping to about sixth only to tangle again further round and only managing ninth by the flag. Stewart tracked Babington and even took the lead for a lap, letting Singleton catch up, although unable to move up further with Babington's clever defence. Only Hodgson found a way of moving up a place, relieving Webb of fourth, without losing a place or two in the process. "I knew Charlie was going to try for the lead at the start, and John Stewart gave me a little nudge to get me past him" said Babington.
 
Final 1: 1 Sean Babington (Alonso) 22 laps in 15m50.94s; 2 Charlie Eastwood (Tonykart) +00.294s; 3 John Stewart (Gillard); 4 Harry Webb (Tonykart); 5 Oliver Hodgson (Tonykart); 6 Charlie Turner (Tonykart). 
Final 2: 1 Babington 22 laps in 15m51.69s; 2 Stewart +0.27s; 3 Singleton; 4 Hodgson; 5 Webb; 6 Connor Jupp (Alonso).

Photographs courtesy of Chris Walker/Kartpix.net.

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Lydd Revs-Up   (08/04)

The Summer Championships at Lydd Kart Circuit start next Sunday, the 14th April, with practice available on Saturday 13th from 10am to 4pm. This will be a 6 round series, with the best 5 rounds counting towards each driver's final total.
 
The format reverts to 3 Heats and a Final, following Timed Qualifying, for this series - with all classes welcome. Bambinos will get three timed runs as usual after they have had their practice.
 
We will also be presenting the Winter Championship trophies at the end of the day's racing, so we look forward to seeing as many of those winners as possible.
 
You can keep up to date with what is happening at Kent's fastest Kart Circuit by visiting the website at www.lyddkartcircuit.com.
 
Entries can be made online, by visiting the website and clicking on the Online Entries page, or when you arrive at the weekend. Signing on will start at 07.45 on Sunday, with scrutineering aiming to finish by 09.30, followed by drivers' briefing and then practice starts at 10am. 

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Pole And Win For Hall   (08/04)

Connor Hall and Strawberry Racing start the Super 1 season on top.
 
Connor showed his class by taking pole position at the 3 Sisters circuit in Wigan. He then converted this to 2 heat wins and started pole position for the first final. Fortunately for Connor there was an incident at turn 1 which enabled his to break free and eventually open up an 8 second lead at the flag.
 
He then started the main final in pole position and broke free at the start. However on lap 2 one of the officials was strolling across the track as the race leaders were flying round the circuit. Connor had to take avoiding action which allowed the 2nd and 3rd place drivers to catch a tow, from then on he kept the lead but was under pressure until the flag where he won by around half a second.

This places Connor in the lead of the British championship and with the next round at his favourite circuit (Rowrah) he is now looking forward to hopefully increasing his lead. Connor has a couple of weeks of hard traing now before competing at the British "O" plate where last year he led until suffering mechanical issues.

Connor would like to thank everyone at Strawberry Racing for the great effort all-round and providing the Tonykart EVK and Cream Racing engine.
 
You can keep up to date with Connor's progress at www.connorhall.co.uk.

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Comer Cadet Kart Champs   (08/04)

Alex Quinn kicked off the new MSA National Comer Cadet Kart Championship with two fighting wins at the fast Three Sisters circuit.

Quinn took pole for the first final but Lewis Thompson made a tremendous start for a short-lived lead until a crash, a spin and a damaged kart relegated him to 15th. Quinn and Tom Wood ran out in front while Oliver York relegated Jonny Edgar to fourth.

Wood led York and Quinn for most of the second final until Quinn saw his chance, explaining: "Ollie went to get Tom at the first corner so I got a good tow off Ollie, they went wide and I just went for it." The move put Quinn on top once again, while Thompson stormed up to fourth ahead of Edgar.

Results - Final 1:
1 Alex Quinn (Zip)
2 Tom Wood (Zip)
3 Oliver York (Zip)

Results - Final 2:
1 Quinn
2 York
3 Wood

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2013 Season Gears Up   (05/04)

The finest British senior, cadet and junior karters gear up for tougher challenges and more exciting showdowns in pursuit of the titles at stake, as karting unwraps another action-packed season via the ABkC Super One Championship.
 
Earlier this year TAG Heuer were awarded the Official Timing partners of this talented championship, home of the MSA Cadet, Junior and Senior Karting Championships.
 
Through its relationship with the leading national karting championships and domestic kart clubs in the UK, TAG Heuer has been the first provider to bring state of the art benefits to clubs and drivers worldwide. The Timing brand has introduced dedicated innovative developments in Karting including sector timing, live internet timing, and benefits to grass roots and world championship events in the past 3 years since launching its transponder timing product range.
 
TAG Heuer is looking forward to a highly successful 2013 season with all its karting partners and would like to remind people that its dedicated customer support services can be reached via Sports Timing Systems, the exclusive and official TAG Heuer distributor for the UK and Ireland either on the web at www.sportstimingsystems.co.uk.
 
Thanks to  the efficient support of Sports Timing Systems in the UK and Ireland, TAG Heuer will continue to offer a permanent  level of product innovation, technical support and ongoing development that has been the hallmark and DNA of the global brand since introducing the ground breaking kart timing and scoring system in 2010.
 
Recently, the brand  has installed its unrivalled hardware and software (also the official CIK-FIA and WSK) equipment to the Trent Valley Kart Club based at the PF International circuit, home of the annual MSA British Kart Masters Grand Prix and is also either currently installing or in negotiation with other UK kart circuits.
 
Drivers, teams, and family members will follow every sector of every lap in this year's ABkC and MSA British Karting Championship from either the paddock or in the comfort of their own homes live on the new TAG Heuer UK Live Timing website at www.tagheuer-timing.co.uk. 

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Turney, Rudge And Wragg   (04/04)

Sean Rudge becomes Vice Champion in the Mini Max Winter 100 Series at Shenington with a very strong start to his season on his new Formula K chassis, Kieran Wragg takes third as Joe Turney becomes the iame Winter 100 Champion.
                                                                                        
Rudge joined the Formula K UK team in January this year for his first ever mini max race, having enjoyed a very strong period in comer cadets, and was impressive from the outset. The championship was held up in January due to bad weather and his 14th place finish in February didn't do the Mini max newcomer justice. He soon corrected this with a third place in March and repeated this result at the rescheduled January meeting over the Easter Weekend. He was destined to finish much higher but was taken off the track by another driver and drove a superb race to claw his way back up to secure his podium place.
 
Securing second place against a largely more experienced Mini Max field shows the talent and likely success this young FK driver is likely to enjoy in his maiden year.
 
Wragg also impressed with excellent results and was undeterred by a puncture in his first heat and went on to finish third place on the day and overall in the winter Minimax Championship. An excellent result for him and a two three for the Protrain Minimax drivers.
 
Meanwhile iame Cadet Joe Turney finished his Winter Championship with his feet on the highest step of the Podium becoming the Shenington iame Winter Champion.
 
With a victory in February and a throttle failure in the March final it was definitely a roller coaster ride that brought him to the final round but he was determined to get his hands on the winners' trophy.

Despite a difficult start Turney drove a mature race recognising the need to keep in touch with the leaders to have any chance of victory. He positioned himself well and using slipstreaming to his advantage went into the final turn in third place where a collision between the front two let Turney through to take the chequered flag, his second victory at Shenington this year and sealing his place as the Winter 100 Iame Champion.
 
Gary Chapman commented, "These young drivers have shown immense potential and maturity in their racecraft. It is a pleasure to work alongside them and they have shown that despite misfortune on the track if they keep working they can still succeed. I am really looking forward to seeing them continue to achieve and progress in 2013."
 
Joe Turney has shown great pace and race craft in the short time he has been karting and will be competing at Super1 in 2013, do you have a cadet driver who could partner him? We'd love to hear from you and have a great offer for the right driver. Please call Martyn Smithers or Gary Chapman in total confidence on 01280 814774.

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Brian Wilson Memorial Meeting  (04/04)

The SYKC Annual W Plate meeting held in memory of Brian Wilson will take place on Sunday 12th May 2013.
 
Brian was an active member of SYKC from 1970 until his untimely death in 1992. His involvement with karting started when his 11 year old son, Mike Wilson, took up karting at Wombwell. Mike had great success in karting and at 18 years old moved to Italy to work as a team driver for Birel and eventually won the World Championship 6 times.
 
Whilst Mike raced for Birel, Brian continued his involvement at SYKC and started a kart business producing the Premier Karts and providing track side support at all meetings, along with working on the club committee; maintaining the track and trying to improve the club.
 
Following his Death in 1992 the club decided to recognise his contribution by holding an annual memorial meeting, which is always supported by his wife Eileen and members of the Wilson family.
 
Mike Wilson donated one of his World Championship trophies to be awarded to the Driver of the Day chosen by Eileen and her family.
 
If you would like to compete in this very special event please ensure your entry reaches the SYKC Competition Secretary before the 4th May 2013.

Entry forms are available on www.sykc.co.uk.

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Pidgley's Winter Season   (03/04)

2013 looks set to be a stellar season for Downton youngster Pidgley, after completing one of the most dominant closed season performances of any Junior Rotax hopeful in the UK for many years. Since the start of 2013, Ollie has stood on the podium a total of 6 times from only 8 outings at some of the UK's top venues against current and ex-British champions, and up to 60 drivers at each race.

This month saw the climax of the 2 major winter series in the country, and the Downton school GCSE student didn't disappoint. A fighting drive at PFI saw Ollie so close to taking victory against a field full of future stars. He battled from 7th after lap 1 all the way through and into the lead before making a tiny error on the final lap, but hung on to claim a well deserved 2nd in the TVKC winter championship behind former British champion and current seeded driver Tom Harvey.

A solid 2nd place finish at Shenington last weekend saw him take runners up spot in that series too, which could have been so different if it weren't for an accident at round 1 3 months previously. However the performance was strong, with the lead 2 drivers finishing some 3 seconds clear of the chasing pack.
'I have never had such a strong start to a season, and the success that we've had this year, only missing the podium in 2 of my first 8 outings, really helps my confidence going into the 1st round of the British championship next weekend. I can't thank my partners and Sam at P1 Racing enough for giving me everything that I need to achieve the results, and I go to Wigan on Thursday knowing that I have what it takes to race against the best that the UK can offer.' Ollie remarked about his dominant closed season pace.

The OEP backed star now travels with his team to the Three Sisters circuit in Wigan for the revised 1st round of the Super 1 series. With an entry of 60 drivers, the team orders will steer towards staying on the circuit, and consistent drives, with the aim to take a good haul of points from which to build a championship challenge.

With 2 years of learning under his belt, Ollie will now attack the championship as lead driver for the P1 Racing team, with full support and backing of multiple British and European champion engine producer Grice Engines, and financial support from OEP Ltd, a specialist building firm. Ollie has also had unrivalled support from Downton School, which allows him to study hard for his much needed GCSE results, whilst being able to compete at such a high level week in week out throughout the year.

Follow Ollie's progress throughout the first round of the Super 1 by following him on Twitter, @OPidgleyRacing, or on www.facebook.com/OlliePidgleyRacing. There is a live timing link to the series available on his website at www.olliepidgley.com.

Photographs courtesy of Chris Walker/Kartpix.net.

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Lando's Sensational Return   (03/04)

KFJ star Lando Norris enjoyed a triumphant return to his Rotax roots with back-to-back Junior Max victories in the opening round of the Euro Max Challenge at Genk (30-31 March), whilst his brother Oliver also scored a stunning podium in the Senior class.
 
The reigning Formula Kart Stars Mini Max champion returned to RL Racing Department during a break in his KFJ duties and soon showed that he was still a force to be reckoned with - despite having not raced a Junior Max kart for several months.
 
"Lando couldn't quite get used to the lack of grip at first," observed RL Racing's owner, Steve Armstrong. "He'd become used to the softer tyres used in KFJ, but once he'd re-acclimatised he was away."
 
However, a frustrating timed qualifying session saw the Glastonbury teenager only able to record the 14th-fastest time overall. Undeterred, he duly converted his fourth row grid starts into three heat wins and a 2nd place, ultimately earning him 3rd spot on the grid for the pre-final.
 
Having managed his tyres superbly in the preliminaries, Norris was able to quickly work his way to the front and control the first final all the way to the chequered flag.
 
Taking up his allocation of fresh rubber for the main final, Lando put his tactical advantage (over many of his rivals who had opted to go with new tyres in the pre-final) to good use and eased into a strong lead during the opening laps. The gap stabilised at several kart lengths, not enough to allow him to relax, but sufficient to ensure that his nearest pursuers could not afford to make any mistakes.
 
A faultless drive secured the win, leaving Armstrong impressed and delighted: "He's got better as a driver. Lando's done a lot of karting and a heck of a lot of laps since he last drove with me, all giving him valuable seat-time and experience. He was able to put that into practice and drove perfectly. Ultimately, he cruised to victory."
 
For Norris' team-mate in the Junior Max class - Jack McCarthy - the finals were not altogether happy experiences.
 
"He was smashed up in the pre-final and DNF'd in the main race," rued Armstrong. "Up to that point, Jack's progress had been massive. He was 5th-fastest overall in timed qualifying, giving him p3 on the grid for each of his heats. Despite his lack of European experience he was able to take two top ten finishes. He learned a great deal and in terms of pace, he could hold his own against the likes of Lando. It's easy to forget that he's only 12 and still a Mini [Max driver] at home. It won't be long before he's running at the front!"
 
Lando's older brother Oliver had to qualify for the pre-final via the Second Chance heat, but made remarkable progress once he had. "We put the new tyres on for the repecharge to help him and this worked a treat. We then swapped back to his old rubber for the pre-final, but even though he was pushed back at the start, due to being in the 'crash zone, he used his fantastic speed to recover and carve is way up to 15th at the chequered flag. We then put the scrubbed-in tyres from the Second Chance race back on his kart and he quickly charged his way to 9th, before picking his way forward from there. All hell broke out on the run to the chequered flag and Oli briefly led before emerging from the melee that followed to snatch a thoroughly-deserved podium place. For me, it was the drive of the weekend!"
          
For more information about racing with RL Racing Department, call Steve today on 07843 586 416 or contact him via accounts.rlracingdept@live.co.uk. For all the latest team news, go to www.rlracingdepartmentltd.com.

Photographs courtesy of Bas Kaligis.

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Connor Hall Shows Class   (02/04)

As usual, Connor Hall made it hard for himself by qualifying 7th overall in a 66-strong European field at round 1 of the Euromax championship.

Connor always seems to hold back in qualifying, starting from 3rd and 4th in the 3 heats which he converted to two wins and a 2nd. As two other drivers also had the same results it went down to qualifying positions for the pre-final grid, placing him on the outside of the front row.

Connor dropped to 5th at the start but soon made it to the front and looked to be on course for a comfortable win, but with a couple of laps to go he caught a curb at the wrong point and lost the lead, but salvaged 2nd at the flag.

It was a similar story in the main final where Connor dropped back to 10th at the start, but he soon started cutting his way through the field. With 4 laps to go he was in second place and over 2 seconds behind the race leader. Head down, he took over 4 tenths per lap out of the lead but sadly didn't have enough time to challenge for the race win and at the flag was split by just 0.7 of a second.

Connor said after the race "I was confident of a good result with the overall package I was given by Strawberry Racing, and 2nd place in both finals is great points towards becoming European champion at the end of the season."

Connor would like to thank the great effort all-round by everyone at Strawberry Racing for this result who provided the Tonykart EVK and Cream Racing Engine. He now has a couple of days training before heading to Wigan for Round 1 of the Super One championship.

You can keep up-to-date with Connor and the team's progress at www.connorhall.co.uk.

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24 Hour Charity Race   (28/03)

A 24 Hour Le Mans style karting race is being organised for The James Hopkins Trust - 20 teams of 6-12 Drivers, 70 mph karts, 1.13KM circuit, 24 hour race!

Minimum of 12 & maximum of 20 teams. Minimum of 6 & maximum of 12 drivers per team.

Cost: £1500 entry per team, so 6 drivers = £250.00 per driver, 7 drivers = £214.30 per driver, 8 drivers = £187.50 per driver, 9 drivers = £166.70 per driver, 10 drivers = £150.00 per driver, 11 drivers = £136.40 per driver, 12 drivers = £125.00 per driver.

Sponsorship forms will be issued to every driver to raise their race entrance fee and possibly more for the charity.

Venue: Birmingham Wheels Karting Centre, Adderley Road South, Birmingham, B8 1AD.

Track: The World Famous International Circuit The home of the current and past British champions, this truly awesome circuit was extended in 2009 and is now, more than ever, fully deserving of its International reputation. If your only experience of Karting is of the indoor variety, one look at a fraction of this circuit will simply blow your mind. The Circuit is stadium floodlit, and its unrivalled facilities include private parking for 200 cars, a dedicated new hospitality suite and adjoining VIP paddock, plus the very latest MAGIX / AMB timing system accurate to one thousandth of a second. Recent visitors have included Jenson Button, Alan McNish and a whole host of celebrities. Whilst the Circuit automatically attracts some of the UK's top drivers, the sheer size and track space make it the ideal venue for this upcoming 24 hour race.

Karts: 70mph Sodi GT 250cc Go-Karts.

Date: Saturday 03rd August 2013 - Sunday 04th August 2013.

Time: Race Start 19.00 Saturday Evening & Finish 19.00 Sunday Evening.

Example Times / Itinerary:
Saturday 17.00 - Registration
17.30 - Briefing, Tips & Suit Up
18.00 - Practice & Qualifying
18.55 - Grid Line-Up
19.00 - Race Start

Sunday 19.00 - Race Finish
19.15 - Presentations & Podium
19.30 - Farewell

Want more track info take a look here - www.grandprixkarting.co.uk.

Take a look at all the great work your money will go towards - www.jameshopkinstrust.org.uk.

Join the Facebook event here - https://www.facebook.com/events/362826273826612/?fref=ts#.

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Knott Wins At First Attempt   (27/03)

After signing a last-minute deal prior to travelling to Larkhall (17 March), RL Racing Department's latest exciting star delivered a lights-to-flag victory for his new team.
 
Luke Knott enjoyed a dream debut with PFi-based RL Racing to put himself in the frame as a pre-season contender for Super One title glory. "He certainly bedded-in quickly and very well!" said RLRD owner, Steve Armstrong. "Luke is still adjusting to the class and, by his own admission, he wasn't perfect in Saturday's wet conditions. However, we all worked at improving his times and by Sunday, Luke was right on the pace."
 
Indeed, the former Honda Cadet O Plate champion went on to take an emphatic pole position for the final with two wins and a 3rd place in the heats.
 
Once the final had got underway, Knott became locked in a game of cat and mouse with the driver in 2nd but with two laps remaining, he picked up his pace and put matters beyond doubt. "He broke away at the perfect time and set the fastest lap on his run to the chequered [flag]. Understandably, he was very happy and, of course, so was I and the rest of the team!"
 
In the Mini Max class, the team maintained its 100% record of scoring podiums in all of its pre-season club events. Larkhall proved to be another happy hunting ground for Sandy Mitchell and Jack McCarthy. The pair featured throughout the preliminaries and against a quality field.
 
Sandy's day was not without some controversy, when he was disqualified for contact during the third heat - something he and the team felt was not entirely justified after his rivals' own driving standards went unpunished. However, this served to fire him up further and he charged from the 9th row of the grid to a fine 3rd at the finish. Crossing the line ahead of him, Jack had briefly led, but by mid-distance the top three finishing positions had already been decided.
 
