Jay Howard new karting venture
“Having professionals in the world of motorsports come and compete in our series is something that we are working towards," expressed CKI Director of Operations Kevin Williams. “Most of the pro drivers look to compete in karting action on off weekends, months or just to stay in shape. Having a driver with the results like Jay and his fierce competitive attitude, I am happy that he is supporting our program."
As an avid karter in the United Kingdom, Howard grew up claiming title after title before moving to the open-wheel formula car ranks in North America. In 2005, the now Sarah Fisher Racing driver, claimed the US Formula Ford 2000 championship before claiming the Firestone Indy Lights Championship the following season. His 2010 program includes competing in four IZOD IndyCar Series events, including the Indianapolis 500, with backing from Tire Kingdom.
Also in 2010, Howard has formed a new on-site engine building, repairing and service support program with a recent partnership with British and European champions Ogden Racing Engines of the UK. The program will host an at-event complete engine service that can do everything from simple maintenance to complete rebuilds trackside. Operated by Jay and his father Paul Howard, the engine program will make its debut at the first Championship Karting International Florida Cup presented by Supertune USA and DeFrancesco Racing event on the January 29th to 31st weekend.
Along with a trackside engine service program, Jay will join forces with a winning karting team. Howard will be behind the wheel of a European made chassis as he will look to fight for race wins and championships in the Rotax Senior division at the Florida Cup as well as select WSK North American Series events.
“The Jay Howard and Ogden Racing Engine program will be separate venture from my personal racing," expressed Howard in a recent phone interview. “I wanted to support the CKI Florida Cup and be there racing and that is what I am doing. My engine service and rental company will be offering engine services for any driver on any brand of kart. We have one goal in mind and that is ‘Winning’ and we will do whatever it takes to ensure you and our motor packages are at the front of the pack."
“I am excited to get back in a kart," continued Howard. “I try and do select events each year and with the way the CKI program is headed, I had to jump at the opportunity on my off weekends from the professional circuit. I am very excited about the opportunities and possibilities in 2010."
The Championship Karting International program and WSK North American Series will next see action with their first annual CKI Florida Cup presented by Supertune USA and DeFrancesco Racing. With the program taking place at the Homestead Karting Center just south of Miami, Florida, the Florida Cup Series will award more than $130,000.00 in cash and prizes including a brand new Mazda 3. For more information on the series, photos, results, news and up-to-date information, please visit www.ChampionshipKartRacing.com