The winter karting season is well into the home stretch.
It has been a long three months for many drivers, teams and industry members who have spent the majority of the past three months in the sunny state of Florida. For some of us, it will be time for celebration, while for others it will come as a relief when the final Florida Winter Tour champions are crowned next Sunday at Ocala Gran Prix. For almost all of us, it will be time for a much needed break before the real season begins.
The FWT has had a very successful campaign under the new management of the MaxSpeed Group as they continue to elevate the popular ‘off-season’ winter series. From expedited registration to a more complete officiating crew, to welcome parties and a positive attitude, MaxSpeed has definitely upped the FWT game.
The racing has been nothing less than stellar as well and most championships will come down to the wire.
The next two weekends will feature something new as the FWT puts aside the usual two race weekend in exchange for a championship shootout that resembles what can be seen at the highest levels of our sport. A much anticipated change once again ups the level of the series and breathes some new life into championship weekend.
Following qualifying, drivers in every category will compete in three heat races before a single Pre-Final and Championship Final on each respective Sunday. The points have been adjusted and a win this weekend will go a long way. Points will also be gained following the heat races making the entire weekend important. Overall, the intensity got much higher and we are very excited for that.
For next weekends Rotax event, SuperPole qualifying is also scheduled for a few select classes. MaxSpeed introduced the SuperPole session at last years Pan American Championships much to the delight of the racers and teams.
Ocala Gran Prix has been known to challenge competitors based on how short and fast it is. It may only have 7 corners, but most will agree it provides some of the best racing on the tour. The local OGP drivers are always fast and can never be counted out for a shot at the podium as well.
A major note to keep in consideration over the next two weekends will be #fuelgate or fuel testing. Last weekends Rotax Challenge of the Americas event in Sonoma, California made headlines when two drivers were given harsh penalties when their fuel tested positive for an addictive after an official witnessed a mechanic mixing something unusual into their fuel jugs. It will be very interesting to see how much emphasis will be put into keeping these additives away from the track and if MaxSpeed will penalize the individual further.
Over the next 11 days, 14 FWT champions will be crowned. Let’s go racing! CKN will be there, will you?
