A Need for Speed: Go-Karting in the Fast Lane

The Amazing Race

On go-karts, the gas pedal is to the right and the brake is to the left. This is very important to remember when navigating the twists and turns of the course. While speed is vital to come out on top in go-kart racing, it is also important to remember when to use the brakes. The first time around the course is generally marked by a fair amount of skidding, as new drivers try to keep up with the more experienced racers.

Concentrating only on acceleration is a mistake, and must be accompanied by strategic use of the brakes, as well as sharp and concise steering.

The roar of the tiny engine and the smell of skidding tires are ridiculously alluring to even the skeptic. In this case, skepticism was put to rest only after Crystal smashed into Nadia’s kart and spun wildly out of control. After this encounter, she couldn’t banish the huge grin from her face.

The mutual errors in steering enabled both drivers to gain more control over the karts, since one never truly learns without taking a few educational spills. The pure joy of the race cannot be fully experienced until the driver learns how to pass a fellow competitor.

Helping Drivers one Race at a Time

Go-karting can also help the typical driver. According to some of the experienced racers–most of whom also race cars in their spare time–learning how to manipulate the kart lessens the margin of error for drivers on regular roads. It is especially helpful when faced with aggressive Northern Virginia driving.

With appropriate training, even children can get involved in this sport. In order to drive at Allsports Grand Prix and most other go-karting facilities, one must have a driver’s license. However there are junior programs that host classes that allow children as young as eight years old to gain certification and approval from instructors, allowing them to drive with the big boys and girls.

This sport is also a great family activity. Mom and Dad can compete with their children in a fun sport that will bring the whole family together, discussing merits and strategy for a win on the track. It is also a fairly safe sport, as long as each person adheres to the rules and precautions.

Racer Safety Precautions

There are a few things that a driver must have in order for a safe race before they even enter the kart. Each driver must attend a driver safety meeting where they learn the rules of the course and the safety flags–for themselves and the other racers.

The drivers also use safety gear, such as:

• Full body race jumpsuit
• Cotton head sock
• Protective gloves
• Safety-certified helmet
• Neck brace

Each racer is responsible for bringing closed-toed shoes. Flip-flops and open-toed shoes are not permitted.Racers must show a valid drivers license in order to race, and younger enthusiasts must complete Allsports Grand Prix’s K.I.D.S Program and receive their Junior Race license. Allsports Grand Prix has a no tolerance police on alcohol or drug use.

Go Karts are not like bumper cars at an amusement park, so bumping and blocking other racers or running into walls is strictly prohibited. If a racer bumps or blocks another racer, a warning is given; warnings can result in a 20-second sit-out, or even removal from the event.

Race Formats and Pricing

There are three main types of race formats at Allsports Grand Prix in Sterling: the Arrive and Drive, Sprint Heat Racing, and Mini Grand Prix/Team racing.

The Arrive and Drive is an eight minute race open to the public when not reserved, where one races against the clock or other drivers.

The Sprint Heat Racing format consists of a series of mini races, with a warm-up lap and a standing grid start. It also includes a cool-down lap and a pit stop.

Finally, there is Mini Grand Prix/Team Racing, consisting of 40 laps with a minimum of eight racers, one per kart. The team racing consists of 120 laps with a minimum of 16 racers, two per kart. Both the Mini Grand Prix and Team Racing have a qualifying race to place the drivers in their start position.

Allsports Grand Prix membership benefits include:

• A free Arrive and Drive session
• Allsports Grand Prix t-shirt
• Discounted racing
• One free Arrive and Drive on your birthday

For more information contact Allsports Grand Prix in Sterling at www.allsportsgp.com.

For more tips and video highlights, visit www.Loudouni.com or join the discussion at the Extreme Team on Facebook (search Extreme Team- Loudoun Independent.)