"It was alright, really" said Armstrong, summing up. "We always knew we would face a tough test against the local heroes, so to come up and take away two more trophies was satisfying. We needed to find a couple of tenths in the wet - but championships are won on podiums and pace in the dry is second to none, so everything is still pointing forwards."
 
RL Racing Department's Euro Max squad is currently in Belgium, preparing for the opening round at Genk (30-31 March).
 
"Jack will join Lando and Oliver Norris in Belgium. We haven't seen Lando for a while now, as he's been racing in KF Junior, so it will be great see him back in the team alongside his brother."   
       
For more information about racing with RL Racing Department, call Steve today on 07843 586 416 or contact him via accounts.rlracingdept@live.co.uk. For all the latest team news, go to www.rlracingdepartmentltd.com.

Photographs courtesy of Chris Walker/Kartpix.net.

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Buckmore Park's 50th   (27/03)

As you may be aware, Buckmore Park Karting is fast approaching its 50th anniversary. The anniversary race meeting will be held in October and we would like to make a bit of a splash about the history of kart racing at the circuit.
 
We are seeking any pictures, memorabilia, interesting stories, race programmes or indeed anything that might be of interest. Obviously, the older the item is, the more interesting it will be.
 
If you have anything historical from the circuit we would be very grateful if you could contact Chris Pullman on 01634 201562 ext 209 or via email chris@buckmore.co.uk
 
Anything you can contribute or loan will be gratefully received and will form part of the 50th Anniversary celebrations in October.

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TKM Club Championship   (26/03)

The trend-setting Formula TKM Club Championship has received another 50 plus strong entry with Senior numbers up on last year and registrations still being received.
 
Although the closing date for the series has now closed, the organisers will still accept late entries at the slightly increased fee of £65 up to the first round at Kimbolton.
 
Says TKM Boss Alan Turney: "It is another great entry and we are delighted to see an increase in Senior numbers which underlines the growing strength in that sector."
 
The first round takes place at Kimbolton on May 12 and with such a strong TKM Club Championship entry competitors are urged to enter in good time to ensure that they get an entry. Entries and payment can be carried out online at www.hkrc.co.uk. Please ensure your entry is clearly marked TKM Club Championship.
 
Where entries are high as expected, clubs will run extra heats and A and B finals to make it possible for all drivers to race. But in order to do this drivers must get their entries in early to give the clubs time to organise such arrangements.
 
Full details of testing opportunity, race entry forms and other local detail are available on the website of each of the clubs organising club championship rounds. Further details are also on the www.tal-ko.com website.
 
Any further registrations should be made using the registration form on the Tal-Ko website.

[ Top ]

New Structure For Karting   (22/03)

A new simplified structure for UK Kart Championships will be introduced from 1 January 2014, the Motor Sports Association (MSA) has announced.
 
Under the new structure championships will be run at the following levels:
- British
- National
- Regional
- Within standard club meetings
- Club only
 
In line with the new structure and regulations only the MSA may designate a promoter for the British and National Championships. In September 2012 the MSA announced Super One Series as the British Championships promoter for five years from 1 January 2013 and MSA National Comer Championship promoter for three years from 1 January 2013. Additionally the British Superkart Racing Club was designated the MSA Long Circuit Championship and MSA Long Circuit Grand Prix promoter for five years from 1 January 2013.
 
The MSA has asked the Association of British Kart Clubs (ABkC) to promote the MSA National Championships (with the exception of the MSA National Comer Championship) until the end of the 2016 season to ensure stability during these transitional years. The MSA will then go out to tender during 2016 for the promoters of the National Championships.
 
Colin Hilton, MSA Chief Executive and new Kart Committee Chairman, said: "These changes are designed to put in place a new structure for the future benefit of karting following the comprehensive Karting Review. The support from the ABkC allows the MSA to put in place the processes necessary to implement the changes, which for 2017 will include not only the tender process for National Championships but also a full homologation process for all karting classes."

[ Top ]

Kart Coach Vacancy   (22/03)

Due to continued growth, iZone driver performance have a fantastic opportunity for a Karting Coach.

iZone is based at Silverstone circuit and provides fully comprehensive physical and mental training to karters using our kart simulator.

Training can be given to the right candidate. For more information please contact us on 01327 856872 or email kevin@izoneperformance.com.

[ Top ]

Charity GP Event   (21/03)

For the fifth concetucitive year, Mr Karting in Leamington Spa are happy to announce we will be running our annual Charity night again, to help raise money for the Warwickshire & Northamptonshire Air Ambulance.

The event will be held on Saturday 22nd June 2013 and will be run to our popular Grand Prix event. Every driver will have 5 laps of practice, followed by 5 races of 8 Laps, with the top 6 drivers progressing into the Grand Final.

The cost of the Charity GP night is £35 per person, with £10 from each driver going towards the Air Ambulance.

During the Event all race winners will pull out a raffle ticket, for a lucky person who will win a prize after each race, along with an Auction at the end of the evenings racing.

In addition to the Charity Event, we have set up a seperate Prize Draw raffle with a chance to win a Kartsuit, Boots and Gloves which has been donated by MK Racewear worth over £200. For your chance to win this great prize all you have to do is buy a raffle ticket from our track, or you can make a donation here www.justgiving.com/mrkarting, and for every £2 you donate you will be allocated a raffle ticket. The more you donate, the more chances to win!
 
We will also have the BBQ set up again with food being sold during the evening to go towards our goal of raising as much money as possible.

Support this worthy cause by entering the event or donating now!

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Buckmore Improvements   (20/03)

Buckmore Park Karting Circuit has recently completed various safety improvements over the winter period including increased run off areas on the outside of turns 1 and 2 (Conways and leading into Henry's bend) and on the exit of Paddock bend (post 6). These areas are currently being asphalted. The venue has also lodged plans for a new pit lane entrance which will lead to karts leaving the circuit much earlier than the existing exit point which will improve safety. The work will be carried out later in the year.
 
Other important news is that after 10 years of negotiation John Surtees Ltd has completed the purchase of not only the freehold land that Buckmore Park holds the leasehold interest on but a further 90 acres of land adjacent to the circuit which will allow the site to be developed further. John Surtees said "I'd like to create an extension to the circuit for alternatives for learning, testing and road safety training. I have dreams, we'll just try to realise them".

Circuit owner and Managing Director of Buckmore Park Karting Ltd, Bill Sisley, says "We have been waiting for this for a long time and now at last we can move forward on the long term development for Buckmore Park Kart Circuit. Watch this space for further exciting news.".

For more information on Buckmore Park visit www.buckmore.co.uk.

[ Top ]

New Kosmic Distributor   (19/03)

Vision Motorsport are pleased to announce that they have been appointed as the South West agent for the Kosmic Kart from Aim Motorsport.

Vision Motorsport are a new team in the paddock for 2013, with Team Principle and owner Daryl Burgess driving the team forward and looking for success for its drivers with the Kosmic brand.

Daryl commented "I have always considered the OTK brand to be the best designed kart on the market. The consistency and quality of the manufacture gives reliability in terms of its performance and feedback to the driver. This overall stability allows drivers to concentrate on their driving."

Daryl has a wealth of Karting experience spanning over sixteen years and had his first ever win driving a Kosmic kart. A Rotax champion at both Junior and Senior level, he has moved over recent years to focus on driver tuition and management. The most recent success was helping Connor Hall to finsih 5th in Super 1 in the Mini Max class in 2012.

He continued "I look forward to a long and successful partnership with Kosmic and the success I believe it will bring the drivers. Also a big thanks to Aim Motorsport for their continued help and support."

The team will be covering many of the tracks across the South and South West over the course of the year such as Forest Edge, PFI, Clay Pigeon, Shenington, Llandow and Dunkeswell.

New and used karts will be available imminently and we will be carrying a stock of OTK spares. Test drives are available on request.

Vision Motorsport can be contacted by phone on 07792 749566, or email to dazkartburgess@hotmail.com.

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Aged 13 To 17 Years?  (18/03)

The BARC are delighted to have the opportunity to take over the reins of the very competitive 2013 SAXMAX Junior Championship for 14 to 17 year olds.
 
On the 30th March 2013 you are invited to a SAXMAX LIVE event, the event is being organised to give this year's potential drivers aged between 13 to 17 the opportunity to experience the performance and thrill of a race-prepared Citroen Saxo as raced in the Club's SAXMAX Championship. The Saxmax Live event will take place at Blyton Park in Lincolnshire - www.blytonpark.co.uk.
 
Fancy a change from karting? Then Saxmax Live is for you, you will drive in race prepared Saxmax hatchbacks at Blyton Park race circuit, you will get a dedicated Clio Cup driver/instructor to guide you around the 7m wide circuit.
 
To book a place please email info@saxmax.co.uk or call 0800 6126977.
 
The Championship takes place at major UK motor racing circuits including Brands Hatch and Silverstone and is run with other BARC championships at its race meetings, there will be 13 rounds over 7 weekends in 2013.
 
Visit www.saxmax.co.uk or call 0800 6126977 for further info.
 
For a dedicated Saxmax test day or 1-to-1 tuition see www.teamdynomite.co.uk or call 07817 416293 email keith@teamdynomite.co.uk arrive and drive available.

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Aspiring Racing Drivers...   (15/03)

The hunt for the next Ginetta racing driver is on as Leeds-based want2race and Ginetta Cars are offering one aspiring driver a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Qualification begins with an assessment at a kart circuit and the ultimate prize is a race package, valued at £6,000.
 
Launched at the Autosport International show in January, the want2race competition offers ambitious would be racers an opportunity to get behind the wheel of a Ginetta G40 race car, with a fully funded drive in the Ginetta GT5 Challenge at Donington Park in October 2013.
 
The competition has already seen an unprecedented amount of interest and entries have already been flooding in from all across the UK. The prize is a chance to be taken through the all-important ARDS test which grants an MSA race licence, the loan of a race car, the race entry, fuel and insurance, plus tuition and support for the full race weekend.
 
Following the success of the Ginetta Junior Scholarship - which runs annually during the winter period and offers one young racer between 14-17 years old a fully-funded season in the Ginetta Junior Championship - the Yorkshire marque was keen to give the same opportunity to an older generation.
 
Mike Simpson, Head of Sales at Ginetta explained; "The concept of want2race fitted our strategy perfectly. We have had a genuine demand from older drivers wanting to get involved in racing Ginetta cars for some time, so we are very pleased to be able to offer such excellent support and main prize package."
 
Qualification for the competition is by means of a simple registration form and £59 fee payable online. Entrants then select their chosen category and at which of the 14 top UK kart venues they would like to qualify. Round two will see drivers invited back to drive Ginetta G40 racing cars on track with top racing drivers and instructors. The best 30 will be invited back at the end of the week for a final, where the overall winner will be selected.
 
want2race reports a wide variety of drivers entered so far, including three female drivers and one member of the Kart Force Injured Troops team; David Birrell. David is a double amputee who races karts for the Kart Force team and also enjoys high performance driving at track days in his Ford Focus RS. David said; "As soon as I saw the advert for want2race I knew I had to enter, I love nothing more than competitive motorsport and cannot wait to be involved".
 
Mark Hales, Chief want2race Judge, explains the appeal of ther competition; "We are looking for a contender. They can be the track day enthusiast looking to progress and race or the kart racer keen to make the jump into cars and long circuit racing, or anybody with enough desire to do it. We welcome all ages, experience levels and backgrounds."
 
Entries are open now at www.want2race.co.uk and all entrants must be aged over 16, and not hold a valid MSA car race licence. On completing their registration, drivers will receive a Welcome Pack, Entry Form and their Qualifying Kart Voucher.

[ Top ]

HTR Racing Team   (14/03)

Due to our recent success, HTR Racing Team is expanding for the 2013 season.
 
We are now looking for an experienced driver coach/team manager to help amongst the team at all Super 1, pre-Super 1, PFI and Rowrah club meetings.
 
We also have 2 more spaces remaining in the team for all of the events above in either: Iame, Honda, Comer and Rotax Classes.
 
HTR Racing Team has he following services available at extremely competitive prices: Basic awning space (with use of the HTR equipment and hospitality), technical advice, driver coaching, kart storage/preparation and transportation, flat bed services, as well as a Rotronics dyno service, so we know your equipment is always at its peak.
 
For further information with regards to the job vacancy or running with the team for 2013 please don't hesitate to contact Derrick Hardy on 078362 48459 or 0191 528 9005, or via email to derrick@htrracing.com.

[ Top ]

NJL Racing Kart Team   (14/03)

With Whilton Mill now up and running in its new format with their first event next weekend (March 23/24) the good news is that NJL Racing is able to offer full team services from awning space to full team support at each Whilton Mill race weekend.
 
NJL Racing Kart Team for 2013 will be competing in Rotax/TKM/Cadets and Formula KGP classes and attending various club meetings across the UK  and will also be competing in the British Super One Series.
 
NJL Racing are able to provide exceptional service and packages in their purpose built awning for the entry level Karter right up to the more experience Kart racer competing in Club level and The British Super One Series, with over 18 years of experience in Motorsport and over three years experience racing in the BTCC.

NJL Racing Team Services:
Full Team support
Kart Storage and transportation facility
Full Preparation of Kart
Driver coaching/analysis
Driver PR & Sponsorship services
Awning Space (to include use of team's exclusive awning and team equipment, and full use of NJL Racing exclusive Hospitality area).
 
Drivers looking for team services please email Nick on nick@njlracing.com.

[ Top ]

Elite Karting League   (14/03)

The 1st round of Season 2013 took place at Whilton Mill last weekend, 9th March.  The conditions were testing to say the least, the cold weather took its toll on both the officials and competitors, but the racing was a great success.
 
Titan Motorsports continued were they left off in season 2012, dominating both the sprints and enduro, also winning the "Dash for Cash" prize fund £1000 (T&C's apply).  As usual the racing was close between Teesside Tigers and Teesside Thunder both hot on the heels of 2nd place Northampton Knights, Whilton Mill's home team.
 
One of the incredible aspects of this type of racing is how close the lap times are, only 100ths of a second separating each team/drivers.  This is down to the dedicated care and standard of the preparation, with all engines being dyno tested.  Surely this type of racing is the future, both competitive and reasonably priced.  1 hour practice, 12 x 10 lap heats "dash for cash" and a 2 hour endurance at just £396 per team (£99 per driver).
 
If you would like a team in the league representing your town or county, then check out our website - www.thekartingleague.co.uk - or call us on 01642 231117.  The next round is at Teesside on 13th April.

[ Top ]

Bentley-Ellis Makes The Grade   (14/03)

Just a handful of races after graduating from Cadet, RL Racing Department star Hugo Bentley-Ellis claimed his maiden Mini Max victory at Rowrah (10 March).
 
Like many of their Super One contemporaries and rivals, the PFi-based team had taken the opportunity to compete in a club event at the famous Cumbrian circuit, ahead of the series' visit in May (4/5).
 
The opening heat saw Jack McCarthy bravely take 2nd place, despite nursing a painful wrist after a tumble in the paddock the day before. His team-mates Sandy Mitchell claimed an encouraging 4th but Bentley-Ellis had to stage a fightback after crashing at the start. He eventually finished 13th, one place behind Tushar Vivekanandan. Jack Martin finished 25th on his first experience of racing at the legendary Cumbrian track.
 
After his heroics in the first race, McCarthy found the pain in his wrist too great to bear in the later races and retired before any further damage was done.  Tushar then lead an RL Racing 5,6,7 in the second heat, leading Hugo and Sandy home, whilst Jack Martin's progress was sorely hindered after being shoved into the bark at the second hairpin and he finished at the tail of the field.
 
The last heat saw Bentley-Ellis bring his Tony Kart home 3rd, with Mitchell 7th and Vivekanandan 9th and Martin rallying to a more encouraging 18th.
 
"The remaining heats saw the boys put in some decent performances," observed team owner Steve Armstrong. "Sandy had driven a Mini Max round Rowrah in the dry before Sunday, Hugo did well after his nightmare start to the racing and Tushar is just improving all the time. Jack Martin is on an upward learning curve, and Rowrah isn't an easy place to come to for the very first time and get to grips with. He plugged away, kept out of trouble and learned."
 
Mitchell's lead, from pole position, in the final lasted as far as the first hairpin. As the 24-kart field arrived en masse at the corner, he was shunted from behind and span in front of the entire pack. A huge pile-up ensued, splitting the field and leaving the hapless Mitchell out of contention.
 
Enjoying contrasting fortunes, Bentley-Ellis and Vivekanandan survived the melee and worked their way into 1st and 3rd respectively. However, by mid distance Tushar had slipped to 4th and ultimately took 7th place at the chequered flag. Jack completed the top twenty, with Sandy finishing a hugely disappointed last, after being forced to pit to repair a dramatically folded-up sidepod following the first lap contact.
 
"Sandy was smashed off, clean and clear," said a fuming Armstrong afterwards. "The resultant pile-up ended his attack and any chances of a podium. Hugo and Tushar worked in tandem to go 1st and 3rd by the midway point of the race. Tushar's lack of experience of running in the podium positions got the better of him, which is a shame but it will inspire him now. He knows he's capable of being a front-runner, just as Hugo now knows he can win in Mini Max, just as he did in Comer Cadet. He was a star, he led for much of the race and from there took an emphatic first victory out of Cadets. Great stuff!"
       
For more information about racing with RL Racing Department, call Steve today on 07843 586 416 or contact him via accounts.rlracingdept@live.co.uk. For all the latest team news, go to www.rlracingdepartmentltd.com.

Photographs courtesy of Chris Walker/Kartpix.net.

[ Top ]

Practice Makes Perfect...   (13/03)

Next-Gen motorsport have arrived home from testing in Spain with a bang! Back-to-back wins since returning has paved a great path for the coming season.
 
On their first weekend back, the team hit the 3 Sisters circuit for a busy club meeting. 3 of the 4 drivers had never been to the track before and after limited testing on the Saturday all of the drivers went on to finish in the top 14 out of the 34 drivers competing in the Honda class. Next-Gen driver Tom Canning also recorded the fastest lap in the final, a great achievement on his first trip to Wigan with the Super One competition present.
 
The following weekend was a trip to PFI. With all the best drivers present and massive grids in both IAME and Honda, the team knew this would be a great time to set some early season form and sap vital confidence from its rivals. The team duly delivered with Teddy Wilson winning the IAME final, Kiern Jewiss 5th and Jack Armstrong 9th, making it 3 out of the top 9. Teddy's drive really opened a few eyes and with his strong mindset that nothing less than a win will do... watch out for the bear! Lucas Nannetti drove well coming from the B Final to making it the top 15 of the A Final before being knocked off the track. Herbie Grout will no doubt bounce back after a disappointing day, having previously demonstrated great pace at the February meeting at PFI and winning at Shenington. Kiern Jewiss also raced in the Honda class for Next-Gen and led every lap of the Honda Final until, on the last lap of the race, he was fired off by a competitor who was subsequently excluded for his mistake. Keaton Samra also produced a great drive, narrowly missing out on the top 10 after coming right through the pack. 
 
Next stop was Rowrah and again the team was racing in both the IAME and Honda classes. This time Next-Gen took the double victory it should have collected at PFI. Domination was the word in both classes, Kiern Jewiss in IAME won 2 heats and the A Final from pole - his first victory in IAME in only his 4th attempt. This win will only make him more determined and no doubt he'll be on the top step more often than not this season.

Meanwhile, Tom Canning won also 2 heats in Honda and then went on to win the A Final from pole by 10.26 seconds! A great performance from Tom on his first visit to Rowrah. Tom's pace is incredible and when everything slots into place he will be a real dark horse this year in his rookie season in Super One.
 
