HISTORY

The Maui Go Karters Association (MGKA) has a rich history rooted in passion, dedication, and community spirit. Founded in 1983 by a small group of racers and volunteers, the club has flourished over the years due to the unwavering dream, hard work, and leadership of Enos Kailiehu. Enos’s vision for karting on Maui spans over four decades and continues to inspire the racing community today.

A pivotal moment in our history came through the efforts of Enos Kailiehu and Scott Loomer, whose determination and collaboration led to the development of the track as it stands today. The transformation of the original layout was made possible by the volunteer work and generous donations from our members, as well as Enos’s connections, which allowed for the track to be fully paved. The upgrades didn’t stop there — lights were installed for night racing, a control tower was built, a pit area shelter was added, grandstands were constructed, and storage containers were brought in.

As the club continued to grow, MGKA became a SKUSA-sanctioned half-mile sprint course, renowned for its two long straightaways and challenging eight-turn layout. Our track, the premiere karting facility in the State of Hawaii, boasts a fully paved infield and ample runoff areas — an ideal setting for thrilling racing action. Over the years, top-tier drivers, including Townsend Bell, Paul Tracy, Ron Emmick, Joey Wimsett, Wesley Boswell, and Alec Gumpfer, have set track records, proving the course’s competitive nature.

For many years, every second Saturday night, racers would gather to push their karting skills to the limit, reaching speeds ranging from 30 to 100 miles per hour. The adrenaline-filled moments, from flying down the straightaways to navigating the tight chicane, corkscrew, and sweepers, have made for some unforgettable racing experiences. The thrill of speed and the intensity of competition have long been the heart of MGKA.

At its peak, MGKA also hosted the annual Hawaii State Karting Championships every December, attracting the best drivers from across the state and beyond. However, when the Covid-19 pandemic hit, it brought an unfortunate halt to our beloved track and the racing events that once filled the air with excitement. The track began to deteriorate over time, and the community spirit that once thrived was dimmed.

Now, a new generation of racers and volunteers has stepped forward, bringing fresh energy and enthusiasm to reignite the flame that once burned so brightly on Maui. The Maui Go Karters Association is once again on the rise, and we’re committed to restoring the track to its former glory, creating a new chapter in the rich history of karting on the island.

Join us as we continue the legacy of MGKA, where racing dreams are made, memories are created, and the spirit of karting on Maui lives on.