Posted on

Gracie Mitchell Aims to Set Solo 24‑Hour Karting World Record at British 24h Race

Teesside, UK – British karting star Gracie Mitchell, already making waves in circuit and endurance racing, is set to undertake a landmark challenge at this year’s British 24‑Hour Kart Race at Teesside Autodrome. She aims to become the first female to complete the gruelling solo 24-hour kart stint, pushing herself in one kart for a full day—with no driver swaps.

The Event & Official Live Video –

The upcoming race marks one of the most prestigious endurance kart events in the UK, hosted at Teesside’s famously fast 2.1 km circuit (youtube.com, teessidemotorsports.co.uk). Tune in below to catch the thrilling start line action live:

British 24hr 2025 – Race Start – Live from Teesside (YouTube)

A full 24-hour livestream will run continuously—from green flag to chequered flag—on the official channel, with full coverage available shortly after.

Gracie Mitchell’s Solo Endurance Challenge

In her social announcement, Gracie shared:

“Hey everyone — it’s Gracie Mitchell here! I’m taking on my biggest challenge yet… a solo 24‑hour karting world record attempt. Just me. One kart. 24 hours. No driver change.”

Such a solo endurance feat is extremely rare in competitive karting. If successful, Gracie will not only set a world record but also blaze a trail for women in motorsport endurance formats.

Why This Is Historic

  • Breaking barriers: Gracie is a prominent figure in British motorsport and an ardent advocate for female representation in racing.
  • From karts to GTs: With championship-winning karting credentials and GT experience under her belt, she exemplifies adaptability and perseverance.
  • Endurance spirit: Completing a solo 24‑hour kart effort demands supreme physical fitness, mental resilience, and technical consistency.

How to Follow the Attempt

  1. Tune into the official 24‑hour livestream on YouTube—starting with the race start linked above.
  2. Track Gracie’s social platforms for live commentary, split updates, and behind-the-scenes content.
  3. Engage with the live chat and hashtags during the stream to show support and be part of the action.

Final Word:

Gracie Mitchell’s solo 24‑hour karting attempt at Teesside isn’t just about lap times—it’s a powerful statement in endurance sport and a celebration of women’s strength in motorsport. Don’t miss the unfolding drama as she chases history!

Posted on

Join Our Team: Summer Marshal Positions Available

seeking enthusiastic individuals to join our professional marshaling team

As we approach our busiest season, Teesside Motorsports is seeking enthusiastic individuals to join our professional marshaling team. This is an exciting opportunity to become part of the UK’s premier motorsport venue and play a crucial role in delivering safe, exciting racing experiences.

The Role

Track marshals are essential to our operation, responsible for:

  • Ensuring track and driver safety
  • Managing race operations
  • Conducting driver briefings
  • Performing kart safety checks
  • Maintaining track standards
  • Supporting special events and championships

Working Environment

  • Outdoor track environment with multiple marshal points
  • Modern facilities with staff rest areas
  • Professional safety equipment provided
  • State-of-the-art track monitoring systems
  • Supportive team atmosphere
  • Mix of indoor and outdoor responsibilities
  • Dynamic, fast-paced environment

Health & Safety Focus

  • Regular CO monitoring at marshal points
  • Comprehensive PPE provided
  • Regular breaks scheduled
  • Indoor rest facilities available
  • Full training on environmental safety
  • Clear emergency procedures

Team Culture

  • Collaborative working environment
  • Regular team briefings
  • Supportive management structure
  • Clear communication channels
  • Social events and team activities
  • Opportunity to be part of major racing events

Requirements

  • Must be 16 or older (18+ for supervisory positions)
  • Ability to maintain standing position for 360-degree visibility
  • Knowledge of track positions (full training provided)
  • Strong communication skills
  • Reliable and punctual
  • Team player mentality
  • Passion for motorsport (although not essential)
  • Comfortable working in various weather conditions

We Provide

  • Comprehensive training program
  • NKA certification within 6 months
  • Professional uniform and PPE
  • Ongoing professional development
  • Supportive team environment
  • Competitive pay rates
  • Staff facilities including break room and lockers
  • Regular team meetings and briefings

Working Pattern

  • Flexible shifts available
  • Weekend availability preferred
  • Peak season: June – September
  • Various shift patterns available
  • Regular breaks throughout shifts
  • Indoor duties during adverse weather

How to Apply

Interested candidates should send their CV to:

hello@teessidemotorsports.co.uk

Location

Teesside Motorsports
South Tees Motor Sports Park
South Bank Road
Middlesbrough
TS6 6XH

For any queries about the position, please contact us on 01642 231117.

Join us in delivering excellence in motorsport safety and operations. Whether you’re passionate about racing or looking for an exciting new career opportunity, we’d love to hear from you.

Posted on

Setting Safety Standards: The NKA’s Evolution in UK Karting

The National Karting Association (NKA)

The National Karting Association (NKA) stands as the cornerstone of UK leisure karting, with Teesside Motorsports’ legacy deeply woven into its foundation. Our founder, Bob Pope, was instrumental in establishing the NKA, helping create the standards that would shape the UK’s leisure karting industry. Today, this pioneering spirit continues under the leadership of his daughter and current owner, Kathryn Franklin, who serves as Chair Person of the NKA.

With over 25 years of operational experience informing NKA guidelines, the organisation’s commitment to excellence goes beyond mere compliance. The NKA’s partnership with Horsham District Council as Primary Authority Partner ensures that karting tracks across England and Wales benefit from both general health and safety guidance and specialist advice.

Enhanced Medical Preparedness

Under Kathryn Franklin’s chairmanship, the NKA has launched significant medical safety initiatives across member circuits:

  • Updated first aid training requirements for all circuit staff
  • Mandatory AED (Automated External Defibrillator) installation at circuits
  • Standardised emergency response protocols
  • Regular staff competency assessments

Safety First

The dedication to safety reflects the NKA’s comprehensive framework:

  • Minimum of two qualified marshals with proper PPE when the track is active
  • Mandatory NKA online training for all circuit staff within 6 months
  • Integration with Atlas-hub for HSE and HR training
  • First aid qualified staff are always on duty
  • Track lighting exceeding the minimum 6 Lux requirement
  • Comprehensive signage system, including detailed track diagrams

Advanced Safety Testing

Physical safety remains paramount with:

  • Rigorous barrier testing programmes
  • Impact absorption analysis
  • Scientific approach to safety barrier development
  • Regular review and updating of safety standards

European Leadership

The NKA’s involvement in CEN (European Committee for Standardisation) demonstrates its commitment to international safety standards:

  • Active participation in developing European-wide karting regulations
  • Contribution to the kart manufacturing standards
  • Cross-border safety initiatives
  • Harmonisation of safety protocols across European circuits

Insurance and Protection

Member circuits maintain insurance coverage that exceeds NKA requirements:

  • Public liability insurance well above the recommended £5M
  • £10M employer’s liability coverage
  • Regular risk assessments and safety audits
  • Continuous staff development and training

Community Impact

The NKA’s leadership extends beyond track operations. Through initiatives like Teesside’s “Motivate: Race to Talk,” karting is being used as a platform for community engagement and mental health support, demonstrating how motorsport can drive positive social change.

Looking Forward

As a founding member circuit of the NKA, Teesside Motorsports continues to help shape industry standards. The experience and innovation contributed by both Bob Pope and Kathryn Franklin have been instrumental in developing guidelines that ensure leisure karting remains both exciting and safe for the approximately 18,000 drivers who visit typical circuits annually.

Through this ongoing commitment to excellence and safety, the NKA continues to demonstrate why it remains the cornerstone of UK leisure karting safety. The legacy established by Bob Pope lives on through Kathryn Franklin’s leadership, ensuring that both Teesside Motorsports and the NKA continue to evolve and enhance the sport for future generations.

The combination of historical expertise, current innovation, and future planning ensures that the NKA remains at the forefront of karting safety, setting benchmarks that others aspire to match. As the industry continues to evolve, the NKA’s role in shaping its future remains as crucial as ever.

Posted on

Summer Racing Calendar 2025: Your Complete Guide

Major Events:

May
– 4th-25th: Owner Driver Sprint Series – Round 3 & 4
– 30th-31st: 8-Hour Race – NBS. Endurance Series – 125cc Bikes

A perfect entry point into endurance racing, this two-day event kicks off our summer calendar.

