johnelliott and scott21 have nailed it down.
We started in 2006, when my grandson was 6. We bought the wrong kart for 600/ roller or something, then got traded out of it for something that would work. We bought a stock in the red crate Briggs for 200 and a 50.00 clutch, we went racing. We ran in the back every week, but we had fun. BOY, did we have FUN ! the next year we stepped up to Winged karts. This year, 2015, we are moving into 100HP, 500cc 2 stroke winged karts. And the fun has never left. Every year, we tell each other we are going to have to get more serious. But then, we get a half decent setup on the kart, gearing is close, his input to me is something I can understand, and vice versa. So while everyone is working away between races we are hanging out together enjoying each other's company. To my knowledge, EVERYONE in our class from that 1st year are gone, and most from that track that year are gone. Its a treat to see the ones that stayed in racing when we run into each other. What I see when I see those teams is people just like us, people really having fun togetner, NOT making it miserable for one or the other, more buddies than parent or grandparent/ child relationships. Im kind of rare being the grandparent doing it, it seems, but I wouldnt trade it for the world.
So, have fun, keep it fun, make it smething your kid and you both enjoy, and the results will come all on their own. And if they dont, just think of all the fun and quality conversations you have had. Youd be surprised what you will talk about together. Ive been asked how I can afford to do it. Truth is, I cant afford NOT to.
www.joshuamoffittracing.com not much documenton on our 2014 season, but we ran 2nd in points in Knoxville Iowa with a intentionally detuned motor (preservation, ran out of spare parts) and a seriously laid back attitude.
Enjoy your ride, and the memories you make