Volcano Ash Cloud Could Affect Yatala Kart Team

press release

Queensland based CIK Karting Team, Harrington Doyle Racing, is keeping a watching brief on the probable travel issues relating to the ash cloud from a Chilean volcano.

The Puyehue volcano erupted over the weekend, causing air traffic turmoil in Melbourne, Tasmania and New Zealand.  The rare natural event could have a significant impact on this weekend’s CIK Stars of Karting event at Port Melbourne’s Todd Road Kart Raceway, as Teams make their way to Melbourne.

Above: HDR’s James Greenwood at the wheel of his Yamaha Clubman during Rnd 2 of the Australian CIK Stars of Karting, Adelaide, SA
pic - AF Images

According to news.com.au there is a log jam of more than 60,000 passengers around the country, as most flights in Melbourne were cancelled yesterday.  Virgin and Qantas were only returning their aircraft to the skies late today.  It is feared that further disruptions could develop with the threat of a second ash cloud later in the week.

Most of the Harrington Doyle Racing Team’s personnel and drivers will leave for Melbourne Thursday or early Friday morning.

Team Manager Craig Doyle said, “Plans were already being discussed for our team to fly into Sydney and then travel via road through to Melbourne if needed.  The worst part is that our youngest driver is sitting his school exams this week and this will put added pressure on our Team members to meet the logistical challenge.”

The first of the Team’s Vans and Race Trailer will arrive in Shepparton, Victoria tomorrow, whilst the second Team Van and Race Trailer will depart their Yalata Workshop tomorrow.

The Harrington Doyle Racing Team has 3 young drivers competing in the Yamaha classes of Round 3 of the Australian national CIK Stars of Karting Series event. 

Above: HDR’s Callum Walker leading the Yamaha Junior Pro pack during Rnd 2 of the Australian CIK Stars of Karting, Adelaide, SA
pic - AF Images

Official Practice commences Friday morning (17th), with Qualifying and 3 Heat Races on Saturday (18th).  PreFinals and Finals will be held on Sunday (19th), including both Top Ten Driver introductions on track prior and Trophy Presentations after each Final.

Gates will open at the Prot Melbourne facility at 6:30am each day, with the onsite Canteen being open from 7:00am to provide breakfast each day.  Warm-up for all 6 classes starts each morning at 8:00am, with Qualifying and Racing from 9:10am.

Be sure to bring the family trackside for some great giveaways and wheel to wheel racing throughout the weekend.

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