To celebrate the opening of our new ‘Petrolhead Pavilion’ we are throwing down a challenge to motor and kart enthusiasts all over the North East. 

Deeside Activity Park, situated between Banchory and Aboyne just off the A93, have completed the new building and with it a new ‘state of the art’ computerised timing system.  Chief instructor Matt Noden said, “our old system was ok, but nothing like as accurate as this one which will record down to the 100th of a second.  One of our instructors holds the lap record so far, but we thought this will be a great chance to put the system to the test, and at the same time offer some racing fun to our guests.”

“The challenge will take place on January 13th and 20th, both Sundays from 11am till 4pm, and ‘would be racers’ can have as many laps as they’d like to break the record.  Anything below a 20 second lap is good – but this new system will bring it to a whole new level” said park owner Ken Howie.  If it is wet, it will still go ahead as the new pavilion offers cover and a huge viewing window for spectators.  “Even if we run over a bit, it won’t matter as the circuit is floodlit,” said Mr Howie.

The karts used are Zip 160 Hondas and there will also be the opportunity to try the 200 twins with 2x200cc engines on board which make them even quicker still.  Participants will have to demonstrate their ability on the single 160’s before progressing on to the ‘twins’. 

Costs will be £2 for a five-lap try with 4 of those laps being timed, and the twin-engine karts will be £5 for the same.

Deeside Activity Park plays host to a number of motoring special event each year.  In 2006 a military vehicle rally to complement the parks own APC & SPG, in 2007 a Vintage Tractor Rally and in June this year a Vintage Car Rally.  But this Karting Lap Record is purely for the enjoyment of our many visitors and of course, to see if there really is anyone faster than a DAP Instructor.