Go-kart rivalries renewed at Palisadoes

Glenroy Sinclair, Assignment Coordinator

Go-kart racing fans are in for an exciting showdown among a group of under-10 year-old drivers at today's race meet, which is scheduled for the Palisadoes International Raceway, Kingston.

Tommy Gore, son of popular race driver Doug Gore, will be challenged by Mark Moodie, the grandson of local motorsport legend Peter Moodie Sr. Meanwhile, Zanda Williams, son of go-kart administrator, Neil, will compete in the Comer 50 cc class.

"It is shaping up to be a good race meet," president of the Jamaica Karting Association , Neil Williams, said.

But as the drama unfolds at the track there is a racing situation developing between a 12-year-old Hillel Academy student and an auto technician who is in his mid 30s. Though they are competing in separate classes, the two are involved in a battle to the wire for the 2012 Driver of the Year title. Joshua Sirgany, a first former at Hillel Academy, holds a slim lead over Peter Moodie Jr., who is undoubtedly one of the most experienced karters currently competing at the Palisadoes Raceway.

Today's race meet will be critical for young Sirgany, who cannot afford to make any mistakes lest his more experienced rival wrap up the championship. Moodie has won this award on several ocassions and, according to his father, is under no pressure to the win the title. "He is quite happy doing what he is doing. He is enjoying himself and competing to keep the sport alive," said Moodie Sr.

On the other hand, Ricky Sirgany believes his son, Joshua, can pull off what could be his biggest achievement locally - if there are no mistakes. "This is racing and anything can happen. Right now, Joshua is on top of his game," said Ricky Sirgany.

He further stressed that the young karter has been dominating his events on the Florida circuit this year. "He finished 12th at the United States Grand National Finals and seventh at the Florida Winter Tour championship," Sirgany said.