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Keep up-to-date with what's happening in the sport in our news section. Full articles are shown below, for a summary of the news be sure to start at the main index page of KartKart. If you have any news, press releases or information you would like to contribute, E-mail us at news@kartkart.com 2006
JORDON JOINS OLIVER
Zip Kart is delighted to announce that Jordon Lennox-Lamb has been confirmed in the Zip Young Guns team for the 2007 season. Team principle Martin Hines commented "We are very excited to have Jordon join our JICA team for 2007. His performances in the winter series illustrate just how well he has bonded with the team." Jordon will contest both the British and European championships alongside Oliver Rowland, Mark and Thomas Balmer, Nick Cristofaro and Kabir Gillani, all members of the formidable Zip Young Guns team. (28/01) Max legend Simpson joins Birel
Reigning Super 1 Rotax Max champion, Mike Simpson has made a shock switch to Birel Motorsport. Onlookers at PFi this weekend (20/21 January) were stunned when the former works Gillard driver arrived in the paddock wearing a Birel racesuit and coat. With a deal done late on Friday evening, Simpson’s new team had a race against the clock to build a new chassis overnight, in time for Saturday practice. Despite being completely unfamiliar with the kart, Mike demonstrated his talent and the RX32 SV’s promise by topping the timesheets. “The kart was fantastic” he beamed. “It’s got a lot of turn in. We were quickly able to dial it in and get right on the pace.” On Sunday the two-time champion won both his heats, and duly qualified on pole for the final. Whilst in the lead, Simpson was pushed off the circuit by eventual winner John Boyd. Powering back to 3rd, Mike claimed the fastest lap - but sadly was unable to deliver a dream debut victory. “It’s such a pity that I couldn’t give the team the win today - but it’s a brilliant start to the year. The kart’s good, no doubt about it. A few people have said to me that the Birel’s not suited to Max, but I’ve just proved that’s ridiculous. This is an excellent kart.” UK Birel importer, Andy Cox, was also delighted, “We’re ecstatic that Mike’s finally going to drive for us. I’m a huge fan of his and it’s taken me four years to land his signature. Now, at long last, he’s going to represent our product at the highest level.” On Thursday (25 January), Simpson flies to Birel’s base at Lissone (near Milan) to sign the papers that will also make him an official driver with the factory team – Mike says “This shows Birel’s commitment to the Max class. Arguably, they’ve taken a little time to warm to it but you’ll soon see just how dedicated they are now. Mike Wilson and Ronni Sala both told me what they want to achieve and how they see me playing a big part in those plans. I want to further my career, contest the Euro Max series and help Birel to develop the RX32 SV into a world-beating Max chassis. Birel is the perfect place for me to do that and racing for them is a dream come true.” In 2007 Mike Simpson will contest the British S1 and Euro Max series. As part of Birel’s commitment to help and support their customers, set-up advice and data can be acquired from Birel in Italy, ACR in England - and now from Team Simpson at the trackside. For more information about the Birel and the RX32
SV visit www.birel.it or www.andycoxracing.co.uk
(23/01) WSK Update
Latest News here Click Here To Read (15/01) We would like to Congratulate Joe Flay and his Equipe Vitesse Team for Winning the Autosport 24 Kart Race on 11th/12th January 2007. WELL DONE!
Equipe vitesse have won the prestigious Autosport 24 hour kart race at the NEC Birmingham by 10 laps when running 5th for most of the race due to a few niggling problems in the first few hours. The team worked there way up the leader board and finally took the lead in the 18th hour and for the next six hours were never headed. The race and achievements of the team are to be the subject of a listing in the Guinness book of records for the most laps ever to HAVE been completed in a motorsport Race. Joe Flay Details of the event and photographs will shortly be on our website www.djmotorsport.co.uk For details of Le Mans/Equipe Vitesse Karting
please see, www.24heuresdumans.co.uk (15/01) Those Magnificent Men in their low-Flying Machines…
Kart racers take on motor stars in dash for cash The story of the classic film (with a similar name) centred on an air-race to win a big cash prize. It involved cheating, feats of derring-do and poking fun at certain stereotypes. It’s ironic then, that the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance team entered for the Racing 4 Charity indoor kart endurance at Autosport International (Friday 12 January, NEC, Birmingham), are being called ‘Those Magnificent Men.’ “I dunno who’ll be the Terry Thomas character - but with touring car drivers out there we can certainly expect some dodgy tactics and rough stuff” jokes team-captain and WNAA ambassador, Jamie Croxford. But does the Northampton-born Birel ace reckon that his team stands a chance against big names like GT wizard David Brabham, DTM star Jamie Green and McLaren F1 test driver Gary Paffett? “Well, we’ve put a team together to win it” he says. So who’s he called in to help? From the works Tony Kart team, Gary Catt and Will Stevens will be mean in green. The fourth man, the ‘public driver’ will be Daniel Lloyd. Don’t let the ‘public’ tag fool you. Lloyd is of course the Daniel Lloyd – one of Britain’s top Junior Rotax racers. He’s fast, confident and, like Will, a youngster who many think has a great future ahead of him. Jamie says “Obviously luck plays a big part and we’re up against some very good drivers, some of whom are ex-karters too. But without wishing to sound too cocky, this is what Gary, Will, Daniel and I do – race karts! I know these touring car boys like a bit of door-handling but in karting we can mix it too – karters often say, ‘if you ain’t rubbin’, you ain’t racin! We want to win.” WNAA director, Andy Williamson explains why the
win – and the £3,000 prize fund - is so important
to them, “It costs about £3,500 for just one day’s
flying. We’re normally called out 5 or 6 times a day but
it can be up to 15. The chances are, that at least 1 life will
be saved during one of those – that’s the effect that
money could have.” Taylor sews up Oakley deal!
