If you have been hooked from the first time you tried the sport, then it means that you’ll be in this for the long haul. Go-kart racing gives you the chance to experience speed and skill on the track regardless of whether you plan to go for it every weekend as a bonding time with family and friends or levelling it up to competitive racing. And because it is a fast-paced type of sport, it comes with risks. So to enjoy the adrenaline without any unexpected injuries and accidents, here are some essential safety tips that you should remember when racing with high-speed go karts.
Gear up properly. If you are in for the competition or just a casual but regular go-kart driver, it’s good to invest in the right gear—one that snuggles your body and gives you a solid grip because it fits you well. But if you feel like go-karting is just an exciting phase that you enjoy, you can opt to choose the rental gear available at the tracks.
Pay attention to pre-race briefings. Understanding of each track you race on is crucial, and the instructors will definitely hand in the instructions during the pre-race briefing. What’s cool is that they will let you in on the secrets of where you need to take caution around the track so you can anticipate it even if you’re not there yet in that area. Remember to listen carefully so you won’t have to overthink while on the road. If you are new to the track you are going to race, try and drive the first lap and see how you feel about it.
Stay sober and focused. Staying sharp at your work or in school is the key to achieving productivity to the optimum, and that is also needed in go-karting. Focus is essential, even if it is tempting to get carried away and just have all the fun. Remember that racing under the influence of alcohol can still lead to serious accidents because the real thrill comes from mastering the tracks and when it is time to turn your kart.
Don’t be afraid to slow down. In every racing sport, the one who gets the medal is the fastest. However, the best way to win the sport is not about speed but about control. So do not worry if you feel like you are approaching a curve too quickly that you have to slow down. Follow your instincts, know when to slow down, and always keep your patience levels up so you can be safe and stay out of trouble.
Maintain your cart. Last and definitely should not be on the list: whether you own the kart or you are just renting it out, make it a habit to check everything so you can see if it has been maintained well so you can avoid unexpected surprises that will lead to something serious in the end.
And now you’re ready for the tracks. Enjoy the thrill responsibly!