Our Rides: An LGBTQ+ Motorsports Athlete’s Invitation to Go Karting

Go-karting is one way to exercise your dream of participating in motorsports. The karts themselves are small, offer a low center of gravity, and are a lot of fun to run.

The question always comes up of whether it’s fun for us – LGBTQ+ people, that is!

One way to find out is to talk to Brandon Adkins. He runs the Adkins Speed Center out in Port Washington, Ohio. A third-generation motorsports enthusiast, athlete and business owner who was, in Adkins’ words, “born into the industry.”

“My initiation into karting commenced at the age of two,” explained Adkins. “By the age of nine, I was competing in races, marking the beginning of my lifelong career in motorsport. As a young adult, my career took me around the world where I served as a factory driver, and expanded my expertise through various roles including mechanic, driver coach, and specialist in chassis development, manufacturing, and importing. I also led as a karting director and team manager. This wealth of experience was integral when I returned home to helm the family business, following my father’s passing.”

So…what is karting? Or, go-karting?

Adkins explained that “Karting, also known as kart racing, is a popular motorsport that involves racing small, open-wheel, four-wheeled vehicles called go-karts or shifter karts. These vehicles are raced on scaled-down circuits, but professional kart races can also occur on full-size motorsport circuit. It’s widely recognized as the steppingstone to higher levels of motorsports, with many professional drivers having started their careers in karting.”

That includes some of the greatest motorsports athletes ever to compete – think Ayrton Senna, Michael Schumacher, Dan Wheldon, and so forth.

About the vehicles themselves, Adkins explained that “Karts vary in speed and design, with some capable of exceeding 100 miles per hour (160 kph), while others, designed for recreational use, may have lower top speeds. The sport originated in the United States in the 1950s and has since gained a global following, particularly in Europe.”

Adkins further explained that “Karting is accessible to a wide range of participants, from children to adults, and can be pursued both recreationally and professionally. It’s not only a sport but also a valuable learning tool for vehicle control, racing strategies, and mechanical understanding.”

There are some advantages in karting. For example, there is accessibility of the sport, developing the skills needed to drive a motorsports vehicle, it is affordable to get into it, you become a part of a community, and there is a variety of forms of karting to choose from to participate in.

However, keep in mind that there are disadvantages to the sport. You could risk injury driving a kart. Most of these vehicles offer some protection, but most of them do not have enclosed bodies for deeper protection. The lack of protection applies when dealing with weather – especially when karting outdoors. Karting is physically demanding, so fitness is important if you wish to pursue this further than just for fun.

What if you want to try out karting from a professional? “At Adkins Speed Center, we pride ourselves on being the quintessential karting hub, catering to every facet of your karting journey,” Adkins said. “Whether you’re seeking a unique date night experience or planning an expansive corporate event, our outdoor gas-powered rental karts provide the perfect blend of excitement and competition. For the karting aficionado, from budding racers as young as five to the seasoned veterans, we offer an extensive selection of parts, karts, and expert assistance. If you’re eager to navigate the thrill of outdoor karting and conquer the legendary Monza turn, Adkins Speed Center is your destination.”

Most importantly, “[b]y fostering an environment that welcomes all individuals, Adkins Speed Center bridges the gap between karting and the LGBTQ+ community, ensuring that the sport is accessible and enjoyable for everyone,” said Adkins. “This approach not only enriches the karting experience but also strengthens the community by promoting values of acceptance and respect.”

What if you can’t make it out to Ohio to learn how to run a go-kart from Adkins? There are a few karting places in Minnesota you can enjoy the thrill of running these small, but mighty rides. PROKart has a couple of locations in Burnsville and Maple Grove – mostly indoor riding, but the Maple Grove location has part of their course outdoors. Another indoor venue is the Fair on 4 on the fourth floor of Mall of America. You may have noticed it when we had our First Thursdays there this past February.

As Adkins concludes, “Karting can be an exhilarating sport that offers both physical and mental challenges.” And, if you are willing to give it a go, you can either connect with Adkins or check out one of the local places.

For more information on Adkins Speed Center, log on to www.adkinsspeedcenter.com