Next-Gen would also like to congratulate Teddy Wilson on winning at Kimbolton, as well as Next-Gen drivers Klaas Kooiker and Ollie Hall on great top 5 results at Forest Edge and Clay Pigeon.
 
For more information on Next-Gen please contact David Bellchambers on 07525 741401 or email dbc_11@msn.com.

Thanks to everyone involved in the success - Andrew Wilson @ Wilson Racing Engines, Total Kart Shop, RPM Racing Engines for both IAME and Honda winning engines, Lee Kellett @ Kellett carbs, Zipkart, and Project One. Thanks also to Chris Walker for the pictures.

Photographs courtesy of Chris Walker/Kartpix.net.

[ Top ]

New Karting Race Simulators   (12/03)

Asian Replicas Europe are proud to announce the launch of our range of award winning, state-of-the-art karting simulators.

Our simulators have a real racing car feel but are designed to fit comfortably in race centres and living rooms alike. Asian Replicas Europe have a long history of delivering high-end products including F1 show cars and simulators for some of the biggest names in the game including Tag Heuer, Pirelli Japan, Vodafone, McLaren, Mercedes and Ferrari Spain, to name but a few. With this unique ability to deliver the best F1 show cars the world over, it was inevitable that the simulators were going to get the this same special treatment. The J3SIMS range was born to suit all karting and Formula 1 enthusiasts.

We use the renowned Logitech G27 force feedback steering wheel and pedals, and the J3SIMS are compatible with the PC, Xbox, Playstation and Nintendo Wii systems.

From the pictures on our website you can see the work we put in to delivering high-quality finishes - from carbon fibre to the handmade carpet that comes with the J3SIM Seat Simulator.

For more information on this exciting new product range visit our website at www.j3sims.com.

[ Top ]

Connor Sets The Benchmark   (12/03)

Connor Hall and Strawberry Racing set the benchmark at Cumbria Kart Club's March meeting.

Conner demonstrated his class and pace by confidently placing his Strawberry Racing Tonykart on pole position for the main final, ahead of a strong field of drivers.

In ever changing conditions he was constantly fast during testing and on Sunday's race day proved it, by setting the pace over half a second a lap quicker than his nearest rivals.

Unfortunately, at the start of the main final he was caught by another driver and ended up on the grass and almost half a lap behind the break away leaders. After rejoining the track he demolished the field and hunted down the front runners. With only a short final, to catch the leaders was almost impossible, but after taking nearly a second per lap out of their lead at the flag he was only half a second behind the eventual winner. Probably one of the best drives so far this season and without doubt setting the pace for others to follow.

Connor now has a week off before heading to Genk in Belgium for Round 1 of the Euromax series, and then returning to the UK for the first round of the Super One Series at Wigan.

Connor would like to thank Strawberry Racing for providing a highly competitive Tonykart EVK and Cream Racing engine.

You can keep up to date with Connor's progress at www.connorhall.co.uk and www.strawberryracing.co.uk.

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Are You Ready For Rissy?   (12/03)

A bumper weekend of practice and racing on 5th 6th and 7th April.  Rissington's first double header of the year will have a full day of practice on Friday and then two rounds - one Saturday and one Sunday. This ties in nicely with school and Easter holidays. 
 
With the changes the committee have been working on over the winter this is an exiting time at the club, e.g. the 2013 race calendar, and our new online race entry system which has been an instant hit with drivers.
 
You can get your entries in for rounds 2 and 3 direct from the Rissington web site www.rissykartclub.com  and then click on the Enter Race Online.

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Back To The Future   (12/03)

Tal-Ko is stepping back into the past to help meet the needs of the thriving numbers of drivers who want to take part in the rapidly growing retro historic racing scene.
 
Over the past few years interest has grown spectacularly and what were at first exhibition displays from a few enthusiasts with rebuilt machines, has now flourished into the establishment of a new Retro racing series offering full blown races outside the control of the MSA as well as historic racing within the MSA.
 
With that growth has come the need for engine spares, and inevitably many phone calls to Alan Turney, boss of Tal-Ko Racing, and arguably the UK's leading expert on kart racing engines.
 
Over its 50 plus years in operation Tal-Ko has been deeply involved in kart race engines from initially making components to later becoming a full blown manufacturer - the UK's only one in the kart industry.
 
The good news for all those enthusiasts looking at blowing the dust off their much loved historic equipment is that not only does Tal-Ko still have original spare parts on its shelves, but it also has the specialist knowledge, tooling and expertise necessary to make more.
 
So as Alan Turney unlocks his historic vaults he takes time to explain the fascinating story of how kart engines developed in the UK and how restrictions on Italian engine availability finally nudged them into creating the TKM brand.
 
Says Alan: "We do quite literally have spares still on the shelves for the Arrow  other TKM engines we have made over the years. On top of that we have spares for many other brands such as Komet, Parilla and Dap. And what we don't have we can make because we also still have all of the tooling.
 
"I have a personal interest in all this older equipment because it is where I grew up and where the company has its prime experience. To me helping the classic and historic racers is a joy.
 
"We still have some complete engines and we will make more if there is a demand which it seems there will be. In particular the two engines which are exciting the Retro racers are the Arrow which falls into the historic class and the more recent TKM L90 which is in the classic class. I can't wait to see them racing again."
 
Extensive lists of spares for older engines are now available on the www.tal-ko.com website as well as a fascinating background story recounting how Tal-Ko got its name and how the company took on the might of Italy with great success.

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Strong Showing At PFI   (11/03)

ST Racing put on a strong show at PF International's recent March meeting.
 
In Junior Max, Chad Little showed good pace all weekend. With some consistant heats he lined up 9th on the grid for the A Final, and after a poor start he managed to get back up to 6th place - a good result in a very strong field.  Our other Junior Max driver Stuart Middleton also showed good pace but was unlucky to finish 5th place in the B Final.
 
Minimax driver Jae Dale had a very good weekend and is learning a lot all the time, with this being his first full season racing. He showed good determination and made it through to the A Final - a very good effort.
 
In Senior Max we had a strong showing with 5 drivers racing. Kearn Tsang is making good progress with his first season in seniors and was unlucky to have a crash in the final. Hamish Baxter another new senior driver and ended up 21st in the final after some good heats. Spencer Scaife made his debut with the team and placed 20th in the final. Spencer also but in some good performances and showed strong pace throughout the weekend. Matthew Dickinson was unlucky to finish 19th in the final following a first corner incident after qualifying 10th on the grid and is improving every time out. John Stewart had a good day Sunday - despite a DNF in the first heat he broke the lap record in the second heat with a time of 56.56 and in the A Final starting 23rd on the grid managed to get up to 2nd place with another fastest lap - a very good performance.
 
ST Racing are now agents for Gillard Karts. If you are interested in trying the kart or have any enquiries please contact John on 07711 314454 or 07500 958789.  You can email us at stracing@hotmail.co.uk.

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Come & Race At Warden Law   (11/03)

The third round of the Tyne & Wear Kart Club championship, held at Karting North East, Warden Law, Sunderland, is on Sunday 7th April.

We aim to provide a safe and fun event for all, with grids for Cadets, Rotax, TKM  and Prokarts. Our facilities include an onsite kart shop and cafe, plus overnight parking is available, so whether you are new to Warden Law or haven't raced here for a while, come and join the excitement and see what our challenging 1.2 kilometre circuit has to offer.

No race license is required, plus day membership is available, so just turn up with your equipment and race, or take advantage of a discount for advance bookings.

For further details visit the club website www.twkartclub.com, email kartclub@kartingnortheast.com, or ring the circuit on 0191 521 4050.

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Race This Weekend At Llandow   (11/03)

This weekend is the second round of the Llandow Kart Club championships in name only, as the first was rained off!  So why not come and have a full weekends racing and practice at one of the best circuits in the UK, with one of the friendlist Clubs around!

Plenty of practice on Saturday plus 3 heats and a final on Sunday for all classesm for only £95 for both days.  We have full facilities and overnight security and we have even booked sunshine... well, you never know!

If you need any further information please contact Colin on 07817 449617 (evenings). We will be happy to take your entry up to Thursday morning and will run any ABkC approved class subject to numbers.

Come and join us - you won't regret it.

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Lydd Winter Championship   (11/03)

James Clarke from Lydd would like to personally thank all the Staff, Drivers, Teams and Parents for a brilliant days karting at Lydd yesterday - great racing and co-operation. You are all a fine example of what karting should be about - well done and thank you again.

We would also like to congratulate the winners of the Championships and commiserate with those who maybe didn't get the results they would have hoped for. The championship trophies will be presented at next month's race meeting.

The Champions are...
Bambino 2stroke - Bradley Hardy
Bambino 4stroke - Harry Harman
Cadet Clubman - Alfie Glenie
Honda Cadets - Sam Powell
Comer Cadet - William Martin
IAME Cadet - Samuel Shaw
Super Cadet - Michael Kemsley
Minimax - Michael Smith
Junior Rotax - Michael Eastwell
Senior Rotax 162 - Daniel Brett
ProKart - Marcus Shephard

The next meeting also sees the start of the Summer Championship, with Round 1 being held on 14th April 2013.

For more information visit our website at www.lyddkartcircuit.com.

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TKM Club Championship   (11/03)

With the regulations for the TKM Club Championship now confirmed with a double header finale rounding off four events in the Midlands, the closing date for registrations in the 2013 series is fast approaching.
 
March 15 is the closing date for guaranteed registrations, though late registrations may be taken if there is space, but at a higher rate. Says TKM boss Alan Turney: "We are hoping for an even bigger entry last year when we had 70 registered drivers across the Junior and Senior classes."
 
The innovative TKM series starts at Kimbolton in May with events to follow at Shenington (part of their Superpix meeting), at Rissington (as part of their Midlands Champs weekend), and at Whilton Mill where there is a double header format to ensure a really open opportunity to the front runners for an exciting final showdown.
 
As last year, the events will be run in conjunction with locally based TKM grids at each event, running extra heats to cope with numbers if required.
 
Registration costs just £55 and completed registration forms should be sent to Tal-Ko. Full details and regulations are listed on the www.tal-ko.com website.
 
The prize fund will include quality trophies and TKM vouchers. Race dates are:
 
May 12 - Kimbolton
June 15/16 - Shenington Superprix
Aug 31/Sept 1 - Rissington Midlands Championships
September 22 - Whilton Mill

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New Economy Karting Class   (08/03)

There was a great deal of interest at the weekend as Protrain and Rissington Kart Club hosted the introduction of the new Junior Tyro class to the UK. This new cost efficient class is aimed at drivers ages 11 to 15 who following a short assessment can participate without the need for taking an ARKS test.
 
With six entrants in the maiden race the Tyro team had assembled a group of very mixed ability drivers ranging from keen indoor racer Josh Porter, who was a total novice to circuit racing and Ross Campbell who came via "Lets Go Karting", through to experienced Cadet and Mini Max competitors.
 
Knowing they were a part of something very special added to the electric atmosphere surrounding these karts with drivers who are normally unable to race together in MSA events lining up eager to put the newly built karts through their paces. All equipment used in Tyro is identical, all that can be done is to alter wheel positions and tyres pressures so every driver knew it was their talent on display just as much as the kart. Despite the obvious competition all the drivers thoroughly enjoyed being together and helping each other perfect their driving skills with the more experienced drivers offering great support to the novices.
 
Race day was dry and crisp with great racing promised, it did not disappoint. The heats saw the boys dominating the racing with Keiran Wragg and Thomas Row fighting for the win with Hannah Chappell and Georgie Chapman battling for third place. This set up a great final with the lead swapping and any of the front four looking likely to take victory; in the end it was Wragg who took the chequered flag just 0.2s ahead of Row who headed Chapman for third. Not to be outdone Hannah Chappell set the new Tyro Lap record on lap two.
 
The two novices, Ross and Porter, had never previously witnessed an MSA race meeting and happily immersed themselves in the atmosphere. On track with the team behind them offering coaching they continually improved their lap times as they came to grips with the complexities of racing lines and braking points. They are the essence of Tyro karting; bringing new people into the sport and helping them to enjoy the fun!
 
The day ended with all drivers reflecting on a great days racing leaving with massive smiles on their faces and team engineers commenting that it was the best fun they had enjoyed at a race track in many years.
The Tyro karts will be racing every month and will be back at Little Rissington for three days at the first weekend in April. Although it is available to buy karts are currently being leased at an amazing £120 for the whole day with full race team facilities provided bringing true economy karting to a full MSA event.  
 
All the Tyro drivers had a fantastic weekend and were very competitive; If you want to enjoy the atmosphere of a race weekend, experience a fast kart in open wheel racing  and want to leave the track smiling give Steve a call on 07711 606967, email protrain@emcourses.com  or see a bit more about the Tyro at http://www.emcourses.com/junior_tyro.htm.

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New Karts For Buckmore   (08/03)

Buckmore Park Karting has just taken delivery of no less than 65 brand new karts for the 2013 season. Fifty of these are Sodikart manufactured RT8's with 390cc Honda evolution engines. These have been built to Buckmore's exacting specification and are already in use for all adult hire kart events to great acclaim. The Junior Club fleet has also been replaced with new Sodi 160cc karts and these were first raced a few days ago by the Junior Club drivers who were very enthusiastic about the close racing that resulted.

Buckmore M.D. Bill Sisley said "This £300,000 investment shows Buckmore's commitment to quality and the future. It comes in the same year in which we celebrate our 50th anniversary and this is just one facet of many exciting improvements we have planned for the circuit in the near future."

For more information on Buckmore Park visit www.buckmore.co.uk.

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Russell Off To Winning Start   (08/03)

The opening round of the WSK Euro Series was always going to be a tense affair, but Birel KF star George Russell kept a cool head to claim a victory and valuable points at La Conca (3 March), to get his campaign off to a solid start.
 
The entry of 61 drivers had to be split into two separate groups for the heats, giving the double KFJ champion an early boost. He had made it through to the Super Pole shootout after the first phase of timed qualifying and his 6th in that session gave him 3rd place on the grid for each of his four preliminary races.
 
"Two people crashed in front of me during, what I felt, was going to be my best lap," George explained. "That cost me time but, ironically, it worked out better for me overall, as 3rd is the ideal position to make the best starts at La Conca."
 
Russell was then good to his word and recorded two wins and a 2nd in his first three heats. Unfortunately, the Englishman was knocked off the circuit in his last heat and though he recovered to 9th at the chequered flag, he was denied what had looked to be a guaranteed pole position for the pre-final, thanks to him being the only driver with two heat wins under his belt.
 
"All the front-runners had one bad heat. I was pipped to topping the intermediate classification by a single point due to being hit off the circuit. It was doubly frustrating as the driver who ran into me was given a ten-second penalty for the contact, which demoted him to 8th and promoted me from 12th to 9th. Had I finished in his place, it would have been me sitting on P1."
 
As they waited to be called out onto the grid, ahead of the pre-final George and his team put together their race strategy: "Unlike most races, where your finishing position in the pre-final simply decides where you start the main final from, the WSK series awards points for both finals. So my brief was to try and win at least one of the two finals, to chalk up good points early on in the championship."
 
A bold tyre gamble also paid off, as George explains: "Every driver was given six tyres for the two finals. I opted to put fresh rubber all round on my kart for the first race, while everyone else went for just two tyres, preferring to keep four back for the second." It proved to be an inspired choice. Russell quickly took the lead and nailed home his advantage during the early stages. In the latter stages his advantage was narrowed down by the chasing pack, but post-race penalties and George's faultless driving saw him take first blood in the title race.
 
With just two fresh tyres on his Birel RY30-S5, rather than the four most of his competitors now had, he needed to make a clean getaway at the start. This he managed to do and he managed to hold the screaming pack behind him through the opening lap. "The new tyres proved to be a massive benefit to the other drivers and I lost five places. I knew the performance differential would be there, so it didn't rattle me when a kart went past, I just kept plugging away."
 
Having stemmed the tide, and as the race wore on, George was able to match the pace of the front-runners: "I was competitive, but it was too late for me to catch the lead five." 
 
Crossing the line in 6th place, Russell sensed he had taken sufficient points to give him a solid platform on which to build his title assault: "We definitely made the right tyre choice and consequently I'm 2nd overall. I'm very happy and La Conca marked a big improvement on my first two races with the team. The chassis is excellent and there is more to come from the TM engine. The team are always looking for performance gains, which is good experience for me and it's nice to work hard for each improvement. Hopefully, our hard work will pay off and there will be more good results to come." 
 
You can keep up to speed with George and his career by visiting www.georgerussellracing.com and following him on Twitter - @GeorgeRussell63.

Photographs courtesy of Chris Walker/Kartpix.net.

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British Universities Karting   (07/03)

The 2013 British Universities Karting Championship got off to an exciting start this season as student teams from across the UK race once again on the fastest arrive-and-drive karts in the world, battling it out to become UK champion and earn an exclusive Red Bull F1 VIP experience at the British GP this summer.
 
The BUKC was supposed to kick off at Warden Law in early Feb but instead had to be rescheduled to Rye House due to heavy snow in the North East. It was still freezing at Rye but it wasn't long before it heated up! Long time front-runners Oxford Brookes A won the morning round whilst Southampton A won in the afternoon. Last year's champions Loughborough, who have lost most of their winning team from 2012, had a nightmare start to their campaign finishing in 36th and 21st places - their worst ever result in 12 years
 
The championship then moved on to Llandow in South Wales on the weekend of 2nd & 3rd March. The first round of the sold-out Rookie Championship kicked off on the Saturday featuring 35 student teams who didn't qualify for the main championship. After 5 x 25 minute races some excellent driving and some welcome sun finally shining, Plymouth C came out on top closely followed Huddersfield B (2nd) and UCL B (3rd).
 
The 3rd and 4th rounds of the BUKC's main championship then took place on the Sunday this time in a biting wind and chill factor of minus 3! Southampton A once again took the top spot followed by Hertfordshire A in 2nd and Huddersfield A in 3rd.
 
Hertfordshire A maintained their momentum winning the afternoon round, followed hot on their heels by their team mates in the Herts B team (2nd) and Huddersfield A (3rd).  This has led to Hertfordshire B overtaking their A team and now topping the BUKC 2013 leaderboard after 4 rounds - and a sea of red on the final podium of the day.
 
"The driving standards in the BUKC this year are the best I have ever seen," comments BUKC founder, Will Tew, "We have so many ex Stars and Super 1 drivers competing with only a couple of seconds splitting the top teams and drivers after half an hour of racing - it's awesome to watch."
 
The BUKC 2013 results so far...
 
Round 1 winners - Rye House, Herts /13 Feb: 1st - Oxford Brookes A, 2nd - Oxford Brookes B, 3rd - Southampton A
Round 2 winners - Rye House, Herts / 13 Feb: 1st - Southampton A, 2nd - Durham A, 3rd - Oxford Brookes B
Round 3 winners - Llandow, South Wales / 3 March: 1st - Southampton A, 2nd - Hertfordshire A, 3rd - Huddersfield A
Round 4 winners - Llandow, South Wales / 3 March: 1st - Hertfordshire A, 2nd - Hertfordshire B, 3rd - Huddersfield A

Rookie Championship Round 1, Llandow, South Wales / 2 March: 1st - Plymouth C, 2nd - Huddersfield B, 3rd - UCL B
 
2013 remaining Championship dates are as follows...
 
13 Mar: Buckmore Park (Rounds 5+6)
22 Mar: Clay Pigeon, Dorset (Rookies Championship Round 2)
23 Mar: Clay Pigeon, Dorset (Rounds 7+8)
24 June: Whilton Mill (Round 9 + Drivers Champ)
25 June: Whilton Mill (Rookies Championship Finals)
 
For more information on BUKC visit our website at www.bukc.co.uk, find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/britishuniversitieskartingchampionship, view some of the action on YouTube - www.youtube.com/user/3tracing, and don't forget to follow us on Twitter for the latest updates @karting_bukc.