JICA star wins sponsorship from major clothing company One of the world’s most iconic brands has chosen Mackenzie Taylor to be their latest sporting ambassador. Famous for their skate, snow and surf wear, Oakley’s trademark blend of laid-back style meets high-tech performance is now ready to hit the world of karting – courtesy of Super Mack. “It’s a massive brand!” he beams “It’s going to be great, I’m going to have the coolest gear at the track - everything from t-shirts and sunglasses to jackets, jumpers, jeans!” And not only will the 14-year old look good in the paddock, he’ll also look good on the track - in his Oakley race boots and gloves. “I’ll also be helping to develop their racewear products, which is really exciting. I’ll get to have a say in how things are designed, to help make the very best gear on available.” The teenagers’ Zanardi boss Kieran Crawley added, “Oakley wants to target the grass roots of the sport – and, like Mackenzie, Oakley is aiming to be at the forefront of karting and motor racing. With his ability and his cheeky personality, he’s the perfect person to represent them.”
Life begins at 40?
Well, 35 actually - because that’s the minimum age for the Dadson Masters series. The 2007 championship - Britain’s premier series for Rotax Max racers of more ‘mature’ years - is set to be even bigger and better than before, with more drivers and new circuits. This will be the sixth year the Dadson championship has run - series co-ordinator and title-sponsor, Dadson Motorsport’s Dannie Pennell says “When you turn 16, you become a senior but that doesn’t mean that you become more mindful of crashing into people. A lot of guys of our age have to go to work on a Monday morning, so we created a series with that in mind. The racing’s hard, fast and committed - but we all know and respect each other. And what’s more, the camaraderie amongst the drivers is phenomenal. Honestly, you won’t see anything like it, in any other series.” This year Dadson returns to Llandow, Rowrah and, for the first time, will visit Shenington. Not surprisingly, registrations are already up year-on-year. “I think we’re in for a fantastic season. Rowrah’s such a good circuit and with Shenington being a regular on the Super 1 calendar, I know we’ll see a big grid for that race. Llandow’s a good circuit too and because it’s in Wales, it gives us international status too!” With big grids at every round and someone to race - whatever your ability - the Dadson is now one of Britain’s most popular championships. Dannie will be at Autosport International (on Saturday13th and Sunday 14th) to answer questions and register interested drivers. And for the first time this year, Dadson will also be bringing Dartford Karting’s legendary parts service, to the trackside. “You know what it’s like when you’re racing, you always need some part or other but when you’re at Rowrah, you can’t just nip into Dartford to get it. Martin (Collard, owner of Dartford Karting) and I decided to bring a version of the shop and website (www.kartstore.co.uk) to the circuits. Add to that our driver services, awning space, race prep’ etc and we really are offering the most complete package – brilliant racing, value for money parts, even a mechanic if you need one!” See Dannie on stand K940, in the karting area at Autosport International, Saturday 13 / Sunday 14 January at the NEC, Birmingham. But f you can’t make it to Birmingham, visit www.dadsonmotorsport.co.uk or call Dadson Motorsport on 01708 252 900. Go on, do the Dadson! MAGURA - BRAKE-BUSTERS!
Everything brake related you could possibly want to buy… Who you gonna see? What you gonna buy? MAGURA!
It’s your chance to get your hands on the legendary Magura 908 kart brake system, and talk to the blokes behind it. The Magura is the brake that - frankly too many drivers to list - were fitting in 2006, and finding it helped them to break lap records and win races. Everybody knows by now that the 908.1 gives you more controlled, much later braking – meaning more speed and a better podium place. And now – because the lovely people at Magura
listen very carefully to what you want and need - there’s
a new version of the 908.1 which is perfect for the TKM 2-stroke
classes. MILES MARONEY CONCLUDES SKIP BARBER RACING SCHOOL
Day one arrived with torrential rains in the early morning hours setting up an excellent opportunity to gain valuable experience for car control in the wet. All of this was new to Miles, who was taking his first ever runs in a full sized formula race car with a standard transmission, big car mass, right foot braking, heel/toe shifting with a clutch and of course “mirrors”. Day one continued as the rains subsided and Miles got comfortable with threshold braking and downshifting drills. The final two days were run under blue skies and perfect track conditions. Miles took to the formula car with a comfort level far beyond his years and when asked if he was having fun he replied, “I’m driving a race car through the corkscrew at Laguna Seca, what’s more fun than that!,” which sums up the entire experience. Miles logged many laps around the legendary racetrack that has seen the likes of Champ Car, F1 cars and many major stars of motor sport. By the third day, Miles was able to concentrate on his technique at speed; applying lessons learned from the instructors and completed the school with an entirely new focus for the future in formula cars. Miles will continue throughout the 2007 season to test and gain additional experience in formula cars with an eye on moving up when the time is proper … In the meantime, Miles focus remains on contesting for wins and Championships in Stars, IKF, WKA and Rotax Karting series across North America and perhaps Europe in the summer of 2007. For additional information, contact Miles at milesmaroney@earthlink.net
or 818 312-6536. GOODWOOD KARTWAYS: EXCLUSIVE CANADIAN IMPORTER OFthe THE INTREPID PRODUCT LINE
“Full line of Intrepid Karts available at Goodwood Kartways”
Stouffville, Ontario. – January 3, 2007 – Daniel Di Leo, President of Goodwood Kartsport is pleased to announce that Goodwood Kartways will be the Canadian importer for the Intrepid product line. The facility has already received its first shipment of karts and will be on track within one week’s time at the first round of the Florida Winter Tour at Homestead Miami Speedway.
“I am very excited of the direction we are heading in” stated Di Leo from the track he operates just outside Toronto, Ontario. “Goodwood Kartways is continuously growing. With the addition of our Canadian Rookie Karting Championship last season and now introducing our very own product line, we feel that we are working towards our goal of becoming one of Canada’s finest training facilities. Intrepid has performed well worldwide and we are excited to get the 2007 season started.”
Along with Intrepid Karts, Goodwood Kartways will continue to develop and expand the F4-K 4-cycle chassis that brought them success last season.
“Competing and winning at the Florida Winter Tour and the Sunoco Ron Fellows Karting Championship (SRFKC) is our goal for 2007,” explained Team Manager Marco Di Leo. “The decision to switch our whole operation to Intrepid was the right move for us and we look forward to bringing the factory success throughout Canada. Driver positions for the Florida Winter tour and SRFKC are still available and interested parties are urged to contact Goodwood Kartways.”
More announcements regarding future plans of Goodwood Kartways will be forthcoming. Stay tuned for details.
For more information on Goodwood Kartways and
the Goodwood Kartsport Race Team, please contact Goodwood Kartways
at 905.640.KART (5278) or visit them online at www.GoodwoodKartways.com Dear Drivers
Hope you and your families had a good Christmas.
