We have awarded Kartforce a grant of £10,000 which will fund three, nine hour long races. Kartforce was set up by former Royal Engineer, Dave Player, who suffered a spinal injury in 1991 and now uses a wheelchair.
The teams are made up of serving and former serving, injured soldiers, who race karts all over the UK and abroad. The courage and strength of all the drivers, many of whom were injured during their time in service, are reflected in the achievements of the team.
They began with just five drivers in the beginning of 2013, but the team grew to 15 drivers competing in 45 races by the end of 2013. In 2014, there were almost 30 drivers, and Kartforce has continued to grow ever since.
The charity aims to ‘provide injured troops with memorable, adrenalin packed experiences’ in the hope that they will enjoy the experience of racing and continually socialise and meet new people with similar interests or backgrounds. Though the drivers would say their main focus is winning each event, the psychological and physical benefits go beyond sporting achievements.
Sergeant Ross Turner, who has been with KartForce for five years and has recently taken a position as Team Manager, said: “The support we have received from ABF The Soldiers’ Charity means a lot to us soldiers. The funds are essential and allow us to carry on entering team endurance kart races all around the UK and Europe. There is nothing better than finishing a 24hr race with a team of like-minded lads! The buzz that we all feel when we get together to compete mirrors what I miss about my time in the Army. KartForce is much more than just karting.”
Brigadier (Ret’d) Robin Bacon, Chief of Staff, ABF The Soldiers’ Charity adds: “Kartforce is an excellent organisation. Our grant will help to support the important work they do providing serving and former serving soldiers with a passion for racing, in a positive and sociable environment. Well done Kartforce!”