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NRG Hire Kart Championship – 2025 Season

Real Racing, Real Competition

The NRG Hire Kart Championship delivers close, competitive racing for drivers who want the thrill of championship karting — without the need to own their own kart.
Run on identical NRG hire karts, the series is designed to reward pure driving skill, consistency, and racecraft.

With qualifying, two sprint races, reversed grids, and championship points on the line, it’s one of the most exciting ways to experience real competition at Teesside Motorsports.

Race Format

Each NRG round features:

  • Timed Qualifying Session to set the grid for Race 1
  • Race 1: 20 minutes, starting grid based on qualifying results
  • Race 2: 20 minutes, top 15 finishers from Race 1 reversed
  • Points awarded for both races

The reversed grid ensures wheel-to-wheel racing throughout the field, rewarding consistency and overtaking skill just as much as raw pace.

Who Can Enter

The NRG Hire Kart Championship is open to:

  • Drivers aged 14 years and over
  • Must meet minimum weight and experience requirements stated in event regulations
  • Ideal for graduates of Arrive & Drive, Teesside Academy, or club-level karting

This championship is the perfect next step for younger drivers progressing from junior classes, or adults looking for high-quality, affordable competition.

Learn more about our Teesside Academy →

Race Equipment

All drivers use our professionally maintained NRG hire karts, prepared and equalised by the Teesside Motorsports technical team.
Each kart is checked, weighed, and tested before every event to ensure fairness and parity across the grid.

The arrive-and-race format means there’s no need for your own kart — just bring your race gear and your best driving.

Why Race in the NRG Hire Championship?

  • Affordable, accessible, competitive karting
  • Two 20-minute races per round
  • Qualifying and reversed-grid formats
  • Professional timing, marshalling, and live results
  • Equal-performance hire karts
  • Friendly paddock with drivers of all experience levels

Whether you’re chasing your first trophy or aiming to sharpen your race craft for national competition, NRG provides the perfect proving ground.

Pathway to Progression

The NRG Hire Kart Championship is a key step in the Teesside Motorsports driver pathway.
Many NRG drivers go on to race in:

  • The Teesside Club Sprint Championship
  • The British 24-Hour
  • Owner-driver classes across the UK

It’s an excellent introduction to structured, multi-race formats and endurance-style racing, preparing competitors for larger events and team-based series.

Full dates, entry links, and championship standings will be published soon via our Events Calendar and official Teesside Motorsports social channels.

To register your interest or reserve a number, email:
📩 hello@teessidemotorsports.co.uk

Join the Grid

Fast, fair, and full of excitement — the NRG Hire Kart Championship is karting at its best.
Two races, one kart, and every lap counts.

Register now and be part of the 2025 NRG Hire Kart Championship at Teesside Motorsports.

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Join the Teesside Motorsports Media Team – Camera Operator Opportunities

Capturing the Action, Live and Unfiltered

Behind every great race at Teesside Motorsports is a team making sure the action reaches thousands of fans online.
From live-streaming endurance races to creating highlight reels, interviews, and social-media content, our media team is an essential part of how we share the excitement of motorsport with the wider community.

We’re always looking for enthusiastic young people who want to develop their skills in filming, production, and live broadcasting — whether you’re studying media, looking for work experience, or simply passionate about motorsport.

What the Role Involves

As a Camera Operator or Media Assistant, you’ll work alongside our experienced in-house crew at live events, including:

  • British 24-Hour Kart Race
  • Winter Series
  • Moped Mayhem
  • NBS Endurance and other championships hosted at the circuit

You’ll learn every part of the process — from setting up cameras and testing audio, to capturing on-track action and post-race interviews.
No previous experience is required; we provide full training in filming, camera operation, and event broadcast setup.

Explore upcoming events →

Opportunities Beyond Teesside

Because Teesside Motorsports is involved in racing across the UK and Europe, there are real opportunities to travel and work trackside at major motorsport events.
Members of our media team have supported live streams and production coverage at circuits including Rowrah, GYG, Three Sisters, Le Mans, Spa, and more.

For those looking to build a career in motorsport media, these experiences are invaluable — helping to develop professional portfolios, technical knowledge, and industry connections.

Skills You’ll Learn

Joining the Teesside Motorsports Media Team gives you hands-on experience in:

  • Camera setup and operation
  • Live streaming systems and production switching
  • Audio and microphone management
  • Basic editing and media file handling
  • Interview and commentary support
  • Team communication and event coordination

It’s the perfect stepping stone for anyone interested in media production, broadcasting, motorsport journalism, or event management.

Who We’re Looking For

  • Aged 16+ (parental consent required for under-18s)
  • Reliable and enthusiastic
  • Able to work some weekends and occasional travel days
  • Interested in filming, editing, or social media
  • Willing to learn in a fast-paced, professional environment

We welcome applications from students, volunteers, and anyone looking to gain hands-on experience in motorsport media.

Join the Team

If you’ve ever wanted to combine your love of motorsport with a career in media, this is your chance.
You’ll work on real events, develop practical skills, and become part of a team that broadcasts some of the most exciting racing in the UK.

📩 To apply or learn more, contact our office via media@teessidemotorsports.co.uk or visit our Careers and Volunteering page.

Why Get Involved?

  • Full training provided – no experience needed
  • Travel opportunities across the UK and Europe
  • Build your CV and portfolio
  • Be part of live, professional race coverage
  • Join a supportive team passionate about motorsport and media

Your Motorsport Media Journey Starts Here

At Teesside Motorsports, we believe the next generation of media talent deserves a place trackside.
Whether you want to learn the ropes, gain work experience, or build a future in motorsport broadcasting, our Media Team is the perfect place to start.

