Why Karting is a safe sport.
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Tyres
play an important part in the performance of karts and the relatively small
tyres used are a direct development from Grand Prix Racing. In many kart
classes tyres are restricted to harder, longer wearing compounds
to reduce costs. Even so, the same principles apply to optimising their
grip as in other forms of motorsport. The successful karters are the ones
who learn to set up their karts to obtain the best performance from their
tyres and it is for this reason that so many of today's Grand Prix stars
learn the basics in karting.
A
very large percentage of Formula One stars developed their skills
in the world of kart racing. Drivers such as
Prost Piquet and Mansell The most outstanding of
these converts is the late Ayrton Senna who was runner-up in the World
lOOcc Sprint Kart Championships in 1979 and 1980. On the local motorsport
scene excellent examples of experience gained in Karting can
be seen from the achievements of Glen Setan & Mark
Skaife. Competitor and spectator safety are of prime consideration to both
the governing body of karting, the A.K.A., and local authorities.
The
Sport enjoys an enviable safety record. Approved safety helmets, gloves,
shoes that cover the ankles. Drivers wear purpose made driving suits or
leathers (compulsory for road race karting). Karts have inherently safe
design with a low centre of gravity making them very difficult to turn
over. Whilst the impression of speed and excitement is high, their speed
is relatively low (except for road
race karts). With minimal weight and a very large tyre contact area they slow or stop very quickly when the driver gets off line.
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Whilst the noise of a kart does not cause pain to the ears any constant loud noise can damage your hearing if you are exposed to it for long enough. Why take the risk? The foam rubber type ear plugs you get at the chemist (not the waterproof jelly ones - they fall out) work well to cut out the high pitch of the motor. They allow you to concentrate better and save your hearing. Don't worry you can still hear the karts running behind you (go faster).
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South West Cart Club
South West Victoria's Premier KARTING Club |
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