Karting Spirit Shines at Clyde Marshall Winter Cup

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107 competitors braved freezing temperatures, blistering winds, and torrential rain in Lithgow earlier this month to take part in the 40th anniversary of the Clyde Marshall Winter Cup, hosted by the Combined Districts Kart Club (CDKC).

Despite the record cold and extreme weather, the event delivered one of its most spirited weekends yet. It was a powerful display of resilience, determination, and community spirit that has defined this grassroots race for four decades.

CDKC Club President and Karting NSW General Manager, Russell Becker, said the turnout was a true testament to the strength of the club and the legacy of the event.

“For us to get over 100 karters and hundreds of supporters to brave the extreme weather to be here today is something special. The perseverance and passion shown by everyone, from drivers to volunteers, truly captures the spirit of the Clyde Marshall Winter Cup.”

Challenging on-track conditions pushed every driver to their limits, with rain-soaked surfaces and icy winds adding an extra layer of difficulty. All competitors handled the conditions with skill and composure, showcasing the depth of talent across the field.

One of the weekend’s most talked-about moments came during the Junior Heavy Final, when ACT State Title Champion Riley Prior charged from 14th place to finish 2nd, and was later elevated to 1st place following a penalty to race leader George Miles. It was Riley’s first time racing at Lithgow, and he certainly made an impression.

In TAG Heavy, long-time racer Bradley Goodman finally achieved a personal milestone.

“It’s only taken 30 years to win this trophy,” said Goodman. “I still remember when my grandparents used to come and watch my dad race go karts all those years ago.”

First run in 1985, the event is named in honour of long-time club member Clyde Marshall, and has grown into a staple of the Australian karting calendar. CDKC, located in Marrangaroo near Lithgow, is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, strong community ties, and reputation as a proving ground for future champions. Many of motorsport’s best have started here, with V8 Supercars legends James Courtney and Mark Winterbottom, and even current Formula 1 driver Oscar Piastri, have raced at the Lithgow circuit in their junior years.

With hundreds of family members, pit crews, volunteers, and spectators in attendance, the 40th anniversary of the Clyde Marshall Winter Cup was more than just a race. It was a celebration of community, perseverance, and the enduring love of motorsport.