20th June 2013

KARTING CHAMPIONSHIPS SET TO BOOST BUNDABERG ECONOMY

Gold Coaster Scott Simpson (#23) and Toowoomba's Ben McKinlay (#4) are two drivers from the home state that will figure prominently at the championships (Pic: AF Images/Budd)

The Bundaberg economy is set to enjoy a boost as up to 1,000 visitors from all across Australia head to the Wide Bay region next week for the Bundaberg Marineland 2013 Queensland Karting Championships.

It is estimated the local economy stands to receive a boost in the vicinity of $500,000 from the championships as the racing drivers, mechanics, teams and associates begin arriving on Tuesday to begin preparations for the event.

With drivers as young as 7, and as experienced in life as 50, competing there will be a real family feel about the region.

With no less than 280 entries received across the 15 championship categories, the State Championships will be one of the largest events ever seen in Bundaberg.  Up to 36 drivers will be racing on the circuit at one time reaching speeds in excess of 110km/h.  The karts will race within inches of each other ensuring the action is always action packed around the 760-metre circuit.

“While there is a lot of focus on the younger drivers in the sport, karting is not just for children and teenagers who aspire to make a career in motorsport, there are many more benefits available by being involved in the sport,” said Karting Queensland President Ashley Waardenberg.

“Karting is a sport you can be competitive in with a relatively small budget while still enjoying the thrill of Motorsport and is a legitimate ‘stand alone’ field of competitive motorsport.

“The sport offers you much more than just a chance to race a go-kart, it provides you with a lifestyle for you and your family along with the opportunity to make some great friendships.

“Generally you will find that each driver will have at least two, possibly up to four, family members, mechanics and supporters who will travel to the event with them, all of whom the local economy will benefit from.

“We estimate that the event will inject approximately $500,000 into the local economy when you consider accommodation, meals and other associated spending that comes with the event.”

It is the first time in over a decade Bundaberg’s Dromeside Raceway has hosted such a prestigious event with a number of local drivers expected to figure prominently near the front of the field.

Kel Treseder in action during last weekend's round of the CIK Stars of Karting Series in Victoria (Pic: AF Images/Budd)

Fresh from a second placing in the recent CIK Stars of Karting Series round in Victoria, Bundaberg karting veteran Kel Treseder will be one such driver.

“For Bundaberg, the event is going to be great.  To have 280 entries at a regional state championships is a great result for everyone involved,” said Treseder.

“I think Bundaberg is going to put on a good show.  The racing is going to be good, Bundaberg is quite a flowing sort of layout so spectators should look for some good racing.

“It’s not only great for our Club but also for the entire economy, especially after the floods earlier in the year.

Practice for the event will begin on Wednesday June 26 ahead of qualifying on Friday June 28 followed by heat races on Saturday June 29 followed by the Championship Finals on Sunday June 30.

The Dromeside Raceway is located on University Drive, Bundaberg.  Admission is free for spectators.