Taking Up The New Challenge

Back in France for a new challenge. After returning from Singapore, Alvis started his training on the next category Minime kart (9 to 12 year old). Powered by Parilla Puma 85cc 2 stroke engine with 14000rpm and having a whopping 13hp. 

                      After a practice session and coming back to the paddock


While still trying to build up his physical strength and at the same time trying to get more track time, Alvis decided to go for his first race at Layrac to have a feel of the new race environment.

 

Photo courtesy of Patrick Lascombes

To add on to the challenge, the race was held on a new and unfamiliar track. He will be racing against the bigger boys that have more experience racing there. Being the youngest and least experience in the group, that doesn't put Alvis off as he is the type that will take any challenge when come to racing.

                                     Photo courtesy of Patrick Lascombes


Due to my inexperience in managing kart racing and especially 2 stroke engine where more setup and tuning were needed, we decided to engage the service of Kart Center Biscarrosse to manage Alvis's first race.

                            
          Antoine and Alvis waiting for the tires to be marked in the Parc Ferme


It wasn't a good timing for Alvis during the chrono session. With lack of practice and while still trying to find the right setup, Alvis tried his best to keep up to the front runners but only to settle with 8th position on the grid.

                                     Photo courtesy of Patrick Lascombes


During the qualification, Alvis had a great start. Seeing that there was a bit of traffic on the inner of a right turn, he took the outer and gain 2 places to 6th. Getting hold of the feel around the track, he was able to overtake one more and up to 5th. The 3rd kart skidded and was unable to return to track and soon, the fight for 3rd was visible during the last 3 laps. It was a close fight but Alvis was happy to finish 4th.

                               Starting the pre-final in 4th on a rolling start.


Things wasn't as smooth going during the pre-final and final as the qualification. Alvis dropped 3 places to 7th on the pre-final and one more to 8th during the final. It was a very good experience for Alvis to race with the bigger boys and me to learn a lot on the setup and tuning of the 2 stroke engine and chassis.

We would like to thank Kart Center Biscarrosse and Antoine for the support, FFSA and Layrac karting for organizing the race and all who one way or another that rendered their help to us. Lastly, not forgetting Peter Chong and wife for making a great effort to go all the way to Layrac to support and see Alvis in his kart racing.