The upcoming Nitro Kart Clash in Guyana has sent a clear message to the motorsport world: the future is inclusive, as the organisers of the April 19 mega-event have officially added an all-female class to the roster, a move designed to fast-track the development of women in open-wheel racing.
With a staggering G$10M in cash and prizes on the line, the event is set to be one of the richest karting spectacles in the region when all descend on the tarmac of the National Stadium, Providence.
For competitor Malicia Lawrence, the introduction of a dedicated category is a vital step for representation in a traditionally male-centric paddock.
“I think it’s amazing,” Lawrence told reporters. “It’s a great opportunity for females to come and have fun. We know it’s a man’s world out there, right? For girls who are interested—even just for the fun of it—this is the perfect way to support women in the sport.”
Lawrence isn’t just there to make up the numbers; she’s already taking aim at the top step of the podium. However, she’ll face stiff competition from Fiona Dhanpat, who issued a rallying cry to aspiring racers to break the glass ceiling—and perhaps a few egos—at the track.
“Just do it,” Dhanpat urged. “You can show them that in a male-dominated sport, women can come and kick their butts.”
In a bid to lower the barrier to entry, promoters have confirmed that karts will be provided for the female class, though drivers must bring their own safety gear. To further bolster the local grid, entry remains free for all Guyanese drivers.
“The world is moving forward,” a spokesperson for the promoters noted. “Sports that were once dominated by men are seeing an influx of female talent. We don’t just welcome that—we want to lead it.”
Competitors are also reminded that free entry is available to all local drivers as expectations heighten. Cash and prizes will be awarded to the top three finishers in each class, along with special tokens for the juniors, which will be up for grabs.
Banks DIH, AJM Enterprise, KP Jagdeo General Contractors, J’s Supermarket, SCI (Sawh’s Construction Inc.), Precision Service Centre, and Ramchand’s Autobody are the sponsors for the event. (Modified Press Release)
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