About Us
Established in 1960 the Mid-State Kart Club is a non-profit racing organization existing to promote the sport of Kart racing. Located just outside of Springfield, Illinois on Mechanicsburg Road, Mid-State has a long and rich history of racing. Several generations have enjoyed participating in our relaxed family atmosphere, which offers affordable and local racing to the general public.
Karting, as it's commonly called, offers the opportunity to experience, learn, and enjoy the art of racing at reduced costs compared to other forms of racing. This type of competition is open to everyone! Boys, girls, men, and women alike. In fact, while it varies from year to year, girls typically consist of 15 to 20% of our entries! With ages beginning at 5 and reaching into their 50's, there truly is a class for everyone.
The art of driving, the challenge of chassis setup and the ability to adapt to changing conditions and competition are awaiting you in Karting. The thrill of making your first pass is something you will remember for life! While Karts share some characteristics with larger cars, their light weight, lack of suspension and direct steering result in a machine that is exciting and challenging to drive. Many of the techniques you will learn are exclusive to Karting.
As mentioned above, affordable racing is a focus for us. Manageable racing costs begin with a local track which minimizes travel time and expense. While not uncommon to see large trailers at many of our events, it is very possible to load a Kart into the back of your SUV, or pickup truck. Standardized rules for engines, the ability to use pump gasoline in some classes, and harder compound tires help extend their useful life and lower your yearly operational costs. Also, a membership with Mid-State Kart Club provides reduced practice and racing fees. With your membership, practice day fees are just $15. Imagine, an entire day of practice for just 15 bucks. Also, race day fees are reduced. A single class entry fee is just $25 plus $10 for a single pit pass.
Another benefit to our program is a limited racing schedule offering balance between racing and family life. Our racing program for 2013 consists of 11 club race days plus additional (optional) race days for different traveling series, which you may find of interest. Come and race as many or as few races as you like. However, if you want to qualify for our great season ending awards, you must participate in a minimum of 6 club races and your best 8 races will count towards the season championship.
The race day begins with sign-in and class registration followed by two on-track practice sessions to provide an opportunity to "dial in"; your equipment. Then it's time to lay down your best lap in qualifying. Your qualifying results will determine your spot on the grid for the pre-final race. The pre-final race is a chance to improve upon your position for the coming main event. If you win the pre-final you start on the pole for the main event. The main event is the feature and longest race of the afternoon (or evening). It determines your final results for the day.
During the hotter summer months of June, July, and August we shift racing to Saturday evenings under the lights. Considered by many as the best type of racing, night racing is a fun and unique experience.