The 2006 season is now completed and the winners are as follows – Congratulations to you all.
Club Pro 390 Challenge 2006 1st Steve Hall 2nd Norman Kenvyn 3rd Haydn Brown
Enduroseries 2006 1st Nip & Tuck (Joe Flay & Haydn Brown) 2nd Dogz (Russell Crowe & Roy Sinclair) 3rd Senna-Sational (Chris Gray & Richie Symons)
The awards evening will be held on Saturday 27th January 2007 at the Ramada Hotel. Everyone is welcome. Please complete and return the Ticket Reservation Form by Monday 8th January 2007. (please follow link www.djmotorsport.co.uk/Reports/sevent4.pdf) Hotel Details are ;- Ramada Hotel, Hollingbourne, Nr Maidstone, Kent, ME17 1RE (formally Great Danes Hotel) Tel: Chris Pullman has obtained a discount for the rooms. Double Room £80.00 bed & breakfast (normally £109) Single Room £40.00 bed & breakfast. Due to the discount you have to pre-pay in advance and this is non-refundable. Please quote Buckmore Park awards evening when booking. (please let me know if/when you book – thanks)
May we take this opportunity in thanking you all for supporting us again in 2006 and we look forward to seeing you in 2007 for another great years racing. All details, dates, format and prices are on our website www.djmotorsport.co.uk
Wishing you and your families a very Happy New Year. (03/01) A Tenner for Jenna
Invest in rising Rotax star – for just ten pounds! As a Personal Banker for Barclays, she’s well accustomed to handling money – but away from the office, 18 year-old Jenna Dackombe from Ewell, Surrey is just like any other racer and needs cash for karting too. In 2006 she clinched 4th place in Bayford Meadow Kart Club’s hotly contested Senior Rotax championship – and on 17th December, Jenna gave herself an early Christmas present by beating more than 20 of the UK’s best drivers to take 3rd place in a Buckmore Park club race. She followed that up with a hard-fought 4th place at Bayford, to move into contention in the Sittingbourne club’s Winter Championship. And because kart racing is expensive, Jenna’s come up with a unique way of funding her karting career – A Tenner for Jenna.
The more squares you buy, the bigger your presence on the site – and there will also be a link to your own website.
So where did she get the idea from? – “I heard about this website in America called The Million Dollar Webpage, where this guy sold each pixel on his website - people went mad for it, advertisers loved it and he made loads of money … so I thought I’d give it a go!” To find out more, or to buy a square and support
A Tenner for Jenna - tenner@jennadackombe.com Ben Constanduros has confirmed he will again present the MotorsTV
Ben Constanduros and Samantha Park Ben Constanduros has confirmed
he will again present the MotorsTV UK Karting Challenge for PSC
Productions for the 2007 season. The 21 year old, ex-Super 1 Rotax
competitor made his debut for MotorsTV at Round 1 of the MotorsTV
Ultimate Karting Challenge in 2006 and went on to cover the Internations
for Sky and the 24Hours of Le Mans Karting, live for MotorsTV
as well as other live events. (23,12) Seasons Greetings from all of us at rotaxjetting.com and Jet Tech Motorsport! Click here to see the latest news letter. SPENCER PIGOT TO JOIN SUNTRUST YOUTH RACING PROGRAM
“Talented youngster will carry SunTrust colors”
Wayne Taylor and SunTrust Racing have selected talented 13-year old Spencer Pigot to join the SunTrust Youth Racing Program as he moves into the JICA karting category for 2007. Spencer is a Florida resident and a multiple National and State Champion, winning a total of 31 races in his short career.
The FirstKart.com Team driver is set to compete in the 2007 Florida Winter Tour and Snap-On Stars of Karting East and West Championships.
“Wayne approached me after my Stars of Karting win at Newcastle this year” stated Spencer during a visit to the PRI Show in Orlando. “I was very surprised and excited when he offered to sponsor me and invited me to join the SunTrust Youth Racing Program. To be associated with Wayne Taylor and SunTrust Bank at this point in my racing career is a great honor. I would like to take this opportunity to thank both Wayne and SunTrust for their offer of support, it means a lot to me and I hope to bring them and First Kart some great results in my first year of JICA competition.”
“I would personally like to thank Wayne for his interest in Spencer” added Spencer’s father, Barry. “It’s wonderful that Wayne Taylor and SunTrust recognize the importance of helping young drivers come up through the ranks of motor racing. With their support of karting, IRL, Grand Am and NASCAR SunTrust is truly the “Official Bank of Motorsports.” We will be proud to carry their colors next season.”
SunTrust Banks, Inc., headquartered in Atlanta,
is one of the nation's largest banking organizations, serving
a broad range of consumer, commercial, corporate and institutional
clients. As of Sept. 30, 2006, SunTrust had total assets of $183.1
billion and total deposits of $124.4 billion. The Company operates
an extensive branch and ATM network throughout the high-growth
Southeast and Mid-Atlantic States and a full array of technology-based,
24-hour delivery channels. The Company also serves customers in
selected markets nationally. Its primary businesses include deposit,
credit, trust and investment services. Through various subsidiaries
the Company provides credit cards, mortgage banking, insurance,
brokerage, equipment leasing and capital markets services. SunTrust's
Internet address is www.suntrust.com (21/12) Birel star Croxford backs life-saving air ambulance
(18/12) CIK-FIA TITLE TO WSK RENEWED
WSK Promotion has since its beginning in the last
season recently concluded, been present on the international scene
with its international series, which have been recognised as “FIA
Authorised Series”. Italy Sarno, Salerno 18th March MAGURA SPREADS THE LOVE AT THE LONDON KART SHOW
Are you one of those karters who’ve watched with envy as other drivers proudly take their place on the podium –thanking the Magura brake system for giving them those precious few tenths they needed to take the trophy? Do you grit your teeth and curse the fact you drive in TKM 2-stroke –because the Magura system isn’t compatible with your class? Well, those lovely people at Magura have felt your pain –so much so, they’ve only gone and developed an entirely new type of brake system, just for YOU… Now that’s what we call love… The Magura 908.3 brake system will be unveiled at the London Kart Show (9/10 December). From January 2007 onwards any TKM 2 stroke driver can improve their brake system (as long as they have 2 brake pads and a maximum of four pistons in the caliper). The complete 908.3 system weighs-in at a miniscule
2.2kg – meaning you can brake later, harder and with more
control without compromising on weight – which all means
you can gain time and those all important places on your opponents.