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BPKC Winter Series   (07/03)

The final round  at Buckmore Park Kart Club Winter Championship is scheduled for Sunday 17 March 2013.  Practice is available on Friday 15 March and Saturday 16 March.  All ABkC non gearbox classes are welcome including Bambino and Subaru.

Please contact Chris Pullman/Sheila Rose on 01634 661604 for more details. Online booking is available.

Round 1 of the eight round Summer Series kicks off on Sunday 21 April 2013 with practice available on Friday 19 and Saturday 20 April. The 6 round Kent Challenge kicks off at Bayford Meadow on Sunday 28 April with Round 2 at Buckmore Park on Sunday 19 May.

Full details are available at www.buckmoreparkkartclub.co.uk.

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Lucas Oil's Carter Shines   (06/03)

Lucas Oil sponsored Kart Racer Albert Carter has won the TVKC Comer Winter Series and finished a very respectable 11th (out of 75) in the IAME Winter Series
 
Albert had recently spent time testing in the heat of Florida and then came back to England to contest the last round of the tough Winter Series at the fantastic PFI circuit. His next race will be the long drive up to Rowrah on the 9th / 10th March.
 
We can now confirm our marketing partners for 2013 and would like to take this opportunity to give them all a mention, Primary Sponsor is again Lucas Oil who have given us fantastic support over the last 10 years
 
Associate partners are; Yuasa - Hol tAj - VEIDEC - NGK Spark Plugs - Teng Tools - Cottingham Engineering - 3tc graphic and web design - Rainbow Conference Sets - Pioneer Central - CAAR - Ogden Motorsport - Kaz Aston.com  - Ultimate Air Brush - CBM
 
We would also like to say thanks to David Bellchambers of Next Generation Motorsport, Chris Barnes of CBM and everyone else who gives Albert support and advice.
 
You can keep up to speed with Albert's progress at his 3tc designed website www.albertcarter.com or his Facebook page www.facebook.com/CarterMotorsport#!/albertcarter2003.

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Great Prizes On Offer   (06/03)

IAME Cadet entrants for the MSA British Cadet Championship are reminded of the superb prize list on offer with support from Edgar's Hyundai, MIS Motorsport, SC Sportshomes, IAME and many other partners. The British MSA Cadet Champion will be invited to the IAME International Final (X30) when old enough, with all expenses paid, whilst second place will receive a new IAME engine, and third a £500 IAME voucher. That's on top of the usual tyre prize fund from Dunlop and Super One, and the champion being awarded an iconic TAG Heuer Formula 1 timepiece. The best Rookie over the year, if staying in the class, will receive a free entry for 2014 along with free tyres and fuel, and a VIP tour of the Mercedes Grand Prix factory at Brackley. And in addition to all that, the top three drivers will be offered an all-expenses paid visit to the home of IAME in Zingonia, Italy.
 
Registrations in the MSA Series are being held open until 31st March.  And there are only a few places left to form a full grid in the MSA Comer Cadet Championship, first come, first served for those remaining places.
 
For further information contact Super One Series promoter John Hoyle on johnhoylejkh1@btinternet.com or by telephone on 01928 740090 / 07774 646784.

The 6-round MSA British Kart Championships Series for KF, KFJ & IAME Cadet, plus Formula KGP and the ABkC National TKM Championships commences on 18/19 May at Rowrah, Cumbria. KZ2 will be a support race for three of the rounds, the last one being for the ABkC Open Championship plate. All rounds have an optional Friday practice day.

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TVKC And Tag Heuer   (06/03)

Following the switch-over to the TAG Heuer timing system last month, the team at Trent Valley Kart Club and TAG Heuer have been working closely together to develop new systems to maximise the huge capabilities that the TAG Heuer system provides.

The latest development is the brand new "Online Results Service" available on TVKC's website www.tvkc.co.uk. This feature provides a booklet of information that includes: full entry lists, race results showing individual sector times, lap by lap sector analysis, starting grids, intermediate classification & Championship points. The new service now means you'll be able to access the data immediately as the results will be updated as the races finish over the course of the race weekend - meaning you can get instantaneous data from your laptop, iPods, tablets, smart phones or anything else that has a connection to the Internet!

Work is already taking place to upgrade the Intranet and wireless connectivity at PF International kart circuit so this information, as well as live timing and data downloads, can also be viewed from the paddock, so watch this space for further information!

The partnership of TVKC and TAG Heuer are also pleased to announce the arrival of their "Virtual Championship". This can be viewed through the Live Timing feature on the website (www.tagheuer-timing.co.uk) and means you'll be able to view the Championship standings in 'Real Time'! So as one driver overtakes the next, the current Championship standings will be displayed on screen and will be colour coded to illustrate whether or not they have gained or lost a place in the Championship table - an ideal tool to have when drivers are jostling for position and them all important Championship points throughout the season! The Championship points tables will also be added to the Results Booklets but this will be done post event.

These new features are just a few of the developments planned for the future. Amongst the other innovations planned for launch during 2013, is the full integration with the UK Karting ERS+ results service - meaning access to your race results has never been easier! This facility is nearing completion and should be available very soon.

With the increased access to all of the valuable data that the system now provides, you may wish to consider this latest opportunity to help advertise your product. Advertising space within the Results Booklets is now available at very competitive rates. For further information, please contact Clare Mills at clare@tvkc.co.uk.

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Rotax 177 Inter Clubs   (06/03)

What an enjoyable weekend for all the Rotax 177 drivers who attended the first round of the Inter Clubs Series. There were 38 entrants in total necessitating 4 heats and both A and B Finals. As far as I am aware this is the biggest grid seen for Rotax 177 for years!
 
Firstly a huge thank you to everyone at Forest Edge who hosted a great event - provided 7 practice sessions on the Saturday per class and great prizes for the race winners. All inter club drivers were lucky enough to get a t-shirt, umbrella and hat all courtesy of FEKC who went beyond expectations to make the event such a huge success!

The huge number of entrants meant that there was a lot of close racing going on all the way down the grid which was a refreshing change from the normal grids of 5-10 at most clubs. Congratulations go to Dan Bushell who won the 177 Inter Clubs Final and Paul Cook who won the 177 Masters Inter Clubs Final. The feedback from every driver I spoke to was very positive. The overall message being "this is a great idea, its what we have been wanting for sometime." I can confidently say everyone had a great weekend!
 
Some great over taking in the heats saw Chris Wright qualify on pole and 2nd place in the final means he leads the championship after round 1 ahead of Final winner Dan Bushell. Brandon Grinter had a great drive in the final showing some of his pace to get the final podium spot. Matt Barnes finished 4th ahead of local boy Oliver Smith who was very fast all weekend but a lower grid position caused him to finish the final in 5th place just ahead of team mate Dominic Russell in 6th.
 
In Masters it was Adrian Williams who qualified on pole but it was Paul Cook who took the win ahead of Paul Bell with Adrian Williams finishing in 3rd.
 
We now move on to round 2 of the series at Rye House on 4/5 May. It is not too late to get involved if you haven't already - please email mattbarnes34@hotmail.co.uk for information.

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Thomas Takes Title   (05/03)

MBR's Harrison Thomas will start the 2013 Super 1 Series campaign on a high after clinching the TVKC Winter Series with a podium at the final round.
 
The Welsh youngster started the weekend four points off the lead, but knew that, with the scoring system not offering much between places, he would have to produce his best form.
 
Having set the pace for much of practice, Thomas suffered a setback when another kart went over his in the final session, causing injury to both his MBR machine and his hand, forcing him to battle discomfort for two strong heat results and a place on row five for the final.
 
With changes made to his kart, Thomas was able to recover from a delayed 14th on lap one to be in a position to challenge for the lead at the last corner. Although his move ultimately saw him pushed back to third, with his main rivals mired in the pack, it was still enough to confirm him as champion.
 
"It feels great to win," Thomas enthused, "It wasn't the easiest of weekends, but we did what we had to. Thanks to Mick Barrett Racing, Ogden Race Engines, Alex Tee, my family and all my sponsors - and congratulations to Tom Gamble on the win!"

Photograph courtesy of Chris Walker/Kartpix.net.

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Success At Rissington   (05/03)

GW Motorsport would like to congratulate our drivers, Jack Bartholomew and Dean Hale on their recent success at Rissington.
 
Jack Bartholomew was on superb form taking 3 successive heat wins and victory in the final on his Wright Suzuka 3 kart in Junior Max. Dean Hale took an outstanding win on a Zanardi in Seniors - this after not having raced or practiced at the circuit in over 4 years!  Thanks also go to Rissington for a well run meeting.
 
For testing on a Wright Kart or a Zanardi please contact Gary on 07950 032519, or email at gwmotorsport2@gmail.com.

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RL Racing Dept Upbeat   (05/03)

Steve Armstrong, owner of RL Racing Department, declared himself to be "extremely positive" after his young squad enjoyed another strong weekend.
 
With the opening round of the Euro Max Challenge barely three weeks away - and the British Super One title battle getting underway a week later - RL Racing Department gave its drivers more vital seat time at PFi (3 March) and again, the signs were good.
 
In Mini Max, the team fielded the highly-rated Jack McCarthy, Sandy Mitchell and Hugo Bentley-Ellis with new signing Jack Martin completing the line-up.
 
After watching McCarthy lead Mitchell and Bentley-Ellis home to complete a 1,2,3 in the first heat, Armstrong admitted that he was a little embarrassed at the spectacle: "It looked like we were cheating," he added jokingly.
 
Things became tougher for the team when McCarthy was hit from behind, bending his axle and forcing him out of the race. Mitchell's 2nd place in his second heat gave him pole position for the final, whilst Bentley-Ellis secured the 7th spot. McCarthy 16th and Martin qualified straight into the A final by virtue of two solid drives in his heats.
 
Hugo rapidly worked his way to the front of the field and led for much of the race but, as the chequered flag was readied to be waved, he succumbed to the pressure from behind. By this time, Jack had charged up from the midfield into 4th with Sandy just behind.
 
At the second hairpin, Mitchell was shoved heavily from behind and tipped straight into his team-mate. Both survived, with McCarthy so fired-up that he was able to take 2nd before challenging for the win on the run to the finish line."It's another weekend where one of my lads has been smashed from behind, costing us a possible win. Still, the drivers all learned valuable lessons and our kit looks really good. Jack Martin did really well, as this was his first proper go at a big meeting, so there's lots to be happy about."
 
Senior Max returnee, Oli Norris, also gave Armstrong even more reasons to be cheerful. "Oli hadn't driven a Rotax kart for something like four months and hadn't even seen PFi for over half a year, but it was like he'd never been away," said Armstrong. Norris opened his account with a fine 3rd place in his first heat and repeated the result in the A final. "He did a great job against a pedigree field. The guys he was mixing with will all be championship contenders, so to turn up after such a long lay-off and take a podium was just terrific."
 
He added, "It was a great way to mark our switch to Cream-prepared engines for our senior Max drivers and my thanks go to Warwick Ringham and his colleagues for giving us excellent motors. Overall, I'm looking forward to the season getting underway, it's all looking extremely positive."

For more information about racing with RL Racing Department, call Steve today on 07843 586 416 or contact him via accounts.rlracingdept@live.co.uk. For all the latest team news, go to www.rlracingdepartmentltd.com.

Photographs courtesy of Chris Walker/Kartpix.net.

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Rotax Max 177 Competitors   (04/03)

Rotax Max 177 competitors are urged to complete their 2013 registrations at http://superoneseries.com without delay as the official period for registering comes to an end.

Max 177 entrants can enjoy a superb prize list including a Rotax engine courtesy of JAG Engineering for both the overall champion and the best Rookie champion.  The best Rookie is also invited to a VIP tour of the Mercedes Grand Prix factory in Brackley whilst the overall champion will be awarded with an iconic TAG Heuer Formula 1 timepiece.  Subject to any age limitations, the series also awards the overall champion a place in the 2013 MAX Challenge Grand Finals which will take place on the United States Mainland for the first time from November 13th to 16th, 2013 at the NOLA Motorsports Park, New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S.A.
 
"New Orleans will host the biggest kart event ever in the history of the Grand Finals. For the past 14 years, the number of participants has grown and so have the Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals. Close to 300 drivers from around the world will take part in this year's final," said François Tremblay, marketing director, Rotax Kart Engines, BRP.  Super One Series will award a place to the best Junior, the best Senior and Max 177, subject to any age limitations.
 
Max 177 registrations are being held open for a short period of extension to provide further opportunities to drivers in that category.
 
For further information contact Super One Series promoter John Hoyle on johnhoylejkh1@btinternet.com or by telephone on 01928 740090 / 07774 646784.

The 6-round Rotax ABkC National Championship Series incorporating the ABkC National Championships for Honda Cadet, and the MSA National Championship for Comer Cadet commences on 7/8 April at Three Sisters near Wigan.  All rounds have an optional Friday practice day.

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12hr Karting Challenge   (04/03)

Deepings Round Table is pleased to confirm that the 17th Annual Deepings Round Table 12hr karting challenge will take place on Friday 12th July and Saturday 13th July 2013.  Attached you will find this year's brochure which includes booking forms.  Based on the outstanding successful of last year's race, we will again be using Daytona's high performance DMax karts which provide a faster and more challenging race for all.
 
As in previous years, Lotus GP, Williams F1 and Mercedes GP have all confirmed their entrance and look forward to challenging all!
 
There is no other 12Hr Karting Challenge in the UK and there is no other open event that has so many Formula 1 teams taking part. The thirty-five team grid will consist of drivers that range from those who have never driven a kart before, to highly experienced, professional drivers (past entrants have included Mark Webber, Johnny Herbert, Justin Wilson (ex-Jaguar F1 Driver), Gary Paffett (German DTM Champion & Honda F1 Test Driver) and Anthony Davidson.  This event really is unique.  It offers an excellent chance to entertain customers in a relaxed environment, a superb team building opportunity or just a great way for friends to get together for a great day out.
 
One of the main aims of the event is to raise substantial amounts of money for charities both nationally and locally (we have raised in excess of £180,000 from the last 16 events).  In fact, the overall prize fund is split between the top corporate teams, the top F1 team and Deepings Round Table, so every team has a chance of securing a significant sum for donation to a charity of choice.

The event is held over a  Friday evening and Saturday.  Friday evening sees all drivers register, followed by a full safety briefing (all protective clothing and helmets can be supplied by Daytona) and Qualifying.  Following the qualifying session, there is an event meal and charity auction of Formula 1 and motor sport memorabilia.  The Formula 1 teams are all so supportive of the event that rare items never normally seen in the usual F1 Shops can be bought (reduced rate hotel accommodation can be booked through Deepings Round Table at the Milton Keynes Holiday Inn).
 
On Saturday morning there is practice time before the race proper starts at 9am.  The challenging track layout and enhanced karts will ensure that the racing is close and that everyone gets the chance to really test their skills.  The race finishes at 9pm followed by prize presentations (remember, the winning karts get a share of the overall charity pot for donation to a charity of their choice). 
 
The entrance price is £1,565 per team and a deposit of just £313 will guarantee your place in this unique event.  Due to the unprecedented success of 2012, I would urge you to submit applications ASAP, as we expect the event to be a sell out and places to go fast.

If you would like to register your intention to attend the event or  if you have any further questions then please return the booking form (contained within the attached brochure) or visit our website http://www.deepingroundtable.co.uk/Kartathon.html.

If you are unable to attend this event but would still like to support our charity fundraising, then donation of branded merchandise or motor sport items for the auction would be greatly appreciated.

The Deepings 1090 Round Table looks forward to seeing you in July.

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F4 & F3 Cup Championships   (01/03)

Chris Dittmann Racing are pleased to offer drives available in the 2013 BRDC Formula 4 and F3 Cup Championships.
 
With over 25 years of experience preparing single-seaters and GT cars, the team won the 2012 F3 Cup Drivers' Championship with owner-driver Chris Dittmann and narrowly missed out on securing the Teams Championship. They are also heavily involved in kart racing and in 2012 won the British KZ2 Gearbox Championship.
 
For 2013 the team are able to offer a drive in their newly built F4 car or Mercedes-powered Dallara F307 in the BRDC F4 and F3 Cup Championships respectively.
 
Both cars are maintained and prepared to the absolute highest of standards and each driver will be coached by 2012 F3 Cup Champion Chris Dittmann. The team is able to cater for any driver whether a young novice or a more experienced driver. Either way CDR have proved they can deliver race winning cars at a realistic budget whilst providing a professional image to attract or entertain guests. The team also specialise in helping karters make a smooth and successful transition into car racing.
 
For more information or to arrange a test please contact the team today on tel 07811 180157, email chris@chrisdittmannracing.co.uk, or you can visit our website at www.chrisdittmannracing.co.uk.

For more information on the championships visit www.formula4.com and www.f3cup.co.uk.

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NJL Racing   (01/03)

NJL Racing has over 18 years of experience in Motorsport and with over three years experience racing in the BTCC we have the full infrastructure in place ready to compete at the highest level.

With our vast experience in the racing industry from Karting to the British Touring Car Championship, NJL Racing Kart Team are an ART GP satellite team using the latest ART GP karts for 2013 competing in Rotax/Formula KGP in the British Super One Series and TKM also attending various club meetings across the UK and are able to provide exceptional service and packages in their brand new purpose built awning for the entry level Karter right up to the more experience Kart racer competing in Club level and the British Super One Series.

NJL Racing Team Services offer:
Full Team support
Kart Storage and transportation facility
Full Preparation of Kart
Driver coaching/analysis
Driver PR & Sponsorship services
Awning Space (to include use of the team's exclusive awning and team equipment, and full use of the NJL Racing exclusive Hospitality area).

Drivers wishing to compete in either the British Super One Series or club events across the UK should email Nick on nick@njlracing.com.

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TAG Heuer Timepieces...   (01/03)

This year, TAG Heuer becomes the Official Timing Partner of the Super One British Kart Championships. The prestigious TAG Heuer brand was founded in Saint-Imier in 1860 by Edouard Heuer, TAG Heuer has marked the history of luxury watchmaking, especially in the fields of chronographs and ultimate precision. A legend in prestige Swiss watchmaking and one of its most innovative brands, TAG Heuer has built on its active commitment in the sports world to create the most accurate timing instruments and wrist timepieces in the world.
 
TAG Heuer is the world leader in high precision luxury chronographs with an unequalled mechanical accuracy of 1/10th, 1/100th, 1/1000th and even 5/10,000th of a second. In 2012, thanks to the lessons learned through these achievements, TAG Heuer won the world's most coveted watchmaking award, the Geneva Watchmaking Grand Prix "Aiguille d'Or". From the Olympic Games in 1920 to its role as official watch and chronograph for the legendary Indy 500 race today (for which it has developed instruments with a precision of 1/10,000th of a second) TAG Heuer is unrelenting in its quest for innovation, excellence, performance and prestige. This ambition is reflected in its partnerships with F1 Vodafone McLaren Mercedes team and its World Champion Jenson Button, with Audi Sport in the Le Mans 24 Hours and endurance races, and with the Automobile Club of Monaco for the prestigious Monaco
Grand Prix.
 
This year, with the karting scene in the UK way behind the times with timing technology, TAG Heuer identified the unique and challenging opportunity to support the Karting World.
 
