photo by RPM 360
Story by Chris Roy
Kayla King from Buxton, Me. will be back at Richmond Karting Speedway in the Sr. Sportsman Series as well as starting a new adventure getting behind the wheel of a legend car. “I will be racing at RKS this season. I’m really looking forward to my 2nd year in Sr. Sportsman. I will also be racing for a championship in Sr. Sportsman. I’ll also be transitioning into my ‘new ride’, we recently bought a legend and I’ll be practicing it. I think this season will be a great year for me to really show some of my ‘top notch’ racing skills. We’ve ordered some parts, but they haven’t quite made it onto the kart yet. Mentally on the other hand, I’m so ready for some racing! I’m super excited to get in touch with some of my racing friends and I can’t wait to go after the point’s championship!”
The 2015 race season gets underway at Richmond on April 26th. Kayla has been busy in the off season getting ready for the green flag to fly. “During the off season I play quite a bit of basketball. I currently play for 2 teams. I also visited the Bahamas a few months after school started. I also have been working really hard in school preparing myself for the transition into high school.”
Like most race teams at RKS it’s a family affair, and Kayla’s, crew chief is also her dad. “Most of the time it’s really fun spending time with my dad and preparing for racing. He definitely helps me out a lot and teaches me a lot. In my experience the only way to win is to put effort and time into racing!”
Kayla has had some success racing at Richmond, so what is the key to getting around RKS? “In my opinion one of the main keys to getting around RKS is determination. If you’re determined, you’re also faster, and more focused, and that’s what wins races. There are also some technicalities including a good set up (weight placement) and a good line. I’ve been racing for 4 years and I’m still on the verge of perfecting my line.”
In the off season the Kings purchased a Legend race car. “Well I definitely need some practice in the car. I’m currently practicing my shifting abilities in the yard with my Dad’s car. I’ll admit that I’m nervous to get out on a big track, in a little bigger car, and with older drivers. I think once I get on the track after a few times I won’t be as nervous.”
After getting some seat time this season Kayla looks to the future in legends. “We’re not really sure yet, but I’d love to race legends full time once I get used to the car.”
Kayla would like to thank her sponsors – King Automotive. If you would like to sponsor Kayla you can add her via Facebook and private message her if they’d like to sponsor her for the 2015 race season.