ABkC & Kart Regional Meeting Open Day Now’s your chance to make your views known to the class regulators. The Association of British Kart Clubs, which is also the MSA Kart Regional Committee, is holding an open meeting immediately after the AGM on Saturday 16th December. The meeting will be held in the Daimler Room at the Holiday Inn Coventry starting at 1.30 pm on Saturday 16th December with tea/coffee available from 1 pm. ALL ARE WELCOME TO ATTEND. After the formal business of the AGM an open meeting will be held with officials of the ABkC / MSA Kart Regional Committee available to answer questions about karting, the class regulations and ABkC business. Questions may be sent in advance to secretary@abkc.org.uk. The Steering Group members want to know your views on how the ABkC can assist clubs and karting in general. So don’t miss it!
The Holiday Inn is located near Junction 2 of the M6 (M69 interchange), on the Hinckley Road towards the city of Coventry, the post code is CV2 2HP.
More about the ABkC on www.abkc.org.uk CHAMPION HARVEY SIGNS TO MARANELLO KART FOR 2007
Newly crowned British Junior Karting Champion Jack Harvey has signed to become an official factory driver with the Italian Maranello Kart team for 2007. The deal will see the 13-year-old move onto the European JICA circuit as well as selected outings in the UK with the Maranello Kart UK team during the season.
“I am really pleased to have signed the deal with Maranello for 2007,” said Jack. “A move into Europe was my main aim for next season after the great year I’ve just had. I picked up some fantastic results with Strawberry Racing this season to claim the Super One and Kartmasters titles.”
“However, I had to look at the opportunities for next season, though. Maranello have offered me a great chance to compete at the front in Italy and across the rest of Europe. There are definitely opportunities for me to develop and progress with them in the future too. I am really looking forward to it,” he added.
Maranello UK importer and team owner Steve Green is delighted to have signed up Harvey to the marque and is looking forward to a great season’s racing in 2007.
“We’re really pleased to have someone of Jack’s calibre coming over to Maranello. As British Champion he has proved what he is capable of in a very short career to date. In the European events he will have latest Maranello Kart signing David Fore as his team-mate and with his experience too we are hoping it will push Maranello and Jack further forwards, both in Italy and here in the UK,” he said.
Team Manager Fraser Sheader was also keen to point out that the UK arm of Maranello Kart wants to win more in 2007.
“We are certainly going to be offering Jack the best that we can to pick up more race wins next season,” he said. “We want to make progress in the UK championships and we know he’s got the talent to help us achieve that. We’re dedicated to win and hope it makes a big difference to us and Jack,“ he added.
Jack will take his first drive in the Maranello chassis within the next couple of weeks, before undertaking a serious testing schedule in the New Year in readiness for the 2007 season.
“I want to go out and win again next season,” added Jack. “I want to carry on the momentum from this year into Europe and I can’t wait to start working with the Maranello team continue the success with them,” he said.
Information about Jack’s 2007 season will
be available throughout the year on his and Maranello UK’s
websites – www.jackharveyracing.com
and www.maranellokartuk.com
JORDON STORMS SHENINGTON
Jordon Lennox-Lamb shell-shocked the 30 strong JICA grid with a simply stunning drive to win the second round of the Winter Series. From 14th on the grid, Jordon made a great start and soon found himself in 3rd place although the 2 leaders had managed to pull out a substantial gap. Driving the Zip Evo for only the second time, Jordon caught the leaders with a series of astonishing laps and soon hit the front and controlled the race beautifully to take the chequered flag to register his first victory with the Zip Young Guns team. Fastest lap in the final was the icing on a particularly tasty cake. Oliver Rowland endured a torrid time after winning the first round at PFI in November. A non finish after an accident in heat 2 meant the series leader had to start way back in 23rd position but as usual, Oliver showed grit and determination to carve his way up into 8th by the flag. If it hadn't been for a slow puncture diagnosed after the race, he surely would have been even higher up the finishing order. Mark Balmer had an absolutely fantastic day with a career best 5th place finish in the final. Mark recorded the fastest lap in heat 1, had a difficult run in heat 2 to finish 12th and started the final in 13 place. Mark's confidence was burgeoning and a wonderful drive saw him take the flag in 5th place. Thomas Balmer showed great pace throughout Saturday testing and two good heats meant he lined up in 5th place on the grid for the final. However, a coming together at the first corner tore one of his bead retainers out of the front wheel and Thomas was getting nowhere fast with a flat tyre. A disappointing end to what was a great performance from the young Lancashire lad. Jack Vanderpump is on a steep learning curve in only his 2nd JICA race and although he showed excellent pace at times, the consistency isn't there yet, but it will come with more experience. Jack finished the final in 19th position. Kabir Gillani is a new recruit to the Zip Young Guns team and he turned 12 years old on Sunday so this was his very first JICA race. Kabir put in some excellent laps, especially in testing on Saturday but his luck eluded him on Sunday and sadly he didn't finish the final. Kabir has plenty of determination and raw speed and all he lacks is experience. Congratulations to Jordon and to Mark. We look forward to round 3 in January.
Chris Walker at kartpix.net has his 2007 karting calendar, made in association with Karting Magazine, available now via www.kartpix.net . It is packed with exciting high quality action pictures from the World & European karting championships as well as one from the Red Bull Track Attack at Cardiff. A ‘must-have’ for the office or workshop wall! (04/12) Using a Magura can get you noticed by Michael Schumacher!
