B.S.A. News Page

Superkart Media Team

Logo Change

We have taken the desission to change the logo so we have more of a difference from one of the club logos plus give a better identity to the series so as from now the BSK logo will be used.

International Women’s Day

Television presenter Louise Goodman joined some of the leading names in women’s motor sport and their cars at Silverstone on Monday to celebrate their participation in motor sport for International Women’s Day.

Motor sport is one of the few sporting activities in which men and women compete alongside each other on an equal footing, yet as they make up only 8% of registered licence holders, women are hugely under-represented among motor sport drivers. There are, nonetheless, an estimated 50,000 women actively involved in British motor sport, organising events, running clubs and associations, timekeeping, marshalling and fulfilling a host of other support roles without which the sport itself could not continue.

To celebrate their importance to motor sport, more than 50 female competitors, marshals, officials and volunteers gathered at Silverstone, home of British motor sport and the 2010 Santander Formula 1 British Grand Prix, to support the Motor Sports Association’s Women in Motorsport Group. Among the attendees was Go Motorsport ambassador and ITV’s British Touring Car Championship presenter Louise Goodman. Also present was reigning Ginetta Junior Champion and 2009 BBC Young Sports Personality of the Year nominee Sarah Moore, the first female driver ever to win a major British motor racing championship.

Goodman said: “It was a fabulous experience to come together with all these other women involved in the sport to show that motor sport is not just for the men. I really hope that this inspires more girls to consider the sport; one of them might just turn out to be the new Jenson Button!”

Sue Sanders, Chairman of the MSA Women in Motorsport Group, said: “This has been a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate the diverse range of roles that women undertake within the sport at all levels. We believe that motor sport is truly fair and equal but there is plenty of room for more women. We hope that this gathering will celebrate those already involved and stimulate others that may be interested in getting started.”

If BBC TV and Radio is anything to go by, British Superkarts were the Stars of the Show at Donington on this glorious sunny winter’s day. Tony Long, Simon Wood and Steve Kemp had turned out with their 250 National outfits and they had a steady stream of visitors to the awning erected by Ian Rushforth and John Osborne.

There must have been 50 or more casual visitors who, when they saw what was on offer, reached for their Mobiles to take photos of the Superkarts. Others were happy just to ask questions or have their kiddies photos taken sitting in a Superkart.

The event was a hastily arranged Fans Rally to show solidarity with Donington Park after their traumatic time with the failed F1 GP saga. There were thousands in attendance for the various activities within the overall complex, and getting on for 3,000 were said to be in and around the area by the Motor Museum entrance where the Superkart awning had been pitched.

BBC TV East Midlands filmed the Superkarts and interviewed Tony Long. Various versions of the clips were broadcast on Sunday lunchtime, Sunday evening, Monday morning and Monday lunchtime. It was good coverage with a clever zooming in shot of Tony’s machine showing plenty of detail. The only other race vehicle shown on TV was the Top Fuel Dragster at the adjacent Santa Pod stand.

At the start of the weekend, Ian Rushforth and Tony Long had been Studio Guests on BBC Radio Derby’s Friday Breakfast Show, and some good Superkart publicity came out of that with presenter Shane O’Connor clearly being impressed.

One visitor late on Sunday afternoon was Andy ‘Trigger’ Holmes. It seems he could be back racing with us after several seasons out of the sport.

All in all this was a worthwhile PR exercise in a happy atmosphere on a sunny winters day. Our thanks go to Tony, Steve and Simon for their practical support.

Radio Derby Shane O'Connor Breakfast Show Interview - from setting 1:03.45 to 1:12.45 Full coverage of the interview

UK CUP (“O” No Plate) FOR F125 ICC

The 2010 F125 ICC UK Cup which is the long circuit “O” plate will take place on the all new 1.2 mile Silverstone Stowe circuit on April 18^th see below for details and a very special offer to those brand new to L/C.

Superkarts Visit Mount Panorama

Superkarts will make their first ever appearance at Australia's most famous motor racing venue, Mount Panorama, Bathurst next weekend as part of the festivities of the Bathurst 12 Hour.

Six Superkarts will take to the six kilometre circuit on Friday, February 12 for a test session to test the feasibility of racing at the New South Wales venue in the future. The six drivers represent each of the three most popularly contested Superkarting classes and each will record their impressions prior to CAMS, the governing body of Australian motor racing, giving approval for Superkarts to be able to compete.

The three classes represented are 250cc International, 125cc Gearbox and Rotax Max.

The feasibility test came from an initiative started by the Superkart Club of New South Wales, after an invitation from Bathurst 12 Hour organisers, Yeehah Events. An extensive safety study of the fabled and fast racing circuit was conducted by Workplace Safety specialist Ian Mash of Superkart Club of New South Wales with the report submitted to CAMS last year.

"Having ridden this wave from day one, it's with much excitement for not only the Superkart Club of NSW, but Superkarts in Australia that this opportunity has arisen," said Wayne Horswell, President of the Superkart Club of New South Wales. ?James O'Brien from Yeehah Events and CAMS deserve a lot of praise for opening a door that has the ability to put this little known, inexpensive category on show."

