Look out Phnom Penh, Melissa Fisher has hit the racetrack.
Without hesitation you press down on the gas and wonder, perhaps a bit too late, “Does my traveler’s insurance cover this?” Grasping the steering wheel of the plastic yellow go-cart, you hit the accelerator and take off. With the sun beaming down on the hot red #4 cart, you will the wheels to grip the road and make a sharp right, only to look up and hope the emaciated cow grazing nearby does not suddenly decide to cross your path.
Situated out in the boonies, a few kilometers past the airport, on the right-hand-side of Road No. 4, Kambol Cart Raceway is a playground for Phnom Penh thrill-seekers. Joining other Formula 1 enthusiasts, novices will discover a newfound appreciation for the sport, or at least a way to let go of that pent-up Phnom Penh road rage. This is as close to NASCAR as they will get, at least in Cambodia. The 30-minute ride to the circuit may put some off, but for a little weekend adrenaline rush, the trek out is well worth it.
Initially, the recently raised price of US$12 for a 10-minute ride can sound pricey, but for go-carting newbies, each minute on the asphalt circuit will seem like eternity. Buying more time behind the wheel is never a problem however, especially on slow days.
During the first few laps, the awkward jittery rattling of the cart and the occasional snap, crackle, pop, and spark emitted, may set some nerves alight. Once you’re comfortable with coordinating between the gas and the break, sharp curves, and the fact that the skinny cow is protected by a barrier of old rubber tires, the Michael Schumacher in each driver will emerge.
Driving with confidence, especially when cornering, is key on the international standard size track, but if after your initial test lap you feel the desire to call it quits, please do! On-site emergency care is not available and a full-refund is allotted for those who quit early. Carts must be operated by drivers 10 years old and up. Multiple drivers can share the track, but the challenge for speed, space, and overtaking can quickly draw out a game of bumping and spinning out.
It is evident the racetrack has seen better days, but equipment appears to be well maintained, and employees keep a constant watch over the track. For fans cheering on, an upstairs bar gives a clear view of the track.
When the ten minutes of racing are nearly up, an employee will jaunt over to the Finnish Line and hoist up a black and white checkered flag, signaling one lap remaining. Time to put the pedal to the metal and make the most if it!
Kambol Cart Raceway
Road No. 4, 12km west of airport
Open Daily 9am to 6pm
Tel. 012 232 332
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