2004
Sunoco Ron Fellows
Karting Championship
presented by Toronto Star Wheels

Popular Karting Series Plans Improvements

March 20, 2004

The Sunoco Ron Fellows Karting Championship announced today that several improvements to the running of race events will be implemented in 2004.  Competitors and officials alike were concerned about the length of the days in 2003 and the long waits between classes on the track for practice, qualifying and races.

"The first of the changes will be the elimination of the traditional "Pre-Tech" kart inspections that occur every morning with long line-ups, waiting, and sometimes frayed tempers.  This is not the way to start the day." said Series officials.

The improved process sees all competitor's completing a "Pre-Technical Inspection Self-Declaration"  for presentation at Registration.  "We believe that the level of kart preparation has improved dramatically and that most teams really know what they are doing.  We prefer that the teams spend time in the morning focusing on preparations for the day." Series officials stated.

On the basis that it is at all times the competitor's responsibility to establish and maintain the technical requirements for the karts throughout the entire race event, event officials will be focusing on driver personal protection equipment such as helmets, neck collars, rib protectors, and driver suits.  "There are some concerns about the fitting of helmets, and helmets, neck collars and rib protectors that may be just plain worn out.  We want to assist drivers in helping them achieve the best possible protection."

"We will be monitoring the pre-grid and spot-checking various items.  As an example, it was brought to our attention last year that there may be some issues associated with the oil used in crankcase of 4-cycle engines." said Series officials.  "Over the winter, the Series has acquired technology that allows quick-checking of crankcase oil for compounds not normally found in oil.  Competitors on the pre-grid may have their oil checked.  If irregularities are found, there may have to be some quick oil changes under the supervision of event officials before a kart will be released to the track." commented Series officials.

"In addition to our ability to monitor that the correct fuel is being used, other new emerging technology that permits the checking of things like the absence of required rev-limiters is available and will be employed where necessary." stated Series officials.

"Our goal is to assist in creating a level playing field for competitors - safe, fair competition."

Please take a moment to check out our web page on helmet fitting   Click Here

For further information contact:
ASN Canada FIA - [email protected]