Karting - The Sport For All Ages

AKA press release

Kart racers Benny Benedetto and Michael Baker are two drivers competing in the Queensland State Karting Championships presented by the Smart City Vocational College in Rockhampton this weekend.

However, that’s where the similarities between the pair end.

Above: Benny Benedetto (Left) and Michael Baker (Right) will both be in action in Rockhampton this weekend.
Pic: photowagon.com.au

With 50 years separating the duo, and Benedetto possibly old enough to be Baker’s Grandfather, the 57-year-old says that age is no barrier in the sport of karting.

“I’ve been around this sport for a long time but I still really enjoy it,” said Benedetto.

“Kel Treseder is one of the top drivers in Queensland and has won several Australian championships. It’s funny racing against him now because I remember racing against his father before he was even born!

“Us older guys can still go out there and have a ball. This weekend is a big meeting and there should be some great racing.”

Benedetto has been around the sport for over 20 years and would much rather be tearing up the kart tracks across the country than teeing off on a golf course.

“For me, these days karting gives me an opportunity to get away from everything and simply have some fun,” added Benedetto.

Baker is among the youngest drivers to be competing behind the wheel of a kart but like his elder statesman age is no barrier for this youngster.

This weekend will be the biggest event in Baker’s career but the main thing on his mind is to enjoy the racing.

The Emerald youngster will be among the 26 competitors in the Midgets category. These drivers aged between 7 and 10 years, will reach speeds of up to 80 km/h around the 861-metre circuit.

While karting for these kids is more about fun than winning championships the sport teaches them, both boys and girls, about car control long before they are able to obtain their road licence.

“We’ve been racing for 12 months now and we just love it,” said Peter Baker, father of Michael.

“We are still learning and getting the hang of things, but we are improving all the time and we’re having so much fun. It’s a good way for a family to spend time together.

“My son and I are both big motorsport fans so it’s good to get involved ourselves.

“I think it’s valuable to have these kids learn about car control and mechanical things at such a young age.”

A total of 402 entries have been received across 15 categories for this weekend’s championships with drivers coming from all parts of Australia to compete in the championships.

Qualifying will be contested tomorrow (Friday) with heat races being held on Saturday followed by the championship finals on Sunday.

The Fitzroy Park Raceway is located 23km south of Rockhampton on the Bruce Highway.

A full entry list can be viewed by clicking here.

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