Seychelles Karting Awards Ceremony 2023 |23 November 2023

Celebrating achievers, achievements, sportsmanship and 30 years of racing

The sun set over the picturesque islands of Seychelles, casting a warm glow over the Karting Arena as enthusiasts and racers gathered for the highly anticipated Seychelles Karting Awards Ceremony.

The air was filled with excitement and anticipation as the karting community came together to celebrate the achievements, sportsmanship, and dedication of the talented individuals who had left their mark on the racing tracks throughout the years and decades.

The venue was adorned with banners and videos showcasing the thrilling moments of the karting season and karting over 30 years, highlighting the adrenaline-fuelled moments that had captivated Seychelles and showcased the skills of Seychelles' top karting talents. It was a moment of gratitude where we came to give thanks to the proud supporters and sponsors namely and they have to be mentioned, Penlac, PMC Auto, Suketu Patel, Cable and Wireless, CSA Trading, Eau de Val Riche, Air Seychelles, and Parties & More who were the main sponsors of our 2023 season, as well as many more on the night.

The ceremony kicked off with a welcoming address by the chairperson of the Seychelles Karting Association, expressing gratitude to everyone who had contributed to the success of the karting season and highlighted the challenges we faced and the aspirations ahead.

The Association kicked off its celebration of its 30 years of existence by showcasing a video of its journey since 1993 and its evolution over the decades, revealing its new logo and launching a new product for 2024, the Corporate Championship where more details will follow, targeting corporates to take on the challenge of racing under the theme “Now it’s your turn!”

The spotlight then shifted to the nominees and winners of various categories, each representing a unique aspect of the sport. All podium finishers, and top 3 champions of each category were bestowed with their floating trophies.

Although there were no ladies class in 2023, all female drivers were ranked announced during the ceremony.

Lastly the Academy Graduates of 2023 were awarded their certificates for completing the year long training to obtain their racing licenses and on the night, present were 5 of the 9

The ceremony then headed to the prestigious crowning of the best of the best. The selection committee’s job this year was a tough one, after many deliberations:

Driver of the Year:

The prestigious "Driver of the Year" award went to the racer who consistently demonstrated exceptional skill, determination, and sportsmanship, and his ever willingness to help off the track showing true ambassadorship to the sport.

Carlos Quatre crowning erupted with cheers and applause, acknowledging the countless contribution that led to this well-deserved honour.

Youth of the Year:

The "Youth of the Year" award celebrated the promising newcomers who had made a significant impact in their inaugural season. This category not only highlighted raw talent but also recognised the potential for future success in the world of karting as well as the willingness to participate, learn and be engaged off the track and this title went to Junior driver Lecxus Lui Chi Chion.

Official of the Year:

Behind every successful sport is a dedicated official. The "Official of the Year" award acknowledged the unsung heroes working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that the events ran smoothly, ready to tackle the challenges of each race. And this award went to Mr. Terence Anderson.

As the evening unfolded, the awards ceremony served as a testament to the growth and vibrancy of the karting community in Seychelles. The winners, with trophies in hand, expressed their gratitude to supporters, sponsors, and fellow racers who had been part of their journey.

The Seychelles Karting Awards Ceremony not only celebrated past accomplishments but also served as a rallying point for the future. The fervor and passion exhibited on that memorable evening hinted at a bright future for karting in Seychelles, with aspirations of producing world-class racers who could compete on the international stage.

Lifetime Achievement Award

As a celebration of 30 years of achievement Seychelles Karting awarded a Special Lifetime Achievement Award to Dave Rene who is not only one of the founding fathers of our sport but has been a driving force, giving his time and sacrificing a lot to shape karting to what it is today. This prestigious award recognises his work, passion and dedication to the sport and the crowd gave Dave a standing ovation in acknowledging exactly this. A video montage of his journey was a heartfelt icing on the cake to this moment of tribute.

The principal secretary for Youth and Sports, Ralph Jean-Louis, gave a closing remark congratulating Seychelles Karting on its achievement and event and took on the challenge bestowed by the Association.

In conclusion, the Seychelles Karting Awards Ceremony was a night to remember – a night that celebrated not just skill, but also the unity and camaraderie that make the karting community a thrilling and fulfilling part of Seychellois sports culture.

The celebration of the 30 years will continue in 2024 and more details will be announced soon. 

Contributed