If approved it will be the first time in over forty years that winged open wheel racing cars will have raced at Mount Panorama. In 1970 in the only appearance of the V8 powered Formula 5000 category, Neil Allen set a lap record that took the touring cars of the Bathurst 1000 thirty years to eclipse. Since then Formula Ford and Formula Vee, two categories that race on treaded tyres and run without aerodynamic wings have been the only open wheel racing cars to race at Bathurst. In recent years a former American Indycar has completed demonstration runs during Bathurst Festival weekend.

Strictly a feasibility demonstration run, the six drivers, who include Australia's most decorated Superkart racer, seven time Australian champion Warren McIlveen, will not be setting aggressive lap times and are not expected to approach Greg Murphy's famous fastest ever lap, although they will be exploring capabilities of their karts on the circuit.

?I cant wait to drive a Superkart around the prestigious Mount Panorama Circuit,? said McIlveen. ?I feel it will be very exhilarating but a little bit scary driving between those concrete walls at speeds up to 240kph. It is also going to be an awesome spectacle watching Superkarts literally fly up and across the mountain. Many thanks to all the organisers.?

The six Superkart drivers are: 250 International drivers Tamworth-based McIlveen and Melbourne's Gary Pegoraro, 125cc Gearbox drivers, Sydneysiders Jeff Reed and Ian Mash and Rotax Max: Wayne Horswell and Alan Dodge also from Sydney. Each of the six will be contributing to the final report.

Superkarts are one of Australia's fastest motor racing categories and also one of the most cost-effective. Built around a specialist kart racing chassis which are constructed in both Europe and Australia, these pocket rockets are powered by a mix of specialist kart racing engines, and by 250cc and 125cc Grand Prix motorcycle engines. Producing approximately 100 horsepower in the 250 International class, the karts themselves weigh just 215 kg, making for a power-to-weight ratio unmatched in Australian motorsport at an operating budget of as little as 5% of comparably swift racing categories.

For more information, visit:

http://www.superkart.org.au/ - The Superkart Club of New South Wales

VERY SPECIAL LONG CIRCUIT OFFER TO GEARBOX DRIVERS

Why not come and do your very first long circuit on the all new 1.2 mile Silverstone Stowe circuit for just £100.

This is a rare and great opportunity to try a world class venue and a brand new circuit as well. The special offer applies to all classes and to drivers doing their very first long circuit event. Normal L/C rules apply

There will be an untimed practice, timed qualifier and two 15 lap races for each class so a full days action in prospect and a great weekend at the home of British Motorsport.

The event will feature rounds of the British and National Championships for F250 National, F450 National, F125 Open, F125 ICC and F210 National. A National A licence is required.

In addition there will be a unique situation going on around us because the FIA F2 Championship will be racing on the GP circuit which circles the Stowe circuit and if that’s not enough the British Sprint Car Championships will be joining us on the Stowe circuit to share the event. So a special weekend for all concerned.

For more information contact British Superkart Racing Club via Ian Rushforth on 01509 620702 or ian.rushforth@superkart.org.uk

30th Long Circuit Kart Grand Prix

This year Superkart Grand Prix at Cadwell Park (July 16th to 18th) will be the 30th running of the event in one guise or another. It is the intention of the organizers to invite several past GP winners to the event. We know Carolynn Hoy and Martin Hines are interested in taking to the circuit in the early Hermetite Zip Teams Superkarts. It would be nice to see all the past winners at this years GP.

BSRC Price Offer

The British Superkart Racing Club season starts in March with the first of the Pembrey events for which I attach the SR’s and new format entry form. Although the event features the opening rounds of the F125 Open, F125 ICC National Championships and the Gearbox Masters for F125 ICC and F250 National we very much hope guest drivers from the F250 National class will compete also. It after all a chance to test for the 250 Championship event in May at the same circuit. I am sorry but we cannot accept entries for this meeting from Div. 1 karts because the MSA will not permit us to race 250 twins with 125’s at National A events

It is free to register for the Gearbox Masters so why not sign up and have a go.

Once again the track hire charges have gone up but we have managed to secure four sessions on circuit at all of our events thus helping to re-dress the balance a bit so there will be a free practice, times qualifier and two races at each event (even more at the BGP).

We can now also launch our early payment scheme for 2010. Under this scheme we can offer a good reduction in the cost in return for entering four or six events up front. We are always very appreciative of the guys who support this initiative because paying up front in such a manner provides the club with much needed working capital at this time of the year when we have to pay major amounts of money on deposits for circuit hire such as Cadwell Park (BGP) and Silverstone Stowe. We naturally hope that the reduction in entry fees is attractive enough for the drivers to take us up on our offer. It is going to be a difficult year again this year for all of us so we have tried to keep the fees as low as we can. Ideally we would have liked to charge more so we can put the club on a stronger financial footing. Long Circuit racing is an expensive affair.

We are for this year offering a two tier structure because it very difficlut for the 125 club members to fit in six club events, so you can opt for a package which includes five events + the BGP or three events + the BGP

A Reduction of £25 will once again be offered to Championship Rookies (the first time you enter a BSA Series) at all rounds except the BGP which because of the high costs involved is not possible. We are sorry about this but we are just not able to offer this reduction at the Grand Prix which is in any case challenging to say the least.

David Brabham Celebrity Kart Race

The race on Friday plus the auctions on Saturday and Sunday raised a total of £59,500.

