Dunlop Kart Stars Round 2

by Karting NSW

Racing, Community and Country Charm at Sapphire Coast Kart Club for Round 2 of Dunlop Kart Stars

Rolling green hills, black and white cows, and stunning sunsets set the scene for a spectacular weekend of racing as the Dunlop Kart Stars Series descended on the Sapphire Coast Kart Club for Round 2.

Nestled among private farmland at Frogs Hollow, just outside of Bega on the NSW South Coast, the club proved why it’s one of karting’s best-kept secrets. With picturesque surroundings, excellent facilities, generous pit space and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, the venue played host to a record-breaking 105 entries across 8 classes – the biggest event the club has seen since its revival two years ago.

“This event is great for the club, great for Dunlop, and great for karting in NSW,” said Karting NSW Competition Director Greg McLandsborough. “Countless hours from a dedicated team of volunteers brought this weekend together, and it’s been a resounding success.”

The racing was fierce, particularly in the Rookies and Junior classes, where the tight, technical track put pure driving talent in the spotlight. Close battles and clean overtakes were the theme of the weekend, with every race delivering edge-of-your-seat action.

In Junior Light, Jaxon Ison, Bobby Burns and Tyler Jenkins went wheel-to-wheel in a thrilling final showdown. With just a tenth of a second separating the top six in qualifying, the competition was intense from start to finish.

Junior Heavy delivered just as much drama. Jack Morgan dominated early, only to be edged out in the final by Ben Church-Malouf. Morgan, debuting a new chassis after delays with his regular kart, proved the old saying might just be true—sometimes it really is the kart.

A standout performance came in the 4SS category, where veteran racer Phillip Contessa surprised even himself by taking pole and the win. But spectators weren’t shocked—his smooth racecraft and precision on the technical layout were a masterclass in kart control.

Off-track, the Sapphire Coast Kart Club showed just as much spirit. Saturday night featured a community movie screening of Talladega Nights under the stars, complete with roast lamb and gravy rolls, popcorn, and plenty of laughs. Sunday brought a classic car and bike show courtesy of the Ulysses Club of the Sapphire Coast and the Sapphire Coast Historic Car Club, rounding out a truly unforgettable weekend.

Next up, the Dunlop Kart Stars Series heads north to the Manning Valley Kart Club in Wingham on May 17 and 18. Entries are now open and another valuable 40 bonus series points on the line. With momentum building and talent shining through, the stage is set for another thrilling chapter in the series.