It might be rainy, wet and cold out on the track sometimes, but you should always give your best performance every time you step into the kart - you never know who might be watching! That’s something Magura sponsored driver James Theodore has discovered – the exciting way! James has had a great season, thanks to fitting his Magura brake system - topped off with winning the Minimax Motors TV UK Karting Championship on Saturday (25 November), and then going on to win the MBKC Championship on Sunday (26 November). And as we all know, the power of TV is awesome – and a certain F1 superstar has been tuning in and watching the karting action from his home in Switzerland. Michael Schumacher so impressed with James’ performance that he sent him signed photo, congratulating him on his performance this year, and wishing him luck for the future. Wow! Perhaps it’s about time you fitted a Magura?! (01/12) JORDAN JOINS THE YOUNG GUNS
(28/11) SPENCER PIGOT JOINS THE FIRSTKART.COM RACE TEAM
“Talented junior is set to do battle in JICA”
Guelph, ON. – November 28, 2006 – First Kart North America, First Kart USA and the FirstKart.com race team are pleased to announce the signing of Cadet stand-out and new Junior Intercontinental A (JICA) driver Spencer Pigot. The Snap-On Stars of Karting competitor and World Karting Association (WKA) Manufactures Cup champion will join the FirstKart.com arrive and drive program and will look to battle upfront in the JICA class during the 2007 season.
“We are excited to have Spencer join our squad” stated FirstKart.com Co-Team Manager Mike Maurini. “In a recently completed test he performed very well. He took off track advice and put it to use on the track. He was fast and very consistent with his lap times and provided great feedback for such a young driver.”
“We have watched Spencer race and have seen him drive,” explained First Kart North America’s Tony Ventresca. “He is a natural talent that will fit well under our tent. Spencer has set goals for himself and is looking to succeed. I have no doubt that he will make an immediate impact in the JICA class.”
Pigot, who is a multi-time champion, joins the FirstKart.com race team and is looking to gain as much JICA experience as he can before the Florida Winter Tour. With one test complete and two more on the horizon, the talented Floridian is looking to get into some racing action.
Pigot joins First Kart with an extensive resume that includes a total of four World Karting Association (WKA) state championships in the 80cc Cadet class and the Easykart 60cc division, a Florida Winter Tour Championship, a WKA Manufactures Cup title, a US Grand National Easykart championship and several high profile victories including the 2005 Stars of Karting Finale. In 2006, Pigot claimed the WKA Manufactures Cup crown winning a record tying five out of eight races. Pigot also garnered three pole positions and a victory in the Snap-On Stars of Karting series.
In 2007, Pigot has a demanding schedule that will see him compete at the Florida Winter Tour in Rotax Junior and JICA. The 13-year-old will also compete in the full Stars of Karting Championship including the CIK/FIA North American Championships at New Castle and selected WKA events. On off weekends, Pigot will travel to tracks to complete an extensive testing program.
"I'm really looking forward to joining the FirstKart.com race team,” Stated Pigot from his Windermere, Florida home. “I would like to thank Ricardo Juncos of Juncos Racing and all my teammates for their hard work, effort and support over the past seasons but we feel that it is time to move forward as we climb the Motorsports ladder. FirstKart.com has become the team to beat in JICA and I am looking forward to joining the squad and my new teammate Brendan Langlois."
Over the past two years, FirstKart.com has ultimately become the team to beat in the JICA category. In 2005, FirstKart.com claimed the Stars of Karting East and National championship with Gustavo Yacaman on their way to claiming the Super Kart Illustrated Team-of-the-Year award. In 2006, Brett Smrz was the man behind the wheel claiming the JICA Florida Winter Tour title before successfully garnering both the East and West Stars of Karting championships. First Kart North America is looking to expand the FirstKart.com race team with arrive and drive opportunities on both the East and West coast for the 2007 racing season. Arrive and Drive opportunities are available in most classes competing in the Stars of Karting, World Karting Association Manufactures Cup, Florida Winter Tour, Sunoco Ron Fellows Karting Championship and several special events throughout North America. Interested parties are asked to contact the First Kart offices toll free at 1.888.884.4851. First Kart North America is also looking to expand
its dealer network across the country. With the quality and craftsmanship
in the First Kart product line and the support the dealers receive,
First Kart North America is making the choice easy. For more information
on First Kart North America, product sales, the FirstKart.com
race team and exciting dealership opportunities including information
on how to get into kart racing please contact First Kart President
Tony Ventresca at 519.824.4343 or First Kart USA’s Mike
Maurini at 317.858.3705 or visit them online at www.firstkart.com OLLIE MILLROY TEAMS UP WITH JOHNNY HERBERT
Ollie Millroy will team-up with Johnny Herbert to contest this Sunday’s Johnny Herbert Kart Challenge which takes place at The Raceway Docklands in London. The newly crowned Super 1 ICA British Kart Champion will join the former Grand Prix and Le Mans star in the fun charity event with all proceeds going to the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance.
Among the other celebrities taking part are expected to be Jenson Button, Ricardo Patrese, Billy Zane, Mika Salo, Perry McCarthy, Ralph Firman, Johnny Mowlem, Emmanuele Pirro, Marino Franchitti, David Ginola, Bruno Senna, Susie Stoddart, Danny Watts, BBC’s MotoGP presenter Suzi Perry, ITV F1’s Louise Goodman and Ted Kravitz and Motors TV’s John Hindhaugh.
The event will start at 09.00 when drivers arrive for registration prior to a team photoshoot at 10.00. A safety briefing at 10.30 will prepare the drivers for the race ahead prior to practice and qualifying which takes place at 11.15. A celebrity shoot-out will take place at 12.15 and the three hour endurance race will commence at 13.00
There will be plenty of opportunities for autographs, with a trackside session taking place at 11.00. A warm-up event will also take place at Carpaccio Restaurant and City Golf & Health Clubs on Saturday 25th November.
The date is Sunday 26th November, the venue is, The Raceway Docklands Herringham Road, Charlton, London SE7 8NJ. Further details are available from the Johnny Herbert website at www.johnnyherbert.co.uk.
To follow Ollie’s progress visit Ollie’s
website on www.olliemillroy.com Davide Fore 2006 World Champion?
