National Kart Day

Group of diverse individuals of all ages racing go-karts in a vibrant outdoor racing track, wearing colorful racing suits and helmets.. — National kart day illustration

Hey there, racing enthusiasts! Get ready to rev your engines because it's National Kart Day! This adrenaline-fueled celebration is dedicated to all things go-karting, so buckle up and join us for a wild ride.

When is Kart Day?

It's national kart day on the 31st May.

A Brief History of National Kart Day

Every year on May 31st, karting enthusiasts across the nation come together to pay tribute to the thrilling world of go-kart racing. But how did this high-speed holiday come to be?

The origins of National Kart Day can be traced back to the early days of go-karting, when the first kart was created in California in the 1950s. Since then, go-karting has evolved into a popular recreational activity and a stepping stone for aspiring professional racers.

Celebrating National Kart Day

On National Kart Day, karting enthusiasts gather at racetracks and go-karting centers to indulge in their need for speed. Whether you're a seasoned racer or a newbie behind the wheel, this is the perfect day to put the pedal to the metal and show off your skills.

Many go-karting facilities offer special discounts and promotions on National Kart Day, making it a great opportunity to gather your friends and family for a day of friendly competition. Just don't forget to bring a camera to capture those epic moments and victorious finish line celebrations!

Did You Know?

Did you know that go-kart racing is not just for adults? There are also special junior go-karts designed for young racing enthusiasts. So, if you have little ones who love the thrill of speed, National Kart Day is the perfect occasion to introduce them to the world of karting!

History behind the term 'Kart'

1956

Rise of Go-Karts

In 1956, a man named Art Ingels built the first go-kart, which was a small, motorized vehicle that was designed for racing on tracks. Ingels' creation became known as a 'kart' and marked the beginning of a new form of motorsport.

1957

Commercial Production of Karts

In 1957, the first commercial go-kart, called the 'Go-Kart 800' was introduced by Duffy Livingstone. This marked the start of mass production of karts, making them more accessible to a wider audience.

1960s

Expansion of Karting as a Sport

During the 1960s, karting gained popularity and began to be recognized as a legitimate sport. International competitions were organized, and karting associations were established in various countries. The sport started to attract racers of all ages, from children to adults.

1970s

Introduction of Different Karting Categories

In the 1970s, different categories of karts were introduced to cater to various skill levels and age groups. This led to the establishment of classes such as sprint, endurance, and shifter karting, each with its own set of rules and specifications.

1990s

Professionalization of Karting

During the 1990s, karting continued to evolve, with a focus on professionalization. Karting academies and training programs were developed to nurture young talent, and karting became a stepping stone for aspiring professional race car drivers. Additionally, advancements in technology led to the development of faster and more advanced kart models.

Present

Global Reach of Karting

Today, karting has a global presence and is one of the most widely participated motorsports in the world. It serves as a fundamental training ground for many professional race car drivers and continues to captivate enthusiasts of all ages. Karting remains a thrilling and accessible form of motorsport, with karting facilities and tracks found in numerous countries worldwide.