The past 4 years have enabled TAG Heuer to bring to karting events in the UK (including Super One, Formula Kart Stars, MSA British Kart Grand Prix and the ABkC O Plate), a professional level of timing technology, intermediate sector timing, photo finish, start line approach speed trap, a robust and professional live timing solution and data information booklets, all benefits to drivers and teams never found in karting in the UK yet common place in Formula One and other high profile events. There are also further developments on the horizon.
 
As the official timing partner of the Super One British Kart Championship and in order to pay tribute to the extraordinary performances of the Championship drivers and to celebrate the Motorsport Stars of tomorrow, TAG Heuer proudly announces the 2013 TAG Heuer Trophy.
 
The Championship commences April 6th and the TAG Heuer Trophy will reward the best twelve championship drivers of the 2013 Super One Championship season with iconic TAG Heuer Formula 1 timepieces.
 
This year, the Motorsport Stars of Tomorrow will compete against each other and against the ultimate adversary, time itself and TAG Heuer will remain at their side, and soon on their wrist. Check out http://superoneseries.com for registering or competing as a guest driver.
 
For further information contact Super One Series promoter John Hoyle on johnhoylejkh1@btinternet.com or by telephone on +44 1928 740090 / +44 7774 646784.

The 6-round Rotax ABkC National Championship Series incorporating the ABkC National Championships for Honda Cadet, and the MSA National Championship for Comer Cadet commences on 7/8 April at Three Sisters near Wigan.  The 6-round MSA British Kart Championships Series for KF, KFJ & IAME Cadet, plus Formula KGP and the ABkC National TKM Championships commences on 18/19 May at Rowrah, Cumbria. KZ2 will be a support race for three of the rounds, the last one being for the ABkC Open Championship plate.  All rounds have an optional Friday practice day.

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Lydd Winter Championships   (27/02)

The final round of the Winter Championships at Lydd takes place on Sunday 10th March, with several titles still up for grabs! The closest fought will be the Honda Cadets, where just 4 points separate the top 3 drivers. Good Luck to Sam Powell, Harry Gibson and Harry Whiteley in that class.

Congratulations to the drivers who sealed their Championship wins at the previous round - Bradley Hardy in Bambino, Alfie Glenie in Cadet Clubman, Michael Smith in Minimax and Daniel Brett in Senior Rotax.

Practice is available the day before, as usual, running in sessions. Open practice is also available this Sunday - 3rd March - for anyone who wants to get in some extra track time.

The format for Sunday is Practice, then Timed Qualifying, followed by 2 Heats and a Final.

We welcome all classes, as we will always find a grid for you to join in, with our regular classes being Bambino, Cadet Clubman, Honda Cadet, IAME/WTP/Comer Cadets, Minimax, Juniors, Senior Rotax 162 & 177 and ProKarts.

April sees the start of our Summer Championships, with Sunday 14th April being Round 1. This will be a 6 round series, with each competitor's best 5 results counting towards their final total. The Summer series will run 3 Heats and a Final, as has previously been the case.

You can keep up to date with what is happening at Kent's fastest Kart Circuit by visiting the website at www.lyddkartcircuit.com, or you can phone the circuit on 01797 321747 if you have any questions.

You can also complete your Race Entry in advance by visiting the website and clicking on the Online Entries tab at the top.

If you haven't been to Lydd, or not visited for some while, then why not come along and join the regulars in the paddock and sample our friendly family atmosphere.

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Connor Hall And Strawberry   (26/02)

Connor Hall returned to the UK with the Strawberry Racing team, following their win at the Rotax Winter Cup in Spain, to contest the MBKC Three Sisters Lunar Cup meeting.

From the outset the team worked well and his pace was good. Due to poor conditions brough on by unfortunate weather and the sheer volume of entries at the meeting, the team and Connor decided that 2 sessions on Saturday was enough and took an early bath.

Race day on Sunday stayed dry although it was very cold making conditions more challenging. Connor won Heat 1 from 16th on the grid and finished 5th in Heat 2 from 20th, placing him on pole for the final.

After a computer failure at the track caused a complete mess of the grids it took nearly 2 hours to work out everyones grid positions for the finals, and as the Minimax final was to be last out, it was beginning to get dark.

At gone 5pm the 6 lap final started, with Connor holding the lead for 4 laps before being overtaken briefly but soon finding a way back past to take a well deserved win. and 3 out of 3 so far in 2013!

Big thanks yet again to everyone at Strawberry Racing for providing the Tonykart EVK and Cream Racing engines to assist with these results.

Connor and the team will be at the PFI circuit next weekend. Please check out www.connorhall.co.uk and www.strawberryracing.co.uk for the latest updates.

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South Yorkshire Kart Club   (26/02)

South Yorkshire Kart Club would like to thank Warrick of Strawberry Racing for supporting the club throughout 2012 - it has been very much appreciated.
 
We are also pleased to announce that this support will continue throughout 2013. Every month during the Summer Series every member in Mini, Junior and Senior Rotax entering a race will be put into a free tyre draw, which is drawn at the end of each meeting!
 
The annual presentation has just got better too, as the top three drivers in the Mini, Junior and Senior Rotax Championship will receive vouchers - 1st place £750, 2nd place £500, and 3rd place £250.

It is fantastic to know that this support will continue throughout 2013. Anyone wishing to offer their support for our cadet or TKM classes please get in touch.

Your help is very much appreciated for our little family orientated club.

For more information on SYKC visit www.sykc.co.uk or email dbaines20@hotmail.co.uk.

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SC Sporthomes   (25/02)

Super One Series is very pleased to announce that SC Sporthomes has partnered Britain's premier kart championship in 2013. Competitors and teams can benefit from the partnership by mentioning their association when contacting SC Sporthomes, who are celebrating 10 years of design and innovation from conversions of panel vans up to luxury bespoke motorhomes for sport or leisure.
 
Edgars' Hyundai Super One Series promoter John Hoyle said: "Our association with SC Sporthomes is just the latest in a long line of prestigious companies eager to be associated with the MSA British Kart Championships and ABkC National Kart Championships through Super One, Britain's biggest and best kart championship. There are many mutual benefits to be explored, and benefits for our competitors, I am very pleased."
 
Please take a look at the SC Sporthomes website www.scsporthomes.com or click on the link of the Super One website http://superoneseries.com.
 
For more information contact John Hoyle on johnhoylejkh1@btinternet.com or by telephone on 01928 740090 or 07774 646784.

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Wildkart Success   (25/02)

On it's 2013 debut, the Wildkart FY32 has started off the year with a win from Jonathan Drabble, Senior Rotax driver for RS Racing.

It was a long weekend at Clay Pigeon Kart Club, being freezing cold and wet, but having qualified 2nd on the grid for the final Jonathan took an early lead and didn't look back from there. The kart handled brilliantly in the tough conditions.

After a quick start to the year RS Racing are looking to extend the winning ways with next weekend being the opening round of the season at Forest Edge Kart Club.

RS Racing are the sole UK importers of Wildkart as well as being main Gillard agents, Lotus Karts official UK distributor, and suppliers of Rotax engines and parts, plus much more.

For more information visit our online shop at www.rsracing.org, email sales@rsracing.org, or call us on 01256 760633.

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Isle of Man 24 Hour   (22/02)

The Isle of Man, home to the famous TT a place for every motorsport fan to visit is holding its first ever 24 hour kart race.
 
Manx Kart Club, in conjunction with Teesside Karting, will be running a 24 hour Pro Kart race on the 1100m Jurby circuit on the 15th/16th June.
 
Entry is priced at just £650 per team which includes one set of tyres (Bridgestone) and your race fuel. Friday testing is available from 10am-4pm at just £50 per team
 
Three classes are available:
Pro Kart - 180kg
Heavy - 195kg
Hire Karts
 
Prizes include an entry into the British 24 hour at Teesside and much more.
 
For further information and details on travel concessions please call Mark on 01624 897121.
 
Hire karts will be available at £1500 per team - just turn up and race and we will look after the rest! For more information call Bob Pope on 01642 231117.
 
Places are limited and will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. Payments can be split into 3 monthly instalments following payment of an initial deposit.

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Formula Cadet Wet Tyres   (22/02)

Anderson-CSK and Dunlop wish to apologise for the issues that have transpired on the Formula Cadet wet tyre and are now able to offer details of how competitors can exchange problem tyres for the new batch which is expected to be available during early March. Dunlop are fully committed to resolving the issue as quickly as possible and would advise that the first batch of replacement tyres will leave Japan by airfreight on week commencing 25th February and are expected to clear Customs without delay.
 
Sets of tyres, either new or used, with the Product Code 1031 for the fronts and Product Code 1052 on the rears which were purchased after 1st October 2012 can be exchanged for a replacement set which will be returned at no further cost. Tyres can only be exchanged on production of a purchase invoice for the original tyres, dated 1st October or later. This is required by Dunlop. Other items on the same copy of the invoice/receipt can be blanked out if required. The tyres and invoice copy should be sent to Anderson-CSK, Unit 2/3, Sterling Industrial Park, Carwood Road, Castleford, West Yorks, WF10 4PS including the return address in full.
 
Separate arrangements are being made for the trade who are members of the BKIA.
 
For any further information contact Anderson-CSK on 01977 603838.

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Back-To-Back Victories   (21/02)

Following on from the abandoned January round the Winter Series at Shenington finally got underway in February with very respectable grids across all categories. Following a good day of testing on Saturday foggy conditions on Sunday delayed the start and made the early heats challenging for all drivers.
 
Protrain cadet driver 96 Joe Turney left Shenington last December with a superb victory having dominated racing on his comer engine and returned for the first time on the new Iame Parilla hoping to add to his race wins total, he did not disappoint.
 
Having finished fourth and second in his heats he lined up on row two and despite dropping a couple of places into the first corner he drove with the usual determination we have come to expect to seal back to back Shenington victories.
 
The win was an even more impressive achievement as Turney struggled in January on an engine that has a currently undiagnosed fault so had a brand new engine on his kart demonstrating the potential of the Iame  engines 'out of the box'.
 
As leading Shenington 2012 competitor across the line on an Iame in 2013 Turney was awarded a £200 Iame voucher which has already been put to good use. After the race he thanked his team, Ogden Motorsport and in particular James Mills of John Mills Engineering for their support.
 
Meanwhile Honda Cadet Novice driver Tom Bennett was chasing the novice trophy and with two very strong heats he put his Kart seventh on the grid eventually taking his third Honda Novice trophy in a nail billing final.
 
Shenington Comer Cadet 2012 Champion Kieran Wragg showed that the transition from Cadet to MiniMax can be immediately successful by taking a highly respectable fifth place.
 
Joe Turney has shown great pace and race craft in the short time he has been karting and will be competing at Super1 in 2013, do you have a cadet driver who could partner him? We'd love to hear from you and have a great offer for the right driver. Please call Martyn Smithers or Gary Chapman in total confidence on 01280 814774.
 
The Formula K UK team move on to Genk for round one of the EuroMax challenge and the Super 1 and club team move on to PFI.

Photograph courtesy of Graham Smith/TSR Productions.

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Thomas Continues Winning Streak   (21/02)

MBR's Harrison Thomas carried momentum from his recent PFI Winter Series victory to Shenington, winning comfortably against strong opposition and confirming that he will be one to watch in Super One.
 
Fog delayed Sunday's proceedings, and meant just six laps in each heat, but that proved no deterrent to Thomas, who turned 26th on the grid into seventh in race one, before leading from lights to flag second time around and earning himself third spot on the grid for the Final, as well as posting the fastest laps of the weekend.
 
Gaining a place on the opening lap of the main event, it took just one more tour for Thomas to hit the front and, from then on, the result hardly looked in doubt as the Welsh youngster eased away to win by 1.3secs.
 
"It was definitely an easier win than at PFI, but I still had to get to the front," Thomas reflected, "Once I did that, I was able to control the race, and I'm delighted to win, especially against good opposition. It's all good preparation for the final round of the Winter Series in two weeks' time. Thank you to Mick Barrett Racing, Ogden Race Engines, my family and all my sponsors."

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Calling All 177/Masters   (20/02)

Just two weeks remain until the 1st round of Forest Edge Kart Club's 2013 Championship, and what will likely to be the biggest ever gathering of 177 Rotax racers seen in the UK at a single event!

Over 40 177/Masters are expected for the first round of the interclub challenge and its not too late to enter - FEKC were the first club in the UK to offer online entries three years ago so head to www.fekc.co.uk to participate or contact Matt Barnes at mattbarnes34@hotmail.co.uk.

The Hampshire club has consistently seen the biggest UK grid of 177/Masters over the past three years and is looking forward to a bumper entry for Round 1. Rotax classes look to be phenomenally strong and IAME's are added for the start of 2013 racing.

So if you have never ventured to the Hampshire club before why not come and see what over 200 regular racers see every month(!) to one of the most successful MSA owner driver circuits in the UK.

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Lay Gets A Shot...   (19/02)

EasyKart UK - in conjunction with KGP UK are to recognise the double Championship achievements of James Lay.
 
In 2012 James did the double by winning the EasyKart Junior Championship and the one day E plate Championship race. James Lay started karting as a novice in Easykart following in the footsteps of his elder brother Patrick. He has progressed through EasyKart Junior with remarkable results in a short period of time.
 
Up and coming talent is what our new association with Ginetta is all about. Our unique collaboration ladder, which starts from Easykart through to KGP and progresses on to Ginetta car racing, provides the perfect career path for young drivers to develop.
 
To recognise and reward James's achievements Easykart UK will be providing him with a free drive in a Championship S1 round of its sister franchise Formula KGP.
 
James will compete as a guest driver in the Ginetta Formula KGP S1 at Glan-y-Gors in June. The KGP grid boasts many multiple British Champions and a Championship that has gone to the wire in the last two seasons. James will drive with the ACR-Birel team on the new Birel RY30 S5 Motorsport chassis.
 
KGP is almost 3 seconds a lap quicker compared to the Senior EasyKart that James will drive in this year's 2013 EasyKart UK Championship, so it will be interesting to see how James gets on.
 
With his brother Patrick also racing Easykart  in 2013, perhaps the biggest question is - who will come out on top in the EasyKart Championship, James or Pat..? Place your bets!
 
For more information on Easykart visit www.easykart.co.uk or for information on Formula KGP visit www.kartgrandprix.co.uk or find both on Facebook.

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McCarthy Aims High   (18/02)

RL Racing Department's Jack McCarthy is targeting a top three finish in the 2013 Euro Max Challenge after a competitive maiden outing in the annual curtain raiser to the international Rotax season (9/10 Feb).

McCarthy, who finished 8th overall in the Super One Mini Max championship last season, made an impressive bow in both international competition and the Junior category.

The 12-year old quickly adjusted to the cut and thrust of the faster kart and the fast Andalucian circuit.

"He did really well," said Steve Armstrong, owner of RL Racing Department. "Jack had never seen Campillos before, so for him to qualify 7th-fastest overall and then run strongly in the heats - whilst learning all the time - shows what potential he has."
 
11th, 10th and 14th place finishes in his three heats saw McCarthy qualify for the pre-final grid in 11th place.
 
It proved to be a tough race, but Jack stuck to the task in hand and battled to an eventual 13th place at the chequered flag.
 
"When you get to the finals, you tend to find the racing becomes even more brutal and Jack's inexperience showed. He drove extremely well but his lack of international race craft prevented a higher finish," observed Armstrong.
 
Buoyed by the 2008 Euro Max champion's coaching and advice, Jack went on to cross the line in 10th place in the final.
 
"I'm delighted. Finishing 10th out of 34 and at his first attempt shows his potential. He loved the whole experience and coped well with the hard, fast action on track. At times it overwhelmed him a little, but the racing did seem harder this year. It used to be a little gentler and less aggressive, but that's how we race in the UK, so over the coming season, I don't see why we shouldn't be targeting entry into the Rotax Grand Finals with a top three finish in the Euro Max Challenge. Jack will drop back into Mini Max at home and I think he has what it takes to go for the Super One title."
 
For more information about racing with RL Racing Department, call Steve today on 07843 586 416 or contact him via accounts.rlracingdept@live.co.uk.

For all the latest team news, go to www.rlracingdepartmentltd.com.

Photographs courtesy of Alexandros Vernardis/The RaceBox.

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Comer Cadet Academy Offer   (15/02)

Zip Kart are delighted to announce that they have secured a sponsorship for the MSA Super One Comer Championship. Drivers who register for the MSA comer cadet championship will be eligible to receive free slick tyres for round one of the championship that kicks off on the 5-7th April at Three Sisters Wigan.
 
All drivers that have already registered with Super One for the rookie/academy class will also be eligible for the offer.
 
With healthy grids and ultra competitive racing guaranteed the 2013 MSA Comer Cadet championship can now also offer great value racing at the highest level for those drivers wishing to make the stepping stone from club racing to Super One!
 
Plus, Zip have Honda prizes on offer for Zip drivers in Super One...
 
The highest finisher in the Honda Cadet championship on a ZIP Cadet (you must have competed a least 4 rounds on Zip kart) will win a test day with the factory Zip/ART/RSF team in either Mini Max or KF3, plus a free set of tyres for each podium achieved at Super One!
 
Overview of the MSA Comer Cadet Championship:
MSA championship for Comer cadet class.
Open to drivers with a National A licence.
You can race in the year of 9th birthday.
Free slick tyres for all rookie/academy drivers for use at RD1 + RD2.
TV Coverage on Motors TV.
Suburb prize vouchers for the top 3 rookie finishers at each round.
A free season's racing in Super One in 2014 for the winning championship driver.
KF/Rotax test with Zip/ART/RSF team for the top 3 in the overall championship.
Fantastic overall championship prizes down to 10th place.
Guaranteed coverage in Karting magazine each month.
 
To be eligible for this great package and to book your place on the grid, drivers must register with Super One before the 1st March 2013. For any enquires regarding the championship please contact Super One on 01869 320157 or email sonja@superoneseries.com, and for any information on the prizes or to discuss anything about the Rookie/Academy package contact Zip Kart on 01327 855310 or email info@zipkart.com.
 
To register for the 2013 Super One series visit http://superoneseries.com/.

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Formula Cadet Wet Tyres   (15/02)

The Association of British Kart Clubs along with Anderson-CSK and Dunlop wish to apologise for the issues that have transpired on the Formula Cadet wet tyre. Following tests by Dunlop in Japan on the return of a problem set of tyres it would appear that this may have been caused by a new batch of polymer, and perhaps exacerbated by the effect of the cold weather in our winter. The results of the tests have only just become available.
 
Anderson-CSK have already arranged with Dunlop to immediately manufacture a controlled batch of tyres, with another immediate follow up. Control means with reference back to the batches prior to the problem arising. The first batch will be air-freighted to the UK by the end of February and it is anticipated can be distributed during the first week of March. Dunlop have agreed to exchange all tyres from the problem batch for the new tyres, which will be easily identified by the new barcode marking. Further details on the logistics of this exchange will be given by Anderson-CSK shortly. There will be no cost to the competitor.
 
Anderson-CSK,Dunlop and the ABkC can only apologise and ask for parents and drivers forbearance. Please be assured that Dunlop is fully committed to resolving the problem as quickly as humanly possible and have assured us that the performance of the wet tyres will be restored to the previous norm.
 
The MSA are being kept informed of developments.

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Webb's Winter Cup Joy   (14/02)

Reigning junior Grand Finals and Euro Max Challenge champion Harry Webb added to his reputation as one of motor racing's most exciting prospects by winning the prestigious Rotax Winter Cup - on his debut in the senior category.

The 15-year-old Strawberry Racing driver won the coveted trophy after an enthralling battle with team-mate Harrison Scott, to take victory at Campillos (10 February).

