A group Islington girls have been speeding their way through a three-day go-karting course.
The girls-only go-karting course was held for 11-19 year-olds at the Cape Play and Youth Project as part of Islington Summer University, a programme of free activities for children and young people.
The first two days of the course are spent on go-kart maintenance, while the final day provides the opportunity to get in the driver's seat and race around a track.
All the important elements of keeping a go-kart up and running were taught, such as checking the engine oil, air filters and spark plugs and changing tyres.
Cllr Paula Belford, Islington Council’s Executive Member for Children and Young People, joined the group on day two of the course. She said:
“These courses often get totally booked up by boys so it’s great to have one specifically for girls that gives them a chance to show what they can do on the race track!
“I’ve been along to a few of the courses that the council and its partners have laid on for young people during the holidays. The choice of activities is really impressive and the courses have been very well attended. The young people I’ve met are enthusiastic and keen to have fun and learn new skills over the summer.”
The go-karting workshop is part of Heatwave, Islington Council’s programme of summer events for children and young people. The final day of the course is held at Rye House racing track, where Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton used to practice. After learning about trackside safety, the course attendees get the chance to try out the results of all their hard maintenance work with some laps around the track.
Remy Cambell, 12, said: “I didn’t know anyone when I came on this course but I’ve made friends. My favourite parts so far have been learning how to test the oil and air filters and changing the wheels.”
Rachael Aluka, 15, said: “This is the first time I’ve been on a course like this. It’s interesting to learn something new. I’m really looking forward to getting on the race track, but I’ve enjoyed the maintenance too. Now if I break down in a car, I’ll have an idea of how to fix the engine.”
ENDS.
Page Last Updated: 24 August 2009