Start your engines: The Midland Karting Experience.
Burton Radio’s Harry Parker, Burton Echo’s Tom Drysdale, and Sheffield-based filmmaker Jordan Carroll hit the A38 to Midlands Karting to uncover what drives owner Gary Mitchell.
By Tom Drysdale
Gary Mitchell, Tom Drysdale and Harry Parker.
Three intrepid adventurers—myself, Harry (Burton’s finest), and Jordan, the filmmaker from Sheffield (more on that later!)—set off down the A38 to Fradley, on the outskirts of Lichfield. A modern industrial estate gave way to our destination: Midland Karting Experience.
On your marks…
As expected, Midland Karting occupies converted industrial units, with tyre walls marking the edge of a large racetrack. We passed a small café serving homemade treats, snacks, and drinks, alongside a podium awaiting future champions, before arriving at the office.
There, we met Gary Mitchell (47), the Managing Director, whose connection to the track dates back to childhood. “I started coming with my dad to do sessions, and then he got a part-time job casually helping out. I sort of just trailed along and then kept doing the same. I ended up doing mechanics here back then, went to college in Burton for a mechanics course, and have worked here ever since.”
In 2001, Midland Karting Limited was officially founded, with Gary at the helm.
Get set…
The Workshop & Education Mech Club
We were led behind the main complex to a blue container unit converted into a workshop—a petrolhead’s dream. The walls were covered in tools and PPE, and various karts stood ready for different purposes.
Gary explained that this is where they run their “Education Mech Club”, teaching people aged seven and above about kart mechanics. “We provide all the PPE for them—gloves, anything they need to wear,” he said. The curriculum includes:
Servicing
Repairing
Stripping engines down and reassembling them
Gary’s passion for providing opportunities to young people was evident. He aims to bring this hands-on mechanical programme to children and schools, emphasizing the value of practical skills and early exposure to mechanical engineering.
Go!…
Launch Dates:
Education Mech Club: Begins 25th & 26th March, running fortnightly
Ladies' Mechanics Club: 6th March, 7–9 PM (£30)
Commitment to Inclusivity
One kart in particular sparked Gary’s pride. Midland Karting is committed to inclusivity, and we saw a kart modified with paddle controls on the steering wheel, making it accessible for drivers with disabilities.
Gary believes Midland Karting may be one of the only karting venues investing in adaptive karts that allow everyone to race on equal terms. Families from as far as Manchester and Norfolk have travelled after searching for disability-friendly karting.
Another kart featured two seats and two steering wheels, designed for neurodivergent drivers or those needing extra confidence behind the wheel. This dedication to inclusivity is deeply ingrained in the company culture. Gary made it clear—his motivation goes beyond profit; it’s about giving back to the community.
Upcoming Events & Racing Opportunities
2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for Midland Karting, with major events and competitions on the horizon:
🏁 March: Midland Karting Championship Series
🏆 April: Ladies Championship Series
🎓 Weekly Racing School:
Beginners: Every Thursday at 6 PM
Advanced: Every Wednesday at 6 PM (£35 per session)
🚨 Charity Race – 2nd March 🚨
Still seeking teams! Email: sales@midlandkarting.co.uk for more info.
Corporate events, stag & hen dos, and family fun days are also available.
Final Thoughts
I was genuinely impressed by Midland Karting’s passion and pride. Their proactive approach to innovation, inclusivity, and competition is truly commendable. Gary and his team exemplify the best of local business. If you’re looking for a thrilling and welcoming karting experience, this is the place to be! 🚗💨
Visit website: www.midlandkarting.co.uk
Have a positive community story to share? Email Tom Drysdale at teamburtonecho@gmail.com, and we’ll do our best to bring it to life!
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