After the event suspicions were rife as Antonucci seemed to come from absolutely nowhere to take the title. Fore did not take part in the after event team photo and his move to Marenello, also may be a indication of the distaste he felt towards what happened. This possible decision would make Davide Fore
the CIK 2006 World Karting Champion. Now he can be called ‘Four
Time’ Fore! Johnny Herbert Karting Challenge A crack squad of kart racers has been assembled to take on professional racing drivers and celebrities at the charity Johnny Herbert Karting Challenge this Sunday (26 November 2006) at The Raceway Docklands. Adam Jones, boss of Southend-based 100cc PR – a PR and marketing agency for kart racers and companies - says “This is a fantastic event raising money for a brilliant cause –the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire Air Ambulance – plus it’s a wonderful showcase for some of my drivers. We were offered a late entry and wanted to make the biggest impression possible - and of course when you fill a room with racing drivers, it’s always going to be competitive, I want to win!” So who’s in this demon squad? Jones (LEFT, in action assembling his team) talks us through his line-up… “First up, I’ve got JICA front-runner Mackenzie Taylor. Super Mack’s just joined Zanardi UK and we’re expecting big things of him in the future. Alongside him, is his team-mate Danny Cruttenden. Danny races in Formula A and has just won the first round of the Winter Series. Plus we’ve managed to secure the skills of former Zanardi factory and now Toyota driver development racer, Martin Plowman. Newly appointed Birel works driver Jamie Croxford is another 100cc PR client. He’s particularly keen to take part because, being from Northampton, supporting the air ambulance is personally important to him. Watch out for the JC, he’s quick and will drive the wheels off whatever he’s given! Jamie’s enlisted his mate Gary Catt. Catty’s a works Tony Kart driver, so we’ve got another coup – two British factory kart racers (which is a rare thing in itself) in one team! I wanted a blend of youth and experience in the team - the Dadson Gentlemen’s Challenge is a fantastic series for karters who’re over 35, which I compete in. If I’m being completely honest, I’m a bit rubbish - and seeing as I want the team to win, who better to ask than the new champion, Dave Wooder? He’s joined by 3-time Dadson champ, Melvyn Francis. They’re mega quick and wily old foxes. I reckon we could cause a major upset!!” So, will established motor racing stars like Jenson Button, Johnny Mowlem and Susie Stoddart, plus a host of celebrities, be humbled by the 100cc PR team? Why not come along and find out – the Johnny Herbert Karting Challenge starts 10am at The Raceway Docklands, Herringham Road, London, SE7 8NJ. (19/11) London Kart Show At Excel
We Have 6 Pairs of tickets to the London Motorsport Show on the 9th and 10th of December, for your chance to win Simply Answer this question Were Is the show being hosted this year? Simply send your Name, Answer and Address to competition@kartkart.com Find More information at www.londonkartshow.co.uk (16/11) Taylor impresses on Zanardi debut
Mackenzie Taylor surprised a few people at the first round of the Winter Series last weekend (4/5 November) – being seen for the first time jumping into his brand new Zanardi kart. Super Mack then drove from 24th to 9th place in the 1st heat - and in an action-packed A final ran as high as 3rd. Team boss Kieran Crawley expressed his delight at his new driver’s pace, “Mackenzie’s performed extremely well. He’s adapted to the new chassis and team environment very quickly. His approach to everything was spot-on and we couldn’t have asked for much more - apart from luck!” And the teenager certainly seemed to have enjoyed himself, “The chassis’s great and the motors are very good. I overtook 15 people in the first race, so we know we’ve got the pace”. Mackenzie will be competing in the remaining Winter Series rounds before mounting an assault on next year’s Super 1 and European JICA championships - “This year was the learning year. Next season, I’m going to go for it - I’m in it to win it”. Crawley was also forthright, “We have very high expectations for next year. Not just of Mackenzie but also of John (Norris, also in JICA) and of course, Danny (Cruttenden, in Formula A). And with Ollie Millroy now leading Zanardi’s international assault, Mackenzie has joined the team at a very exciting and promising time in its history. Follow Mackenzie’s fortunes throughout the
Winter Series, visit www.mackenzietaylor.co.uk
or www.zanardikart.co.uk OLLIE MILLROY SIGNS FOR ZANARDI WORKS TEAM
Following his very successful season in ICA, newly crowned British champion Ollie Millroy has signed for the Zanardi works team for 2007 and will be run in KF1 (Formula A) by the very experienced Dino Chiesa. His race programme will take him to several parts of the world and include all of the major European races and the World and European Championships.
“I am over the moon to be teaming up with Dino at Zanardi and I am really looking forward to working with him next season. He is vastly experienced and has managed some of the top drivers including of course Alex Zanardi and four current Formula 1 drivers, Lewis Hamilton, Nico Rosberg, Tonio Liuzzi and Robert Kubica.
“Joining Zanardi will mean me spending a lot more time in Italy, which I am looking forward to, but before the start of the season I will be busy testing the new KF1 engines, learning the language and continuing my fitness programme.
“I was very privileged to have had no less than four offers of works drives for next season but it was felt that with Dino’s hands on approach and will to win, his was the best option to enable me to take the next step forward in my career. We intend to be very busy and testing has already started for the start of next season.
“Although I am obviously delighted to be joining Zanardi, I can’t thank enough the people who have helped me during the last two years, including Birel, Andy Cox, Fred at GKS, my mechanic Micky Higham (Moose) and of course Ricky Flynn of RFM who has worked endlessly for the success we have had. I will miss my ‘mates’ in the team and wish them well for the future.
“I would also like to thank my new sponsors Arai and Lucky Design and my existing sponsors Alpinestars, Tapco Homecare Services, JML Associates and MPR Associates for their continued support”.
To follow Ollie’s and Zanardi’s progress visit Ollie’s website on www.olliemillroy.com (09/11) Dadson ding-dong heads to finale
This Sunday (12 November), more than twenty nutters - who’re old enough to know better - are travelling to Lydd for the final round of the Dadson Gentlemen’s Challenge. And the title race is going down to the wire. Three drivers are capable of winning the championship – Melvyn Francis, Richard Friend and Dave Wooder will not want to lose a single race on Sunday. And let’s not forget a chasing pack of drivers - who will all be fighting for final positions in the points table. It’s going to be a weekend packed with drama, incident and excitement.
