Alex Twetise holds the steering of the kart as he gets ready for round one at Meraki karting. PHOTOS/ COURTESY OF ALEX TWETEISE
Go-karting had always intrigued me, but I had never mustered the courage to actually do it. One time when I was truly eager to participate, a friend stopped me, because I had just recovered from a leg injury, and she was afraid I could get hurt again.
However, that changed when my sister and a few friends convinced me to finally give it a try.
With a mix of excitement and nervousness, we headed to a popular go-karting track, Meraki Karting located in Bugolobi, ready for an adrenaline-fueled experience.
Arriving at the track
The aesthetics at Meraki karting is a fusion of sleek modern designs with an energizing vibrant aura. When we arrived, I was struck by the cleanliness, calmness and openness of the place. The space is carefully curated with contemporary and industrial elements (framed photographs), featuring polished concrete floors, minimalist lighting, giving it an edgy, yet welcoming vibe.
Depending on your budget, the pricing of karting varies from the session time chosen, the kind of race you would like to the day of the week you have visited the place. We registered at the reception as cadets, each in a single racer kart and opted for a 15 minutes track race which cost Shs65,000 per person, this being a weekend.
Listening carefully to all the rules and instructions, a friendly instructor briefed us on the basics and safety of go-karting. He explained that go-karting is a form of open-wheel motorsport where drivers race small four-wheeled vehicles, known as, go-karts, on a track. The instructor assured us that it was safe as long as we followed the rules.
He said, “Go-karting is for everyone, whether you are a beginner or a seasoned racer, you will definitely have fun. However, your safety should always come first.
The biggest mistake beginners make is underestimating the importance of control. Although speed is fun, without control, it can be dangerous. Take care.” He added, “We even have children as young as ten years old trying it out under supervision.”
I found comfort in knowing that the sport catered to people of all skill levels, and putting in mind that I had a driving experience for more than five years, I actually got excited.
Suiting up in helmets and racing overalls, and as we had a few photos I felt the rush of anticipation build as the engines roared to life around me. The weight of the helmet, snug and secure, made the world feel slightly distant, sharpening my focus entirely on the track ahead.
Getting behind the wheel
The moment of truth arrived when I slipped into my go-kart. The seat was cozy, and the steering wheel felt firmer than I expected. I knew my driving experience would help me navigate the twists and turns, but the thrill of being on the track with others who shared the same love for speed made everything feel new again.
It was not just about racing, it was about the pure joy of the sport, the sense of freedom that comes with every turn, and the exhilarating challenge of testing my skills against the clock.
The instructor gave us final safety instructions, emphasising the importance of keeping both hands on the wheel, using the brakes smoothly, and being aware of other racers.
The instructor advised, “Do not panic if someone overtakes you. Stay in control and focus on your driving.”
As the signal was given, the karts shot forward, and I felt an instant rush. The acceleration was not as aggressive as I had imagined, but the speed picked up fast. My hands tightened on the wheel as I navigated the first turn. I could hear my sister laughing somewhere behind me, clearly enjoying herself.
The three rounds of pure adrenaline
By the second lap, I started to feel more comfortable. The wind rushed past my helmet as I maneuvered sharp corners, my confidence growing with each successful turn.
I quickly learnt that go-karting is not just about speed but also control. While some corners require one to slow down, others allow you to accelerate with ease.
I found myself in an impromptu competition with a one Edrine Mawanda, a fellow racer I had met at the track. He was slightly ahead, and I was determined to keep up.
As we approached the final lap, I made a bold move, taking an inside turn to overtake him. “Nice move!” Mawanda shouted over the roar of engines, and I grinned. The thrill of that moment was beyond words.
By the end of the third round, my arms ached slightly, and my heart pounded with excitement. My sister pulled up next to me, breathless and laughing. She said, “That was amazing! I almost overtook you in the second lap even when I have no driving experience.”
Unwinding
After the race, I spoke to a few people with whom we were racing, inquiring from them about their go-karting experience. Alex Twetise, who has been karting for years, described it as his favourite weekend activity.
“I love the competition and every time I go in for a race, I try to beat my personal best lap time. I adore the thrill of driving, the way the kart responds to every turn, and the adrenaline rush that comes with pushing myself to the limit. It is not just about speed, it is about precision, strategy and that feeling of pure excitement when you nail a perfect lap.
Whether I am racing against friends or just challenging myself, every session on the track is an opportunity to improve and have fun,” Twetise said.
For Hope Kyomugasho, a first-timer like me, the experience was nerve-wracking at first but ultimately thrilling.
“I thought I was going to crash, but once I got the hang of it, I wanted to keep going. Now I understand why people get hooked on this game.” Kyomugasho said smiling.
By the time we left the track, I was already thinking about when I would come back. What started as a nerve-racking idea, turned into an unforgettable experience.
Whether you are seeking an adrenaline rush, a fun activity with friends, or even a new hobby, go-karting is an exhilarating sport that anyone can enjoy.
If you ever wondered whether it is worth trying, take my word for it. It absolutely is! Grab a helmet, get behind the wheel, and experience the thrill yourself. You will love it and your confidence shall be boosted when you learn the tricks like vehicle control.
