Mt Wellington Memorial Trophies

Snow Neilson Memorial Trophy:
Snow Neilson died in 1984, and has dedicated this prestigious trophy to the Mt Wellington Kart Club.
Each year at Club Champs the President of the club invites competitors to compete for this trophy.

Previous Mt Wellington Club Member Trophy Holders:
2009     Richard Moore
2008     Daniel Bray
2007     Paul Cameron
2005     Jason Lee
2001     Dale Lambert
2000     Snow Mooney
1997     John Kelly
1995     Lincoln Shaw
1994     Dale Lambert
1993     John Kelly
1992     John Kelly
1991     Shane Palenski
1990     Shane Palenski
1989     Shane Palenski
1988     I Bias
1987     S Hampton
1986     K Hyde
1985     I Bias

Vera Keesing (nee Volkner) 3-10-25. - 7-1-94.

In 1958, Vera (mother of 3 children) and husband Tom were searching through the “what’s on” section of the local newspaper, when an advert for go karting caught their attention. What is this thing called karting they asked themselves. Curiosity got the better of them and off they went to Westney Rd, Mangere to see what sort of machine a go-kart was. Lo and behold Vera’s bother Jack was one of the 6 or 7 karters competing at this event and during the day offered Vera a drive of his kart and so began Vera’s successful and outstanding career in karting. Vera primarily raced karts designed and built by brother Jack in the 250 cc and Open classes, in both the ladies and mixed sections all over the country. Nicknamed “Red” because she wore a red racing jacket, and driving the “Hep cat 36”

kart powered by a 250 twin Suzuki motorcycle engine, she proved to be a driver known for her even temper and outstanding skill. Vera won many trophies during her karting career, both for her abilities as a driver and her attitude to the sport she loved. Most notable amongst them were the Auckland Ladies 250 and Open Trophies and the North Island Ladies 250 and Open Trophies which she won on at least 4 consecutive occasions. Also on numerous occasions she was presented with the Sportsman of the Year along with Bernie’s Trophy and the Reddway Trophy. Unfortunately Vera had suffered from ill-health since her early teens and there came a time when driving a kart was beyond her abilities. But this was not the end of her involvement with the sport that she was so passionate about. She was given the job of running the pits at the then Mt Wellington Raceway and this she did with her normal efficient manner taking no nonsense from anyone and earning the respect of many. Then as now, the sport of karting was a truly family affair. Vera’s husband Tom was also totally involved in karting as announcer (for nearly 20 years) and handicapper. The children acted as runners between the tower and the pits. Vera loved the sport of karting in every sense of the word and devoted a large portion of her life to it. Vera was a highly respected member of the Club and was recognised as a true sportsperson. In recognition of this she was made a life member of the Mt Wellington Kart Club. She was a true ambassador for the sport. As a tribute to Vera’s contribution to both the sport of karting and to Mt Wellington Kart Club, the current generation of members in 2000 introduced the Vera Keesing Memorial Trophy for the Junior Yamaha class and this was first contested at the Mt Wellington Kart Club’s 40th Anniversary.

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