Karting returns to Sri Lanka
The McLarens Group will launch their latest venture - a fully
equipped Go-Kart centre, in Battaramulla today. The SpeedDrome, the
brainchild of CEO Dinesh Jayawardene, will function as the focal point
of grass roots motorsports in Sri Lanka and ensure that the next
generation of Sri Lankan racing drivers receive proper training and
grooming at an early age.
Although a successful motorsport discipline in Sri Lanka in the past,
karting fell into decline in recent years and this initiative is seen as
a much-needed boost to the local motorsports community.
The SpeedDrome facility includes the option for unlimited track
configurations, live electronic timing and fast, yet safe 4-stroke
Pro-karts. Although serious track meets and championship events will be
conducted on a regular basis, the venue will be open from 10 am to 10 pm
on a daily basis in order to facilitate the recreational karter,
newcomers to motorsports and to host corporate team-building events. The
safe and easy-to-drive nature of the karts ensure that even young
children will be able to develop hand-eye co-ordination, decision-making
and other skills within the confines of a safe environment.
However, as Jayawardene pointed out, the larger objective of the
SpeedDrome is the development of a new generation of racing drivers, as
karting is the accepted starting point for all serious international
motorsport careers. Jayawardene himself was a successful karter in the
powerful 2-stroke categories, even competing at a representative level
in India and is well positioned to guide young drivers who display
talent and the desire to succeed at the highest levels of motorsport. As
part of their driver development goals, international kart trainers will
be brought down to Sri Lanka to conduct clinics as well.
The media launch will also see the track's inaugural race, expected
to feature some of Sri Lanka's leading drivers. Also of interest will be
the celebrity race that will see several performing artistes pit their
driving skills against each other.
The SpeedDrome is located at 260/1 Pannipitiya road, Pelawatte,
Battaramulla and will be open from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm daily.
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