Go-Kart racers to rev it up
By Rosli Abidin Yahya 

Brunei's Go-Kart racers will be revving up their engines against the best from Miri, Kuching and Labuan in the ABW Karting Series 2003. All kart racers are encouraged to register. 

The first round of the three-series circuit will take place at the Oil & Gas Discovery Centre (OGDC) in Seria on April 27. The next rounds will be conducted in the Jerudong Park & Country Club (JPCC) and in the Tutong District, on May 25 and August 3 respectively.

Jointly organised by ABW Karting and VIICOOL, the go-kart racing competition is expected to attract kart racers from neighbouring states such as Sabah and Sarawak.

Organisers have even promoted the idea that "the circuit could be the first step towards developing local Formula 1 drivers, who will (one day) be able to take part in international circuits".

"It's high time for Brunei to have its own Formula 1 drivers," they encouraged karting enthusiasts. "Many of these Formula 1 drivers started off with training as Go-Kart racers," they added. "In due time, they would slowly progress on and take up the challenge of car racing."

"The main intention of organising the ABW Karting Series 2003 is to groom locals to one day become Formula 1 drivers," organisers proudly said.

"Without acquiring experience from the humble tracks of Go-Kart, it would be difficult, if not, near impossible for one to reach his/her goal of entering Formula One races," a spokesperson said.

"By having a proper Go Kart Racing calendar, it could boost the country's tourism industry," he added.

Many local kart drivers have participated in a number of various races outside the country. Not only did they acquire essential racing experience, they brough home honour by emerging as race champions.

Last month, Brunei's kart racer Kamaludin Said won the Labuan Go-Kart Challenge 2003 (expert category) at a race held at the Labuan International Water Sports Complex, Tanjung Purun. He brought home RM1500 cash prize and a championship trophy.

Other local racers, Amirul Sanip and Rithuan Md Salleh won second and third prize in the same category.

Under the novice category, Mohd Idris Mohd Yusoff emerged as champion while Steven Mui and Mohd Zaini Talip were placed third and fourth.

Mohd Idris was also recognised as the best karter at the competition.

Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin