Go-Karting is the grassroots level of four-wheel racing. It jump started the careers of many successful names in racing. Popular names like Aryton Senna, Michael Schumacher, Lewis Hamiton, Max Verstapen who started out with karting in a very early age of four years old.
In the advent of internet, social media and documentaries, awareness of the sport has ticked the curiosity of many parents and kid alike. Go-Karting is more and more popular over the years. Locally in the Philippines, it began wass back in the 1960’s at Tanuan, Batangas in the Laurel Estate. Two decades later in the 80’s karting found a new home at the JRC Ram Rod Kartway, the first CIK-FIA race track, located along C5 in what is now Eastwood City. A decade later in the 90’s, a new race track was built in the outskirts of the metro in Carmona, Cavite, Carmona Raceway. It’s still operational nowadays and is CIK-FIA certified track. The lastest track to open is found at the Clark International Speedway. Go-Karting now is finally getting the proper recognition tht it deserves.
But alas, Karting comes at a hefty cost. The running cost in the country starts at Php1M at the very minimum. That figure is cheap compared to European standards. Add to that, we have very few venues where one could kart. A detrimentl factor for beginners from attempting to join the sport. We are losing out on local young aspirants. What we need are track that are more accessible to regular city folks, one that is friendlyto newbies and more importantly affordable.
Revolutionizing Racing
Nitro Drift ignited excitement last May 13, 2024 in their grand opening at Vista Mall, Sta.Rosa in Laguna This ground breaking new attraction promises to redefine the indoor go-karting experience, offering an adrenaline-fueled adventure for racing enthusiast of all ages.
The people behind this thrilling adventure is champion racer Mr. George Apacible (President) who was a two-time Philippine Karter of the Year, a public servant and an entrepeneur. Mr.Wilson Lei who stands as Vice-President is the founder of Simply Moving Phils. who brought in the brand Segway into the country and started the personal E-mobility craze. And finally we have Mr. Lito Sy (Treasurer) who is a famous professional photographer, enterpreneur and adrenalin fanatic.
New dawn in racing powered by Segway
At the heart of Nitro Drift lies a commitment to sustainability and innovation. Unlike traditional go-karts that rely on gasoline powered engines, Nitro Drift boasts a fleet of 100 percent electric karts. Powered by the cutting-edge technology of Segway’s Ninebot. This revolutionary approach not only offers a greener alternative but also delivers lightning-fast acceleration, responsive handling and an adrenaline-fueled ride like no other.
“For me as a seasoned racer from go-krts to circuit to rally, racing has always been a passion of mine. Always about pushing the limits and embracing the adrenaline rush of the chase of time and defeating opponent.” says Mr. Appacible. “With Nitro Drift, we are taking that passion to the next level, offering a racing experience that is as exhilarating, safe but cheao and enviromentally friendly with the comfort confines indoor.”
As visitors step onto the 1,300sqm facility of Nitro Drift, they are greeted by a sprawlinng facility that pulses with energy and excitement. The centerpiece of it all is the meticulousely designed and themed race track with a European standard timing system, twisting labyrinth of straights, curves and hairpin turns that proises to challenge even the most seasons drivers.
