Connor Hart is tied for first in off-road racing

Ramona resident Connor Hart (No. 550) is making headlines in the world of off-road racing.

Hart, 15, won the 2009 championship Modified Kart class at the M4SX, Mickey Thompson, Kal-Guard lubricants series held at Perris Auto Speedway. In addition, he is tied for first-place points in the Lucas Oil Off Road Racing series, with the last race of the season scheduled in Primm, Nev., on Nov. 14 and 15.

Hart’s Pro Kart was built by Ramona resident Todd Arthur of HRT Motorsports. Arthur’s son Brandon Arthur also races and is doing well. He is in fifth place in his first year in the modified class.

The HRT Pro Kart has over 15 inches of wheel travel and is powered by a Honda 450cc engine built by another Ramona resident, Chris Hawk of Bench Mark Performance. The Karts reach speeds up to 80 mph and can handle rough terrain just like the big trucks.

Hart is sponsored by A2R (Addicted to riding) clothing, HRT Motorsports, Benchmark Performance, Kal-guard, ECC (Escondido cycle center) and Walker Evens Racing Shocks.

More information about the HRT Pro Kart is at hrtmotorsports.com.