2016 CIK-FIA Best-Of: Genk: a legendary circuit looks to the future

The Genk track (BEL), now called the “Home of Champions” is inseparable from the GKS Team and the Lemmens family. But it is also a very famous track that has evolved while keeping its character. Frequently on the calendar of the CIK-FIA, Genk this year hosted the last competition of the CIK-FIA European Championship which brought together for the first time the four categories OK, OK, Junior, KZ and KZ2. On this occasion, the son of the founder Paul Lemmens evokes more than 35 years of history and passion.

Koen Lemmens, can you tell us about the genesis of the Genk circuit?

– Originally, a band of enthusiasts, which included my father, managed to convince local officials to support the creation of a go-kart track near the motocross area. In the early 80s we organised many races including major international events, but we also had to face many administrative problems. Finally, after many adventures, the site for the expansion project was secured and the track was able to see the light in 2005. It has given the company a solid foundation. The track itself has benefited from our knowledge of racing gained through the racing team and we preferred safety with large runoffs.

What are GKS’s activities today?

– Competition always been part of our DNA with the organisation of numerous national and international races. The site is the base of the racing team and its engine preparation activity in our workshops equipped with all the necessary machines and a test bench. We created a kart shop with parts and equipment. We also provide training for young drivers and we welcome leisure karting events. This diversity is quite unique in the sport and our strength comes from the sum of our activities which is greater than their simple juxtaposition.

Tell us about the 2016 European Championship.

– Organising sporting events like this big event at CIK-FIA European level makes us happy first because we are passionate, even though it’s a big workload. It isn’t an attractive financial operation in itself, because the costs are always higher than what you can imagine. But it’s very positive for the image of Genk with competitors. In addition, hotels and restaurants in the area appreciate this additional customers, which increases our credibility to our institutional partners and allows us to consider further developments. I only regret that we have very strict requirements to be respected, without the control of which certain aspects of the organisation could be more successful.

Finally, let’s talk a bit about the future of karting?

– This is a fantastic sport that has the potential to reach a wide range of people from leisure to competition. Currently I think we absolutely need to gain simplicity to attract more fans to competition. Although strong technology is understandable at the highest level, it is simplicity that must prevail for newcomers. We have no choice, it is a matter of survival.

Best-of CIK-FIA 2016 / © Photo KSP