The Superkart team didn't let us down in the charity race. The team consisted of Trevor Roberts, James O'Reilly, James Tucker, Phil Featherstone and 2 members of the public. The team lead from the flag until lap 6. The team had a 5 second lead until the mayhem started. After the first red flag the team seemed to be in 16th on the grid. After this the team were finding it hard to get back to the front. There were several red flags due to some very bad driving by some of the star celebs destroying the circuit structure. After a few black flags it seemed to cure the bad driving.

The team managed to get the fastest lap and finished 8th. The several teams were surprised that the Superkart team were so far down considering the start we had.

Every one had fun and the aim racing the profile of Malaria No More was achieved.

The Auctions on the Saturday and Sunday attracted large crowds with the bids for signed memorabilia reaching some staggering amounts.

Carl Hulme 2009 Div 1 Champion

TV Coverage Update

MotorsTV Coverage will be starting:

2009 Night of British Champions

The Dinner Dance and Annual Awards evening will take place once again at the Kenwick Park Estate near Louth in Lincolnshire on Saturday November 21st. Tickets can be reserved through Wendy Barker who is organising the venue and the festivities this year on 01507 338494.

Rooms at the Kenwick Park Estate are being booked up so don’t leave it too late to reserve your accommodation. There are also some chalets available which can take four people.

2009 Race Car Live

The Long Circuit Racing Kart Club, The L/C Racing Kart School at Darley and the British Superkart Racing Club are to jointly promote Superkarting at the forthcoming Race Car Live Show. In addition to a static display we will again have live action demonstrations on the Brands Hatch Indy Circuit so we now invite you guys to come along and help us promote the sport as well as enjoy a bash round the circuit. We will have track time on both Saturday and Sunday of the show.

Because of the cost of the event we ask that the drivers coming along make a one off contribution of £20 for their track time to help fund the occasion. We had thirty people out last year and it was enjoyed by all and attracted a lot of interest for the sport. We even formed a small part of the TV show on Motors TV Racecar live combines the London Motorsport Show and live action and is intended, as a show, to offer the public a glimpse into the various forms of racing in the hope that it will attract new people into the sport or redirect existing drivers to other classes so companies like Radical and Caterham are usually there along with several others. No other show offers static displays and live action on a proper circuit

If you cannot make both days then that’s fine you can just do the day that suits you. The track time is ideal for those drivers that have done little or no L/C before and want to have a go in relaxed surrounding with the added bonus of a world famous venue. You may have a few things you want to test or just have a bit of fun before the winter sets in. There is no obligation apart from enjoying it. You don’t have to be a member of the clubs, just be in possession of at least a National B (novice or full) MSA licence. All gearbox classes will be welcome at Brands Hatch on November 21/22^nd

Bennett Laps Times

Gavin Bennett was within 2 10ths of Valentino Rossi's Assen lap times during the final rounds of the FIA-CIK European Championship meeting.

Castle Combe TV

The Castle Combe weekend's TV coverage was sponsored by RG Racing and Mark Vaughan's sponsor Pro-Clean.

The DVD can be pre ordered by going to the Merchandise page. The programme will be out in the Autumn on Motors TV.

Donington Park TV

The Donington Park weekend's TV coverage was paid for by the BSA to assist in promoting the sport.

The DVD can be pre ordered by going to the Merchandise page. The programme will be out in the Autumn on Motors TV.

BSB Support - Cadwell Park

The BSA had several outfits on display and treated the crowed to several demonstration laps.

ROSSI races Superkarts

Valentino Rossi raced in the special Superkart race organised the Thursday before the US MotoGP. Kenny Roberts, Eddie Lawson , Wayne Rainey were using the Yamaha TZ-250 super-karts with Valentino.

Racing karts is not alien to Rossi who won the Junior Italian karting Champion as a kid before moving to bikes. Rossi said: “I still practice quite a lot. I think I can be competitive. I like the chance to race against the old heroes - but I will go more slow than them. I have to think about the grand prix.”

The karts themselves lap only 2 seconds slower than Casey Stoner’s MotoGP lap record!

Robert Nash Returns

After a 6 years away Robert returns with a result in 250 Div 1. Robert was in the seat for Barker Racing. Graham barker was delighted with the 6th place at Oschesleben in Germany. It is prediced Robert will be racing at the BSK GP in July. The Barker Racing / Nash relationship in the passed has brought some championships in the passed. Watch this space!!!!!

Tony Long is on the Mend

I called Tony yesterday for an update. He is back home and doing well. he will be off work for a few months. PFP servcies were working on fitting a motor to the wheelchair but plans were leaked to Tony's wife and Phil is now in hidding.

" Hi Everyone, Firstly I would like to take this opportunity to THANK everyone for the get well cards, your messages in cards were touching and encouraging.

I have now had all my reconstruction operations completed and now on the long road to recovery, taking every day has it comes and keeping positive thoughts through to my legs.

I Can't wait to be able to get on crouches so I can get out and come and support you and THANK you personally.

Keeping it in the Family

Chris Needham won the UK cup in the ICC class at Snetterton on the 25th of May. His father Gary was present and several years ago won the 125 National UK Cup / national Championship and the Grand Prix.

