Change at the Top, Strength in Europe

2014

A group of 18 people in matching black and orange racing suits pose indoors with helmets, some standing and some kneeling in front.

EDKA changed following the resignation of chairperson Mark Dobson, who stepped down due to personal circumstances. Following this, Carlo Hunter took over as temporary chairperson to ensure continuity within the organisation during a period of transition.

A group of 18 people in matching black and orange racing suits pose indoors with helmets, some standing and some kneeling in front.

Under new leadership, the organisation expanded its domestic calendar with the introduction of two major events. The Winter Open Deaf Karting Championship was hosted indoors at Formula Fast in Milton Keynes for the first time, marking the organisation’s first structured indoor racing format. This expansion added a new dimension to the competition structure and provided additional opportunities for participation during the winter period.

A group of go-kart racers in helmets and matching suits queue up at the starting line on an outdoor circuit, with a marshal standing nearby.

In addition, the English Open Deaf Karting Championship was held at Buckmore Park for the first time. This represented another significant step in strengthening the domestic racing programme and further established Buckmore Park as a key venue within English deaf karting.

A group of people in red and beige uniforms sit attentively in a room, facing a speaker or presentation at the front.

Later in the year, a squad of 8 drivers, consisting of 7 men and 1 woman, was selected to represent England at the European Deaf Karting Association Championship held in Austria, which also hosted the event for the first time. The selection was made under the direction of the new leadership team and reflected continued efforts to maintain a strong and competitive national squad.

Four people, three wearing red racing suits, stand outdoors on grass smiling at the camera. A motorsport insurance sign is partially visible in the background.

The championship once again featured a strong rivalry between England and Germany. Throughout the event, both nations competed closely at the front of the field, continuing a consistent pattern of competition at the European level. Despite a strong and consistent performance from England, Germany secured the championship title.

Person in a red racing suit and gold helmet driving a black go-kart on an outdoor racing track with grass and barriers in the background.

England finished in second place for the third consecutive year, maintaining their position as the primary challenger but narrowly missing out on the championship victory once again. The result reinforced the ongoing rivalry between the two nations and demonstrated England’s continued consistency at the international level.

Nine people in racing suits pose on a grass area by a go-kart track with stacks of white tyres in the background; three hold helmets.

Towards the end of the year, Carlo Hunter assumed temporary leadership to ensure continuity within the organisation during a transitional period. This appointment was short-term, providing stability while further leadership arrangements were considered.