Fourteen-year-old Chase Haskins returns to karting this weekend, with a fresh challenge ahead, as he lines up for rounds three and four of the National ROK Cup Karting Championship at the Vereeniging circuit, now rebranded as GT Raceway. The event marks a significant step in his progression, with the young driver making his circuit debut in the OK-N category.
While the venue itself is not entirely new to Chase, his prior experience at the circuit came in 2025 in the OK-J class. This weekend, however, presents a very different test. The step up to OK-N brings increased intensity, deeper competition, and a grid stacked with more experienced drivers, making his maiden outing in the class at Vereeniging a critical learning opportunity.
Despite his rookie status in OK-N, Haskins arrives as a proven contender. Currently third in the championship standings, he sits just four points shy of second place and sixteen adrift of the leader. Already a race winner this season, his early performances have firmly established him as one of the standout newcomers in the category.
Preparation has been methodical in the build-up to the weekend, with Chase working closely alongside the Kokoro Racing Academy to refine both pace and skill. That groundwork, combined with growing confidence, positions him well heading into a demanding double-header format.
Friday’s full day of practice offers a crucial opportunity to dial in the setup and adapt to the demands of the OK-N machinery around the Vereeniging layout. Saturday’s action, forming round three, begins with qualifying before drivers tackle three race heats. At the same time, Sunday’s round four mirrors the same structure, placing a premium on consistency across multiple race starts and evolving track conditions.
For Haskins, the objective is clear: continue closing the gap at the top of the standings while gaining vital experience in his new class. With momentum on his side and a strong support structure behind him, the stage is set for another defining chapter in what is already shaping up to be an impressive rookie season.
“I’m really looking forward to the weekend. It’s a new challenge stepping into OK-N at Vereeniging, especially against drivers who know the track well. We’ve put in a lot of work with the team to prepare, and I’m feeling confident after the last round. The goal is to keep learning, stay consistent, and fight for strong results across both days,” said Chase.
Published by: Motorsport Fanatix
Picture Caption: Chase Haskins
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