2009 was a significant year for us at KnK. We made several positive steps in the direction of growing our facilities and capabilities to help us establish a firmer footing in the extremely competitive world of karting. 

The end of the racing season always brings about changes and news. Some good, some not so…

In Moto GP there is talk about going to a 1000cc capacity power plant, what the reasoning behind such an idea is, is beyond me. Already the 800s are setting times quicker that the older 990s did and the much touted “cost reducing efforts” has cut away the much needed testing that new riders so require, most new riders need two years of crashing before they are able to ride their 220+ bhp beasts competitively too, so why go to 1000cc? 

 “Progress has been rapid, it has to be said, but I am still convinced that by following my long-standing concepts, we can win on the tracks, and I will not rest until we do. Everything is in place, and the time has come to challenge…..” 

 Will the metamorphosis of regulations for Formula 1 see a one qualifying, two heat, one semi-final and one final, complete a race weekend? 

 Never know, with talk of single make engines, tyres, budget cuts, restrictions on aerodynamics and the entry of younger drivers. 

 We have been up to our necks in work with developments on several fronts and this has caused the delay with this newsletter.

 It is motor sports season again and thank the heavens for it, after a long break the circus is back in town, with a new look! “A splendid time is guaranteed for all, and tonight Mr. Kite is topping the bill.” 

 In the early 80’s when Ozzy Osbourne recorded Slow down, I wonder if he knew how fitting his lyrics might be to us in 2009. 

 During these austere times nothing deserved the recognition and awards at the Oscars more than Slum dog Millionaire. Raising hopes and encouraging dreams, the movie created by lesser known artists and kids from the slums of Mumbai just seemed to provide the perfect ingredient. AR Rehman’s unusual and fascinating music creations turned focus to the fact there is room for new ideas and fresh faces to make it to the top in a field surrounded by the largest movie industry in the world, dominated by huge names. Call it the influence of dreams!! 

 During these austere times nothing deserved the recognition and awards at the Oscars more than Slum dog Millionaire. Raising hopes and encouraging dreams, the movie created by lesser known artists and kids from the slums of Mumbai just seemed to provide the perfect ingredient. AR Rehman’s unusual and fascinating music creations turned focus to the fact there is room for new ideas and fresh faces to make it to the top in a field surrounded by the largest movie industry in the world, dominated by huge names. Call it the influence of dreams!! 

A little after Honda announced it was pulling out of F1, Suzuki and Subaru followed with announcements of their decision to withdraw from the World Rally Championship. More recently Kawasaki announced that they will not field a team in Moto GP this year. The situation with motor sports is getting to be a matter of concern and many of the problems seem common to other disciplines of motor racing too, including karting.