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Sports Reporter
THE third round of the 2023 Motorsport Zimbabwe ROK Cup championship and Kart Sport Club series of kart racing is set to take place this Sunday at the National Sports Stadium with the brand new 800-metre-long Pole Position Kart Track as the latest attraction.
The venue’s proprietor, Kevin Dufty, said the first two race meetings were full of excitement and more close racing is expected.
With an increase in the number of competitors racing in the third round, spectators can be sure of some close, competitive racing from the grassroots of motorsport. “We are excited to see the popularity and growth of the new club and are gratified by the support from competitors and officials” said Dufty, who added that they have exciting plans in store for the development of kart racing in Zimbabwe.
ROK Cup Zimbabwe is a prestigious six-round karting championship that runs from March to September at the Pole Position Karts racetrack at the National Sports Stadium.
The championship features two categories: Kid ROK and Mini ROK. Kid ROK drivers are aged between six and nine years old and drive karts with 60cc engines that can reach speeds of up to 70 km/h. Mini ROK drivers are aged between eight and 13-years old and drive karts with 60cc engines that can reach speeds of up to 80 km/h.
The engines in both classes are regulated to comply with international rules to ensure a level playing field for all competitors and results in very close racing.
The ROTAX class, hosted by Kart Sport Club, is suitable for teenagers up to adults. These karts can reach up to 120 km/h on the 800m track.
Driving at these speeds requires lightning quick reflexes and excellent driving skills. With just a couple of centimetres clearance from the track, the experience is both thrilling and testing for the driver and spectators alike.
Club chairman Victor Shambare is excited by the popularity the sport is gaining.
“The track is proving to be very popular with karters due to its challenging design and we expect to see competitors pushing their machines to the very limit at the upcoming race meeting.
“The racing will be very competitive as championship battles are already beginning to take shape across all the classes,” said Shambare.
Trophies will be awarded during the prize giving ceremony which will conclude the event at about 3:30pm.
Spectators can expect to see fast-paced action and skilful driving throughout the day with entry pegged at just US$2 per person.
Online Reporter