Harry was amongst the principal contenders throughout the week-long meeting in Andalucia, having qualified 3rd overall and winning two of his three preliminary heats.

 In the pre-final, he had started in 6th place overall, after an engine failure in his second heat had cost him a chance of qualifying further up the grid for the first of Sunday's two final. However, he demonstrated his pace and race craft to finish in 3rd place.

A clash between Webb and nearest challenger Scott, during the closing stages of the final, set up a nail-biting charge to the chequered flag.

Webb had taken the lead early on, but his rival fought back.

"I had got away well but in the last five laps Harrison pulled me in. On the last lap he was all over me, but I wasn't going to give in and nor was he. He attacked and, naturally, I defended through every corner. Neither of us would give an inch to the other and as we went into one of the corners, Harrison had two wheels on the grass. I was given a warning flag. There was no aggro afterwards, it was all very friendly."

Harry crossed the line marginally ahead of Harrison to secure an historic back to back victory: "To win both junior and senior two years in a row is pretty good. I needed to win, because if I hadn't I wouldn't have been doing the European races, so this one means rather a lot to me."

Having won on his international senior debut, Webb was asked how the racing compared with that in juniors: "At this level, Junior Max is very hard but the seniors are harder. The front brakes make life both harder and easier for you. If you're behind someone, you can make late lunges going into the corners but if you're leading, they make sure you can't relax for a moment. But I'm sure my dice with Harrison made for great viewing and it was certainly exciting for us. We both showed just how fantastic the new Tony Kart EVK chassis is, and how strong Cream Racing engines are."

Photographs courtesy of Bas Kaligis.

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Performance Match Advantage   (13/02)

February, the beginning of a new season, has been especially busy for Grice Racing.
 
Our new transient and eddy rolling road is up and running, giving useful information in matching your ancillaries to your race motor. We now offer the facility to dyno power test your engine, then match all your ancillaries on the rolling road to maximise it's full potential.  Something that is exclusive to Grice in the UK and only last week did Evolution, Next Generation, Mark Campfield and Coles use this facility to their drivers' advantage.
 
We are now able to offer a free test drive of all our motors and with the introduction of new Iame cadet class, our 15 years of piston timed race motor experience is proving invaluable with both Next Generation and Fusion all busy doing just this.
 
Lastly, we are as ever, still offering our recession busting rebuilds at truly unbelievable prices. Get in touch for more information and see how we compare!
 
To arrange your free test or enquire about rebuilds please call Ricky on 01268 727847 or 07768 047253.

You can also email ricky.grice@virgin.net and visit our website at Griceracingengines.com.

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TKM Give Thumbs Up   (13/02)

Tal-Ko is confident of completing its TKM Club Championship with a double-header event at Whilton Mill, despite some current uncertainty at the circuit caused by a re-organisation of its operations.
 
The four event championship, which has races at Kimbolton, Shenington, Rissington and Whilton Mill, got off to a flying start last year with more than 70 registered drivers across the Junior and Senior classes.
 
This year's series is based at the same circuits within the Midlands area but with the last round at Whilton Mill in September running as a double header adding a final sting in the tail to the trend-setting regional championship.
 
Over the past few weeks a number of changes have been announced at the circuit thanks to a multi-thousand pound investment from the owners, which will improve the track itself and increase facilities. This includes changes to the existing club set up.
 
Short term this has caused some hiccups in event organisation but says TKM series co-ordinator Grahame Butterworth: "We see this as nothing more than a storm in a crash helmet and we are confident that by one route or another, our final round will be able to take place as planned.
 
"We have been very encouraged by the positive response from the track owners to solve some existing things at the circuit which we found concerned our drivers - like the barrier at the last corner and the bumps.
 
"More than that we have agreement with the circuit owners on some ideas which will provide a boost to all TKM drivers in the area. As a company we were the first to test at the track when it was built and we are pleased to continue our association."
 
Registration for the series closes on March 15. More information and registration sheets etc available from www.tal-ko.com or for queries email interclub@tkmdriversclub.com.

Formula K Success   (12/02)

The European season commenced at a sun soaked Campillos as Europe's finest drivers kicked off their European season with an early season shake down at The Rotax Winter Cup at the Spanish circuit. This well organised and enjoyable event is often used by top European karters to test and get in shape for the upcoming season, among them for Formula K UK were Junior Max Driver Thomas Preining, Senior Max drivers Jiri Forman and Sabedin Berat Turker with Xen De Ruwe in DD2.
 
Preining finished his 2012 season with very impressive results and the Formula K driver was determined to start where he left off. Early signs were very promising as Preining was third fastest in non qualifying practice in a field where 1 second would put you back as far as 24th out of the 31 drivers. He followed this up with a good qualifying session putting his kart on the fifth row of the grid, however his improvements in heats one and two were significantly hindered following accident in heat three where he managed to limp home in 30th place, Combining his early heats with his misfortunate third heat gave him a grid position of 13 for the pre final.
 
In Seniors Jiri Forman was the one to watch with a superb performance in non qualifying practice two taking the fastest lap following up his earlier third place, Turker was lower down but with a second between first and 24th the leader board was changing all the time. In an equally positive qualifying session Forman put his kart at the front row in P2 and Turker on the 10th row with some work to do for the next day. Whilst Forman had some very well deserved and hard fought results in his three heats, finishing fourth, 10th and fourth, Turker was charging up the field showing superb improvement on his FK chassis taking 18th, 14th and seventh. This put Forman on the front row and Turker on the fifth for their prefinal; his best ever results in EuroMax.  
 
Meanwhile in DD2 Formula K Europe driver Xen De Ruwe was once again demonstrating that he is a force to be reckoned as all early testing reinforced this driver's champion status. However in a shocking development he was excluded from qualifying for an infringement involving using a piece of FK tape where only Rotax tape was acceptable. This only served to fuel De Ruwe's determination as in warm up the next morning he blasted the field with a time 2/10ths faster. Demonstrating why he truly is a driver to be admired he went from the back of the grid to fourth in Heat 1 and 8th and 5th in his remaining two heats. This gave him a position on the third row of the grid for the prefinal.
 
Driving conditions for finals day were excellent with the cold wind only affecting early warm up. Preining was first out for his prefinal and made a steady move forward securing 7th place and an excellent chance for the final. Forman and Turker fell back a little with Forman finishing 6th and Turker 17th and DD2 driver Xen once again showing steely determination  to put his kart on pole position for the final with a solid win.
 
With everything to play for in the final Preining held his nerve to get a good start and did not look back, he pressed his way forward taking second place for much of the race. Just as it looked like second was where he would finish he lost a place and eventually took a very well deserved podium finishing in third place in an excellent season opener.
 
Forman was not so fortunate at the start in seniors which cost him dearly but again with determination we was able to push himself forward and was disappointed to just miss the podium taking fourth place. His fastest lap which he held for almost the entire race was pipped by another driver but this shows the great pace of the driver who will surely be one of the best in Europe this season
 
 Turker's early promise was not fulfilled in a very difficult final but his pace and heat results show the potential of this young driver and as the season develops he will surely be achieving the results he is working so hard for.
 
Saving what was possibly his best for last DD2 driver Xen de Ruwe put on a masterclass in his final taking victory whist being the only driver to break the 1:03 barrier.
 
The Formula K drivers left Campillos very happy and positive about their 2013 campaign. The FK was consistently at the front and showing it is a package capable of winning at any level. Team manager Martyn Smithers said, "It was a pleasure to work with these excellent drivers again, we are very happy with the improvements we made and have once again demonstrated our strength in Europe. I am very pleased to know that FK drivers secured a first, third and fourth at this highly competitive meeting. We move on to Genk very positive about what we will be able to achieve.
 
Gary Chapman reinforced Smithers comment by adding, "I am really pleased with the position we are in,  I remain totally confident in the Formula K which in spite of being in relatively low numbers compared to other chassis is right at the front. The team is putting in amazing effort and with hard work and sheer determination we are getting excellent results. Our FK drivers represented .5% of the field at Campillos which makes our results highly impressive; as more drivers get on the chassis even more results will come. We will continue to do a great job and I am confident that our Formula K drivers will continue to dominate as the season progresses. I offer my congratulations to them and the entire Formula K UK team".

Did you like what you saw? Protrain Racing are sole importers for Formula K, if you are interested in testing one or becoming an agent for this impressive marque please contact Gary Chapman on 07802 966064 or email him at protrain@karttraining.co.uk.
 
See our new website at www.formulak-uk.co.uk.

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Strawberry Too Hot To Handle   (12/02)

Strawberry Racing dominated the fifth edition of the Rotax Winter Cup at Campillos (4-10 February), with its drivers taking 1st and 2nd place finishes in the junior and senior categories.
 
Having previously won the event an unprecedented four times, team manager Warwick Ringham confessed he was running out of superlatives to describe how he felt after winning again: "What can I say? Every year the pressure is on us, so much so, that winning is almost a relief. Of course, I'm delighted for the four lads on the podium but all of our drivers performed extremely well."
 
He added: "Until the week before Campillos, most of them hadn't sat in a kart since the Grand Finals (28 November - 1 December, at Portimao, Portugal). So went out there and just let them all drive round and have fun. You could see how much Harry has matured since he won the Grand Finals, so he was able to step up to the senior equipment and match Harrison's pace straight away. Even so, they were putting some outrageous passes on each other as they played out on track. Our Juniors - Connor Hall and Guan Yu Zhou - were also quick, as expected, but they were kept honest by our new drivers Darren Keane and Yuri Vips."
 
Jessica Backman impressed when she arrived in Andalucia in the early hours of Saturday morning and, having missed Friday's timed qualifying session, had to go straight into the heats from the back of the grid. Her brother, Andreas, was the team's sole representative in the DD2 category.  Sadly, a bent brake disc blighted his chances of a good finish in the main final, having delivered a series of strong performances in the preliminaries.
 
In the junior class, Connor Hall maintained the form he showed at the end of last season, as did Guan Yu Zhou. The pair duly gave strong performances in the pre-final to finish 2nd and 5th respectively. Juri finished in a creditable 10th with Darren, still getting to grips with the European style of racing, a fine 14th.
 
Hall proved to be the class of the field in the 14-lap final, as Zhou fought his way through to the runner-up spot. Juri and Darren gained more poisitive experience as they took the chequered flag in line astern, finishing 13th and 14th.
 
A nail-biting finish in the senior final was assured, after 2012 Winter Cup champion Scott reeled in the leader, Webb, and attacked. Harry defended, but neither would give their team-mate an inch. Ringham and his team could barely watch as Harrison had to take to the grass to avoid a collision. Webb was given a warning flag for the robust defence of his advantage but won the race fair and square, with Scott refusing to give up his crown all the way to the finishing line.
 
"What a way to signal your arrival in seniors!" said Ringham. "Harry was just magnificent and what a way for Harrison to sign off his karting career, before going into Formula Ford, with another thoroughly deserved podium."
 
Grand Final victor Charlie Eastwood also finished well inside the top ten, with 7th place and Jessica Backman also earned praised for her eventual 16th place.
 
With a vacancy created by Scott's departure to single-seaters, Ringham announced the arrival of Kyle Fowlie into the squad: "Now Kyle's with us, we must have one of the strongest line-ups we've fielded," explained Warwick. "Omar Ismail, Ben Hingely and Max Aitken also signed with us in the closed-season, making our junior team a very exciting prospect indeed."
    
For more information about OTK products and Cream's preparation services go to www.strawberryracing.co.uk. Or call 0114 269 6215 / 0114 288 9933.

Photographs courtesy of Bas Kaligis.

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Connor Hall & Strawberry Racing   (11/02)

Connor Hall has won the Junior Rotax Winter Cup, following 10 days at the Campillos circuit in Spain (with a couple of days break in between that allowed Connor and his team mates to take a look at some Formula 1 testing at the Jerez circuit).

Wednesday and Thursday's testing went well, and the team worked like clockwork.

Qualifying went well for Connor and although he didn't take pole position, he managed a credible 6th for the heats. This did have the unfortunately side effect of this putting him on the outside at the start, but despite this he still managed to qualify 3rd for the pre-final, having already been fastest by some margin in two of the heats. Connor managed to convert 3rd place on the grid to 2nd place for the main final, and having been fast all weekend he was confident of a good result.

After being forced backwards at the start of the main final he soon showed his class by driving his way to the front, closely followed by his team-mate Guan Yu Zhou. With 3 laps to go Connor managed to edge a small gap while Zhou also drove an outstanding race.

Connor took the victory by over 2 seconds, with Zhou coming home in an impressive second to complete a fantastic 1-2 for the team.

A massive thanks go to everyone at Strawberry Racing - Warwick Ringham, Paul Spencer and Connor's mechanic Harry Cockill for all their hard work as well as providing the Tonykart EVK and Cream Racing engine to enable this fantastic result.

You can keep up-to-date with Connor's progress at www.connorhall.co.uk.

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2013 Maranello RS12   (08/02)

The 2013 Maranello RS12 chassis has just arrived with us in the UK, with LP Tent Motorsport being the first to test them in Britain at Larkhall circuit.

Meanwhile back at Maranello UK HQ at PFi, the works team are getting ready for 2013's Super One championship with Denis Gorman and Matt Booth racing in Formula KGP. Both drivers will be busy testing over the next couple of months in preparation for the club meetings at PFi and the O Plate at Rowrah, and we are aiming to hit the ground running for round one of MSA Super One at Rowrah in May.

For more information email laury@maranellokarts.co.uk or visit our website at www.maranellokarts.co.uk.
 
Iame Cadet:
Under the banner of Curley Racing Ltd, this year we will be gradually expanding into the new and exciting Iame cadet formula. The new engine is proving to be an excellent choice for the class as shown by huge grid numbers at PFi and bumper entries for the Little Green Man Championship.
 
We have places available in the awning for Iame Cadets for the Little Green Man Championship and at the PFi club championship. Packages are available from awning space only or including a mechanic. Any cadet chassis can be catered for.
 
Other services available from Curley Racing Ltd include kart preparation and storage at PFi, any brand of kart chassis is catered for but the CRG family of chassis are our speciality. We can cater for every type of kart and engine related service including chassis alignment, engine rebuilds and dyno sessions.
 
Driver coaching sessions using experienced S1 champions is also available at PFi. Various packages available.
 
More details on any of the above services are available by emailing laury@curleyracing.co.uk.

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Encouraging Performances   (08/02)

Team IPK's young drivers continued their strong development with a string of highly-encouraging performances on the OK1 chassis at last weekend's ferociously competitive TVKC meeting at PFi.
 
William Tregurtha led the Minimax squad in a near Super One-strength grid of 45 karts. The combination of the OK1 kart and Grice engine helped him power from 29th place all the way through to 13th in his first heat.
 
And in his second race Tregurtha, 12, grabbed an excellent runners-up spot - his fifth top three finish in his last six meetings. That statistic is a testament to his improvement with the team, the quality of the OK1 kart and his Grice equipment. His final unfortunately ended early after a collision when running strongly.
 
Also in Minimax Jack Fabby and Jordan Goodyear can take huge credit from their efforts. Fabby had two spirited 16th place finishes in his heats while Goodyear showed his potential by recovering from a DNF to battle through to a mature second-place in the B final. Both drivers fought hard in the final and can look forward to the rest of the season with real promise.
 
The same can be said for Greg Simpson in Senior Max with his first dry outing at the circuit. The Scottish driver was also taking on a large, powerful grid but looked more than at home and even though his final was wrecked by a crash his heat finishes of 15th and 18th out of 27 showed his potential too.
 
For more details on the OK1 chassis and some great deals contact the IPK importer on 01133 222795 or visit our website www.ipkarting.co.uk for details of our dealer network.
 
For race team info contact Dave Johnston on 07972 073292.

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BPKC Winter Series   (08/02)

The second round  at Buckmore Park Kart Club Winter Championship is scheduled for Sunday 17 February 2013. Practice is available on Friday 15 February and Saturday 16 February.

As round 1 of the championship was snowed off both rounds 2 and 3 will count towards the overall championship.

All ABkC non gearbox classes are welcome including Bambino and Subaru.

Please contact Chris Pullman/Sheila Rose on 01634 661604 for more details. Online booking is available.

Full details are available at www.buckmoreparkkartclub.co.uk.

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Thomas Makes Flying Start   (07/02)

Welsh youngster Harrison Thomas made the perfect start to 2013 by claiming a hard-fought victory in round three of the TVKC Winter Series at PFI.
 
Against a classy Minimax field, the 12-year old showed few nerves as he took control from the start and, although the grid draw saw him have to come from rows four and twelve in the heats, results of fifth and sixth put him in good position for start of the main event.
 
Thomas again wasted little time in asserting himself in the final, climbing to third within three laps to form part of a breakaway group and then pouncing with two laps remaining to win by just over a tenth of a second. The victory also took the MBR driver to third position in the standings, just four points off the lead with one round remaining.
 
"It's great to be able to produce this result against some of the UK's best Minimax drivers, and gives me confidence for the rest of the season," Thomas commented, confirming that, under the guidance of Dan Barrett and Alex Tee, he will contest not only the six-round Super 1 Series, but also both the 'O' Plate and Kartmasters with Tonykart chassis and Ogden-tuned engines.

Photographs courtesy of Chris Walker/Kartpix.net.

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ART GP Satellite Team   (07/02)

NJL Racing have joined forces with ZIP Kart - the ART Distributor in the UK - and will become an ART GP satellite team using the latest ART GP karts for 2013. Owners of both teams have a vast amount of experience in motorsport, with Nick from NJL having driven in the BTCC and GT's championships, combined with Zip Kart's decades of creating champions.
 
NJL Racing are set to compete using the ART karts in Rotax/KGP in the British Super One Series and TKM, whilst also attending various club meetings across the UK. Cameron Leason will be racing the ART in Formula KGP Super One with Thomas Kolasky competing on the ART in Senior Rotax, with more drivers TBA within the NJL Racing Team.
 
Former BTCC/GT driver and the owner of NJL Racing, Nick, commented "The Team has made great progress this year and now looking to achieve more for the 2013 race season. We have been testing various chassis over the last few months to see what we would use for 2013 and have been very happy with the results we saw with the ART GP Chassis, especially with the development and support from ZIP. It's a great move forward for NJL Racing using the ART GP karts and look forward to some good results."

Drivers wishing to compete in either Super One or Club events should contact Nick on 07774 891435, or email nick@njlracing.com.
 
Jamie Allen, Zip/ART Rotax team manager, said "We have been out testing the kart with our Rotax drivers and have been very encouraged by the results so far before our full Campaign at Super 1 begins in March "we are happy that NJL have chosen ART as their chassis partner and we look forward to working with them at both Super 1 and Club events."

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IAME/Comer Cadet Opportunities   (07/02)

The Super One Series is pleased to announce that Rookie Cadets in IAME and Comer will be offered a fantastic bonus prize package in the 2013 season, thanks to new partnerships with MIS Motorsport and Zip Kart.
 
We are proud that MIS Motorsport is the official class sponsor for the 2013 MSA British Cadet Championship and Zip Kart is the official class sponsor for the 2013 MSA Comer Cadet National Championship. All rookie drivers (first time in Super One) who register by 1st March (or have registered already) are eligible for the new prizes, which are conditional on racing in the same class in 2014.  The fantastic prize package consists of the following:
 
 - Free seasons racing in 2014 Super One Series, comprising of Free Registration, Free Entries to the meetings, Free Race Tyres, Free Fuel.
 - Mercedes GP VIP Tour of the Formula 1 facility at Brackley.
 - Super One Rookie Championship Trophy.
 - Free 12 months subscription to Karting Magazine.
 