June

  • 14th-15th: BUKC 24h  Race

– 22nd-23rd: Owner Driver Sprint Series – Round 5

July

– 11th-13th: Le Mans 24-Hour Kart Race (Alain Prost Circuit, France)

46 teams battle through day and night

– 19th-20th: Owner Driver Sprint Series – Round 6 (Note: Third weekend due to Le Mans)

August

– 1st-3rd: 12-Hour Race

NBS. Endurance Series – 125cc bikes race for 12h

– 8th-10th: British 24-Hour Race (Fully booked)

The biggest kart race in the world, 85 Teams

September

– 28th-29th: Owner Driver Sprint Series – Round 7

October

– 10th-12th: Double Six NBS.Endurance Series – Rowrah – Two 6-hour races over one weekend

– 26th-27th: Owner Driver Sprint Series – Final Rounds 8/9

Regular Events:

– Monthly Mini Moto Practice sessions (Ages 5+)

– Open International Race days

– Owner Driver Testing days (except during major events)

– Arrive and Drive sessions

Key Information:

– All events feature live timing

– Full catering facilities available

– Spectator viewing areas around the circuit

– Free parking

– Live streaming available on TSK Motorsports Media YouTube channel

For Sprint Series Competitors:

– Online sign-on and scrutineering through Alpha accounts

– Limited paddock bays available with electric hook-ups

– Café open 08:00-20:00 during race weekends

– Food and beverage options, including takeaway, are available

Stay Connected:

Follow our social media channels and YouTube (TSK Motorsports Media) for live coverage, updates, and behind-the-scenes content throughout the season.

Posted on

British 24hr Race – Aug.25 – Teesside

The British 24hr: Where Racing Dreams Come Alive

  • Middlesbrough
  • Teesside International Circuit
  • 8th – 10th August 2025
  • £2100 per rental team (4-10 drivers)
  • £1,250 per owner/driver team

The Beginning

As dawn breaks over Teesside Autodrome this August, it will mark the beginning of what many consider the greatest spectacle in karting. The British 24hr Race isn’t just an event – it’s a phenomenon that transforms our 2.1km circuit into a thriving motorsport village, buzzing with anticipation, dreams, and the unmistakable scent of racing fuel.

The Build-Up

The magic begins long before the green flag drops. By Tuesday, the paddock starts its metamorphosis as owner-driver teams arrive, their transporters and tools creating the first brushstrokes of what will become a canvas of racing excellence. These dedicated enthusiasts get first dibs at track time, with Wednesday bringing an intensive 8-hour practice session – a crucial opportunity to fine-tune their machines without the hire teams in attendance.

Meanwhile, the hire teams begin their own pilgrimage, arriving with tents and equipment in tow. Like a well-choreographed dance, they stake their claims along the viewing bank, each choosing their spot for the marathon ahead. The atmosphere is electric yet friendly – competitors today, but all part of the same racing family.

A Village Comes to Life

As the week progresses, our venue swells to accommodate an impressive 90 teams, their support crews, and families. Many make this their temporary home for the entire week, creating a unique community united by their passion for motorsport. The paddock becomes a maze of awnings, tool chests, and makeshift kitchens, while the air fills with the sound of engines being tested and tales of races past.

Behind the Scenes

What spectators see as a 24-hour race actually spans closer to 42 hours for our dedicated staff. As Friday night descends, our team works tirelessly into the small hours, ensuring every hired kart meets our exacting standards. It’s a labour of love, making sure each team has the perfect machine for Saturday’s official practice and qualifying sessions.

Race Day Dawn

There’s something magical about Saturday morning at the track. As the sun peers over the horizon, drivers emerge from their temporary homes in the paddock. The calm is palpable – a stark contrast to the intensity that lies ahead. The morning air carries whispers of strategy discussions and the gentle hum of warming engines.

As the clock inches towards noon, the atmosphere shifts. The tension rises with every passing minute, drivers suit up, and teams make their final preparations. This isn’t just any race – it’s the British 24hr, the biggest kart race in the world, and it’s about to begin.

The Legacy

Now in its 34th year, the 2025 edition promises to be our biggest yet. With over 80 teams from across the globe, this fully-booked event stands as a testament to its prestigious status in the motorsport calendar. It’s more than just a race – it’s a celebration of endurance, skill, and the indomitable spirit of competition.