Appointed Vice-President in November 2010 when Shaik Abdulla bin Al Kalifa took over the Presidency of the CIK-FIA, Kees Van De Grint worked tirelessly to fulfill his mission until 2018. He has made his mark on the development of the discipline through the strength of his vision and his determination to change things. Exclusively for KSP-Kartcom, this great enthusiast of Karting and its entire history gave an overview of his work at the CIK-FIA.
” When I took office in 2010, CIK-FIA Karting was not at its best. I set some goals, the main one of which was to bring our sport back to the level of the glorious years of the FMK. After eight years of hard work, I achieved my main goals.
“Of course, I did not do it alone: the members of the CIK Commission approved my ideas, President Shaik Abdulla bin Al Kalifa gave his blessing and the active support of the staff of the CIK-FIA in Geneva, in particular that of its Executive Secretary, was decisive. I am proud of what has been achieved and pleased to have added some beautiful pages to the history of karting in the lineage of my hero, the late Ernest Buser.
“Several key points explain the current success. The appointment of Kay Oberheide as Executive Secretary of CIK-FIA, the restoration of respectful working relationships with every manufacturer, including those who are not involved in the CIK-FIA categories, as well as with the circuit owners and the ASNs. The will to develop the FIA Karting Academy Trophy, the introduction of the OK engine concept, the front fairing kit, the FIA Karting World Championship status for the KZ and OK-Junior categories, a Promoter for the CIK-FIA Championships, a press agency dedicated to Karting, an effective website, guidelines for historic karts and the Historic Super Cup which has become a major attraction during the FIA Karting World Championship, and finally a record participation for the FIA Karting World Championship – OK and Junior, never seen before during this century.
“I am fully aware that there is still work to be done. I am thinking in particular of the globalisation of gearbox categories (KZ) and direct drive (OK), safety, electric karting and the promotion of Karting.
But the circumstances have changed and after eight enjoyable and demanding years as Vice President of this incredible sport, I think it is time for a change and to let the younger generations take care of raising Karting to the level that it deserves.”
Thank you, mister Vice-President, we look forward to meet you again on the circuits in other circumstances.
Info Kartcom / © Photo KSP