The second annual PGR (Phil Giebler Racing) Kickoff Party took place this week at the historical Adams Motorsports Park in Riverside California. PGR customers old and new enjoyed a relaxed and friendly private track day with special guest star, JensonButton. Button, the 2009 Formula 1 World Champion, took the opportunity to take his maiden drive in a shifter kart. With an illustrious career spanning several decades, it was surprisingly the Briton’s first time behind the wheel of a kart with more than one gear.

The event format invited drivers of all experience levels to demo the latest Ricciardo Kart chassis and various engine combinations. The format was designed to draw newcomers to the sport, and provide an inviting atmosphere for them to try their hand at driving. The special event was catered once again by longtime supporter and fellow racing enthusiasts— Blue Agave Southwestern Grill. AiM Sports was also on-hand to offer 1 on 1 help with data acquisition and telemetry, along with coaching from veteran PGR team drivers.

“It was a thrill to see JB adapt to the Rok shifter / Ricciardo kart and battle it out with longtime PGR driver Nicky Hays,” said Phil Giebler. “It was equally impressive to watch himlearn a new track and vehicle in such a short timeframe.”

Jenson Button was equally impressed with the performance of the kart, saying “there isnothing as demanding on four wheels, mentally or physically as a racing kart. There is nobetter way to train in motorsports.”

“This event is what karting is all about,” remarked PGR team ambassador Everett Giebler. “Many people talk about bringing new people to the sport, but few are actually doing it. We are encouraged by the opportunity of promoting a friendly event for our customers to enjoy the friendship and camaraderie of the team before the stress of the season gets underway. It was a pleasure to host JB and his group of friends. We are looking forward to doing more events like this in the future ... giving our customers and team drivers opportunities to partake in exclusive events like this.”

Phil Giebler Racing is the nation’s largest dealer and team promoting the popular Ricciardo Kart line of products. The brand is the namesake of the current F1 star, Daniel Ricciardo — who continues to be an integral part of the process.

“I couldn’t be more proud to be affiliated with such a great product,” added Phil Giebler. “Ultimately, we are thrilled to host events like this, because we feel we’re promoting a product that’s second to none. The Ricciardo Kart is a product that performs well with any engine, on virtually any track surface or condition imaginable. We’re incredibly optimistic for another successful 2019 season.”