Rookie racers reach high speeds in Torbay

A group in Torbay is encouraging wannabe speed-demons to give rookie go-karting a spin. And the best part is, you don't need a drivers license to do it.

"It's fun. It's a nice experience, especially when I don't get to drive for another five years," 12-year-old racer Jenna Healey-Price told CBC News.

The group meets weekly behind the Jack Byrne Arena in Torbay.

The Newfoundland Rookie Karting Champion Series is described by owner Walter Matena as an "arrive and drive" kind of sport.

His company, GForce Karting, provides the race karts, mechanics and any necessary equipment. Racers just have to show up.

"What we've brought here to Newfoundland is high-performance go karts," Matena said,

"These karts reach speeds of 65 kilometres an hour and the purpose of that is to teach and promote the sport of kart racing, which hasn't been brought to the island yet."

While it's considered a competitive sport, Matena said participants have a lot of fun learning the basics of road racing.

The race season runs for seven weeks, and Matena said the winner will receive a free spot in next year's series.

Check out the racers in action in the video player above.