Suit up and hit the throttle at the Kartzone race track!
(Photo from the Kartzone Facebook Page)
What does it take to be a professional racecar driver? For the world’s best Formula 1 (F1) and NASCAR drivers, it is diligently joining sessions at a local racing club or academy.
In Cebu, there is one place that allows you to experience the adrenaline of track racing, where young individuals can learn such a high-octane hobby. Of course, we’re talking about Kartzone Cebu!
Located along Panagdait Road in Cebu City, this is the island’s go-to hub for go-kart racing, where customers run laps along a circular race track.
Since opening in 2001, it has been a popular destination for gearheads in Cebu. It has since expanded to offer karting clinics for youths, unveiling its own race team in 2021.
Along with this, the island’s Autocross and Underbone Motorcycle communities have participated in local contests and tournaments held at Kartzone.
It should definitely be on your list of fun things to do in Cebu, whether you’re a local or a tourist.
Ready to hit the race track? Here is everything you need to know about Kartzone Cebu!
THE KARTZONE EXPERIENCE
Kartzone uses go-kart rentals in which participants drive at least eight laps around the track. All karts are made by French manufacturer SODIKART, and they come in either a single-seater, a twin-seater, or the premium go-kart: the SODI RX8.
SODIKART uses a simple two pedal system, consisting of the left for the brakes, and the right for the throttle. It is advised that participants do not step on both at the same time to avoid damaging the vehicle.
The twin-seater option in particular is fun for a shared driving experience, but Kartzone rules dictate that participants are prohibited from swapping drivers and passengers. Violators of such provisions will be disqualified with no refunds.
Meanwhile, the SODI RX8 is the newest among SODIKART’s RX line of rentals. With a sleek, modernized design, this leisure vehicle also has several notable safety features.
It has the innovative PROSLIDE detail, which according to the SODIKART website, is a high density plastic protection surrounding the entire car.
This also includes the HEAD System, which protects drivers from head injuries, and the Anti Gas/Brake System, which prevents overheating during simultaneous acceleration and braking.
According to the latest regular rates list posted on their Facebook Page, Kartzone rentals cost Php 600 for a single-seater, Php 650 for a twin-seater, and Php 850 for the SODI RX8 for eight laps.
The track itself is 660 meters long, 14 meters wide, and shaped like a massive oval. It’s pretty easy to navigate with the sharp turns being the only major obstacle.
PREPARING FOR GO-KART RACING
- Clothing
Refrain from wearing loose clothing and accessories that might hinder movement while driving. Also, make sure to wear closed-toe shoes to ensure your safety inside the car.
- Secure the proper helmet
When choosing your helmet, make sure it fits snugly onto your head. Try it on first and replace it if it is too tight or if it moves around too much. Helmets don’t only help you with collisions, but also to avoid major concussions.
- Height and age requirements
An FAQ posted on Kartzone’s Facebook Page mentions that the height requirement for the single-seater is 4 feet and 8 inches, while the passenger for the twin-seater must be 4 feet. (2022)
Additionally, drivers under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who is at least 21 years old.
DURING THE RACE
- No bumping into each other
This form of track racing is made primarily for the youth, so safety and convenience is extremely important. Intentional impacts may lead to getting flagged down by the racing marshals.
- Avoid stopping in the middle of the track
Go-kart racing is extremely high-octane, with karts going at breakneck speed. Stopping suddenly in the middle of the track may cause other riders to crash into you, leading to serious injuries.
- Maintain speed limit
Kartzone has not publicly announced what the maximum speed limit for their race track is, but they do have race marshals that will call you out if you are overspeeding.
RACING CLINICS
Did you know that you can enroll your children in Kartzone’s two-day racing academy? This happens every weekend, with only 10 slots per session.
Both days consist of four-hour lessons, with the first day focusing on karting basics and the practical use of the vehicle. The second day, which is optional, consists of a mock race among the participants.
Unfortunately, the clinics are only for children between 10 to 15 years old, but some Facebook users have shown interest in learning karting as an adult. Who knows, this might be something you can join in on in the future
*****
Go-kart racing is an extremely fun sport that will get your adrenaline pumping. With an emphasis on ease, convenience, and safety, Kartzone is the top spot in Cebu to try it out.
One of the intimidating things about this motorsport is maneuvering the vehicle, but their available models are all easy to use for both beginner and intermediate drivers. There is no license requirement for you to get on the track!
So if you have ever wondered what it’s like at Daytona or a Grand Prix, this could be the closest chance for you.
Visit Kartzone and experience the thrill of racecar driving!
HOW TO GET THERE
Exact Location:
Panagdait Street, Kasambagan, Cebu City
Operating Hours:
11:00 AM – 6:00 PM (cutoff is 5:30 PM)
The only public utility jeepney route that passes by Panagdait is the 03A jeepney from Carbon enroute to Mabolo. You can ride one near the Landers Superstore.
Get off at Burger King, then walk to Kartzone from there.
REFERENCES:
Kartzone Cebu. 2022. “FAQS.” Kartzone Facebook Page.
https://www.facebook.com/cebukartzone/posts/pfbid02tziejoN4kj9ABLqzZxqFvxm6Ujkcw6t2zEhwyjJshtzDJqtdYEntXLbemMbx3rZEl