This weekend also sees the introduction of the Lee Wood Memorial Trophy, in memory of the Project 1 mechanic who tragically lost his life in a car accident earlier this year. Series sponsor, Dannie Pennell said “Lee was a popular figure, not just in the Dadson series as Dave Wooder’s mechanic but in karting in general. We wanted to do something in memory of Lee because he absolutely loved racing and a race in his honour just seemed natural.” Lee’s friend, Dave Wooder, added, “It’s such a shame he’s not here. We were having such a good year. I just hope we can do him proud and put on a great race and of course, me win it!” Come and cheer on the Dadson Gentlemen as they
fight for the championship and the Lee Wood Memorial Trophy. Why
not bring the whole family and give yourself and the other half,
a break from cooking and washing up - the carvery at the Heron
clubhouse is excellent! (08/11) British Superkart Horror A Kart driver died on Sunday 5th November when he hit the barrier and got thrown in front of a kart yesderday, He was in his 50s, and was competing in the final round at sliverstone, We do not know yet who the driver is until relatives have been told, but the British Superkarts Association said "he was a very experienced driver and was very well known. (06/11) ROWLAND LEAVES RIVALS REELING!
Oliver Rowland, Thomas Balmer, Mark Balmer and Jack Vanderpump represented the Zip Young Guns team and it was Vice British Champion Rowland who set the early pace with a blistering drive from 21st on the grid to finish 3rd in the first heat. Oliver backed this up with a win in the second heat setting another fastest lap in the process. Thomas and Mark Balmer finished 13th and 16th respectively in the first heat and 17th and 18th in the second heat. The brothers are making great progress and the positions didn't reflect their speed as the midfield battle is always fraught and dangerous. Young Jack Vanderpump finished a creditable 19th and 22nd in the heats in his very first JICA race. The final saw Oliver take a lap to get clear of the almighty battle for 2nd place and the young Sheffield driver pulled away to win by an amazing 7 seconds. A great performance capped by yet another fastest lap. Thomas came home in 13th, Mark in 15th and Jack in 19th. With confidence high, the team looks forward to Shenington on the 3rd of December where the battle will be rejoined. Also Check out the great products from www.zipkart.com (06/11) DAVIDE FORE' wears RED!!!
The Young French man after two year's of collaboration together with the team ended the 2006 season in good form with victory in the WSK Championship in the 125cc category, 3 rd place in the World Championship Super ICC, 2 nd place in the Formula A World Cup and 3 rd place in the Italian open Championship in Formula A. Maranello Kart is once again very sorry to lose their best driver to the world of Cars. Like it was for former driver Ben Hanley who has now progressed into Formula Renault V6 and is competing in the World Series Championship, We also wish them all the best for the future! The name Jules Bianchi is now linked with his new manager Nikolaj Todt, who he has chosen to help him reach the top in the world of car racing, starting with Formula Renault 2000. Maranello Kart went into search for a new driver to succeed Bianchi who would also be able to bring home good results for the team and someone who was able to help develop the Maranello Kart as a product and also as a company. This means as from January 2007 our new driver Davide Forè will for fill this role. Maranello are very excited about the future and
we welcome Davide to the team and wish him good luck and much
success for the season 2007 and the Future. WSK INTERNATIONAL SERIES POSTPONES
WSK INTERNATIONAL SERIES POSTPONES THE BEGINNING OF THE SEASON DUE TO ADDITIONAL TESTS TO THE NEW CATEGORIES 125 CC, THAT WILL BE ALLOWED IN 2007. THE OPENING OF THE SEASON WILL THEN TAKE PLACE ON SARNO CIRCUIT MARCH 18TH 2007 WSK International Series has decided on a change
of date in its 2007 calendar, due to the setting up of the new
categories that, in the new season, will replace the 100cc in
the international events. Dates Italy Sarno, Salerno 18th March (01/11) JONATHAN THONON IS THE SUPER-ICC WORLD CHAMPION2006!!!!!!!! CRG and Jonathan have won the appeal
made after the shocking penality of 10 seconds inflicted at the
end of the race in Marienbourg, where he already obtained a great
victory and was rightfully awarded the podium winner spot.
RUNNER-UP SPOT FOR LLOYD GIVES HIM FOURTH IN SUPER ONE
Runner-up spot in the final event of the 2006 Rotax Junior Max Super One Championship meant that Huddersfield karting ace Daniel Lloyd clinched fourth place in the overall standings, following a superb weekend at Buckmore Park in Kent.
The Bos Recruitment backed youngster went into his final race meeting of the year with the aim to take one of the top three positions in the series. A slightly poor start in the opening heat meant that he had to work hard over the rest of the weekend to stay on terms with his fellow front-runners.
In heat one he started fourth but dropped back to ninth place at the flag after a poor tyre decision. However, in the second heat he stormed from the back of the grid to take third place, showing his top class form to the rest of his rivals.
In heat three he once again made a superb run from 15th on the grid to take second place, giving him third on the grid for the all important final.
A great run in the last race of the year allowed him to cross the line in second place, unfortunately, his rivals for the podium results in the championship all followed him across the line, meaning that he had to settle for a frustrating fourth in the points.
A slightly disappointed Daniel was left cursing his early season bad luck, but also pleased with his performance and speed in the closing stages of the year.
“I’m not disappointed with the result today, as second place is another great finish, especially in Super One. But, I’m not over the moon as I aimed to come here and leave with a top three place in the championship,” said Daniel.
“When I lined up third on the grid for the final I knew I had a chance to win the race. But it was a tough one and to round the year off with a good podium result is great. It’s been an unlucky season for me and if we’d had better results at the start of the championship things might have been different today,” he added.
His final result in the series will mean that Daniel will head into the 2007 Junior Max campaign as one of the guys to beat, something he is looking forward to over the course of the winter.
“Our initial plan for next season is to go for the title in Junior Max and after this year I know that I’ll start the championship as one of the guys to beat, which in a way adds a little bit more pressure but will be a great way to begin the year.
Before he can concentrate on his 2007 campaign though, Daniel will be heading to the British Grand Prix venue of Silverstone in November, for the Stars of Tomorrow Shoot Out, where he will be up against a handful of his 2006 rivals, with the chance to win a season of sportscar racing if he does well in a series of tests in racing machinery.
