Nobody does it better than us
At Kartingmania™ the kids are thoroughly instructed, fitted with the correct size full-face helmet (with the visor always closed when on track) and neck protector. They are placed in a kart of their correct size, double-checked in the pits, and monitored by our marshals whilst on track.
Basics
On the main track kids only drive with the kids, not with adults. Also and importantly, we split the kids into groups of similar size, experience and understanding of the briefing.
Kids from approximately seven years upwards go out on the main track. We decide this based on many varying factors. We have a very extensive experience of this, and it’s our call.
However if we decide that they are not quite ready to go on the main track, we have a separate track next to the pits where they can drive a different type of gasoline-powered kart. (See the 4 to 7 year old’s section below.)
Preparation
An explicit briefing is given first. They are sat down on a bench and made to pay strict attention. They are invited to ask questions.
After the briefing we get them ready — fitting them with the correct size full-coverage helmet, as well as a neck protector. Loose hair, clothing, belts and loose shoelaces are all taken care of. We then place them in karts that fit them perfectly so that they are in the correct driving position. This is very important and we have a wide variety of chassis sizes and seat and pedal/positions to take care of this.
In-Kart
Next we make sure they have their feet and hands correctly positioned on the steering wheel and pedals, and that they are seated comfortably. We ensure that they are paying strict attention and that they are not being distracted nor distracting themselves.
We then get them to try out the feel, control and operation of the gas and brake pedal in order to familiarize themselves with the operation of these. When everyone is ready we start the engines then let the kids slowly bring the karts forward a bit at a time so that they get the feel of the gas pedal and brake pedal operation now that the kart is moving slowly in the pits.
After another individual final check by us, we close their visors and out on-track they go. They are then closely monitored by our track marshals throughout their whole session. Where necessary they are pulled up by the pit entrance and any mistakes are corrected.
4 to 7 Year Olds – Very Small Clients Welcome
Racing baby on board?
We also have a separate track where our 4 to 7 year old very small clients can drive customized, gasoline-powered karts.
You will be amazed! We have some really small, very cool karts for very small, budding racing drivers. These tiny drivers are fitted with their exact size, profesional full-coverage helmet and a neck protector. They drive a kart that fits them perfectly. These are single-seater karts. On this track we also have some slightly larger, very cool karts for bigger kids in this age group.
After the important instructions are given and they have understood the gas and the brake pedal operation, they go out on their track with one of our staff perched on the side-pod of the kart, checking and ensuring that the kid is doing things correctly. After a lap or two, once the kid has got the hang of things, our instructor jumps off and monitors the action. You will be amazed at how rapidly the kids learn! Mostly they improve lap after lap. The speed of these karts is not high.
Many, many parents are simply flabbergasted at what has just happened. Their little kid is suddenly driving on his or her own for the first time — and driving well! Absolutely fantastic photo and video opportunities here…