The 2025 karting season kicked off atop the Blackdown Hills with Round 1 of the DKC IKR Winter Cup. It was a weekend that truly lived up to the unpredictability of British weather, offering two completely contrasting days.

Saturday: A Frosty but Promising Start

Saturday morning greeted us with a chilly frost blanketing Dunkeswell Raceway. Despite the cold, there was an undeniable sense of excitement as eager teams and drivers prepared for their first outing of the year. The bright winter sun gave us some respite from the chill, but it was still a day for layers—a sentiment shared by myself and fellow photographer Katy Chown, both of us bundled up against the crisp January air.

This was also my first opportunity to put my new Nikon Z6iii and monopod through their paces, and I spent the morning getting to grips with my latest gear. The conditions were perfect for photography, with the low sun casting a beautiful glow across the circuit, making for some stunning shots.

The drivers across all classes displayed great skill and determination, shaking off the off-season rust and embracing the challenges of the track. The atmosphere was upbeat, and the action on track was a joy to capture. It was a promising start to the weekend, and I left the circuit on Saturday feeling optimistic for the main event.

Sunday: Storm Herminia Strikes

As I woke on Sunday morning, it was immediately clear that the day would be vastly different. Storm Herminia had rolled in overnight, bringing with it howling winds and relentless rain. Dunkeswell Raceway, exposed to the elements, bore the full brunt of the storm.

Dressed in my winter wet-weather gear, I headed to the track, nearly blown off my feet by the gusts. By the time I reached my spot trackside, the wind was gusting fiercely, and horizontal rain lashed my face. The morning practice session began under what can only be described as atrocious conditions, with parts of the circuit resembling a lake due to the torrential rain.

I sought refuge behind a marshal post, doing my best to stay out of the wind while capturing as much of the action as possible. Despite the dreadful weather, the dedication of everyone involved was remarkable. The drivers, their teams, and even the brave parents and spectators persevered through the storm. Hats off to all of them for their resilience and determination.

Unfortunately, as conditions worsened, the decision was made to cancel the day’s races. It was undoubtedly the right call, prioritizing the health and safety of everyone involved. While the weekend ended prematurely, I’m grateful for the opportunity to capture images in such unique and challenging circumstances.

Gratitude and Looking Ahead

A huge thank you to everyone who made the weekend possible despite the difficulties—from the organizers and marshals to the drivers and their supporters. This was a weekend that showcased not just the talent on track but also the spirit and dedication of the karting community.Here’s to a successful 2025 season ahead! Hopefully, the weather will be kinder for the next round, but if not, we’ll be ready for whatever comes our way.

"Explore the gallery through the link below and dive into a collection of images that tell a story with every shot!"

https://www.paulmitchellphotographer.co.uk/2025-dunkeswell-raceway/january2025