Everything you should know about karting

Kart racing, often referred to as karting, is a competitive sport and a way of entertainment. This discipline has a lasting history and is popular in many countries. Sportsmen use special automobiles called karts. Some models can reach a very high speed: 260 kilometers per hour. What else should you know about this sport?

Types

Nowadays, two groups of karting are distinguished. The first one is competitive, which is why only professionals can take part in it. This is considered to be a high performance sport and requires a lot from the racer. The second one is perfect for amateurs. It does not require too many skills or a lot of experience. Almost any person, including children and teenagers, can practice it. It usually takes place on the safest tracks possible, and the construction of the kart is created in a special way, so that it is very strong and cannot break down. Moreover, there is always an instructor who takes care of every person riding a kart.

Ammunition

It is highly important to pay attention to ammunition, no matter whether you are an amateur or a professional kart racer. Ammunition consists of a helmet, a safety vest, a protective collar and a fireproof suit. Moreover, it is necessary to wear a pair of gloves and special non-slippery boots.

Requirements for racers

It goes without saying that those who want try themselves as professional racers must train a lot. Yet, training itself is not everything that plays a great role in racers’ success. First of all, sportsmen must be in good physical condition. Driving a kart involves various muscles, they are tense during the race. The overall endurance of one’s organism is also very important. Moreover, racers must not have any problems with their eyesight, since they move at high speed and need to notice everything that goes on around them.

Secondly, it is crucial to have a quick reaction to avoid various dangers that can happen during the race. In addition, in case of emergency a sportsman will have to act as soon as possible. Finally, the nervous system must be stable, because covering long distances while driving a kart requires a lot of concentration.

Categories of sportsmen

All racers compete in different categories. The classes may vary in different countries, but often they correspond to the following categories:

• International;
• National;
• Juniors;
• Amateurs.

Amateurs can take part in competitions that are held by a particular karting club.

Tracks

As for the tracks, they are divided into open and closed. Their names speak for themselves. Closed tracks are located in karting clubs or entertainment centers. They are perfect for amateurs and people who want to relax a little bit. Also, sometimes training can take place in such centers in case the weather is too bad or the season is not suitable for outdoor kart racing. Open tracks are situated outdoors. They can be covered with cement, asphalt, rubber or wood. Such tracks depend on weather conditions, which is why it is impossible to use them in winter or on rainy days.

The kart

The kart is a variety of racing karts. Although it is smaller and lower than an ordinary car, its construction is similar to any other car. Several differences are present, though. For example, there is no clutch pedal. Yet, there is a gas pedal and a brake pedal. In addition, the engine is attached to the frame, which is why it vibrates while moving. There is no amortization. Another peculiarity is that the wheels turn to the sides at different angles. For instance, if a racer wants to turn to the right, the right wheel will turn at a greater angle than the left one.

To win the race, it is important to reach at high speed and avoid pushing the brake pedal. A good racer will occupy a vantage point, so that they will be able to do various maneuvers and concentrate on driving. Reaching the necessary speed is quite easy: all you need to do is push the gas pedal. The construction of the kart makes it possible to reach 100 km/h within seconds. To stop, racers quickly push the brake pedal. After a heavy braking it is easier to reach high speed again.

As for the turns, it comprises three stages: the beginning, the apex, the final. It is important to start this maneuver at the right moment. In the beginning of a turn a races should not push the gas pedal too hard or turn the steering wheel too much. As soon as the apex is reached, it is allowed to push the gas pedal stronger.

Flags

There is a system of flags. They are used to notify the racers of the things going on around them. According to the rules, there are 12 flags.

• The starting flag;
• The red flag (it marks the starting line);
• The checkered flag (it serves to notify the racers of the end of a race);
• The black-and-white flag (it warns a racer that he or she is breaking the rules);
• The black-and-orange flag (it warns a racer that the kart is broken);
• The green flag (it indicates the false start);
• The red-and-blue flag (it is used to let a racer know that he is preventing others from driving);
• The yellow flag (it serves to mark dangers);
• The yellow-and-red flag (it indicates the parts of the track that are not covered properly);
• The blue flag (it is used to let a racer know that another racer is going to overtake them);
• The white flag (it notifies a racer of the fact that there is a kart moving at low speed nearby).

Impact

Kart racing is a discipline that can be dangerous. Yet, people who train wisely and stay careful say that this sport has a lot of impact on their mind. Systematic training helps to develop a lot of personal traits of character, such as determinations and will to win, an ability to concentrate and think fast. As for other benefits, this sport teaches racers how to work hard to achieve greater goals. Every kart racer must have strategic and tactical thinking, but most importantly it is necessary to “feel the car”.

History

This discipline appeared in the USA in 1930s. It originated from an entertainment many children used to take part in. They sled down the hill with the help of carts. This is what the term “karting” came from. During the World War II, American pilots used carts to move weapons. In 1956, the first kart was constructed by Art Ingles. Several years later, in 1962, the first international organization was founded. Yet, due to the popularity of racing cars, karting became less attractive for thrill-seekers.

Nowadays, this sport is as popular as car racing, and it serves as the first step on the way to the dreams of many racers.