Junior Rotax class introduced in 2011 karting season

By OSCAR PILIPILI

Its all systems go as drivers prepare to start the 10-round RVM&SC Karting Championship this weekend.

About 38 drivers have registered to join the first round set for Solai on February 6. As preparations gather momentum, organisers expect about 50 karters towards the end of the 2011 season.

NK Brothers have put in so much time and effort towards the success of the series, having volunteered to build pits and spectator stands at the Solai track.

The KF3 class, which Tushal Mavji won last year, has been phased out with riders from this class teaming up with those promoted from 60cc to form the Junior Rotax Class of 10 drivers.

Those graduating from 60cc to Junior Rotax are Jeremy Wahome, Sofia Hansen, Tejas Hirani, Rafe Trundell and Harkamal Singh. Massimiliano Brighetti is set to make a debut in the Rotax class. The junior Rotax welcomes Mavji, Sameer Nanji and Ali Mirza from the defunct KF3.

Michelle Brighetti joins the 60cc class to fight it off with Ryan Bailey, Guennadi Khoda, Jason Oosterik, Paddy Macharia and the Saimbis — Antarjote and Kiaranjoth. Cungu Maina has joined the KF3 up from KF2, which retains the Sonis, Bhavik and Chirag, Dilip Dinesh, Davinda Sembi, the Mirzas-Izhar and Adil and Patrick Kairu.

Satjole Saimbi,Prabjote Saimbi, Damon Oosterik, Yuvraj Matahru are expected at 50cc class.

Meanwhile,parents have already placed orders for 10 new Rotax engines as well as eight new go karts. Organisers are encouraging the Rotax formula for its convenience, prolonged homologation, as well as its international recognision.

The RVM&SC karting Championship is one of the fastest growing forms of motorsports in Kenya today, having started with 18 drivers at the start of 2010 to 38 now.

All current karters will retain their existing numbers. New karters may choose the numbers on the scrutineering day. The champion in each class can have number one.

2011 Kenya Karting Club Championship Dates are:

February 6, March 13, April 10, May 22, June 26, July 17, September 4, October 2, October 23, December 4.