Legendary racecar driver David Summerbell Jr is now the president of the Jamaica Karting Association (JKA). Summerbell Jr accepted the nomination at the JKA’s Annual General Meeting at the Spanish Court Hotel in New Kingston recently.

“I’m proud to be able to give back as this is the future of Jamaica’s racers,” he told Auto.

Chris Williams — vice- president, Debra Gore — treasurer, Monique Gibbs — secretary, and directors Danah Chisholm, Ishmael Moodie, and Neil Williams, will join Summerbell Jr.

After thanking the previous administration, Summerbell Jr set his targets on increasing grids by finding a way to have the sport appeal to the more casual competitor and reconnecting with those that have turned away from karting for various reasons.

“I find that a lot of women are interested, but aren’t sure how exactly to approach karting,” he said.

He also addressed a looming reality for the club, and the sport of karting as a whole, with the current move to divest the Norman Manley International Airport from which the track is leased. He believes that other venues should be explored should the use of the property ever be lost to sale.

Summerbell Jr will inherit a club on stable ground laid by Heather Eaton, who took over the JKA two years ago.

“I have proven that the club can sustain itself,” she said.

True to her mandate, Eaton used her administration to streamline operations and rebuild its finances in the current tough economic climate. Her hopes for the future are that the club holds fast to its role in assisting its young drivers beyond the track.

“It’s not about winning. The club is creating the next generation of Jamaicans. These kids are driving around at 35mph, making decisions with serious consequences, and are able to do so very well,” she explained.

— Rory Daley