Summary: SKUSA SuperNationals X Date: November 12, 2006 Location: Sam Boyd Stadium - Las Vegas, NV Guests: Tom Kutscher and Jim Baltutis With the tenth annual Superkarts! USA SuperNationals now behind us, discussions centered on the future of the predominantly shifter kart organization became a hot topic on Sunday night in Las Vegas. This year’s SuperNats was a massive success on all counts, from the race day organization and marketing to the on-track action and huge purse. In the aftermath of the event, the future looks very bright for the re-birth efforts of the program. The statement ‘We’re Back!’ was heard uttered by many a SKUSA crew member or supporter. EKN’s Rob Howden had a chance to sit down with SKUSA president Tom Kutscher and Marketing VP Jim Baltutis to touch on the history of their relationship, the success of the Pro Kart Challenge and the future plans for the organization. After purchasing the organization and its assets earlier this year, this duo led a solid team of experts in taking the reins of the SuperNationals, working diligently for over four months to put together the best event possible. While many programs were forced to be left in the planning stages due to time and manpower restraints, the overall delivery of the event returned the race to its former glory. Certainly an over-used phrase, even by the staff here at EKN, the elusive ‘buzz’ was certainly back in Las Vegas. The introduction of the SuperPro drivers to the grid on SuperSunday was electric and while the race did not turn into an epic battle, it was definitely action-packed. Kutscher and Baltutis will use the momentum gained by this year’s SuperNationals to build on their program, one that will use their successful Pro Kart Challenge as the franchise model. The duo enjoyed the interview and detailed many facets of their plans for the future. All said, next year’s SuperNationals promises to be the best ever, but the rebirth of the SKUSA regional program is likely a more newsworthy development.
