Kemptonian gives disabled fast wheels
Kemptonian has put smiles on the faces of many disabled people
A Kemptonian has put smiles on the faces of many disabled people by assisting to build an adaptive go-kart.
Last year, Adaptive Sports Fund (ASF) approached Graeme Neilson, owner of 4StrokeWorkshop, to find out how to go about building an adaptive go-kart for people with disabilities.
“At the very least, all we had hoped for was some advise or guidance and at most to steer us into the right direction,” Jeff Yates of ASF said.
“Well, this certainly wasn’t the case. Graeme, without any hesitation, agreed he would be only too happy to help. I was shocked, here was someone whom I had never met before generously committing to making this project a reality.
“Over the next few months, I was privileged to witness the progress. I was in awe of Graeme’s passion and determination, unselfishly investing hours in building and fabricating an adaptive go-kart, which would enable people with disabilities the opportunity to experience go-kart racing. After many late nights and long weekends, the adaptive go-kart was race ready.”
It looked amazing, with a brand new Hoffman motor, tyres, seat, stickers; everything built from the ground up. Once the adapted hand control, accelerator and brake levers were mounted, the excitement started to build.
During a successful day of testing, learning the kart’s handling and getting used to the hand-control levers, it was decided to enter a two-man disabled team into the Prokart Sprint Series event in Vereeniging.
Sampie Erasmus and Darren Thomas were the top choices for the day, putting in the most consistent lap times.
These enthusiastic and inspiring guys took to the circuit to compete in an all abled bodied classification. This did not deter them as they believe they are all equal on four wheels.
The day consisted of a practice session, qualifying and four individual heat races. This meant a lot of racing, but team ASF was up for the challenge.
“As the word got out about our adaptive go-kart, it attracted a crowd in and around the pit area. People were intrigued and started asking questions as we nervously tweaked the kart,” Yates said.
After qualifying, team ASF was fourth on the grid. This meant they started from the middle of the grid for the heat races.
“As they approached the start line, warming up the tyres by swaying the kart from side to side, I could see everyone’s eyes were locked onto this amazing sight. As the green flag waved, the 270cc engines started to rev, the flag dropped and they were off.” Yates said.
“It was a close battle throughout the heat races, switching positions from fourth to eigth. As we watched the race unfold, I was amazed at how quickly they adapted. Darren and Sampie raced exceptionally well, only running a few seconds behind the leaders, considering this was only the second time they had driven the kart.
“As we crossed the finish line, team ASF finished fourth overall. Both participants proved that anything is possible and nothing is impossible. They showed great determination and refused to let life’s difficulties bring them down. You both are an inspiration.
“I want to personally thank Graeme for making this a reality. You are changing lives. We need more selfless, kind and genuine people like you in this world. Thank you for bringing adaptive go-karting to all people with disabilities.”
