Kart Grand Prix

Many machines entered in the first Nelson Kart Grand Prix had engine capacities in excess of 200cc, but none was able to get close to the 100cc machine of Ian Miller, of Christchurch, as he took an early lead in the 18-mile event on the reclamation, and increased it lap by lap. The main event over a tough course tested the endurance of the karts and the drivers' skills to the utmost, and before the finish the course took its toll - 14 of the 20 starters did hot finish. The day itself was a memorable one for go-karters, and it is now hoped that this event will not only become an annual one, but will embrace all New Zealand. The go kart club and Nelson Jaycees are to be congratulated on their enterprise in staging such an event.

The field in the big race is on the way, with Miller (left) taking an early lead and holding it.

Des Kelly (Timaru) takes a spill and his badly bent machine and helmet provides a youngster with entertainment.

Bill Munn (Greymouth), Ralph Munn (Greymouth) and Neil Heney (Christchurch) coax the last ounce of speed out of their karts in an early race.

Laps were recorded on a tape recorder by Garth Robinson.

Timekeepers Bill Dodds, Jim Bonnington, Murray Kenning, Ross Benbow and Warren Higgs on their lofty perch.

Bill Munn looks a little dubious.

Working against the clock, Ken and Doug Drake and Ian Miller and Gary Cook, all of Christchurch, quickly re-assemble Doug's kart.

Judith Perry, Mapua, has the style, but as yet little know-how.

This corner, the scene of several crashes, was well barricaded with bales of straw.

Some karts, such as this, had three engines.

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The Nelson Photo News

No 89 : April 6, 1968

Kart Grand Prix