Fast racing and friendship for all

WITH children practicing from six-years-old, starting to race at seven and sometimes driving well beyond age 60, karting is a fast and inclusive sport.

Based on Racecourse Road in Haddon, the Ballarat Kart Club is home to 50 members of all ages and experiences. 35 of those race regularly, travelling together around south-west Victoria.

Ella and Grace Dunmore are 16 and 13 years old. Alongside their dad, Greg Dunmore they joined the Ballarat Kart Club 12 months ago.

Living on the land, the family always drove vehicles. Mr Dunmore said the desire to go karting has always been within them all.

“A year ago today was the first meeting the girls came to. After they got a kart, I wanted one,” he laughed.

Also keen dancers, the Dunmore sisters are well-rounded sports people.

They want other young women to know that driving is for everyone at the Ballarat Kart Club, and there are a lot more girls racing than one might expect.

“It’s very welcoming. Everyone here’s very friendly,” Grace said.

“Just have a go and do what you want to do,” Ella said. “It’s competitive, it’s a learning curve and you meet new people all the time. I’ve enjoyed the friends that you make and racing against dad.”

This year, Ella has progressed through three classes, from KA4 Junior to Vic Combined Light Senior. Mr Dunmore has been impressed by the club’s community throughout.

“Everyone here has helped us. If it wasn’t for everybody here, we wouldn’t have advanced as quick as we have,” he said. “The girls have advanced because others have helped them learn, and no one treats them any differently. Everybody’s keen to see them succeed.”

Paul Feely, former Ballarat Kart Club President said the club hosts relaxed club days at the end of every month.

“Everyone has a chat, it’s fun and it shouldn’t be too serious. Spectators are welcome to come and ask questions,” he said. “The sport is for all levels, you could be a P-plater on your first race, going for national championships, or like me, doing it as a hobby that I enjoy. It’s open to all different people.”

The Victorian Country Series will come to the Haddon track over 9 and 10 November.

“It’s literally the second most popular series in Australia, so it’s a huge success. We’re hoping for between 200 and 250 karts,” Mr Feely said.

Visit ballaratkartclub.com or facebook.com/ballaratkartclub to get in touch.