2009 BRITISH SUPERKART GP

The BGP is in reality two events in one with Saturday providing a practice, qualifying (or 2 depending on class) and two races towards the British and National Championships which in normal circumstances would be £190 at 2009 rates. Sunday features another practice session and a pre-final (plus second chance for some) and the Final which again in normal circumstances would be another £190 by 2009 rates. That’s a total of £380 if considered in that way and even if you were paying the rookie fee that would be £330. In addition to that there is to be two trophy presentations, one on Saturday night when the Championship round awards and the MURBAR prizes will be presented plus the GP trophies on Sunday. Not only do you get all that but entertainment and a buffet thrown in so that’s got to be very good value for a great event. Not the normal weekend by any stretch of the imagination. I look forward to seeing you all at Cadwell for a brilliant weekend of racing and family fun.

It has yet to be confirmed but we firmly believe that the outright lap record for the Anglesey Coastal Circuit has been broken by Carl Hulme with a lap of 1.03:32 (88.12mph) on Sunday 9/5/2009.

We are given 4 x 15 min sessions. The sessions were part of the live action demonstration. The other sessions being the DRIFT series and track cars. The Superkarts and DRIFT series provided the crowd with welcomed speed and overtaking. With 20 Superkarts on track there was action on every lap.

This was the first time the Superkarts had visited Lydden Hill for several years and it seemed all drivers enjoyed themselves. After the sessions the Superkarts were on display and the were available for the public to ask questions.

Ken Walker, Jason Dredge and Louise Colin were interviewed by MotorsTV and we hope we get some coverage. Ken Walker was Joined by Ben Willshire in the commentary box giving track information and a driver view of the circuit. A bit like The Murray and Martin show from ITV F1.

Among the DRIFT drivers were drivers from Holland. Some of the UK drivers having just returned from the USA. The top Japanese drifter was something to watch. Even Shane Lynch from Boyszone was out on the circuit showing his prowess. Shane having raced for several years in Genetta's and British GT's. He was offered a run out in a 125. Quote " You lot are bloody mad" But he could be persuaded later on.

Like every year, the 2009 CIK-FIA European Superkart Championship will comprise three events, the first one being scheduled for Nevers-Magny-Cours (F) on 17-19 April, within the framework of the "Rencontres Peugeot Sport". The following rounds will take place in the Czech Republic, at Most (on 5-7 June), and in the Netherlands, at Assen (on 7-9 August).

Long considered as a single-make category engine-wise because Rotax’s domination was overwhelming, Superkart (the former Formula E) has been able to redevelop over the last few years thanks to the arrival of new, more modern engines types. And competition between engine Manufacturers is now going full swing, to such an extent that several Drivers renewed or changed their equipment during the winter. The recent national competitions held in France and in Great Britain showed the great leap forward made by everyone, and several records have already been shattered, so we can expect to see the fastest time ever recorded for a Superkart at Magny-Cours (1’40”610 - 157.83 kph) fall this year.

Notwithstanding the aging hardy Rotax and the heterogeneous twin-engine TM, there are six leading makes: the Japanese Yamaha, the French FPE, the Italian DEA, the Canadian BRC, the Danish PVP and the Czech VM. The safe values are the Yamaha of the reigning Champion, Peter Elkmann, and the FPE dear to Damien Payart (plus those of Lee Harpham, Malcolm Crowe and Gavin Bennett); however, with a reinforced bunch of Drivers (7) and the experience gained during a full year, the DEA should be in a position to claim victories, as should the BRC, the colours of which will now be represented by Trevor Roberts, a key Driver. Having made it to the podium in 2008 at the Lausitzring (D), the reed-valve-engined VM will also be able to count on an extended presence on the track as Stefan Malm and Alexandre Sébastia are joining the 2008 duo composed of Michal Bartak and Marcel Maasmann. Although it will no longer be led by its genitor Poul Petersen (who will focus on servicing his Drivers), the PVP engine will still be racing, in particular with the Norwegian Erik Martin Gjertsen and the Australian Carlo Chermaz, whose début on European ground will be worth watching. In its hybrid version fitted with substitute sumps and cylinders, the “old” Rotax will try to prove that it is still alive and kicking, particularly with Britain’s John Riley.

Used to Superkart fields, former Ford, BMW and Opel official Driver in the Swedish Touring Car Championships, Thomas Johansson will this year be joined by another colleague who also has a well-filled career: the Dutchman Cor Euser, whose talent was expressed in Formula 3000 and IndyCar in the 80’s and 90’s and was long associated with the Marcos company in GT.

In all, 49 Drivers (representing 12 nationalities) will take the start at Magny-Cours for a programme composed of two qualifying practice sessions (on Friday and Saturday) and two races of 50 km each (on Saturday at 17h30 and Sunday at 15h15). For any further information, please consult:

Oulton Park Photos

BHP Show

The BSA will be there. Will you? Touring Car driver Paul O'Neil will be testing a 125 open and a 250 twin.

We have several drivers intrested but have limited space. Contact Ian Rushforth for more info.

Gearing up for the 2nd edition of this already well established show which takes place on May 4th 2009 at Lydden Hill Race Circuit in Kent.

The 2008 Show made its mark by uniquely combining various genres of high powered Motorsport such as Rallycross, Drifting and WRC with the Modified car industry - Displays throughout the one day event were extremely impressive and completely non-stop, separated by several stints for the public to have a go in their own 'mounts'.

Looking forward toward the 2009 show where planning is well underway and we will have loads of new and exciting features, plus plenty of prize opportunities for all involved.

