If you're as crazy about racing as I am, there's this super cool place in Northern Italy that you'll totally love. This karting track is top-notch and it's seriously left a huge impression on me.
Given its proximity to the beautiful Lake Garda, a trip to South Garda Karting can easily be combined with a visit to one of Italy's most popular tourist destinations.
South Garda Karting, opened its doors in 1988 and quickly established itself as a top European kart circuit.
As a Rotax driver for most of my karting years unfortunately I did not get a chance to drive here, as the track mostly hosts WSK, FIA, IAME and ROK series events.
My first visit to South Garda Karting was for a training session with my new team at the end of 2023. From the moment I stepped onto the track, I was utterly captivated. The atmosphere was unlike anything I'd experienced before. So many teams and so many drivers were present there, various classes and engines, all chassis, I did not know where to look. I was so excited. I had driven this circuit countless times before in a simulator, but would the real-life experience live up to my expectations? Would it exceed them? The complex track layout pushes your skills to the limit, while still being enjoyable for those less experienced behind the wheel.
The South Garda Karting track in Lonato was extended from 1010 meters to 1200 meters in 2015. This change has allowed for more challenging and exciting races.
The lap begins with the start/finish straight, leading to the challenging first fast left and right bends where precision is crucial in keeping the maximum speed. Following this, a fast right-hander demands strategic braking and a careful exit, setting up for the subsequent straight.
The track then unfolds into a fast, sweeping section, requiring a delicate balance between speed and control. A series of tighter turns, including a complex corner sequence, challenges drivers with quick changes in direction and precise throttle control.
The latter part of the lap introduces a mix of turns, encompassing medium-speed corners and technical sections that put drivers' abilities to the test.
The last sector is only made of hairpins. My own short experience has taught me that keeping the speed and late apexes in the first 2 hairpins is very important. For the last corner you have to be patient so you can prepare momentum for the long start and finish straight. Breathtaking!!! A wonderful experience.
The race schedule for 2024 at the South Garda Karting Circuit is already public. The track's ongoing popularity and the high level of organization allows them to manage a very packed calendar. As a Rotax driver I am excited they will host Round 3 of the Rotax Max Challenge Euro Trophy, but before that I will get a chance to drive there as early as February in the ROK CUP WINTER TROPHY.
Some other key events to look out for in early 2024 include the WSK Champions Cup (18-21 January), WSK Super Master Series (25-28 January) and the IAME series events.
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