I think there are some things in Mitch’s post that deserve more than just a quick brush off. First off, Mitch’s credentials need no introduction. He has more karting and motor racing experience than just about anyone posting or reading on this forum. For his accomplishments alone we should respect and listen to his opinions. In his role as VP for Pro Racing of the SCCA, he has far more experience and impact on high level motor sports than any one here. I also know that Mitch’s heart is still with karting. Every chance he gets, Mitch is out practicing with his kart for just the love of the sport and the exhileration karting gives. We should count ourselves lucky that a person in his position still loves our sport.
I has always been a strong advocate for fewer races in a regional championship. It makes each race bigger and more important. Also, the more varied tracks and venues it visits, the more prestige the series gains. If you step back and look at other major regional series, none visit a track more than once in a season.
Mitch also makes another very good point. A large series like the CSC has definetly reduced the numbers at the club level races. I have often contended that the average racer has the funds and time to do about 10 to 12 races in a season. If 7 of those dates are tied up in a regional series and one or two big deal events like the Nations Cup, Supernats or Rotax Grands, there is no time or money left for a club race. We can see that very clearly here, Action Karting dropped its club series this year and IMI is seeing reduced numbers from years past. I know many racers who are only doing the CSC and nothing else.
The club racer is the backbone of karting. The shops need them and the tracks need them. Yet the club racer is the very one who is being left out of this. Many a club racer is intimidated by the shear size of a CSC event and by the speed of the better racers. A strong club program gives new racers a place to hone their skills while a well supported regional series give the experienced racer the higher level of competition he/she desires. It is a win-win for everyone, track owners, racers and shops. In many ways the CSC has suplanted the club level racing giving new racers no place to start.
The CSC has had support from racers in Utah. Several have come over for both the CSC races in Grand Junction and Steamboat Springs. So while there may not be many that would do the entire sereis, there would be some and that’s good for karting.
I think Mitch’s ideas deserve more thought as to how such a series could be put together and how the club level can be increased. Its a good starting point for discussion.