Go-kart track opens in Frogtown

For high-speed, off-road go-karting fun Akwesasne residents can stay right at home now instead of driving to far off places like Alexandria Bay. Dave Back of Frogtown Road just opened up his own go-karting track with four brand new, top of the line go-karts to offer for rentals.

“This idea was born around 1968 or 1969,” Back said. “My father and I were sitting on our steps here and he said, ‘You know, that would make a great go-kart track.” He was speaking of a large field kiddy corner from their house that now has several houses on it.

However, forty-years later Back found a way to make the track a reality. Last year, he inherited a large piece of property just a little ways down from his house. At the corner of Frogtown Road and Solomon Road, Back has built a go-kart track.

Customers first go to Back’s house to rent the go-karts, then he hops on a four-wheeler and leads them to the track, which isn’t visible from the road. He shows them around and tells them the rules, points out the tracks beginning and end, and lets them have their fun.

The ¼ mile track is two small tracks tied together to make one large one. It’s a dirt track, so anytime it has rained it turns into a giant mud track that brings a whole new level of fun for customers. They return the dirt-covered go-karts while their own bodies and faces are covered with mud.

“That’s what kids like, to get all muddy,” Back said.

Because a mud track is easier (and possibly more fun) than a dry dirt track, Back is even considering keeping it wet at all times. The soft ground is also easier on the go-kart tires.

Back spent $4000 on the track alone, and he also ordered brand new go-karts from California. He has three 150 cc go-karts, and one 250 cc. The 250 cc is a faster toy, with a bigger engine and more power. To ride that one, customers need to be at least 16 years of age.

For the other three go-karts, however, Back said riders need only be able to reach the pedals in order to ride.

Back also has a waiver of liability that all riders must sign.

The cost of renting the go-karts is $30 for a full hour and $15 for half an hour.

“As far as I can tell, I’m way below what other people charge, comparatively,” Back said. “It might be cheaper in Alex Bay but they have lawnmower engines.”

Back said he’s going to try and keep the track open as far into winter as he can. He’s even considering building some sort of tunnel with a canopy so that the track can be made somewhat indoors down the road.

If there’s a big demand for go-kart riding, Back will order more go-karts as well.

The rentals and track are open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., but if Back is home at any other time, the track is open. He will also accept reservations for later hours on any day, just not past 9 p.m.

To reserve a go-kart ride call 518-358-4446.