NASCAR's Ricky Stenhouse Jr takes inaugural lap of record-breaking go-kart track
NASCAR driver Ricky Stenhouse Jr put the pedal to the metal when he tested out a new record-breaking go-kart track.
He may be used to driving much bigger cars professionally, but the US sportsman says he’s no stranger to go-karting.
Chevrolet driver Ricky performed the ceremonial first lap around the longest multi-level Go-Kart track (indoors) at RPM Raceway Long Island (USA) in Farmingdale, New York.
The newly renovated track broke the record with a total distance of 1,071.6 m (3,515.7 ft) when it was unveiled on 6 May.
Ricky said before picking out his vehicle: “It’ll be fun. I’ve walked the track but I haven’t been on it yet.
“There are a lot of corners to memorize in a short amount of time, but it should be a lot of fun.”
Ricky Stenhouse Jr
“These are fast,” he added when checking out the karts that were lined up ready to go.
Like many professional racers, Ricky first found his love for the sport in a go-kart.
Andrew Farage of RPM Raceway Long Island said: “For us, if we can ignite a junior racer to really unlock their passion for go-karting the same way most professionals have then we’ve really done our job.”
Ricky added: “You can play football, basketball, baseball anywhere, but to be able to come here, get in a go-kart… you know I grew up go-kart racing on dirt.
“So, to have this place close to the city like this and for kids to be able to come in, get their need for speed, and maybe progress from there – everybody in the NASCAR Cup Series started from go-karts.
“It’s really cool to see the kids really take to go-kart racing and really want to improve their career and see where they can go. They can learn a lot here.”
Ricky driving the track
Andrew said everyone at RPM Raceway is excited to see young people try out the sport, and hope that those who find a passion for it can join their leagues and maybe, one day, become a professional like Ricky.
This was a new record title, with a minimum of 900 m to beat, and Guinness World Records Adjudicator Andy Glass was on hand to present the official certificate to the team.