FORT WAYNE, Ind. — Go kart racing has been an integral component of the diverse Rumble in Fort Wayne program and will remain so as the silver anniversary of the event unfolds Dec. 29-30 inside the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum.
Often overshadowed by the various midget divisions, the go kart classes have traditionally captivated the fans with their harrowing speeds and intense competition on the purpose-built concrete oval.
“There is no other racing like it in America,” offered Nick Welch, who has competed in the event and now serves as crew chief for several teams. “You’re an inch off the ground, circling a one-sixth-mile oval in seven seconds; all while side by side with your competition and both of you trying to keep all 4 tires on the ground.”
The Rumble in Fort Wayne will be broadcast live by SPEED SPORT affiliate PitRow.tv.
With the racing surface consisting of racing rubber built up over a syrup base, the set-up needed for victory can be difficult.
Shawn Kluck, a multi-time kart winner at the Rumble agreed.
“It is by far the most grueling, technical, and prestigious race when it comes to coke syrup racing,” Kluck said. “That is the lure that attracts the best concrete racers in the Nation to gather in a battle against not only each other, but against the track, to hold the checkered flag and bragging rights for a full year.”
Multiple classes make up the Rumble in Fort Wayne presented by Jason Dietsch Trailer Sales kart lineup, with drivers ranging from four-years-old to fifty and above.
When thinking of go karts, some folks immediately think of yard karts or amusement park rides, but competition go kart racing is the furthest thing from that.
The drivers are serious, yet cautious as the open-wheel nature and speeds can produce unyielding action on the track.
“It is a one-of-the-kind atmosphere on the race track. Winning at the Rumble is like nothing else you can do in kart racing,” chimed in Jakeb Boxell, who will be seeking his second Rumble victory this year.