Bournemouth race track South Coast Karting have set up championships to encourage future youth participation in motorsport.
The track, which is based at Chapel Gate, specialises in rental karting, providing an opportunity for those who may wish to experience the hobby but are held back due to the cost of the sport.
They run open races every Saturday, aimed at those both with and without experience, comprising of Grands Prix for individuals, and team races.
Within the team options, there are a number of races including an Enduro 60, exclusive Grand Prix, and an exclusive Mini Prix – all available to those in groups ranging from two to 26 drivers.
The aim of these is to encourage participation within karting for those who may have never picked up the sport before, with the track even providing karts, fuel, crash helmets, race suits, and gloves to all participants.
In addition to the open races, the track also runs a series of championships aimed at adults, juniors aged between 12 and 16, and cadets aged between eight and 12.
Drivers can enter for a fee of £69, and no experience is required – but those wishing to take part need to attend a timed session, to demonstrate they can drive in a safe and consistent manner.
The layout of the championship for cadets and juniors is the same; a six-minute practice session, before four minutes of qualifying and an eight-minute pre-final.
For the adults, each round consists of a five-minute practice which rolls into three minutes of qualifying – before heading into two 10-minute heats.
All championship rounds conclude with a 12-minute final race, and a trophy presentation for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd placed drivers.
South Coast Karting Director, George Lovell, commented on the programmes.
He said: “Our cadet and junior championships provide an accessible introduction into the world of motorsport.
“This option offers an easy way for newcomers to dip their toes in the water, and discover whether karting is for them, without the hassle and expense of owning a kart.”
Lovell also mentioned rental karting could be beneficial for those who wish to pursue a future in motorsport but are wary of the cost, stating financing the hobby was one of the main ‘limiting factors’.
He said: “This dynamic raises the level of competition in rental karting, as some participants are highly experienced but may lack the financial means to take the next step.”
All dates and times for these sessions can be found on the South Coast Karting website.
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