Local North Carolina Resident Competes In Karting’s Version Of The Olympics
NORTH CAROLINA (News Release) – Visiting and racing in Europe for the past two months, North Carolina resident Caleb Gafrarar has returned home for a brief two-week break. Recharging his batteries and filling the tank for another trip overseas, the PSL Karting, BirelART North America and Lennox Racing Team driver continues his development despite it being his rookie season in the Junior ranks.
June saw the now 13-year-old compete in Italy and Germany in three events while July saw him in Italy and Spain in three more prestigious races. Competing against some of the world’s best kart racers, Caleb saw action in four different championship series that has produced some of today’s motorsports stars in the past.
“It has been a whirlwind eight weeks in Europe, but I am happy to be back home again for a little break,” explained Caleb G. “I can sit back and reflect on my races and what I learned and what I need to improve on. The goal for me to compete in Europe this year is to develop into the best driver as possible and at times, it is hard, it will be rewarding in the end. While back at home, I will spend a little time with the family, get to see some friends and of course, watch the Olympics and cheer on Team USA.”
Speaking of the Olympics, Caleb will return to Europe and Adria, Italy for the next round of the FIA Karting Academy, the Olympics of karting. Pairing drivers from around the world in equally prepared and spec equipment, Gafrarar will once again fly the flag for Team USA and currently sits fifth in the championship point standings after the first one event, held in Wackersdorf, Germany.
Known for launching careers, the FIA Karting Academy is a culmination from drivers from around the world appointed by their regional affiliates. The drivers chosen are typically among the upper echelons in their respective countries but are also a positive representation for karting. A position that a driver needs to apply for, yet incur all the expenses, Caleb Gafrarar was a landslide victor amongst karting organizations from across the United States.
Caleb continued, “The FIA Karting Academy is an incredible series that has helped launch the careers of some of today’s motorsports stars. It truly is like an Olympic event with drivers from around the world selected by their country to represent them in a three-race, wheel-to-wheel format.”
Following the race in Italy, there will be a three-week break before the third and final event weekend in Kristianstad, Sweden before North America’s premier event, the Superkarts! USA SuperNationals in Las Vegas, Nevada
“I am watching the Olympics and seeing the support for our nation in every sport,” added Gafrarar. “It is cool to know that I am representing Team USA in karting and really an honor to do so. Just like the Olympians, a gold medal is the goal, but this experience is something that I will have with me forever.”
Stay tuned to the Caleb G social media pages for news, information, photos, and results from each race weekend as well as links to results and live timing.
