What to expect from karting

Back at the pits, someone should come round with a transponder. This is a little black box that tracks lap times, and it needs to be cable-tied securely to the back of the seat. Without it, you won’t show up on the timing screens, and nobody wants to go "invisible" on race day.

Before things kick off, take a walk of the track—ideally with someone who knows it well. It’s a great way to get a feel for the layout, especially if it's your first time at this particular circuit. Take note of key corners, marshal posts, and any areas that look like they might get slippery if the weather turns. If it's already damp, look for patches that seem extra slick.

At some point in the morning, there’ll be a paddock briefing. This is compulsory for everyone—drivers and parents alike. They’ll explain the schedule, safety notes, and importantly, when and where engines can be started. Typically, you’re only allowed to start the kart on the ground, with the rear wheels lifted, and only once the driver is seated, helmet on. Starting the kart on the stand is a big no-no, and some venues restrict engine starts to certain zones in the paddock.

Now for the day’s structure. It usually follows a repeating order based on kart class, and you can find the final timetable online at www.motorsport-timing.co.uk. Generally, it starts with Class 12 and 14, followed by the two-stroke machines in Class 7 and 8, then Class 11 Hondas, the speedy Rotax karts in Class 15, the Honda novices (Class 11 and 14 Novice), and finally the Cadet karts in Class 1 and 4. This order runs on a loop throughout the day, with a break for lunch in the middle.

Each driver gets one round of practice and four heats, unless they’re a novice—in which case it’s typically four rounds of practice instead of races. There are rarely any loud announcements calling you to the grid, so you’ll need to keep an eye on the action. A good rule is to start prepping about one or two races before your class is due out. If you’re supporting a Honda novice, get ready once the Rotax karts start heading out.

Once it’s your turn, you’ll join the queue for the grid. When the race before you heads out, you’ll be invited forward. At that point, lift the kart off the trolley onto the grid and move the trolley to the designated trolley park. For practice, you can line up in any position, but for heats, each kart has an assigned grid spot. You’ll find your position on laminated sheets near the grid, online, or you can simply ask the grid marshal.

With the kart on the ground and in position, make sure the driver’s helmet is securely fastened, gloves are on, and they’re ready to go. Most people start engines just as the last lap of the current race is shown—don’t worry, you’ll hear the roar of others doing the same. When the previous race ends, the marshal will wave a green flag and call “Start your engines!” If yours is already purring, you’re ahead of the game. Then, the marshal will signal for karts to head out onto the track.

During practice, the karts will go straight out and begin their laps. For races, drivers will do a slow formation lap in two parallel lines, maintaining position until they reach the start-finish line. If the lights go out, that’s the signal—the race is on!

There are plenty of great spots around the circuit for spectating, and you can follow the action live on your phone via motorsport-timing.co.uk.

After each heat, the karts return to Parc Fermé. You’ll be invited in once the scrutineers give the go-ahead. Then it’s time to lift the kart back onto the stand and return to the team awning. Have a chat with the driver—how did it go? Anything feel off?

If the kart didn’t finish due to a mechanical issue or a crash, you can’t collect it immediately. The driver will usually be directed to a marshal post where they’ll wait (helmet still on) until a break in the schedule—usually after the next Class 1 and 4 session. You can ask the grid marshal when you’ll be allowed onto the track. If the kart is far from the finish line, there might be a closer access gate. But remember: never go onto the track without permission. Once you’re given the green light, take the trolley out, load the kart, and get off the track as quickly and safely as possible. Back at the pits, inspect the kart for damage, top up fuel, and make any necessary repairs.