Dirt Karting FAQ

Dirt kart racing is a form of motorsport where drivers race karts on a dirt or other loose-surface track. Drivers compete in designated classes and follow the event's track layout, officials' instructions, and safety rules.

Yes. The 2026/2027 Rule Book (R1) allows a non-member to try racing at the visiting-driver tariff, subject to the event rules. A non-member may race only one CODK event per season without joining the club, and does not earn club points during that concession.

If you have less than three races' experience, the rule book says to display a brightly coloured (preferably orange) “X” on the rear number panel and start at the back of the grid. Speak to the club before race day about the right class and what you need to bring.

The rule book does not promise that a kart will be available to borrow or hire. Contact the club before making plans if you do not have a kart.

The 2026/2027 Rule Book (R1) says a driver member must reach at least five years of age during the racing season. It also says competitors who have reached their 12th birthday may move to the 270cc class; the committee may ask a junior competitor to move up, and a driver who moves up may not return to the younger group in the same season.

Age and class eligibility can depend on the current rules. Confirm the right class with the club before entering.

The rule book requires a completed application signed by a parent or guardian. The parent or guardian must also be at least a CODK social member. CODK may request a certified birth certificate or other supporting documentation, and a minor driver must demonstrate driving ability to officials if asked.

A class groups entries under the applicable kart and driver rules. Check the available classes on the race entry page and use the official rule book to check eligibility. Officials may group classes for safety or event efficiency.

These are separate divisions the site may show when a Development class is split for an event. The 2026/2027 Rule Book (R1) does not define the site's Development Jnr/Advance split, so ask the club which division applies to your entry instead of assuming eligibility from the label.

The rule book requires a driver to notify the CODK Committee in writing when changing classes during a points season. Championship points from the old class do not carry over to the new class. Ask the committee before changing your entry.

Submit your entry through the race entry page, then check the race calendar for the event date. The rule book requires the kart to be entered for its class before the drivers' meeting and the driver to present a current membership card when registering for an event.

Online registration does not replace event-day requirements or instructions from officials.

The CODK 2026/2027 Rule Book (R1) lists a R120 event day fee for CODK driver members. Visiting drivers and non-members trying the sport are listed at R160. The listed gate fees are R40 per adult and R20 per child aged 12 or under.

Fees may change between seasons or events; confirm the current amount with the club before travelling.

Yes. The rule book says a driver must be a CODK member in good standing, with the appropriate fees paid and required documentation completed and accepted, to be credited with points at CODK events. Membership applications are subject to committee approval.

Check the race calendar for scheduled dates and event details. Confirm any last-minute changes with the club before travelling.

Follow the event schedule and officials' instructions. The rule book requires entries before the drivers' meeting and permits technical or safety inspections. If you cannot take part in a heat, tell the scorekeeper at race control; the rule book says a driver may be fined R50 for each heat missed without notifying the scorekeeper.

The entry form may offer an optional second class, but permission and eligibility depend on the current rules and event arrangements. Confirm with race officials before entering multiple classes.

Please speak to race control or an event official in person so your withdrawal can be handled and recorded correctly. Do not rely on a WhatsApp or group message as formal notice of withdrawal.

The rule book makes the driver responsible for the safe condition and operation of their kart, and allows officials to inspect the kart, engine, and driver. Read the current official rule book for equipment and class specifications. If you are unsure whether something is acceptable, ask the technical official before race day.

Use the official rule book for the current regulations, safety requirements, and track procedures. Follow directions from race officials at all times.

No. The rule book warns that competitive karting can cause serious injury or death and that risk cannot be eliminated. Read the waiver and current rules, use compliant equipment, and follow officials' instructions. Do not race if an injury or medication could affect your ability to compete safely.

The rule book says to drive at walking speed in the pits and not spin or slide the kart there. Open flames and braais are prohibited in the pits. Refuel only in the pit area with the engine stopped and the driver out of the kart.

The rule book says a black flag means disqualification from that race. When safe, pull onto the infield for the remainder of the race, forfeit that race's points, and report to the Race Director/CoC immediately after the race. Always follow the official's instructions.

Under the rule book, the white flag indicates the last lap of the warm-up phase or race. The black-and-white chequered flag signals the finish; drivers crossing it must complete one more lap to prepare to leave the track.