Getting started in kids kart racing
Joining us as a club driver
There are lots of phrases that get thrown around within motorsport - for us, the main one is class. Generally, a motorsport class defines the type of vehicle you are driving - so for karting this means the chassis size or engine type of the kart. Kart classes are named numerically, so we have Class 4, Class 7, Class 11 etc - when starting out most likely your driver will be Class 4 (for smaller 'cadet' drivers, aged 8-12), or Class 11 - there are other options but these are the norm.
We have a long experience of working with Honda engines - they are super reliable, small four-stroke engines - almost identical to many lawn mowers. Our club karts are focussed on them - this is also the reason that most drivers will start in Class 4 or Class 11 - they are Honda classes.
You can start driving with us from the age of 8, right up until 18. Due to popularity and the amount of equipment we own, there can however be a waiting list. How long depends on the driver's age (ie: what Class they will enter), and what equipment we have available at the time. If you have your own equipment, you can join right away!
Costs for entering motorsport can be prohibitive, however we try to keep access available to as many kids as possible. The more competitive you get, the more you will likely want to spend... As a guide though, membership fees for the year with us are just £55, plus you will need to pay for each race meeting you attend (the quantity is up to you, there is no obligation) - these meetings cost £70 each (plus £25 if you don't have kart transportation like a van/trailer). In addition really the only other thing you will need is fuel - which will only be about £5 per meeting.
One of the major benefits that joining the team can bring is that we are able to lend you all the equipment you will need to participate. This includes not only the kart, but also helmet, suit, boots, gloves - as well as transport to/from the circuit. Ideally we try to limit the length of this loan to around 6 months - this way we can then offer other new drivers a chance to try the sport.
When it comes to racing, we participate only in Motorsport UK permitted meetings, who govern virtually all competitive motorsports events in the UK. Predominately we compete in the national schools karting series (NatSKA) which aims to 'get kids in karts' and fits with our grass-roots approach.
As you get started, on circuit you will be known as a novice - and may have a visible 'N' on the rear of your kart (depending on which Class you drive in). Novice drivers are not pushed or pressured in any way - they do not officially race, and have dedicated track time to allow them to become comfortable behind the wheel, without the pressure of competition. If you want to drive fast, you can - the purpose of the few Novice sessions you are obliged to partipate in (perhaps only 4) is to ensure capability and safety. If you're safe and happy to, you can go racing!
As well as driving on circuit, drivers are expected to understand and follow a variety of other skills. Training is provided, and exposure to marshalling is a key experience that all drivers have. Knowledge of the various racing flags, driving safely with respect to other drivers and circuit marshalls, as well as following various rules & regulations present in motorsport. These are key traits that stand drivers in good stead for life.
Many top motorsport drivers (including Lewis, Lando and George) started out in karting. It instills positive character attributes, but also helps create strong friendship bonds with drivers from all over the country - perhaps even further. This in turn (hopefully with some competition sucess!) builds confidence, and we have the great pleasure of seeing them grow - both in height, in speed, and in character.