STATEMENT – FRANCO GUAITOLI (updated with service details)

Franco Guaitoli (left) with Jason Domaschenz and Remo Luciani (right) at Raleigh Raceway in 1993 (Pic: Real Deal Media)

It is with sadness that the Australian Karting Association acknowledges the passing of one of the most influential men in Australian karting during the 1980’s and 1990’s – Franco Guaitoli.

Guaitoli, 72, passed away in his sleep overnight at the St Joseph’s Hospital in Sydney following a short battle with cancer.

Affectionately known as ‘Mr PCR’, Guaitoli had been involved in karting since the early 1980s and despite retiring early last decade to spend more time with his family, still dearly loved the sport.

Guaitoli led the way for Australian drivers to compete overseas providing opportunities for drivers such as Darrell Smith and Ryan Wlodinski in the PCR team. He was also instrumental in putting Australia on the International karting map through his support of the Oceania Championships during the 1990’s.

On behalf of it’s members, the National Executive of the Australian Karting Association offers condolences to Guaitoli’s wife Anna, children Stephanie, Sabrina, Sergio, Sandro and Sonya and their partners, along with his nine grand children and two great grandchildren.

The church service of Franco Guaitoli will be held on Thursday the 14th of June at 10:30am at the Mary Mother of Mercy Crematorium Church on Barnett Avenue, Rookwood NSW. A private family cremation will follow.

Map: http://www.catholiccemeteries.org.au/pdf/rookwood_cemetery_map.pdf