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Writer's pictureShane Burke

Kart Club Racing: When the Fun Stops and the Competition Takes Over


Karting is a fun and exciting activity that is enjoyed by people of all ages. It's a great way to get your adrenaline pumping and to make great memories for the years too come. However, in recent years, some Karting events have become too serious, and the fun factor has been lost.


I'll firstly say this isn't a dig at certain people or championships, it's just in general which even includes Karting in the United Kingdom.


It's important to understand that Karting is a competitive sport. Competitors are looking to win, and that means taking the racing seriously. But there is a fine line between competition and taking the fun out of it. Unfortunately, some club events have crossed that line. I'm fine with racing being serious in top national championships but club events have crossed the line here and across the waters.


One of the main reasons why club events has become too serious is the pressure that young racers are under. Parents are investing a lot of time and money into their children's racing, and this puts a lot of pressure on them to perform. As a result, young racers can become overly competitive and lose sight of the fact that it's supposed to be fun.

Another factor that contributes to the seriousness of Karting is the focus on winning at all costs. Racers are often willing to do whatever it takes to win, even if it means breaking the rules or engaging in unsportsmanlike behavior. This type of behavior not only ruins the fun for other racers but also sends a negative message to young people who are watching.

It's not just about the driver's skill anymore; it's also about the equipment they use. As a result, some racers are spending a lot of money to get the latest and greatest equipment, which puts those who can't afford it at a disadvantage.


The seriousness of Karting at club events has also affected the overall atmosphere of the events. Instead of being a fun and friendly environment where people can come together to enjoy the sport, it has become a tense and competitive atmosphere. This can make it difficult for new racers to get involved and for veterans to enjoy the experience.

So, what can be done to bring the fun back to club races? First and foremost, parents and racers need to remember why they started racing in the first place – because it's fun. Winning is great, but it's not everything. It's important to remember that the friendships and memories made on the track are just as important as the trophies.


In addition, race organizers can take steps to promote a more friendly and relaxed atmosphere at events. They can discourage unsportsmanlike behavior and emphasize the importance of fair play. They can also create opportunities for racers to socialize and get to know each other outside of the race track.



In conclusion, Karting is a competitive sport, but it should never lose sight of the fact that it's supposed to be fun. Racers and parents need to remember why they started racing in the first place, and organizers need to promote a more friendly and relaxed atmosphere. By doing so, we can bring the fun back to club events and ensure that it remains a sport that everyone can enjoy.

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