Summerside -
Credit Union Place was roaring with activity over the weekend during the Atlantic Kart Racing Series.
The two-day races attracted 33 drivers from across the Maritimes, a boost in numbers from last year's 20 participants.
One of those racers was top ranked driver Gerald Caseley Jr., 19, of Summerside.
Last year, during the inaugural racing series at Credit Union Place, Caseley was the reigning Atlantic karting champion, so the Journal Pioneer caught up with him to check up on his progress.
Since last year Caseley has continued to place well in karting standings and has travelled to large races in Florida twice.
Travelling to the states was a whole new experience for the up and coming karter.
"The competition is just a lot more intense down there," he said, adding those races attract about 50 karts.
Caseley is also hoping to place well when the nationals role around in early August. The top two winners in each category will win the chance to travel to Saudi Arabia to race. "It's somewhat of a long-shot but it's attainable," said Caseley on his chances at making it to the Middle East race.
When asked about his future in racing Caseley remarked, "I've tried cars before but so far go-karts are the biggest thrill I've experienced. I'd just like to move up in karting if I can."
The weekend was also an opportunity for new drivers to earn experience. Ten-year-old David Lowther of Dunedin, P.E.I., was one such karter, placing fourth in Saturday's novice division and first in Sunday's. He's been racing since he was eight.
"It's fun... and I like driving," he said.
As for the racing itself, Caseley's father, Gerald Caseley Sr., was an organizer and was pleased with how things unfolded.
"It's a great venue," he said, "Summerside is a great place to have it."
The weekend's racing took place on a track set up in the Credit Union Place parking lot and it served its purpose well. The only problem was taking it apart only two days after setting it all up, joked Caseley Sr.
Organizers are hoping to continue to build the sport locally and to encourage local support.
Hopefully that will mean another weekend of racing in Summerside next year, added Caseley Sr.
"Do it again bigger and better."