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How to Get Started in Karting -Arrive & Drive to National Racing

If you’ve ever dreamed of getting into motorsport, karting is the best place to start — and there’s no better venue to begin your journey than Teesside Motorsports.
Our facility is one of the largest and most versatile karting circuits in the UK, home to Arrive & Drive, Teesside Academy training, Club-level racing, and national endurance championships.

Whether you’re a complete beginner or a driver looking to take the next step into competitive racing, we’ll guide you from your first laps to your first podium.

Step 1 – Try Karting with Arrive & Drive

Our Arrive & Drive sessions are where most drivers begin.
You don’t need any experience, equipment, or membership — just book online, turn up, and we’ll provide everything you need: helmet, suit, gloves, and a professionally maintained race kart.

Arrive & Drive gives you a real taste of karting at full speed on a proper race circuit.
Sessions run all year round for both adults and juniors, with different kart classes depending on age and experience.

Book your first Arrive & Drive session →

Step 2 – Learn the Skills with Teesside Academy

Once you’ve caught the racing bug, the next step is driver development.
Through the Teesside Academy, we provide structured coaching and training for drivers of all ages.

Our Academy sessions focus on:

  • Kart control, racing lines, and braking technique
  • Track awareness and overtaking skills
  • Race etiquette and safety standards
  • Preparation for club-level competition

These sessions are led by experienced instructors, many of whom race or coach at national level.
They’re perfect for building confidence, learning the fundamentals of race craft, and preparing to enter your first event.

Step 3 – Racing at Teesside

When you’re ready to race against others, you can join our Teesside Club Championship.
This series runs throughout the year and caters for a range of classes — from cadets and juniors to seniors and endurance teams.

We offer both:

  • Sprint racing – individual drivers competing in multiple heats and finals
  • Endurance racing – teams of two or more sharing a kart over longer race durations

The club series provides a fun, friendly environment where you’ll develop consistency, speed, and strategy — while racing wheel-to-wheel on one of the UK’s most famous karting circuits.

View the latest championship calendar →

Step 4 – Go National

As your skills progress, you can take your racing to the next level through our extensive connections within the karting world.
We have strong partnerships with MS Karts UK (Lucas Racing), the official UK importer of MS Karts, and work closely with MS Karting Team JDR, a front-running team in national-level competition.

This means that through Teesside Motorsports, you can access everything you need to go from club-level racing to the national grid — including:

  • Kart supply and technical support
  • Driver coaching and race management
  • Setup guidance and data analysis
  • Pathways to British championships and beyond

Our instructors and technical partners are committed to helping new drivers develop sustainably — ensuring every step up the ladder is supported by expert advice and the right equipment.

Step 5 – Join the Community

Karting at Teesside isn’t just about racing — it’s about belonging.
Our paddock is a welcoming, family-focused environment that encourages learning, teamwork, and sportsmanship.

From our Teesside Academy graduates to experienced club racers and visiting national teams, everyone shares the same passion for motorsport.
There’s no better place to start your journey.

Why Start at Teesside Motorsports?

  • One of the UK’s largest and most technical kart circuits
  • Home to British 24 Hour, Teesside Club Championship & Academy
  • Full track hire and private tuition available
  • Links to MS Karts UK, Lucas Racing & JDR
  • Dedicated staff with decades of combined motorsport experience
  • Open 7 days a week for karting, testing, and training

Start Your Karting Journey Today

Whether it’s your first lap or your next championship, Teesside Motorsports is here to help you every step of the way.
From Arrive & Drive and Academy training to Club and National racing, this is where racing journeys begin.

📲 Book your first session today or contact us to find out how we can help you race all the way to the top.

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Winter Series Championship – Entries Now Open

This winter the action doesn’t stop… it gets faster.

 
Join us across four rounds at Rowrah, Teesside, Three Sisters & GYG and fight for the Winter Series crown.
 
✅ Saturday practice sessions: 10.00-14.00
✅ Saturday qualifying
✅ Sunday warm-up, 2 heats & a final (B finals if needed)
✅ Friday testing available (book directly with circuits)
 
Classes: Bambino c50, MightE Bambino and Cadet, Cadet Honda 200, Inter Max, R200, Junior Rotax/X30, Senior Rotax/X30, Pro Karts, KZ.
 
📍 First round: Rowrah – 6–7 December
 
🎟 Don’t miss out – secure your spot today!
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New Timed Sessions – By Popular Demand!

We’ve been listening to our drivers, and we know how much you love to challenge yourselves on track. That’s why we’re excited to launch not one, but two brand-new timed arrive & drive options for adults only. These sessions are perfect if you’ve ever left the track wondering just how quick you really were.

What’s New?

30-Minute Timed Arrive & Drive

Back by popular demand, our classic 30-minute arrive & drive is now available with full electronic timing. Unlike our standard arrive & drive sessions, these specific timed sessions will record every lap you complete. At the end, you’ll be able to check your results online (and printouts are available on request). It’s not a race, but it is the perfect way to see how you stack up against the clock.

45-Minute Timed Arrive & Drive

Want even more track time? Our new 45-minute timed session gives you the chance to really get into your rhythm. With nearly an hour of track time, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to refine your racing line, push your limits, and see how consistent you can be. Like the 30-minute option, these sessions come with full timing, online results, and optional printouts.

Both sessions are adults only and designed for drivers who want to enjoy the thrill of karting with a little extra data-driven fun.

Not a Race – Just You vs The Clock

It’s important to note that these are not races. There are no grids, no trophies, and no pressure – just the freedom to drive, improve, and track your progress. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned regular, timed sessions are a great way to measure your own performance.

Special Offer for New Customers

If you’ve never visited us before, now is the perfect time to get on track. Book online and use code SUMMER2025 at checkout to receive a special new customer discount.

Don’t miss out – spaces for these new timed sessions will go fast!

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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.