The BHP Performance Show is also family orientated, so no fear of any naked ladies on the day (sorry chaps!)

We will be releasing details of the 2009 show over the course of the next few months and right up until the big day itself - Believe me this is going to be one hell of a day and definitely not to be missed!

Please take time to look around the all new site, I'm sure you'll agree it oozes quality and will hopefully give you an insight of how exciting the 2009 show will be!

Oulton Park Shake Down

The weather no doubt played its part in keeping the numbers down at Oulton Park for the seasons first test session. Ten hardy drivers turned up and were rewarded with a beautiful sunny day although very cold. The track surface was a bit wet to start with and dried during the four sessions but never at any time presented those in attendance with conditions good enough to push things hard. Examples of every class from Div. 1 to F125 ICC were present. The drivers ranged from two times British Div. 1 Champion Paul Kennings to new for 2009 Paul Whalley who was out in his 250 single for the first time since moving over from cars.

Ex F125 ICC champion Danny Edwards was testing his F1 125 Open L/C kart in readiness for a full on attack for the title this year. Other 125 Open drivers included Jason Kitchin from the Isle of Man and Ian Reid.

Nice to see Ben Hughes back in action after his very bad road accident earlier in 2008.

Paul Platt was out on his ex Micheal Jennison PVP/ Honda getting to know the finers points of what makes a 250 single tick and Bob Taylor, David Glackin and Phil Rowlands completed the line up of 250 singles guys

BSRC Entry Offer

As in previous years we are offering you a special discounted rate if you pay up front for six of the BSRC events coming up in 2009. I am sorry but we cannot include the BGP is this offer.

It is most helpful to us if you are able to support the club in this way by taking up the offer as it helps to provide us with badly needed capital early in the year when we have to pay deposits for the contracts we will enter into for the BGP at Cadwell (20% = £4800) and Mallory Park in September (10% = £1150)

I am sure you must realise in these difficult times entry fees are not going to get cheaper but we will do our best to keep them as low as possible but will need to balance this with the requirement to keep the club viable.

Mallory Park - March 22nd

Entries from other classes will be accepted once the Championship classes have been satisfied The event is a National B so upgrade signatures can be acquired.

Oulton Park - March 28th - Island Circuit

Entries from other classes will be accepted once the Championship classes have been satisfied The event is a National A

On Board Footage Wanted

I am (Webmaster) trying to put together a promotional DVD and I need some good on board footage. You can give to me on a Memory Stick, Photo Card or on a DVD.

The footage will be added to footage we have from previous races and a voice over will be added.

Race Car Live - Televised

For those of you who just can't resist the lure of motor sport over Christmas, a one hour programme profiling the London Motorsport Show / Race car Live! will be broadcast at the following times on Motors TV.

December  27th   9pm
                28th   6am, 2pm
                29th   4pm
                30th   12pm

BSA Stand and Track Time Sponsored by

ADE Superkart's and Viper Racing

The Superkart drivers gave an excellent demonstration at the Race Car Live Show on Saturday 22nd of November. On hand to commentate was Ken Walker who gave a 20 commentary and interviewed several drivers after the 20 minute plus session.

The session as dry , sunny but cold. We were joined but Lee Morgan. It was his first outing since his accident in Germany. It was good to see him out on his Raider / SGM and back on the pace.

As the karts in the paddock fired up the crowds flocked to a viewing points. The 30 karts were lead around by the safety car for 1 1/2 laps then a simulated start was given and all got way.

The front of the Grid was lead by the ADE karts of Richard Sanders and Roy Bennett. ADE karts had paid for all the track time for the BSA drivers.

The grid consisted of all classes. The TV cameras were present and onboard footage was supplied by the drivers to the TV Team. So when its shown there so should be some good footage.

On the BSA stand we have karts from Raider and Viper representing the 250 Twins and ADE showing a rolling chassis. Ben Willshire had the RG Racing 125 Open on display and Michael Groves his 125 ICC. On hand to answer question were members of the BSA committee and Superkart drivers. Phil Featherstone from Raider, Ian Harrison from Viper Racing, Tony Long and Mark Vaughan from 250 Nats, Paul Platt, Ben Willshire from the 125 open were showing members of the public around the karts.

Questions of how to get in to the sport a sensible cost were covered and informed potential drivers the best routes of second hand kit is the best and cheapest to start with.

On Que - It Snowed. Followed by high winds and rain. John Osborne inspected the track and declared it un save due to a river running off the GP circuit across the circuit.

This was received well by most drivers. Shame about the weather as there were lots of people looking forward to the karts again. However we had the plus of the commentator interviewing drivers and members of the BSA for the Circuit Radio. Louise Colin giving the girls a boost helped.

Apart from the weather we all left in an up beat mood about the weekend. Well done to all the drivers, helpers and families for a great boost to our cause.

Photos by: Mike Stokes - Trackside Images

Phone : 020 8330 2435 - Mobile : 07857 853738

Knockhill on Motors TV

The footage taken at the recent Knockhill event which contains Division 1, F250 National, F125 Open and F125 ICC will be broadcast on Motors TV on Wednesday 12th at 19.00 as part of the Scottish Motorsport programme. The programme will feature among other things highlights from race 1 & 3 from the Superkart's. The voice over was completed today by Ken Walker and it looks pretty good and without doubts illustrates what heroes the drivers were to endure such bad weather conditions in the later races. Well done to those who came.

