Ref: chest protectors

[Kraig Perkins]

I just wanted to offer my opinion on our chest protectors currently being used for our youth racing. After I left the track this past Sunday, to be with the family. I spoke with the staff at Memorial hospital. They stated to me that had Nathan not been wearing this valuable piece of saftey gear. It could have been a fatal injury. Bad enough as it was to have bruised lungs and a concussion. He basically walked away unharmed. Just remember parents, when we ask that these kids be protected, as exspensive as it may seem, we just want the most protection we can get. Life has no price. Again thanks to Gary and staff for making this a safer sport. Kraig Perkins (South Bend Fire Dept.)

[Blake Brubaker]

Kraig,

Thanks for the input. I agree completely with your assesment. I have to admit, I was one of those that before the season started was skeptical about this issue and was not sure it was a necessary thing. I then got my own copy of the WKA Tech Manual and saw where they specifically stated that chest protection that met their specs was a requirement. Therefore, I bit the bullet and purchased one before the season started. I now am glad I did. I feel much better about Darren's safety when he is on the track. Parents of those kids that are under 12 years of age, please go ahead and spend the money for this protection. Your child's life and safety are worth much more than the money you will spend for this protection. Also, I may be wrong on this, but it was my understanding that a portion of the proceeds from the sale of the Ribtect chest protector went to the foundation of Caleb Maxwell, the boy that was killed from a chest injury when his kart flipped over on him. Here is a link from NKN's website explaining the issue: http://www.nkn.com/news.asp?item=140
Here is the link to Ribtect's webite also: http://ribtect.com/child/chest.shtml

Let's protect our children!

Thanks,

Blake

[danny haynes]

my son will be 13 next week and races jr. can. i don't think he is required by these rules to wear a rib protector but i require it. i purchased an armadillo vest before the first practices and he does not go on the track without it.
you can never be too safe.

[Jethro]

Sometimes it's too bad that we don't realize what is best until it is too late.
Our club lost a 12 year old racer over 10 years ago, would having a rib guard have saved him? We'll never be certain, but I'm sure it would have increased his chances. In Canada rib guards are manditory in all classes and all ages. Safety first.