“The shootout will be good fun and I really
enjoyed it last year. It was a great opportunity to try out some
bigger racing cars after karting all season. There is a season’s
drive in the Junior Ginetta Championship up for grabs for the
best driver, so I’m going to go there with an eye on that,
for sure, he added. Croxford Signs for Birel
After a sensational debut season in Formula A, Jamie Croxford has joined the works Birel Motorsport team for 2007. Team Principal and Vice President of Birel, Ronni Sala said, “We have been impressed by the way Jamie has adapted to the quicker karts and applied himself, even when the odds were against him. He is quick, brave and gives the maximum effort. This is in the spirit of Birel.” The 20-year old from Wootton Fields, Northampton is absolutely delighted to have signed for one of the greatest names in world karting - “It’s fantastic! When I received the phonecall, I had to pinch myself. This is what every driver dreams of and to sign for Birel, well, it’s like signing for Ferrari.” Jamie will now be contesting across the globe - the Italian Open Masters series, the European and World Championships, plus selected races in Britain, America and the Far East. Despite his obvious excitement about his new role, Jamie is quick to acknowledge the people who have helped and supported him in his career to date. “I can’t thank Paul Fletcher enough. He gave me an opportunity, when I most needed it and it paid off! In many respects, without the help of Paul and the rest of the PFi team, I might not be where I am now. Andy Cox [of Andy Cox Racing, the UK Birel importer] is also due my thanks. He’s supported me and encouraged me for several seasons and was instrumental in helping put this deal together. And of course, I'm grateful to Dean and Terry at Millennium Motorsport for their contribution."
So how will life change for Jamie now? “Well, for the time being I’ll have to commute to the factory in Lissone [near, Milan] but I may need to consider relocating to there. I need to learn Italian, so I can communicate with the team and I’m expected to be an ambassador for Birel at all times. But that’s no hardship and I’m looking forward to all the challenges ahead of me.” And what are his, and Birel’s, expectations for 2007? “Win everything!” he laughs “Despite their history and the number of championships Birel have won, everyone wants more success – the drivers, Signor Sala and his father, even the cleaner! I’ve got the best opportunity of my life, to deliver it, not just for them but for me also.” To follow Jamie and the Birel Motorsport team’s
progress in 2006/2007 visit www.birel.it BROKEN RIB FORCES OLLIE MILLROY OUT Super 1 ICA British Kart Champion Ollie Millroy was forced to withdraw from the second round of the Industrial Trophy at Parma in Italy this weekend suffering a broken rib. The 16 year-old from Claygate, Surrey had complained of pain during testing at the demanding Italian circuit the previous week and was seen by a medic at the track who treated him with painkillers. Over the second weekend Ollie competed in qualifying and heats unaware of the extent of his injuries but still in excruciating pain. By Saturday evening his condition had worsened and he was referred to a local hospital where it was confirmed he had suffered a broken rib. Due to the seriousness of his injury, Ollie and the Ricky Flynn Motorsport team had no choice but to withdraw from the event, Ollie’s second outing in Formula A. Ollie will now return home to recover prior to testing and his final competitive outing of 2006, the Champions Cup, which takes place at Vendrell in Spain on 9/10 December. (23/10) Amanda Lassu rounded off her first season
in the
Stars Of Tommorow driver Amanda Lassu rounded
off her first season in the These results lined Amanda up on grid 4 for the
final. She had a great
(23/10) When winning comes down to the wire.
Now’s the time when club championships are won and lost. But if yours is going down to the wire – what have you got that will decide it in your favour? BRM chose the Magura 908.1 For the last round of the Stars of Tomorrow JICA championship, team-mates James Godbehere and Nigel Moore went head to head - and both bolted on the blue brake. Able to out-brake rivals from two to three kart lengths behind, the BRM pair found the Magura superior to any brake they’d used before. Brake harder, later and with more control than your rivals. Then, accelerate faster out of the bend, thanks to its light weight. Moore and Godbehere finished first and second in the Stars championship. In 2006 lap records have been smashed, races won and titles decided – ALL by drivers using the Magura. From JICA to TKM 4-stroke, Rotax to Pro-Karts … If you want to be a winner – you want a Magura. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION (19/10) Rowland Stars in Monte Carlo
In just his third European event, Zip Young Gun
Oliver Rowland showed exactly why many people regard him as one
of the brightest stars in British kart racing. A superb performance from Oliver and congratulations from everyone at Zip Kart (18/10) OLLIE MILLROY MAKES IMPRESSIVE FORMULA A DEBUT
Engine problem robs British Champ of possible podium
Ollie Millroy made an impressive Formula A debut at the Industrial Trophy at Parma in Italy this weekend, the 16 year-old lying fourth in the final with just over a lap to go before a conrod went through the front of his engine and ended his race. The Claygate youngster qualified tenth for the first heat and finished eighth then a seventh place finish in the second heat gave him an eighth place spot for the 18 lap final. After a superb start, the newly-crowned Super 1, ICA British Kart Champion was soon up into fourth place, pulling away from the pack and looking possible for a podium finish until disaster struck with just over a lap remaining. “Obviously it’s disappointing,” said Ollie. “But the pace was there all weekend so I’m very happy with my performance. Formula A is mega, a lot harder and far more competitive than ICA but I think I’ve adapted well to the changes. The racing is very fast and furious and due to the much grippier tyres, it’s very physically demanding too but I’m pleased that all my fitness training has paid off and I had no problem lasting the pace. “The quality of the racing at this level is much higher, but then it is the Formula 1 of karting so you’d expect that. I really enjoyed the challenge though and I’m looking forward to the second round this weekend. Hopefully we can repeat the performance but this time come away with a good strong finish.” The second round takes place this coming weekend
21st/22nd October. LLOYD ON A TOP THREE MISSION FOR SUPER ONE FINALE
Huddersfield karting ace Daniel Lloyd will head into the final round of the Rotax Junior Max Super One Championship at Buckmore Park next weekend with the intention of claiming a top three place in the final series’ standings.
The Bos Recruitment backed racer currently stands fifth in the championship when the dropped scores are taken into account, just 47 points behind the leader.
With plenty of points left to claim, Daniel is keen to clinch a top three place and will go to the Kent circuit on a high after sealing victory at the venue last weekend at a club event.
A win in the final and fastest lap of the day clinched a superb weekend for Daniel and with his speed and confidence at 100%, he knows that he has a great chance to finish his 2006 season in style.
“I’m feeling confident about next weekend, for sure," admitted Daniel. “I know that my pace is there and I can do the job around Buckmore. But I’m not getting carried away. I know that it’ |
