By JOE SOBRIO
The Progress
The northeast corner of the Clark County Fairgrounds experienced an invasion of Go Karts over the weekend of May 21. This event was far more involved than an impromptu Go Kart race. It was the conclusion of an organized season and divisional racing organization.
Logandale resident Jeff Hobbs is the President of Southern Nevada Racing Association (SNRA) and he manages the event. This local organization brings modern go kart racing to the Moapa Valley.
The SNRA offers many divisions for Moapa Valley youth to participate. The divisions are created based on age, experience, engine size and weight.
The SNRA has active racetracks in both Beaver Dam, Arizona and at the Fairgrounds. Divisions include Flat Carts, Mini Dwarfs, and Quarter Midgets. These karts are powered by 120cc and 160 cc engines.
Last week’s event marked the end of the SNRA’s Spring season. Points are accumulated by the racers throughout the series of races. These determine the top racers in each division.
In the Red Plate Novice division, Dylan Mancini came out on top with 464 points.
The SNRA saw a father/son team of champions this season. Phil Mullins came in first place in Heavy Flat Cartsdivision with 311 points. His son Hunter Mullins beat out the competition in the Blue-Plate Quarter Midgett races with 640 points.
Aedan Hobbs topped the Senior Honda division with 615 points.
The 212 Flat Kart Jr. Division was won by Robert Featherstone with 228 points.
Romeo Frederich came out on top of the 212 Flat Kart Sr. Division with 611 points.
The SNRA abides by NASCAR and IndyCar safety rules, and adapts racing rules for the smaller vehicles, with the same safety features for all racers. Racers try their luck on a one-eighth mile track, fighting toward that checkered flag.
This spring season’s end was celebrated by many awards and recognitions. At the end of this season local resident Patsy Shugart was honored with sponsorship of the SNRA.
A race ready car can run racers up to $1500, thus turning some racers away. However, this sponsorship provides Shugart with a division correct racing cart, as well as safety fire suits and racing gear.
This is only the second year that the SNRA has been active in the Moapa Valley, but Hobbs is excited for the expansion of his events.
“Kids race and they learn how to service their own vehicles,” Hobbs said.
The sponsorship program was also a source of positive news, Hobbs said.
“Money should not hold back a racer,” he said. “That’s why sponsorships are available.”
Hobbs is very excited to ensure that any child, who is interested in racing has the ability to come out and enjoy the events.
Anyone interested in racing or being part of a team can visit www.lvqm.webs.com.