Super One Series Promoter John Hoyle said: "I am delighted to welcome MIS Motorsport and Zip Kart as the official class sponsors to our MSA Cadet championships.  This partnership has enabled us to offer such an amazing package of prizes to the best rookie, to help them up the motorsport ladder."
 
We are sure to have some incredible racing in the Cadet classes during 2013 on a very affordable package so don't delay, register today on line at superoneseries.com/registration as this offers a discount over the alternative of downloading the forms from superoneseries.com/downloads and sending a cheque to Sonja Game, 16, Graham Road, Bicester OX26 2HP.
 
Further details on MIS Motorsport, who offer a large range of insurance products tailored for motorsport, can be found here www.mismotorsport.com and for Zip Kart here www.zipkart.com. Zip Kart are of course the official supplier of the Comer Cadet engine.
 
Further details or questions about the academy please contact John Hoyle on johnhoylejkh1@btinternet.com.

Super One 2013 regulations will apply as normal.

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Formula KGP At PFi   (07/02)

Trent Valley Kart Club are pleased to announce that they will be running Formula KGP, subject to minimum grid numbers, at their March & April Club race meetings.
 
Entries will be accepted for:
03 March (Club Winter Series - Rd 4)
07 April (Club Championship - Rd 1)
 
Enter Online at www.tvkc.co.uk.

Alternatively, download a Race Entry Form here.

Remember: Race entries close 7 days prior to the race date.

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ART Grand Prix Karts   (05/02)

Zip Kart, the UK distributor for the ART Grand Prix kart range, are pleased to announce that PPR racing will be switching their team over to the ART kart for the 2013 season, PPR will be a partner/affiliate team being and will be in attendance at all Kimbolton and Whilton Mill meetings during 2013.
 
Simon Parker PPR team principle has worked in many of the most established names in karting inc; Sodi kart, Ricky Flynn and Fusion Motorsport, and with over 20 years' experience in the sport he has seen many brands come and go. After testing the kart at various tracks in the UK he had no hesitation in making the switch to ART.
 
"Having worked with many of the top manufacturers and teams in Europe I have watched ARTs debut season in 2012 with interest. Having now tested and raced the kart I'm really looking forward to the 2013 season, and being a part of the ART Karts development. During testing and racing all the drivers have been really positive about the kart, and from an engineering point of view it's easy to set up and work with".
 
PPR will also be working closely with the All Stars cadet team offering a cost effective stepping stone from the Cadet classes to Mini Max at club level.

Any drivers wishing to try the ART kart can contact PPR on 07855 831921, or for more information on ART Grand Prix products contact Zip Kart on 08435 070850.

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R&S Motorsport Appointed...   (04/02)

R&S motorsport are delighted to announce that they have been appointed as the sole UK importer for the brand new and exciting Modena KK1 KZ engine.

Brian Rush of R&S said "We were very impressed with the factory tour and the passionate commitment from everyone at ASPA, the manufacturers and developers for this completely new concept of KZ motor. I was particularly impressed with the accuracy and quality of the manufacturing."

Unlike other engine manufactures, which mass-produce multiple models for different classes, Modena have spent over 3 years developing and rigorously testing the KK1 KZ Engine. Within their state of the art factory, every single component undergoes intensive quality control this is why every Modena engine will have exactly the same finishing quality and performance. Being at least 1.6kg lighter than its next lightest rival means that with lower centre of gravity your kart behaves more responsively and allows you to fit your ballast where it suits you.

The KK1 had an amazing debut this weekend at WSK, with a great podium finish in the first final for Fabian Federer. Already the engine is competing successfully at the highest level of competition.

Brian continued "I'm really excited for the year ahead, being part of a passionate and dedicated team at Modena with such a great, innovative, product. KZ is the most exciting class on the grid, both for spectators and the drivers alike. And now with the introduction of KZ into Super 1, timing couldn't have been better to launch such a product in the UK, and break the mould".
 
We will soon be carrying out test days for any potential customers interested.  For more information on the Modena call Brian on 07824 324255 or email info@modena-engines.co.uk. You can also visit our new website at www.modena-engines.co.uk.

You should also check out Modena's Youtube channel, which has some great videos about the engine and the company itself. These can be viewed at http://youtu.be/RV2hrb5smHw.

[ Top ]

Oil Fuel Mix Ratio App   (04/02)

'Oil Ratio' is a simple, professionally designed, Oil to Fuel Mix Ratio iPhone app that the developer would like some testing on, in regards to it's usability, and also suggestions on feature improvements. It works in both Metric and Imperial quantities.
 
It's important before marketing a product like this to have it tested by as many people as possible, because sometimes something obvious that needs improving or fixing just gets passed over.
 
So what I would like to do is send out a free promo code to the first 20 readers who have iPhones, and in return, are willing to test and send some feedback.
 
Oil Ratio is a simple app that does what it says, and should be very handy to have around.
 
For more information you can find Oil Ratio on the app store.
 
If you're interested in testing the app and providing feedback, please contact Steve at iphoneapp@daydreemin.com.

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Formula BMW Talent Cup   (01/02)

New season, new dates, new design: in just a few weeks, the participants in the 2013 Formula BMW Talent Cup will begin their extensive training programme, with which BMW offers talented drivers comprehensive and lasting preparation for a career in professional motor racing. The BMW FB02 single-seater racing cars, in which the youngsters will be trained at numerous on-track events at renowned circuits around Europe, are waiting in the pit lanes with a brand new design, ready to be unleashed on the 2013 season.
 
A number of places are still available on the programme. Between mid-February and the start of March, ten test sessions will provide those interested with the opportunity to prepare for a possible participation in the 2013 Formula BMW Talent Cup. At the "Rookie Tests", which are held in the run-up to the start of the official training programme, drivers coming from a karting background with no experience of a single-seater racing car are taught the basics of Formula motorsport. More advanced tests are also available for drivers who already have initial experience of single-seater racing, or who have already taken part in a rookie test. More information is available online at www.formula-bmw.com.
 
The car used at the tests and throughout the training season is the BMW FB02, which has a new look for 2013. Having been predominantly white with dark-blue design elements in recent years, the Formula BMW FB02 will sport a matt-black livery for the 2013 season, which lends to the sporty, dynamic and powerful appearance of the car. On January 19, 2013, BMW and the winner of the 2012 Formula BMW Talent Cup, Marvin Dienst (DE), presented the new-look BMW FB02 at the International Kart Exhibition in Offenbach (DE).
 
Participants in the 2013 Formula BMW Talent Cup will once again undergo a comprehensive programme of learning, with the emphasis on the practical and theory sides of racing, simulator training and performance coaching. Media courses and technical workshops will also be held. Dirk Adorf (DE) returns as Driving Ambassador for the 2013 Formula BMW Talent Cup, completing the experienced international team, which consists of BMW works drivers, instructors and coaches. The training programme reaches its climax with the highlight of the season from 14th to 16th September: the "Grand Final". As well as receiving first-rate training, the winner of the final event, which will once again share the bill with the DTM, can look forward to a very attractive prize: BMW will finance the victor for a complete season in a higher-level racing series.
 
Provisional dates for the 2013 Formula BMW Talent Cup season:
March - Fitness camp (TBA)
March - Technical workshop (Hamburg, DE)
April 20/21 - Official welcome event (Munich, DE)
April 26-28 - On-track event 1 (Calafat, ES)
May 10-12 - Simulator training (Silverstone, UK)
June 7-9 - On-track event 2 (Anderstorp, SE)
July 2-4 - Simulator training (Silverstone, UK)
July 10/11 - On-track event 3 (Red Bull Ring, AT)
August 6-8 - On-track event 4 (Slovakiaring, SK)
August 16-18 - On-track event 5 (Hungaroring, HU)
September 14-16 - On-track event 6 & Grand Final (Oschersleben, DE) (to be confirmed).
 
You can find more information on the Formula BMW Talent Cup at www.formula-bmw.com.

Video highlights of the 2012 season are also available on the BMW Motorsport YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/BMWMotorsport.

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Lydd Winter Championship   (31/01)

Round 5 of the Lydd Winter Championships takes place on Sunday 10th February, with practice available on Saturday from 10am to 4pm.

It was good to see so many new faces last month and we look forward to welcoming them again - joining our regulars in our friendly family atmosphere, with the racing likely to hot up as the championships near their conclusion! The final round will be on 10th March, with our Summer Championships kicking off in April.

We welcome karts from all classes, with our regulars being Bambino, Cadet Clubman (from 7 years old), Cadet, Super Cadet, Minimax, Juniors , Senior Rotax 162 and 177, and ProKarts.

Last month saw the first running of the new IAME Cadet class here at Lydd and we anticipate more entries in that class this month. If you own a kart from a different class, why not come and give us a try - we will always find a space on the grid for you.

You can keep up to date with what is happening at Kent's fastest kart circuit by visiting our website at www.lyddkartcircuit.com.

Race entries can be made via the website by using the link that appears on the Online Race Entries page. This will save time at signing on - usually quite a busy time on race morning.

Should you have any queries, please call the circuit on 01797 321747 or 01797 321895.

We look forward to seeing you there.

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Super One At Glan Y Gors   (30/01)

The Super One round at Glan Y Gors Park are just around the corner - get your racing practice in order.

The 1st round of Dragon Kart Club's Club Championship is on 10th February 2013, and represents a fantastic opportunity to get some race practice in before the Super One events, so don't miss out - enter now!

All club race meetings and test days on our website or like our Facebook page for up-to-date information at facebook.com/gygkarting.
 
Plus, online membership &  race entries are now available via our website. Visit www.dragonkartclub.com.

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Rissy Announce Calendar   (30/01)

At Rissington Kart Club our committee have thought long and hard about how we can give members and fellow racers the maximum track time. As a consequence, we are introducing a different but exciting looking calendar to that of previous years, whilst still retaining the first Sunday of the month as we have always done historically.
 
Our normal November meeting will be put into reserve, should a meeting be cancelled.  We will now run a 10 round Championship by having "double headers" - Saturday and Sunday meetings during the same weekends at Easter and The Midland Champs. We will also introduce Friday Practice for these dates.
 
By making these changes we believe that members and guests will gain even more enjoyment and value for money from racing at Rissington, one of the best tracks in the country. With its fast flowing smooth circuit, spacious paddock and a warm welcome for drivers and families, Rissington is the place to race in 2013. The committee are also working on several other improvements this season, including an online entry system and a new web site.
 
Club membership is still available - we will be running Cadet (all engine types), Junior TKM, Senior TKM, TKM Clubman, Junior Rotax, Senior Rotax, 125 / 250 gearbox and our regular visiting series.
 
Rissington Kart Club Practice/Race Dates 2013:
2nd / 3rd March
5th - 7th April (double header)
4th / 5th May
1st / 2nd June
6th / 7th July (inc. RAF Champs)
3rd / 4th August
30th August - 1st September (Midland Champs) and TKM Interclub
5th / 6th October
2nd / 3rd November (reserved for any cancelled meetings)
 
Look out for further updates - check out the Rissington Kart Club website at www.rissykartclub.com.

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Goodbye Old - Hello New   (29/01)

The time has come to say "Goodbye" to the old Lap Scoring building at PF International Kart Circuit. The "Gold Fish Bowl" (as it has been commonly referred to since its construction in 1994) has given good service for a number of years and its removal will alter the 'look' of the circuit dramatically.

This, however, is not the end of the road for the old building - it has found a new home at PFi's neighbouring Kart circuit, Fulbeck, and is now being installed in its new residence!

But, as we wish the old building a fond farewell, we say a massive hello to the brand new, two storey, state-of-the-art Lap Scoring Tower! This new investment is the latest development to take place at PF International in recent months and adds a totally new dimension to the new part of the track. Situated "off track", the new building has been designed with the height of timekeeping technology in mind.

The building will also provide additional first floor office space that is much needed at major events. The ground floor consists of garage space that will be occupied by Boston College in order for them to continue using PFi as part of their "Karting" college course.

The new construction has created much excitement and Trent Valley Kart Club's Chairman and Clerk of the Course, Nigel Edwards is thrilled by the completion of PFi's latest feature, he comments... "What is so pleasing about being involved with PFI and TVKC is that there is always exciting things happening all the time. The New Lap Scoring building on the outside of the circuit is a 'state of the art' unit for Timekeepers and Officials to carry out their duties and its positioning and elevation make for a perfect vantage point of all of the circuit (including the bridge section). The high design and staggered base allows Grandstand spectators to have full sight of the opening complex of corners, while the removal of the old Lap Scoring building in the circuit centre has completely opened up infield views. The start/finish straight now has clear run off's at both sides - a major improvement for drivers, spectators and officials alike".

The opening of the building coincides with the Club's February race meeting and penultimate round of the Winter Series (3rd February). It also marks the beginning of TVKC's partnership with TAG. The new building will shortly be branded with the TAG logos in recognition of the partnership. The official opening of the new building will take place during the lunch break of Sunday's event and anyone wishing to take a look inside may do so!

PFi's newest infrastructure will surely cement the circuit's position in terms of World class Karting facilities and puts it up there with the best there is! These sentiments have recently been shared by the CIK in their 2012 analysis report..." Regarding circuits one could also welcome the modifications made to the PF International track, the reference in the United Kingdom. The lengthening of the course thanks to the creation of a bridge is a real success, and the final of the European KF2 & KF3 Championships was superb advertising for Karting".

But let's not forget that all of this could not be possible if it wasn't for Paul Fletcher's commitment to, not only the circuit, but to Karting in general. Nigel Edwards states "I would like to thank Paul Fletcher for his unwavering support of TVKC and can assure all our Club Members and guests that the improvements on and off track will continue unabated in the future - as acclaimed by the CIK the facility at PFI is one of the best in the world and we will all strive to keep it that way."

So continue to watch this space for the latest developments at PF International Kart Circuit!

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KartMania Honda Challenge   (25/01)

The MSA Kartmania Honda Challenge will be held over 7 rounds between April and September, and for the first time this year will include Honda Senior and Honda Cadet grids! Throughout the year we will also be promoting the Honda Junior class in some invitation races at 2, possibly 3, rounds including the double header at Llandow.

This is great news for all Honda classes and will bring them all together under one MSA championship for the first time in years.

Cadets and seniors will need the minimum of a National B licence although seniors can still apply for a Tyro licence which will allow them to race without an ARKS test or medical.
 
The calendar for this year's championship is:
April 28 - Fulbeck
May 19 - Shenington
June 2 - Little Rissington
August 11 - Rowrah
Sept 8 - Wombwell
 
Registration forms are now available at www.kartmania-championships.co.uk, or for any other enquiries please call 07974 766529.

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Registrations Close Soon   (25/01)

Super One Series registrations at the time of the Autosport Show are already exceeding last year's level.  If you wish to take part in Britain's premier British and National Championship series and compete with the world's best, register now.

The best and easiest way to register is on line at http://superoneseries.com/registration/, and this method offers a discount over the alternative of downloading the forms from http://superoneseries.com/downloads/ and sending a cheque to Sonja Game (16, Graham Road, Bicester OX26 2HP).

Remember this is the only series permitted to issue the prestigious seeded numbers in KF, KF Junior, KGP, all Rotax and TKM 2-stroke classes, IAME and Honda Cadet. There are also support races for KZ2 UK at three rounds, the last of which offers the ABkC O Plate to the winner. And for first time rookie drivers, there are some great prizes with all receiving a VIP Mercedes GP Formula 1 factory tour, and all the Rotax rookie winners receiving a free engine, thanks to JAG Engineering.  Everyone will enjoy the TV coverage, especially your family and supporters.
 
Teams are also required to register immediately if they wish to enjoy official status and reserved parking plus other benefits. The forms are at http://superoneseries.com/downloads/.
 
So don't delay, register today!

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George Russell Joins Birel   (25/01)

Double European KF3 champion George Russell will race for 'da sempre leader nel mondo del kart' after graduating to the KF2 class.
 
Russell's signing for the Italian giants ends months of speculation about who the highly-rated Englishman would drive for during 2013.
 
"It's a very big brand and therefore an honour to be part of such a big team and to have the role I've been given this year," said George.
 
Despite his impressive track record, the 14-year old says that Birel is not putting pressure on him to bring instant success: "First things first, my job will be to test as much as possible and develop the chassis and engine. I have not been given a specific brief by the team but, of course, my goal is to win everything. However, their expectation is simply to do the best we can."
 
He added: "I feel excitement rather than pressure. It's a very good feeling to sign for such a team with such an incredible history of success. Everyone at Lissone (Birel's base near Milan) is so passionate and everywhere we go this season, we'll be giving it 110%."
 
Birel Motorsport's Chairman, Ronni Sala, expressed his satisfaction after agreeing terms with Russell: "I kept a close eye on George throughout the last two seasons and I deem him one of the fastest and most experienced young drivers I have seen in action in KF classes. He has it all: the attitude of a winner and substantial technical skills."
 
Andy Cox, of Birel's UK importers ACR, welcomes the famous marque's new signing: "Without doubt, George has already demonstrated his exceptional talent and I'm delighted he has chosen to work with Birel Motorsport. I'm very confident that their collaboration will deliver the rewards that both George and Birel both crave. I look forward to seeing George and Birel on the top step of the podium in 2013"
 
Fresh from enjoying his first test as an official factory driver at Lonato, George travelled to Paris for the annual CIK-FIA Karting Awards gala. Surrounded by luminaries such as FIA President Jean Todt and the head of the CIK, Shaikh Abdulla bin Isa Al Khalifa, plus his fellow champions of 2012, George collected his European KF3 Championship trophy at a glittering ceremony.
 
"Just being there was amazing, as so few drivers get to go, and to attend for a second time was very special. I chatted with Jean Todt for a little while and the whole experience has further inspired me for this year. My main aim will be the World Championship and I hope that I can be as successful with Birel as I have been in the recent past with likes of Forza Racing. Terry Fullerton and Mike Wilson both won world titles with Birel and I would love to be the latest Briton to achieve that feat with the Ferrari of karting."
 
Russell will make his Birel and KF2 debut at next month's (2-3 February) opening round of the WSK Masters series at La Conca in Puglia, Italy.
 
You can keep up to speed with George and his career by visiting www.georgerussellracing.com and following him on Twitter - @GeorgeRussell63.

Photographs courtesy of Birel (George with Ronni Sala) and Chris Walker/Kartpix.net.

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Join A Winning Team   (24/01)

After winning 3 Rotax Super One finals in 2012, 3DR are preparing to launch their assault on this year's championships on the back of the most successful campaign in the teams' 10 year history.  The backup and support network linked to the team, and the experience now built up inside the awning ensures that our drivers' are fully equipped with all of the equipment that they need to perform to the best of their abilities, from novice through to British championship level.
 
The teams 2012 successes include...
S1 Rotax - 3 Victories (seeded numbers 5, 12, 12 in Rotax Classes), 4 Podiums, 9 x Top 6 finishes and 12 x Top 10 finishes.
Whilton Mill/Kimbolton/Shenington/PFI MSA Club racing - 19 Victories, 43 Podiums, 53 Fastest Laps.

With 90% of the team remaining stable for 2013, and our close links with Cream Racing Engines and Strawberry Racing remaining as strong as ever, there has never been a better time to become part of one of the up and coming teams in British Karting. The team have 3 opportunities for club level drivers who wish to compete at Whilton Mill, Kimbolton, Shenington, and PFI across the Rotax classes, and 2 remaining seats in the Rotax Super 1 series (all classes). We also have in place a full testing schedule to give the drivers the best possible opportunity when at the events.

