Edenvale kart racers hope to grow sport
“What we would like to do is get illegal racing off the streets or at least reduce the number of illegal races.”
Two go-kart enthusiasts are hard at work trying to grow the sport by attracting new members to racing in a controlled environment.
Edenvale resident Rob Fulton (55) and Alberton resident Avi Francis (27) are passionate about the sport and have created a great friendship over the past year.
Although they race in different categories, the pair both race in a class which is often less expensive than competitive classes.
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Fulton races in the Clubman vets category, which is for racers 40 years old and over, while Francis races in the Clubman class which includes racers 40 years old and younger.
With 16 years’ experience of racing other vehicles, Fulton took up kart racing nine years ago.
“Since I was a child I’ve had a strong connection to motorsports,” said Fulton.
“It’s a passion I grew up with and something both my dad and I were heavily involved in. I will probably be racing until the day I die.”
Although Francis only started racing karts last year, like Fulton he grew up in the industry.
“Motorsports is in my blood, I pretty much grew up in the pits. Two of my uncles, Chad and Kearn Francis are former SA motorsport champions,” explained Francis.
“I’ve always been passionate about motorsports. So when I met Rob and he encouraged me to take up karting I jumped at the opportunity.”
Francis said he and Fulton met in June 2019 at his place of employment, Edenvale Steel and Tube, which also sponsors the two racers.Fulton explained that many racers in the Clubman class will make use of older karts or even second-hand ones.
“Our class can be quite cost-effective and is more for people who just enjoy the sport,” said Fulton.
The karts in the class make use of 125cc Senior Max engines and often reach speeds between 100km and 110km on the track.
“Our goal is to address illegal racing by at least reducing the number of such races. You can only do this by introducing people involved in illegal racing to the world of legitimate motorsports,” said Francis.
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Illegal racing is something that hits home for Francis and something he is strongly against.
Several years ago Francis lost a cousin when they died in an incident related to illegal street racing.
Fulton highlighted that the pair want to attract young racers who have a talent and understanding for motorsports.
Fulton said to receive a kart racing licence, applicants need to undergo a physical and mental examination.
Additionally, Motorsport SA has strict regulations when it comes to alcohol and drugs.
“As a racer, you can be randomly tested while at the track and if you are found to be under the influence it can mean a lifetime ban from racing,” said Futon.
To further assist new racers into the sport the pair founded RA Motorsports.
“The idea is to guide, give advice and mentor other racers who are new to the sport,” said Francis.
Email avineshfrancis@gmail.com for information on how to become a kart racer.
