Ramped Up: Karting For A Decade!

Launched in 2015 by Harvey Law Group’s Managing Partner Jean-François Harvey, the HLG Kart Race turns 10 in November. Take a look at how the event has evolved over the years

Launched in 2015 by Harvey Law Group’s Managing Partner Jean-François Harvey, the HLG Kart Race turns 10 in November. Take a look at how the event has evolved over the years

The race is divided into age group categories, so the kids race against their peers. While racers can choose to construct their own karts, and compete in the freestyle category, with or without a parent riding pillion, most are provided by HLG.

HLG karts are built with custom-made parts thanks to the event’s main sponsor Milwaukee. Martin Blondeau, a DB-based pilot and aviation engineer, has been a major contributor to all the technical aspects of the race – the karts and ramp – from day one.

HLG consistently supports Heep Hong Society, a local charity dedicated to providing training, education and support services to children with diverse abilities – such as autism and dyslexia – and their families.

Rules of Engagement!

Founder Jean-François Harvey shares some race strategy and kart-handling tips ahead of the 10th HLG Kart Race in November

“All the HLG karts are the same; they all have the same wheels, the same steering system. As long as you know how to drive left and right, you will be fine"

“If you are making your own kart, the maximum width is 91 centimetres, and the minimum distance between the front and rear axle is 72 centimetres. Freestyle karts must be capable of being steered, they need to have a braking system and they are limited to gravity power (no propelling mechanisms)"

“Parents should know that participant safety is paramount. Competitors are required to wear properly fitted bike helmets, closed-toe shoes and race shirts. They are advised to wear long trousers and gloves"

“Racers are advised to keep their foot off the brake as much as they dare. Ideally, you should brake only after crossing the finish line"

“Staying calm and steady is very important. It’s quite something to go down that eight-foot ramp. Then the track goes down quite fast all the way to Seabee Lane. Some courage is necessary, especially in the first heat. Self-confidence is key"

“Parents make up the bulk of the race committee, and each kart is checked and serviced throughout the race. Most of the people who provide sponsorship or volunteer to help out on race day are DBers. The event is put on for the community by the community, and we rely on Hong Kong Resort Company Ltd and City Management to make it happen"

"Success in this race comes down to maintaining speed and avoiding unnecessary turns. You need to steer your kart to the finish in a straight line, as much as possible. Every time you make a turn, you lose speed, so the key is to keep to a straight line"

A strong turnout is expected next month – you can email kartrace@harveylawcorporation.com to book your child’s spot