2024 represented a pivotal year for the England Deaf Karting Association, marked by a significant evolution in its governance and leadership structure. In a move towards greater transparency and organisational maturity, a formal voting system was introduced for the first time. This democratic approach enabled members and committee representatives to play a direct role in shaping the future direction of the organisation.
David Salmon served as Chairperson from January to September 2024, completing his initial period of leadership before transitioning into a revised role later in the year. In September 2024, Alan Thompson was appointed Interim Chairperson, reflecting a broader shift towards a more modernised and future-focused leadership model.
Following the introduction of the voting system, a wider restructuring of the executive team was implemented. In October 2024, Alan Thompson was formally appointed Chairperson of the England Deaf Karting Association. David Salmon moved into the role of Vice-Chairperson, while Christopher Heppenstall stepped down from the Vice-Chairperson position to assume a strategic advisory role. This revised structure ensured the retention of experienced leadership and institutional knowledge, while also enabling renewal, increased transparency, and long-term organisational reform.
During this transitional period, Alan Thompson established a clear strategic vision for the organisation’s future, outlining key development priorities for 2025. These included increasing female representation within committee roles, strengthening safeguarding procedures and DBS compliance, launching an official website, revising the constitution, expanding partnerships, securing new funding opportunities, and progressing formal engagement with the Charity Commission. Collectively, these initiatives laid the groundwork for a more professional, inclusive, and sustainable future for the association.
The Winter Open Deaf Karting Championship, held at TeamSport Warrington, marked a historic milestone for the organisation. The event attracted a record-breaking 89 entries, the highest number since 2004, alongside a strong turnout of competitors and supporters, reflecting the continued growth and popularity of the sport.
The English Open also recorded strong participation, further confirming the ongoing expansion of deaf karting across the United Kingdom.
During this period, Carlo Hunter was appointed England Deaf Karting Team Manager. He selected an eight- driver squad to represent England at the European Deaf Karting Championship in Denmark, strengthening performance pathways and supporting the development of emerging drivers.
At the European Deaf Karting Championship, England delivered a landmark performance. For the first time in its history, the England Men’s Team became European Champions, achieving a breakthrough victory in a highly competitive field. The Women’s Team also delivered an excellent performance, securing 3rd place overall. Combined results saw England finish 2nd in the Nations standings, narrowly missing out on the overall title to Germany by just nine points, one of the closest margins since 2018.
This performance confirmed England’s position as one of the leading deaf karting nations in Europe and highlighted the continued emergence of younger talent within the squad. The year also brought significant recognition beyond competition results, as the England Deaf Karting Team was named Team of the Year at the Deaf Sports Personality of the Year awards in Glasgow, Scotland. This marked the first time in the organisation’s history that the team had received this prestigious honour, reflecting their outstanding performances, continued development, and growing impact within deaf motorsport. The award represented a major milestone, highlighting both the progress made in recent years and the increasing recognition of deaf karting on a national stage.
Overall, the year reflected significant organisational growth, increased competitiveness, and a strengthened foundation for the future of deaf motorsport in England.