All drivers will benefit from our top class workshop and trackside operations, with full chassis straightening, heated storage, and cleaning facilities, along with our second to none engine backup service. We currently hold 15 top level Mini, Junior and Senior engines, all prepared and maintained by Cream Racing Engines, and available for immediate use by drivers associated to the team.
 
The team work very hard throughout the week to ensure that all of the equipment is prepared to a first class standard, and a recent expansion programme has seen our trackside operation take on a very professional image. Despite this, the teams' rates are some of the most competitive in the country, and we will not take more than 7 drivers to any event, so to give each driver enough time and effort throughout the weekend.
 
3DR are interested in talking to committed drivers looking to compete at the Rotax Super 1 (all classes), Kimbolton, Shenington, PFI, and Whilton Mill club championships. For an informal chat contact Team Manager Tom Smith to find out how we can improve your performance this season.

Contact Tom Smith at tom@3drmotorsport.com or call 01582 665113 (workshop) or 07557 118975 (direct mobile).

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Perfect Pidgley Dominates   (24/01)

After a short Christmas break, the British Karting season kicked off on January 5th & 6th at PFI with round 2 of the prestigious TVKC Winter Championship. The first race on the calendar saw an entry of over 200 drivers, with all of the UK's top teams in competition after completion of their winter test programmes.

For Ollie Pidgley, PFI represented the start of what promises to be a very special year. After 1 previous season of competition in one of the hardest series in the world (Rotax Super 1), Ollie signed to drive for the P1R squad in 2012. Since then, he has worked tirelessly with the team to improve in all aspects of his performance in his first season, leaving him in the enviable position of being in a very stable partnership entering 2013.

Early signs were positive on Saturday as Ollie posted front running lap times and showed good consistency throughout unofficial practice.

"Everything seems to be working well so far. We have brought a good package to the race, and more importantly I feel confident with my driving. There is a tough field of drivers here this weekend, but I know that we have the speed to match them, so I will be out to race at the front when the time comes,' remarked Ollie after unofficial practice on Saturday afternoon".

A wet start on race day put the cat amongst the pigeons, but Ollie and the team coped well with the adverse conditions, scoring consistent qualifying heat finishes in 4th and 7th , notably driving from the rear of the 34 kart field to 7th in heat 2. This excellent drive ensured Ollie would start from grid 3 in the Grand Final, with a trio of former British champions also at the sharp end of the grid around him.

The circuit was too dry to run on wets in the Grand Final, but racing on slicks in low grip conditions would make this a tough test of skill for the drivers. For Ollie, the pressure of having to deal with racing amongst some of the UK's most acknowledged Karting stars would also be a mental challenge that he had never had to face so 'head on' in the past. The team at P1R made the final setting choices on the kart, and Ollie drove away from the grid knowing that in the next 15 minutes he could securely establish his credibility amongst the elite of British Karting.

As the lights went green, Ollie drove into 2nd at Turn 1, before pressuring and passing the leader and ex British champion Harvey at Turn 11. A red flag put pay to Ollies' chances of making a gap to his rivals, but he negotiated the restart perfectly, getting the most out of his tyres and pulling a 2 second margin over the field by lap 4. Concerted efforts were made by very experienced drivers behind, but the Wiltshire youngster held his nerve, and driving with supreme precision and nerves of steel, took the chequered flag in style.

Ollie would like to thank all of his partners for their tremendous support over the past 12 months, and now hopes to repay their faith in them with consistently strong results throughout his 2013 campaign, which undoubtedly encompasses some of the hardest Kart racing anywhere in Europe and the world. Special thanks go to Sam Smith at P1Racing, Ricky at Grice Engines, and OEP ltd.

You will soon be able to keep up to date with Ollies' career at www.olliepidgley.com, alongside being able to follow him on Twitter and Facebook.

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Beat The Freeze   (24/01)

With snow and freezing temperatures making productive testing nearly impossible, Fusion Motorsport are offering cadet competitors the perfect opportunity to test and develop their engines and effectively prepare for the new season.   
 
Throughout January and February, Fusion will be offering the first hour of dyno testing completely free with every half-day equipment preparation session booked.  This service is ideal for IAME competitors, looking to get an independent evaluation of their equipment and set their carbs.  With only just over 10 weeks until the start of the Championships, the race is on to find the optimum performance from the IAME and our independent controlled environment is the perfect place to do so.  Comer competitors can also benefit from our vast knowledge and datums from previous Championship winning engines.
 
As well as our accurate dyno facility, we can also offer first class chassis preparation using our surface table and measuring equipment, capable of checking castor and camber alignment and adjustment.  All these services carried out at our new facility next to Kimbolton circuit.
 
Please feel free to contact us on for more information and a full range of competitive prices on all of these services.

Telephone 07733 011221, email danhazlewood@me.com or visit our website at www.fusionmotorsport.co.uk.

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2013 X30 Chassis   (24/01)

GMS is delighted to announce the arrival of the stunning new X30 kart chassis.

The new evolution of the X30 chassis has been fully developed and built in the UK, with the major components now being manufactured by the world championship winning Gillard Karts.

The latest X30 model features a mixture of 30/32mm race tube. The front end incorporates the clever and easy to use Gillard steering geometry, which is one of the few steering systems which feature independent adjustment to either the castor or camber. At the rear it uses the slick and simple euro star braking system, which uses the floating 50mm brake disc.

The new kart retails at £2375 + Vat, which includes Gillard Full Magnesium wheels, 3 sets of Castor adjustors, full X30 body kit and a Tillett T11 Seat.

The team has started taking orders for the latest karts, and free chassis testing can be arranged by contacting the team directly (T&Cs apply).

For more information and details of the latest X30 call James or David on 01732 850858 Or visit the GMS website.

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KGP World Champ...   (23/01)

Precision Racing are delighted to announce the signing of KGP World Champion, three times TKM British Open Champion and TKM Festival Winner, Phil 'Smithy' Smith!
 
Phil will be joining the team in a technical capacity to help provide further expert driver coaching, setup advice along with mechanic services.
 
Having won multiple titles in various classes during his karting career, Phil has now moved up to the Clio Cup series for 2013 whilst retaining his link to karting through Precision Racing.

Previously in a driver capacity with the team in 2008/09, we achieved some great successes with Phil including twice winning the Gold Cup in TKM, the MBKC Championship twice, along with the lap record twice at Hooton Park.
 
Team Co-Owner Jake Coward offered his thoughts on the signing: "Having known Phil for such a long time its great to have him back in the team. He brings not only excellent technical knowledge around setup, he also the ability to effectively coach drivers of all ages and experience. It's great for us to have a World Champion in the awning and I'm sure our current and future drivers will benefit from it!"
 
The team currently still have limited availability for the 2013 season and are available at events across the UK at both Club and National level, so for your chance to benefit from the wealth of experience and proven pedigree in an affordable and professional atmosphere, please contact Jake or Carl at info@precisionracing.co.uk.  You can also visit our website at www.precisionracing.co.uk.

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Last Junior Max Place   (23/01)

Tooley Motorsport have announced that they have one place left in the Junior Max category. After clinching the British Championship in 2012 with Gunn, the team have proved themselves of being one of the best teams in the country yet again.

The team can provide an outfit that is capable of doing the double and winning S1, just give Andrew a ring for an informal chat or email for your quote today. Tests can be organised if needed.

Call now to avoid disappointment on 07851 228619.

Further information on the team is available at www.TooleyMotorsport.com.

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Super One Race Programme   (23/01)

Super One would like to give you the opportunity of advertising in the 2013 Super One programme. Your advert will be shown in the programme in both Super One series, 12 rounds in total and over 6000 copies. If you have not already seen a programme they are a high quality glossy booklet that goes direct to each driver and is also given at the gate at each event. It is not one that you would just throw away this is one people like to keep.

If you are in the karting industry you can not afford not to advertise in the programme as it is going direct to your potential customer.

The people who read the programme could range from all sorts of businesses and workplaces so its not just karting businesses that can advertise. All people need to have different services whether it ranges from renting a motor home to insurance or a solicitor or what ever you do.

The rates are for the whole season 12 rounds TKM, MSA and Rotax. Adverts start from £200 which is amazing value for one seasons advertising still at 2010 rates.
A5 - £200
A4 - £300
A4 x 2 - £500
Artwork from £65 - we take the hassle away.

Download more details and the specification for your advert.

For enquiries please contact 01928 740090 or 07774 646784, or email johnhoylejkh1@btinternet.com.

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Mechanic/Instructors Required   (23/01)

Due to recent expansion Racing Perfection have the following part time positions available:

 - Instructor positions for the company's Academy program within the Southampton and Brighton areas.
 - One mechanic position for the company's Kart team.
 
Instructors are required to have...
 - Proven history of competing successfully at national level Karting or Car racing or higher.
 - Very good communication skills.
 - Very good people skills.
 - Live within a sensible commuting distance of either Eastleigh or Lancing.
 - Available to work on Sunday mornings once a month.
 
Mechanic will need as a minimum...
 - Proven experience of working on Junior Rotax Max.
 - Very good communication skills.
 - Very good people skills.
 - Able to attend the 2013 Forest Edge race weekend dates.
 
Applications for either position should be sent to Steve Bell of Racing Perfection at steve.bell@racingperfection.co.uk.

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SaxMax Live 2013   (22/01)

The BARC are delighted to have the opportunity to take over the reins of the very competitive 2013 SaxMax Junior Championship for 14 to 17 year olds.
 
For those interested in competing, BARC is organising SaxMax Live over the February half term period. The event is designed to give this year's potential drivers - aged between 13 and 17 - the opportunity to experience the performance and thrill of a race-prepared Citroen Saxo as raced in the Club's SaxMax Championship. SaxMax Live events will take place at Blyton Park.
 
Fancy a change from karting? Then SaxMax Live is for you! You will drive in race prepared SaxMax hatchbacks at Blyton Park race circuit alongside a dedicated Clio Cup driver/instructor to guide you around the 7m wide circuit.
 
To book a place or for further detail please email info@saxmax.co.uk or call 0800 6126977.
 
The SaxMax championship takes place at major UK motor racing circuits including Brands Hatch and Silverstone, and is run with other BARC championships at its race meetings. There will be 13 rounds over 7 weekends in 2013.
 
Visit www.saxmax.co.uk or call 0800 6126977 for information on the championship.

For a dedicated SaxMax test day or 1-to-1 tuition see www.teamdynomite.co.uk, call us on 07817 416293, or email keith@teamdynomite.co.uk - arrive and drive packages are also available.

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Attention Rotax 177 Drivers   (22/01)

Want to race at race at more than one circuit but in one championship? Then the Rotax 177 Inter-Club Championship is the answer.
 
The aim of the championship is to provide affordable racing to bridge the gap between racing very small grids at club level and spending thousands racing at British championship level, as well as giving drivers the opportunity to enjoy the challenge of racing at more than one circuit.
 
The championship takes into account Forest Edge, Rye House, Shenington, Whilton Mill and Kimbolton with reduced entry fee rates being offered to encourage the championship in it's preliminary year.
 
If you would like to discuss any aspect of the championship further, please do not hesitate to contact either Matt Barnes on mattbarnes34@hotmail.co.uk or 07581 441478, or Alex Rowley on alexrowley@live.co.uk or 07545 570067.

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Best Event In 2012 Award   (22/01)

The CIK-FIA awarded their top Championship drivers from 2012 last weekend at their annual presentation in Paris.
 
The evening was opened by the President of the FIA, Jean Todt, who welcomed the 175 guests to the spectacular gala event.
 
Over 30 drivers were awarded, amongst them several drivers from the UK - congratulations to you all!
 
There were also three special awards given out that evening - one of them being for 'Best Event of the 2012 CIK-FIA Championship Season'.  We are very honoured to announce that PF International Kart Circuit was given this special accolade in recognition for the final round of the 2012 CIK-FIA European KF2 & KF3 Championship which was staged at the legendary circuit back in July.
 
Circuit owner, Paul Fletcher, attended the evening and was presented with the trophy by the President of the CIK-FIA, Shaikh Abdulla.
 
Trent Valley Kart Club's Chairman, Nigel Edwards also attending the prestigious occasion and commented "An absolute 100% endorsement from the highest level that the PFI facility (and the TVKC organisation) is the best in the World!  Paul deserves a massive thank you for his undiminished support of Karting both in drive, enthusiasm and financial support - he has made PFI a 'World Leader' in our great sport of Karting - bring on the 2013 CIK-FIA KF World Championships!"
 
The pairing of PFi and TVKC are set to host the 2013 CIK-FIA KF World Championship from 28th August - 1st September and will, no doubt, be out to impress once again.

Photograph courtesy of Chris Walker/Kartpix.net.

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Pre-S1 Awning Space   (21/01)

Racing at Wigan or GYG before Super one? Need awning space?

DND Motorsport will be attending all the pre-Super One rounds at both Wigan and GYG, and we currently have a few spaces available in the awning at just £50 per day.

If interested please contact us on 07999 979812, 07535 645730, or email us at DNDMotorsport@gmail.com.

For more information on the team and to try our new online shop visit www.DNDMotorsport.com.

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X30 Conquers The OEKC   (21/01)

The GMS team marches into the 2013 season on the back of its most successful year to date for the X30 chassis in the OEKC, one of the UK's most major endurance championships.

Dominating the series from start to finish, the X30-supplied teams took the championship title, the endurance 'O' Plate victory and 5 of the top 6 positions in the overall standings!

Team Owner David Griffiths was delighted with the 2012 results, saying "It's been a great year for the team, a 90% win rate with 5 different teams is a huge result for us. In the next 12 months we aim to go for 100%".
 
With the X30 proving a perfect combination of speed and longevity to dominate the series, GMS are again offering a full arrive-and-drive package for each event.

With the series growing massively each year, it provides one of the fastest and most enjoyable Karting challenges available. 2012 saw the Series average around 24 Rotax powered karts at each round, whilst the 2013 grid looks to be even stronger.

For more information about the X30 Kart, OEKC series or the team visit the GMS website at www.gms-x30.co.uk.

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New Online Shop   (21/01)

DND Motorsport are happy announce that our new online shop is now fully up and running. Online you will find an extensive range of karting goods, all of which are in stock ready for same day dispatch if ordered before 3pm.

We stock...
Sprocket and chains,
Oils lubricants and cleaners,
IPK and OTK chassis parts,
Rotax and TKM engine parts,
Tyres and much, much more.

As a company we are always growing, and new product lines are added monthly, so why not give us a try - visit www.DNDMotorsport.com.

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MSA Night Of Champions   (21/01)

The Motor Sports Association (MSA) crowned the 2012 British motor sport champions at its prestigious Night of Champions ceremony at the Royal Automobile Club in London on Saturday 19 January.
 
Broadcaster Steve Rider acted as Master of Ceremonies, while MSA Chairman Alan Gow and David Brabham, the former F1 driver and Le Mans 24 Hours winner, presented the trophies.
 
Special awards were also presented by JLT Specialty COO Warren Downey, Renault UK Communications Director Jeremy Townsend, Racing Steps Foundation's Derek Walters, Lord Rooker, and MSA Chief Executive Colin Hilton.
 
MSA Chief Executive, Colin Hilton, said: "The Night of Champions is our opportunity to honour those who excelled in their chosen motor sport disciplines last year, and we also pay tribute to the clubs, marshals and others who do so much for our sport at every level. Every year it is heartening to see the breadth and depth of British motor sport and remind ourselves why this is one area in which we genuinely lead the rest of the world."
 
The Champions honoured on the night were:
MSA British Cadet Kart Championship: Dean MacDonld, from Kelty in Fife.
MSA British Junior Kart Championship & Mark W Hines Memorial Trophy: Alex Gill, from Doncaster in South Yorkshire.
MSA British Short Circuit Kart Championship: Ben Barnicoat, from Chesterfield in Derbyshire.
MSA British Long Circuit Kart Championship: Paul Platt, from Warrington in Cheshire.
MSA British Autocross Championship: Daniel Rooke, from Holsworthy in Devon.
MSA British Autotest Championship: Steven Ferguson, from County Tyrone in Northern Ireland.
MSA British Car Trial Championship: John Moffatt, from Malvern in Worcestershire.
MSA British Sporting Trials Championship: Thomas Bricknell, from Bodmin in Cornwall.
MSA British Drag Racing Championship: Roger Moore, from Chelmsford in Essex.
MSA British Sprint Championship: Stewart Robb Snr, from Blair Drummond in Stirling.
MSA British Hill Climb Championship: Trevor Willis, from Worcester in Worcestershire.
MSA British Rallycross Championship: Julian Godfrey, from Heathfield in East Sussex.
MSA British Cross Country Championship: Ian Rochelle & Chris Hammond, from Bridgnorth in Shropshire.
MSA British Historic Rally Championship: Julian Reynolds & Patrick Walsh, from Dyfed in Wales.
MSA British Junior Rally Championship: Garry Pearson, from Duns in Berwickshire.
MSA British Manufacturers Rally Championship: Citroen UK.
MSA British Rally Championship: Keith Cronin & Marshall Clarke, from Cork in Ireland & Enniskillen in Northern Ireland.
MSA British Endurance Championship: Richard Adams, David Green & Martin Byford, from Derby, London & Colchester.
British GT Championship: Daniele Perfetti & Michael Caine, from London and Coberton in Cambridge.
British Formula 3 International Series: Jack Harvey, from Bassingham in Lincolnshire.
MSA British Touring Car Championship Manufacturer: Honda.
MSA British Touring Car Championship: Gordon Shedden, from Dunfermline in Fife.
 
There was also a series of special awards:
JLT MSA Club of the Year: Shenington Kart Racing Club.
JLT MSA Marshal of the Year: Stephen O'Neill, from Magherafelt in Northern Ireland.
Renault MSA Young Motor Sport Journalist of the Year: Jason Craig, from Co. Antrim in Northern Ireland.
Renault MSA Young Motor Sport Photographer of the Year: Nick Dungan, from Tonbridge in Kent.
BWRDC Lord Wakefield Trophy: Susie Wolff, from Oban in Scotland.
RSF MSA Young Driver of the Year: Chris Ingram, from Stockport.
MSA Environmental Award: Lord Paul Drayson, from London.

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Super One Reserved Parking   (18/01)

With competitors' registrations well on the way, now is the time for the teams to register with the Super One Series for reserved parking. Only registered teams are permitted to operate at the series and they will have privileged access to the circuits from 0900 and 1300 on the Thursday's before the race weekends along with their registered personnel. The hosting clubs will be given full details of the registered teams and those not on the list will not have access at these times.

Payment for registrations can be made by cheque or card, or by prize vouchers for goods redeemable in 2014. Each registration grants a pit area of 8 x 6 metre reserved area.
 
The registration forms can now be found on the Super One website by clicking on Contacts and then Downloads, or go to http://superoneseries.com/downloads.

If teams still have competitors requiring registrations or reserving places please urgently use the online service on the website, or download the forms.

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2013 KF & KF2/3 'O' Plate   (18/01)

The KF & KFJ (KF2 & KF3) 'O' Plate for 2013 at Glan Y Gors Park is now to be held on the 11th & 12th May.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to be a KF Open Champion!
 
KF Classes are welcome to enter Dragon Kart Club race meetings prior to the event.

All Club race meetings and test days are advertised on our website or join our Facebook for update information at facebook.com/gygkarting.

'O' Plate details and entry forms will be available on the website from February.
 
The Dragon Kart Club Championship Round 1 is the 10th February 2013. Online membership and race entries are now available.
 
Visit www.dragonkartclub.com, email info@dragonkartclub.com, or telephone Tracey Davies on 01490 420770.

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Super One TKM Series   (18/01)