Percat returns to Australian Karting Championship

Supercars race winner Nick Percat is set to go back to basics when he joins the Australian Karting Championship at Geelong on April 1-2.

Percat will swap his Brad Jones Racing Holden Commodore for a Kosmic 125cc KZ2 kart a week after taking part in the Supercars races at the Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix .

It marks a return to top level karting for Percat who also raced in the KZ2 class in 2015, seven years after his previous appearance.

Percat will join BJR’s Dunlop Super2 driver Macauley Jones in the Elite KZ2 class, with the latter expected to compete in up to four of the season's five rounds.

Adding to the Supercars flavour in Geelong will be Garry Rogers Motorsport's Pirtek Enduro Cup co-driver James Golding, who is also lining up in KZ2.

“I’m really looking forward to racing at Geelong,” said Percat.

“It’s going to be enjoyable to race against the best young karters in Australia.

“It will also be pretty cool going up against Macauley.

“I’m not sure if Brad will be more nervous watching Macca or me!”

Percat's fellow Supercars driver Chaz Mostert continues to race karts recreationally in his local South East Queensland, while several other rivals use the machinery for training.

Percat says the physical aspect of the racing is a boost for his Supercars preparations.

“The beauty of racing the KZ is that the physical challenge is extremely high and getting every bit of speed out of them is a fine art,” added Percat.

“They certainly keep you sharp and ensure that you’re right on top of your game for when you climb back into the Supercar.

“I’ve managed to do a day of testing at Geelong before the event and think Jake (Spencer, team-mate) and I could surprise a few.”

The Beckley Park International Raceway is located on Geelong Road, Corio with free admission for spectators.

Over 265 competitors have signed up for the second round of the five-event series.