Me: Go-karting is like car racing, but in a smaller vehicle. I
have been competed in go-kart racing for six years, and, at first, it was hard to get used to
the fact that men completely dominated the sport. Beginning in 1992, the number of women
competing increased a lot and the media began interviewing younger competitors. I was baffled
when I attended my first go-kart race in '92 because there was an enormous crowd of people.
Random spectators asked me many interesting questions about my experiences as a young woman in
go-karting.
The Certification: The competitor must apply for a FAQ licence at the beginning of the season in order to race professionally. The licence is divided into three categories: A, B, and C. Licence (A) is for Formula 125cc, Formula C, Intercontinental Sr, and Formula A. Licence (B) is for Formula 100 Sr, Formula 100 Jr, Honda 4-cycle Heavy, Honda 4-cycle Sr, Honda 4-cycle Jr, and Cadets. Licence (C) is for anyone who is planning to race in the regional races only.
FAQ: The Federation Auto-Quebec (FAQ) registered only four girls in 1992 and only two finished the season. Although it may seem small, there are now roughly ten girls taking part in eight FAQ races this year. That's an increase of 500%! Niches of Competition: In total, the provincial, national, and regional championships have successfully registered over 30 girls in the past few years. The Canadian Championships, which are held each year in November, has hosted the least amount of female racers as there as a specific amount of experience is a pre-requisite to race. Since so few girls have been exposed to the sport, they are caught in a catch-22. However, the women that do participate in the Canadian championships compete with men. Charlotte Helberg, 21, for example, races all around Europe. It's A Family Affair: I began go-karting at 12 with my brother, who is nine years older than me. At first, it was very difficult to focus as I had never experienced anything like the intensity of racing. My first vehicle was a Honda 4-cycle Jr. As I finished more races, I began to understand the technical and mechanical aspects of the sport. The help of family members and friends was essential throughout my go-karting career. My Dad would fix and tune my Honda GX160 engine. My older sister contributed her time by timing our laps during practice, qualifying, and the race. By the end of each practice session, I was so exhausted because go-karting took up an enormous amount of time, physical strength and concentration. When you're racing you have to think 100% racing and nothing else.Track Tips: Practice is essential to success in go-karting. Practicing gives you the chance to experiment with your go-kart and notice what it is capable of doing. Learning the track before the race is recommended because it is easier for you to practice, qualify, and race. This way, you can go over the track in your mind before the race which will improve your concentrate more during the race. Also with practice, competitors begin to see fear against their opponent, rather than within themselves.
Memorable Experiences: I had the opportunity to meet people from around the world when I took part in the 1992 Canadian National Championships in Ontario. I am presently racing in Yamaha Sr. I finished second and third many times during the 1995 season, and I finished third in the Quebec Championships. In 1996, I finished third two times and had to settle for a fourth place finish in the regional championships. In May of 1997, I won first place for the first time in my go-karting career. My future plans are to race in Formula 125cc.
Calling All Go-Kartin' Grrls: I invite anyone with an interest in go-karting or any questions to attend a race this summer. You can get more information on the events by phoning (514)252-3052. I hope to see more girls and women racing out there this summer and hopefully we will begin to dominate in the near future!
Categories: There are 10 different categories in the FAQ and other Championships offered around the world which consist of:| Category | Age | Total Weight | Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cadet | 65 km | ||
| Honda 4-cycle Jr | 50 km | ||
| Honda 4-cycle Sr | 50 km | ||
| Honda 4-cycle Heavy | 50 km | ||
| Yamaha 100 Jr | 100 km | ||
| Yamaha 100 Sr | 125 km | ||
| Formula A | 140 km | ||
| Formula 125cc | 160 km | ||
| Formula C | 170 km | ||
| Intercontinental Sr | 135 km |
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