PRI CKI All-Star Karting Classic Adds Gidley, McMurray, Rahal, Rice to Entry List

Article By: Performance Racing Industry

The list of star drivers filing entry forms for the 4th Annual PRI CKI All-Star Karting Classic coming to Orlando this December continues to grow. The PRI and CKI organizations have developed an extraordinary list of all-stars from a variety of series including IRL, NASCAR, Grand-Am, ALMS, and NHRA.

“It is going to be a real show when all these guys get on the track and the visors go down,” stated CKI General Manager Kevin Williams. “I can’t wait to see the action! And I know the spectators are going to get real enjoyment seeing the best in the business race these fast and powerful karts on the tricky, purpose-built track on Thursday night.”

Graham Rahal (IRL), Buddy Rice (2004 Indy 500 winner and 2009 Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona winner), Jamie McMurray (NASCAR) and Memo Gidley (Grand-Am) have already committed to compete in this year’s race. More than 20 drivers will be announced in the All-Star division. Rice will be racing for Tony Kart; Rahal for Birel; McMurray for CRG; and Gidley for Trackmagic.

One of the most unique races on the annual US motorsports calendar, the PRI CKI All-Star Karting Classic is being held in conjunction with the Performance Racing Industry Trade Show. As the world’s largest hardcore racing trade show, the PRI Trade Show features exhibits by 1200 racing companies, and was attended last year by 40,000 buyers from 61 countries.

The PRI CKI All-Star Karting Classic will be held at 7 p.m., Thursday, December 10, on a track adjacent to the North/South Building of the Orange County Convention Center, which houses the PRI Trade Show. There is no charge for admission.

Two karting divisions will actually be presented on the tight, fast track. The Karter Division features some of the best young, up-and-coming kart drivers from around the country. Many of the competitors in the Karter Division are champions and will soon be graduating up to cars.

The All-Star Division is comprised of the best drivers in the business, and by race time it is expected to have 25-plus all-star drivers in the pit paddock ready to go racing. Past All-Star Karting Classic winners include: Buddy Rice, Michael Valiante, and Jay Howard.

“This is one exciting race, and there is no admission charge for this race. Where else can you see a lineup of big name drivers go at it wheel to wheel in highly tuned karts than at our PRI Trade Show?” exclaimed, Steve Lewis, producer of the PRI Trade Show. “Stay tuned for more big names to be announced soon.”

Companies wishing to exhibit or individuals and media members wishing to attend the PRI Trade Show can go to http://www.performanceracing.com or call 949-499-5413.