Racing action returns to Banff this weekend for the first time since coronavirus lockdown restrictions were imposed more than three months ago.
Grampian Kart Club has been given the green light to host its first event at the Boyndie drome race track this weekend.
More than 60 entries have been received for the split race weekend as eager competitive carters anticipate a return to contest the podium after almost four months off the 850-metre track near Banff.
However, it’s not quite business as usual, with entrants expected to adhere to social distancing rules and a raft of changes both on and off the track.
The club is using a digital online entry system to reduce the need for signing-on at the circuit and a socially-distant prizegiving ceremony will take place, depending on weather,after the racing.
The cafe will open over the weekend serving takeaway food only, with a one-way system in place and contactless card being the preferred payment method.
Grampian Kart Club closed the drome track in March at the start of the Covid-19 pandemic lockdown but reopened to members with their own karts in mid-June, when restrictions were lifted slightly.
Club chairman Fraser Edwards said: “After the longest break in the club’s 50- plus year history, we are delighted to be in a position to get back to hosting competitions at Boyndie drome and give the kart racing community something to look forward to this summer.
“It will be a different event to what we are used to within the paddock, what with the social distancing requirements, but on circuit the only difference the drivers will notice is the lack of spectators cheering them on.
“We look forward to welcoming everyone back when the time is right, but in the meantime this is a closed event so we would ask spectators to stay away from the circuit.
“They can watch the live timing screen online, which will be available on our website.”
This weekend, the race track will run in a split grid format to reduce numbers on site.
Saturday will be for Bambinos, Cadets, Mini Max and Jnr Max competitors, with all senior classes and junior prokarts having the run of the place the following day.
Overnight stays will be allowed at the site, with electricity hook ups available, but campers must be self-contained.
The shower rooms and clubhouse will remain locked, with only the disabled toilets open.
Open practice sessions this weekend begin at 9am, with racing finishing at 4pm.
The next track weekends of the four-round open challenge are scheduled for August 8-9, September 12-13 and October 10-11.
