Go-Kart Center Grand Opening in South San Francisco

Go-kart enthusiasts are buckling up for rides at a new racing center in South San Francisco that is having its grand opening celebration tonight.

The celebration begins at 6 p.m. at K1 Speed at 160 Beacon St. The facility, touted as "the place to race," offers zero-emission electric go-karts that reach up to 45 mph on a racetrack.

There are similar racing centers in other parts of the Bay Area, but K1 Speed spokesman Andrew Palos said K1's karts are the only electric option in a region where gas karts are the norm.

The center features a collection of racing memorabilia for viewing, along with a Red Bull Formula One car simulator.

"You get the feel that you are on the track," Palos said.

For those ready for the real thing, the course, featuring many turns, keeps drivers working to stay in control. The cars often average 25 to 30 mph.

Tonight's event offers drinks, appetizers, music and, of course, racing until 9 p.m.

Radio personality Fernando, of the "Fernando & Greg" radio show on 99.7 FM, will be at the opening celebration giving away tickets to the radio station's holiday show.

The South San Francisco facility is K1 Speed's 12th location. It has one center in Santa Clara, and additional racetracks in Arizona, Texas and Washington.

Prices to race start at about $20, not including a $6 yearly license fee.

Palos said, "We see all the reviews on Yelp that everyone is having a great time."

— Bay City News

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