The DVD version of the event will follow shortly and will be a much longer version with all three races covered in full plus the full interview with John Riley.

The DVD is available to order at a cost of £15 plus P & P (Total £16) or pick up a copy at the Kartmania Show later this month.

We really need your support with this sale guys to enable us to recover some of the money invested in the project, so order your copy today.

Race Car Live

Thanks to the support of Richard Sanders of ADE Karts and Ian Harrison of Viper Racing UK the British Superkart Association will be taking a stand at the Race Car Live Show at Brands Hatch on November 22/23rd.

The show incorporates the London Motorsport Show as well The show is unique in that it features static displays much like the normal motor show but also live circuit action which permits the various vehicle manufactures and Championships to show what they have to offer an aspiring race driver.

For us it is a great chance to demonstrate just what the variety of Superkart classes have to offer a would be Gearbox Kart Racer in two live sessions. We will have a static display of karts in a 6M X 6M awning space plus a live session on circuit each day.

So can you help us by bringing along your kart and taking part in the live 20 minute demonstration on Saturday and/or Sunday around the Brands Indy Circuit.

If you cannot make both days then either Saturday or Sunday is fine and within reason we don't have a limit of how many we can put out on circuit. So if you fancy a free outing around the famous Brands Hatch circuit and a look around the show thrown in then please let me know, we would love to have your help and participation.

If you want to take to the track then we suggest you make a donation to the BSA for future shows.

Dinner Dance

The Dinner Dance will take place at the Kenwick Park Estate near Louth in Lincolnshire on Saturday November 29^th. Tickets are £35 each and can be reserved with Wendy Barker who is organising the venue and the festivities this year on 01507 338494. Cheques made out to the BSA.

Rooms at the Kenwick Park Estate can be booked now for £90. There are also some chalets available which can take four people with equivalent rates as the rooms i.e £45 per person. Reservations can be made with the hotel on 01507 608806. It is I am told a really nice venue so a great weekend in prospect.

Jason Dredge

2008 MSA British Superkart Champion

Jason Dredge was crowned the 2008 MSA British Superkart Champion after the final round at Castle Combe round. Jason had it in the bag at the Donington Park round in August. Turning up at Castle Combe as the 2008 champion he didn't just cruse round. He was on the pace and pushing hard.

Jason is the first of the Junior Gearbox class to come through and take the Long Circuit Championships. Jason started racing at circuits like Little Rissington and Shenington.

FEKC 250 Sponsored Event

Forest Edge has secured a 250 sponsor for the October meeting which means that for only £10(!!) all 250's will have the whole weekend, that includes the Saturday practice AND race day Sunday!!

So take advantage of the offer, new showers and toilets, tack changes more suited to gearbox and get entry's in for October!!

We know it clashes with Darley Moor but you are not all going to Darley. So this is your chance to support the clubs who feed long circuit karting and who without we would not exist.

BSB Support Event

The British Superbike championship round at Cadwell Park was supported by the BSA team. They had karts on display and did demo runs during the breaks. Giving the crowd an in site to the sport of karting fast style.

Barker Racing and Parker Racing were in attendance and provided a professional image of how the BSA operates.

Bahrain Lap Record

125 Open driver Ben Willshire visited the Bahrain International Circuit on the 28th August 2008. He was given the opportunity to show his karting skills against some of the circuit staff including Sheikh Salman bin Isa al-Khalifa, COO of the Bahrain International Circuit. After 5 laps of the kart circuit Ben had broken the lap record with a time of 55.38s. The team were impressed with Ben's driving and the positive feedback he gave about the Kart Zone circuit.

Stars of Darley Moor

The biggest motorcycle race of the year at Darley Moor is the Stars of Darley meeting and will take place this year on Sunday Oct. 5th. Several of the top Superbike Teams usually attend so they attract a big crowd for the event. The Long Circuit Racing Kart Club would like to take advantage of this and field a big grid for the their own Stars of Darley Superkart event in order to promote the good name of gearbox karting to the best effect.

So if you fancy a run at this big event then get an entry to Terry Bateman ASAP. The entry fee is just £85 for a practice and two races.

Nat B Event - Upgrade Time

The BRSC invites all its members to suppport the Mallory Park club championship event on Sept. 21st. The event is part of a BARC car race meeting. The event is part of our ongoing partnership with the BARC who asked us to help fill the event and we hope by assisting in this way it will stand us in good stead for date and venue allocation in 2009.

The event is to be a National B permit event so an ideal opportunity to get upgrade signatures for newcomers to gearbox racing. We would love to see you at Mallory for the first time.

It is a requirement of upgrade that the signatures are obtained at three different circuits so a good chance to get signatures at a circuit other than Darley Moor.

The BARC have offered us a good rate so the entry fee is considerably cheaper than formal for Mallory Park.

New Superkart Kart School

Darley Moor has been approved as an ARKS kart school. Terry Bateman will be the approved tester. The School will have a 125 F1 Long Circuit kart to teach new driver the skills of handling a long circuit outfit.

Get Well Soon

The British Superkart Assn wishes a speedy recovery the drivers injured in the start line accident in Race 2 at the Lausitzring

Two UK drivers Lee Morgan and Adam Smith were both taken to Hospital. News from the BSA team (Ian) was Lee will be kept in Germany for a few days to stabilize his injuries and Adam has his ankle in plaster.

