Summarize

Paulshof high school karting star Kwanda Mokoena enjoyed a promising, if troubled start to his 2018 Northern Regions Rotax Junior Max karting campaign at the Zwartkops International Kart Raceway on Saturday. 2017 SA Mini Rok champion Mokoena was on the pace throughout the weekend, qualifying a fine third in the competitive 17-kart Junior Max field before racing to third in the opening race and second in the second and third heats. Sadly that final result was not to be as Kwanda’s kart was found to be underweight to drop him to the back of the field.

“I had a good start to the season,” Kwanda explained. “My FA Kart was quick and I was able to dice for the lead — we know where we will make up a little time going forward and with a little work we will get there. “It’s a pity about the kart being too light after the last race, but we can still drop that score as the year goes on so I am happy to carry that second and third place forward.

“I am also so happy to be back at the track — thanks to my rivals for a great day’s racing and of course to my biggest fans — my mom, dad, brother and sister and of course my team — Elijah and Miles from Squadra Corse, RKT, Ward Racing and KGT Racing  — I plan to do you all proud this year!” Kwanda’s next stop is the first round of the South African Rotax Max National championships at iDube in KZN. “That's going to be wild,” Kwanda concluded. “Bring it on!”