Occhipinti Wins Suprkart Award

press release

Russ Occhipinti has wrapped up an amazing season by claiming his first Victorian Super Kart Club Series Driver of the Year award.

Occhipinti, who won the Max Light Series for the first time this year, beat home a talented field to claim the highest individual honour.

”It’s an honour to win this prize which wouldn’t have been possible without my sponsors at Ace Karts,” Occhipinti said. Occhipinti wrapped up the championship with a dominant 20-second win over Aaron and Peter Gazzola respectively at Calder Park Raceway in September.

He won 22 out of the 24 championship heats with a 17-year-old kart. “The hard work over the year paid off with the title win. It was a memorable season. Ace Karts has been behind me from the moment I started racing and their support is greatly appreciated,” he said.

In 1998, Occhipinti won the Phillip Island Formula Ford Trophy, awarded for the Victorian champion in the class. Other winners of the award include V8 Supercar driver Mark Winterbottom.

Occhipinti thanked long-time friend John Gonzalez for his support in the preparation of the championship winning engine. “John’s always helped prior to race day. Obviously helping on the ageing kart is a tough task.”

“I’m looking to continue on next year but at what level – I don’t know yet.”

The 30-year-old from Melbourne’s west is the Workshop Manager at Ace Karts.“It’s a great job working in the field I am so passionate about.” He has been at the Albion-based go-karting centre since its establishment in 1994.“The business has grown and I’m glad I can contribute in any way possible.”

Occhipinti was also thankful to Domenic Albanese from Extreme Karts in Geelong for sponsorship of the team. He thanked the Victorian SuperKart Club for its work in organising the series

pics by Gary Trounson

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