American Electric Karting League 2025 – OHIO – Stage 1

The American Electric Karting League (AEKL) has officially launched its eight-round national series dedicated entirely to electric karting. Focused on sustainable motorsport, cutting-edge BSR electric racing technology, and driver development, AEKL is setting a bold new standard for kart racing in the U.S.

The opening round, held May 17–18 at the Ohio Valley Karting Association (OVKA) track, drew international talent and delivered standout performances. American driver Jack Lindner (#9) secured the top spot in the Heavy Class, while Yamori Richardson (#7) of Jamaica claimed victory in the Light Class, highlighting the league’s growing global appeal. Four nations were represented in this round alone, with more expected in future events.

AEKL’s premier class, the all-electric BSR-X4, ranked as the third-fastest class overall, confirming its place among top-tier motorsport. All electric karts in the league use Blue Shock Race technology, and impressively, the entire weekend’s charging was powered by a single electric vehicle—an elegant, fully sustainable solution.

In the Heavy Class, second place went to local Ohio racer and KJC Racing founder Kyler Carnes (#22), with OVKA President Elliot Bokeno (#8) rounding out the podium. In the Light Class, Parker Traut (#6) and Julian Traut (#99) took second and third, racing for the KinectiX Racing Team.

Current standings: Jack Lindner – 29 pts (Heavy Class), Yamori Richardson – 40 pts (Light Class)

The AEKL is rapidly expanding. By Round 4 in New York, a third official team will join the BSR-X4 grid, reaching full team capacity. In response to growing interest, two new divisions will be introduced: BSR-X5 – a +10hp elite performance class, and BSR-X3 – for drivers aged 9–12, offering early access to professional-level racing.

Beyond racing, the AEKL, together with BSR and the World Karting Association, provides drivers with tools for building their personal brand, media presence, and future career opportunities.

The AEKL is committed to helping top drivers advance their careers with high-value, experience-driven rewards:

Heavy Class Champion – 3-Day Porsche Experience in Europe
This elite experience will be led personally by Valters Zviedris, one of Latvia’s top professional racing drivers. Valters is a multi-time Baltic Touring Car Champion and a Porsche Carrera Cup driver, with extensive international racing experience. Under his guidance, the champion will receive professional coaching, participate in advanced on-track sessions with Porsche performance cars, and gain behind-the-scenes insights at one of Europe’s leading motorsport facilities.

Light Class Champion – Test Drive in the NXT Gen CUP Electric Touring Car
The Light Class winner will earn a coveted test drive in the NXT Gen CUP — the world’s first electric junior touring car series, racing at major European circuits. This opportunity also includes a pathway toward a full-season seat in the 2026 NXT Gen CUP, giving the champion direct access to the European touring car scene and an accelerated route toward an international racing career.

Stage 2 will be a night race — as the sun sets, drivers will prepare for a unique challenge under the lights. Karts will be equipped with additional lighting and special visual effects, creating an impressive show for spectators.

Racing in the dark brings a whole new level of intensity. With reduced visibility, braking points feel shorter, concentration becomes harder to maintain, and every mistake can have serious consequences. The adrenaline is higher, and the margin for error razor-thin. Drivers will need to stay focused and adaptable to master this demanding night battle. Stage 2 at OVKA is shaping up to be a true spectacle!

Located in Ohio, the Ohio Valley Karting Association (OVKA) track has a rich history in American grassroots motorsport. The facility was established in the early 1970s and has since been an essential part of the region’s racing culture. For decades, it has nurtured young talent, hosted countless local and regional events, and brought together a passionate community of racers and fans.

The local community sees the OVKA track not just as a racing venue but as a gathering place for families and enthusiasts — where generations of drivers have honed their skills. From beginners to experienced racers, the track offers a welcoming atmosphere and a deep connection to karting tradition.

Now, with the AEKL bringing high-performance electric karting to the circuit, OVKA continues to evolve while honoring its proud heritage. Round Two’s night race will mark another exciting chapter in this iconic track’s story.

Travis Gregg is one of the most experienced and versatile drivers to join the American Electric Karting League (AEKL) grid. With a rich background in professional motorsport, Travis brings a unique level of skill and precision to electric kart racing.

A native of Ohio, Travis has an impressive resume:
He is a seasoned veteran of Indy Lights, where he achieved multiple wins and pole positions. Over the years, he has also competed in various open-wheel and sports car categories, earning a reputation as an incredibly fast and technically skilled driver.

In 2025, Travis decided to take on a new challenge by joining the rapidly growing AEKL, where he now races in the BSR-X4 class. From his first appearance, it was clear he would be a front-runner — combining his deep racing knowledge with the unique demands of high-performance electric karts.

During Round 1 at OVKA, Travis made history by setting the fastest lap of the entire weekend — an absolute lap record for the track in AEKL competition. His blistering lap time of 40.270 seconds not only secured him the record but also demonstrated the true performance potential of the BSR-X4 electric karts in expert hands.