12th March 2020

ONCE IN A LIFETIME F1 EXPERIENCE FOR KARTING VOLUNTEER

Gary Haythorpe getting ready for his two-seater Formula 1 Experience

Long-time Victorian karting volunteer Gary Haythorpe was provided with a once in a lifetime experience on Wednesday courtesy of Karting Australia’s partnership with the Australian Grand Prix Corporation.

The experience was provided following the Go-Kart Club of Victoria’s representative James Anagostiadis’ win alongside The Bachelor Australia’s and Neighbours actor Tim Robards in the Celebrity Karting Challenge at Port Melbourne last month.

Haythorpe, Secretary of the Go-Kart Club of Victoria for many years, was privileged to be a part of the European Minardi F1X2 experience.  He was strapped into an ex-Formula 1 car driven by Will Davison around the Albert Park circuit.

After reaching speeds in excess of 200 km/h aboard the V10 powered Minardi, Haythorpe was lost for words.

“I’m so thankful for the opportunity, it was like winning the lotto,” said Haythorpe.

“It was an amazing experience, to be going so fast right alongside of the walls was just incredible. The speed was just out of this world.

“I’d like to thank Karting Australia and the Australian Grand Prix Corporation for the incredible opportunity.”

Haythorpe’s two-seater ride is one of numerous opportunities that are set to be experienced by Karting Australia members throughout the Formula 1 Rolex Australian Grand Prix this weekend.