Early Beginnings
The story of go-karting begins in the late 1950s in the United States. Art Ingels, a race car builder at Kurtis Kraft, is credited with creating the first go-kart in 1956. Ingels, along with his friend Lou Borelli, used a surplus West Bend two-cycle engine originally intended for lawnmowers to power their small, handmade vehicle. The simplicity and fun of this creation quickly captured the imagination of many, leading to the birth of go-karting as a popular pastime.
The initial go-karts were rudimentary, built with basic materials and minimal technology. However, their affordability and ease of use made them accessible to a wide audience, including those without prior racing experience. The early days of go-karting were characterized by a spirit of innovation and experimentation, as enthusiasts modified and improved their karts to enhance performance and enjoyment.