KARTS: KART START event a grand success

MARKHAM, ON – KART START, Ontario’s largest indoor go-kart show and swap meet was recently held at the Markham Fairgrounds. The event took place on Feb. 5 and drew almost 400 people from Windsor to Montreal.

Hosted by the Mosport Kart Club, this was the second year of what will continue to be an annual event. Maurice Bachand of MSM Motorsports, has been in the sport for many years and thought the area could use such a venue. “It was the only time for buyers to view and compare products all in one location. Never before had these major vendors displayed their products all under one roof!” commented Mr. Bachand. Many private individuals used this unique occasion to offer their used parts and go-karts for sale.

Tina Marie Bachand, KART START Event Planner and Coordinator, credits the day’s success to several factors. “Despite the early morning fog, the brilliant sun later attracted the people. Attendees doubled from last year. Vendors filled the building, doubling their numbers also. The Mosport Kart Club volunteers assisted with the smooth running of the day. Hunger was satisfied as Neil and Charmain Hamill of My Little Pizzeria and Deli sponsored the pizza.”

Go-karting is a family affair. One can begin at 8 years, and there are gentlemen in their 70's. Karting is a great sport for the whole family with many father and son and sibling teams. Girls and women are certainly not excluded! Children (and parents) learn much about engines, clutches, gear ratios, sportsmanship, focused concentration, not to mention the exhilaration of speed in a safer environment than hockey!

Competitiveness is evident – but it is not necessary to spend exorbitant amounts of money to have fun! To promote karting, go-kart clubs were allowed free display tables. Representatives from Mosport, Toronto, Waterloo, Point Pelee, Simcoe and Innisfil answered questions about their unique tracks. More information about each club can be found at their web sites. To book for KART START 2006, contact Tina at maurice@msmmotorsports.com.