I understand that there were some other drivers injured but I was not given the names we would like to wish them a speed recovery as well.

2 Test Sessions @ Anglesey

The New Era MCC has not achieved a particularly good entry which means they are prepared to include a couple of testing/practice sessions into the Saturday afternoon of their race day.

The two 15 minute sessions will cost £50 or if you only want to do a single session it will cost £30. In order to cover the insurance issues we have decided to take out a two day permit (its the cheapest way) so we will have to sign on and scrutineer as we would for a single day event.

It is not compulsary to do the testing and anyone wishing to do just race day on Sunday is welcome to do so as originally planned. The timetable has not been confirmed yet but Signing on and Scrutineering will probably be at about midday on Saturday with the sessions during the afternoon. really hope you will support this initiative as its taken a bit of organising but ultimately will be good for you guys and I hope our relationship with the New Era MCC who are grateful for the extra revenue.

Sad Loss

Andy Fleming, one of our former drivers was tragically killed yesterday in a work related accident. Our heart felt condolences go out to his family and friends. Rest in peace Andy.

Andy raced 125 back in the late 90's. He was a great driver and fair. He could hold his own against the likes of Boyd Barrington, Graham Barker and Paul Bateman. He would always lend a hand if needed.

World Exclusive

Homologation Time

Paul Owens sent the BSA the pictures of the new DEA 250 Twin engines ready for the CIK to check.

Paul is to act as the UK agent. We will issue contact details and price for the engine soon. But we alrady know the price will be competitive against the PFE.

VEGA's could be In! Gucci is out!

Assuming the 2008 regulations are approved Vega tyres will be added to the list of Brands (Bridgestone, Dunlop, Maxxis and Vega) that will be permitted for use in the Superkart series in 2008.

The UK distributor Cyclone Racing has agreed to support the series by giving us six sets of tyres to raffle off to the drivers thus opening the way to participate in the series.

We should then have 24 sets of tyres to raffle off in 2008. On top of that we still have 4 sets remaining from 2007 season so it is going to be a bonanza year for tyre draws.

A visit to their website (www.vegatyres.com) will demonstrate the extensive range of sizes and compounds they manufacture for karting.

New Italian Div 1 Superkart Engine

Breaks Cover

One of two new engines expected to be put forward for homologation to the CIK for the CIK Div 1 Superkart class has issued artist impressions drawings of the new motor. The BSA were told of the engines are being prepared for the CIK inspection in March.

Both engines have to complete the CIK process by 1st April if they are to be eligible for use in 2008. Paul Owens sent the BSA the pictures, is to act as the UK agent. The engine is expected to be competitively priced against the PFE.

Laguna Seca

MONTEREY SPORTS CAR CHAMPIONSHIPS October 17-19, 2008

We are requesting that any driver who is interested contact Bernie NO LATER than March 1st to declare an interest.

There is also quite a bit of discussion going on that karts could get left in the USA …the plan is currently for me to bring karts back to Virginia from Laguna Seca and the guys fly back and come back to VIR…ohhh the headaches :-)

BSA 24 Hr Endurance Team

The team was put together in 48hrs. We were even turning drivers away while the event was on. The response was fantastic from all the gearbox family. What a bunch of great drivers we have. The team did the BSA proud.

6th Place

Qualifying

Phil Featherstone / Dave Harvey proved to be quite quick and put us in P5 for the start. Rob had a go and Phil did say I was quick on 1 lap. Yes! So I took the point!!!

The Race - Phil took the first session and the first laps was normal "bish bang bosh". The young drivers were gone. We were bounced back to 8th by lap 3. But by lap 10 we were in 3rd due to our own secret weapon (Phil has been reported for teaching some people how to pass without driving over people) Brakes weren't working!!!

As time went on the younger lighter driver were doing 21sec laps. We were consistently doing 22's. Amazingly Dave Harvey set the fastest lap during his session. 19.764. From that point I put Dave as Standby Driver. There's life in the old dog yet!!

By 6hrs we were in P8 due to our lap times, 2 breakdowns and some aggressive tactics of some teams. Team Motorsport News seemed to be our main rivals. Brooks University and Team Unique were all around our times and the positions changed regularly. Martin Goodclife and Nick Horword did a great job by doing 2hrs shifts with Phil doing another run with Mark Pile.

By 12hrs - The night shift Rob Chilcot / Jon Neville, arrived. We had some ups and downs. Strangely the circuit went cold around 00:30 and everyone was losing 1 to 2 seconds per lap.

By 15hrs - Dave was Snoring and I was counting sheep. Jon Neville kept the drivers in the correct sequence. (Cheers mate) Kevin Busby, was surprisingly quick for an old guy. Keith Obrien assisted with 2 sessions putting in consistent times. Kev's mate Tony also doing a bit.

By 18hrs - Mighty Man Phil was back and ready to go (disturbing my beauty sleep). Mick Glasby was out doing a shift then Phil did a 1hr then Jon did a 2hr stint. Then Phil and Jon decided to do a 2hr sessions saving us time on a driver change. The fuel sessions were every 2hrs.

