2019 Daytona KartWeek Opens 2020 Karting Season With 45th Anniversary

December 24, 2019September 29, 2020 Bruce Lindermann 0 Comments Daytona International Speedway, Daytona KartWeek, Go Kart Racing, Grassroots Racing, racing, World Karting Association

It’s easy to dismiss kart racing as a novelty event or an activity for children. But the truth is, it’s actually a very competitive sport that helps racers move along to more recognized racing formats. Senna, Hamilton, and Vettel are just a few of the (many) big names that found their professional start in karting, proving that there’s more on the line than a first-place finish.

With that said, there’s no denying that this is still a more lighthearted form of racing that is tons of fun. So, how about kart racing, in the dead of winter, in one of the sunniest states, at one of the most famous speedways in the world? How does that sound? Welcome to the 2019 Daytona KartWeek.

It’s Kind Of A Big Deal…

First, it’s important to point out that KartWeek is much more than a simple go-kart race. As mentioned, karting is a great way for aspiring racers to get their feet wet, learn the ropes, and even draw sponsor attention. And Daytona Kartweek, which kicks off the World Karting Association’s (WKA) Manufacturer’s Cup Series, draws in talent by the thousands—with many participants flying in on Christmas Day, just to take a stab at the first-place trophy.

Go kart racers at 2017 Daytona KartWeek — Nominated Best Winter Sporting Event of the Year by Sports Travel Awards, Daytona KartWeek draws huge crowds.

“This event, which historically runs in the days separating Christmas and New Year’s Day, has become an annual adventure for most of these racing families,” writes the WKA. “While many of these go-kart drivers aren’t even of legal age to drive on the streets, they come here to experience the sights and sounds of the mecca of racing. Many stars got their start by competing in Daytona KartWeek events, including Marco Andretti, Tony Stewart, Brian Vickers, and Bobby Labonte.”

Serious Business and Big Bucks

The family-friendly atmosphere of Daytona KartWeek helps keep the mood festive, but that doesn’t mean the stakes aren’t high. Some of these kids—and I do mean kids—travel around the country and sometimes around the world to compete. (The Kart World Championship is in Portugal for 2020.)

As you can imagine, that means what was once a true grassroots sport is becoming increasingly competitive and expensive. And, as the lure of a professional career hovers in the distance, many are beginning to feel that even in this entry-level form of racing, a certain pedigree is required if you ever want to actually make it forward.

Aspiring racers use GoFundMe to raise money for expensive entrance fees and equipment costs. — As entrance fees and equipment costs rise, it’s not unusual to see many aspiring racers turning to outlets like GoFundMe in order to keep pace with big-budget teams.

It’s true that kart racing is widely renowned as the foundation of motorsports. And the allure of success naturally draws the attention of many wealthy families with aspirations of top-tier Formula 1 fame, making it tough for the drivers making do with less-than-the-best equipment.

However, those with raw talent and big dreams shouldn’t be discouraged from attending and competing in an event like this. Exposure to sponsors aside, participants get an opportunity to rub elbows with current and retired Indy racers, experience the thrill of driving on a world-famous track, and get an inside look at the competitive nature of higher-tier racing divisions—even if it is on a smaller scale.

2019 Daytona KartWeek Celebrates 45 Years

But, back to the matter at hand—the 2019 running of Daytona KartWeek. What’s on the docket?

Running December 27-30, it features races on three courses at the renowned Daytona International Speedway. Maybe you’ve heard of it, as it’s the home of some little events like the NASCAR Daytona 500, Daytona Speedweeks, and Rolex24 at Daytona (formally known as 24 hours of Daytona, “7000+ Go Like Hell,” if you know what I’m saying.)

As the 45th anniversary (the event kicked off in ’74 and has been running strong ever since), 2019 Daytona KartWeek has plenty in store for drivers and spectators. In addition to a discounted Vortex ROK Engine Promotion Program, the WKA also added a lucrative prize fund.

Where Can I Watch?

Unfortunately, online registration ended earlier this month, but if you’re interested in attending next year, you can find information here. (FYI: you need to be WKA member.)

If you can’t wait that long, Spectator/Pit passes are sold at the gates. And if a trip to Florida is out of the question—you’re in luck as the 2020 Bridgestone Manufacturers Cup will be broadcasted nationally on MAVTV, beginning with the 2019 Daytona Kartweek. Most of you may be aware that recap coverage of karting events has been televised before. But to have live broadcasting is a major treat, not only for spectators but the WKA as well.