Last month, concluded SIMA’s inaugural Kid Kart Scholarship program. The program offered 10 aspiring karters the use of a brand new kart package and consumables for the 2015 SIMA Summer Series held at Sumas’s very own karting facility. Following try-outs in the spring of 2015, SIMA organized a couple practice and coaching sessions for the kids to get comfortable in the karts and the track environment. By May the 10 selected drivers jumped into their first race of the season. The six race series was held in conjunction with the SIMA’s club racing. Being a part of race day exposed the children to the exciting, sociable and competitive world of karting. Throughout the season, SIMA staff members were highly impressed with the progression in skill and confidence of the 10 little racers. Each scholarship driver had a chance to win a free season in the 2016 SIMA Summer Series by winning the series championship. It was a close race to the end with only a few points separating 1st and 2nd place Kieran Hartley and Nolan Kittson. Noah Honey, Calvin Lainkharr and Oakley Nunnikhoven made top five with Aaden Huante, Benny Lowden, Kyler Robinson and Jillian Donald rounding out the top ten. Kieran Hartley will use his scholarship funds to move up to the Cadet (8-12 year olds) class category for the 2016 season. At the ripe age of 8 Kieran’s passion for the sport is already quite evident. He explains the best part of kart racing is “going fast, going around the turns, and passing others karts. I am a race car driver like Lewis Hamilton and I love driving my kart.” When asked how he feels about winning the championship Kieran explains that “Winning the championship feels great! I didn't win every race but I tried. I love my big trophy and my medals. I love my dad for taking me to SIMA to try out. I can't wait to get back to the track and see how fast I can go.” SIMA will be gearing up for the 2016 Scholarship Try-outs that should be held sometime in March of 2016. The kart track is family owned and operated. Owner Claudio Valiante was thrilled with the programs turnout and hopes to make next year even better. With 30 years of being the business of kart racing, the Valiante’s have the sport in their blood. They experience such joy in sharing their passion with Whatcom County and especially enjoy working along side children, as they are the future of the sport! We would like to congratulate the entire group of racers and thank the families for their dedication and support. Stay tuned for information on the upcoming tryouts!