With 2hrs to go we made a great tactical move and made up 4 laps and in to P6. We decided to do our fuel stop out of normal sequence,. The organizers were going to wait but be wanted to stick with our driver strategy. Mick Glasby took over from Phil. After 45mins Gavin Bennett jumped in for the last 75mins. His lap times were the same as the leaders and we managed to get some laps back.

During the last 20mins the fight was on for P1 and P2 buy the young teams. It was 1 lap between the 2 teams, then 0.8 Seconds. With 3 laps to go Gavin was pushing the team leading the race. The TV crew filming every move. The team in 2nd disposed of Gavin the normal way... Don't brake. We came over the finish line directly behind the P1 and P2 teams.

After 24hrs it was down to 00.288 seconds. Close is not the word. We finished 6th and the team did a great job.

Next Year - We will all go on a diet. Drivers will be under 10 stone clothed. Can we use the ones below!!!!

Dave Harvey - Phil Featherstone - Nick Horword - Martin Goodlife - Ben Willshire - Rob Chilcott - Mark Pile - Tony - Jon Neville - Keith Obrien - Kevin Busby - Mick Glasby - Gavin Bennett - (Sorry only Dave and Phil knew the girls names and numbers. Mick seems happy. Where is her hand!!!!)

MSA LICENSE MEDICALS AVAILABLE AT THE AUTOSPORT SHOW

Motor Sports Association (MSA) license holders visiting next year’s Autosport International Show will again have the chance to renew their competition medicals on all four days of the show.

A dedicated facility, open to all license holders requiring this service, will be located in the office suite adjacent to Hall 17’s entrance. Dr Mark Green will be checking drivers’ general health, including cardio vascular, vision and blood pressure, as well as giving stress electrocardiograms to drivers over 45 years old.

“The Autosport International Exhibition is seen as an important shop window for the sport,” said Allan Dean-Lewis, Head of External Affairs at the MSA. “We very much welcome the independent commercial facility made available by Dr Mark Green to undertake medicals for those requiring them as part of their MSA Competition License application or renewal process.”

To hold any race, kart or international licence drivers must submit a medical once a year and ASI has become a convenient location for this, being the largest and most important motorsport trade show in Europe.

Any interested drivers need to contact Dr Mark Green or leave a message on the 24-hour answer machine on 01293 822 036 or via e-mail at drmagreen@aol.com to make an appointment, but book early as it was a sell out in January 2007.

US Kart Grand Prix

Bennett Wins USGP

Robert's Wins Pre Final

It seems Trevor Roberts won the pre final ahead of Gavin Bennett in diabolical weather. It seems that racing at Cadwell and Nurburgring in the wet was a good practice for this weekend.

Gavin Bennett on Pole

The new FIA-CIK European Superkart champion is currently on pole for the US Kart GP at Virginia International Raceway by some 3 seconds. Trevor was on pole but was excluded for being under weight.

Formula E - Division 1
1. Gavin Bennett (GB) 2:34.3
2. Jurgen Reinke (GER) 2:37.5
3. Sam Zavaglia (AUS) 2:39.8
4. J.R. Osborn (US) 2:41.2
5. John West (US) 2:47.4

Andy Klker the current US Champion heads the ICE class by 0.6 of a second.

IC/E - Division 2
1. Andy Kiker (US) 2:38.2
2. Martin Rueck (GER) 2:38.8
3. #50 (no info on this kart)
4. Mike Spear, Jr. (US) 2:46.7
5. Dan Davis (US) 2:53.4

Trevor Roberts Returns to 250 Formula E / CIK Division 1

The brilliant British driver from Lurgan in Northern Ireland, will be competing in the US Superkart GP on December 14th on the international Virginia track (5.2 Km).

Trevor Roberts, F250 MSA National British Champion 2007 with Viper Racing, is announcing his comeback to Superkart Division 1 where he was world champion in 1995.

His tuning engineer Ian Harrison (Viper Racing UK) will be the first to use a chassis/engine combination based on what he believes is the best possible price / performance compromise.

Trevor Roberts who has not competed in division 1 since 1995 wanted to create a package, with his engineer, that would be competitive right from the start. That 's why he choose to use an Anderson Chassis combined with a PVP engine. For him this is the ideal weapon for his big come back in 2008 in the European championship which he will be attempting to win in his first year of participation.

Good Luck Trevor from the BSA

Changes at the Top - New Chairman

At the AGM a new Chairman was elected. Keith Parker has taken over from John Osborne who has severed the sport well over the past 15 years.

John will continue to assist Keith over the next few months. John will still be involved with Superkarting via the BSRC who will hold some of the championship race meetings.

BSA New look Web site

As you can see we have a new look web site. We want your feedback on what you want it to look like.

British Superkart Association Drivers do well in Europe

Congratulations must go to all the driver who ventured in to Europe. Gavin Bennett won the 2007 FIA-CIK European Superkart Championship.

News Page

Goodwood Festival of Speed

Bathurst 1000

Want a driver?

British Superkart GP Latest

French Cup

Dunlop Australian Superkart Championship

Ginetta Cars to Support Superkart Series.

Cadwell Park Media Day

Logo Change

International Women’s Day

UK CUP (“O” No Plate) FOR F125 ICC

Superkarts Visit Mount Panorama

VERY SPECIAL LONG CIRCUIT OFFER TO GEARBOX DRIVERS

30th Long Circuit Kart Grand Prix