The Samoa Raceway will open in a few months time and offer the public the chance to race on a 300-meter go-kart racetrack, says businessman Tupai Bruno Loyale.

It is the latest commercial venture of the local businessman and Samoa Fiafia Park owner.

Tupai said the racetrack is 300 meters long and is located behind the Samoa Fiafia Park Castle and will also feature a grandstand that would fit 450 people as well as a concession stand and a pit stop.

Currently, there are 18 go-karts of the Rimo Italian brand that were made in Germany are ready for the track, each race will allow 12 go- karts which are powered by LPG gas. 

He pointed out that the Samoa Raceway is much larger than the previous go-kart track they had which is around 50 meters.

"This is a different type of go-kart, these are the professional racing go-karts so its a whole different ball game, these are from Germany, the other ones were American made," Tupai told the Samoa Observer on Saturday.

He emphasised that safety is a priority and there are safety videos ready for the public, helmets, signs and age limit restrictions and no one is allowed to drive while intoxicated.

Tupai also emphasised that the go-karts are not bumper cars and you can get fined if done so.

"You have to actually watch the safety video, and then you will get a certificate," he said.

 Tupai said that if someone does not have a drivers license then they will have to practice on the small track and they will monitor the performance to make sure he or she understands how to operate a go-kart.

"If you don't have a Samoan drivers license or any kind of driver license then you will actually have to get a Fiafia Driver's License," he said.

"Its gonna be big fun, you can imagine coming here with your friends and racing."

Tupai added that he has statues coming in to decorate the racetrack and a huge signboard with the name "Samoa Raceway" to be erected at the entrance of the track.

According to the businessman, the racetrack will take at least another month to complete construction and they are aiming to have its opening coincide with the 60th Independence Anniversary in June.

Tupai stated that he will have staff trained in first aid to be ready in case an accident occurs. Each go-kart cost $12,000 each.

He also pointed that they have gone "green" as the go-karts run on LPG gas which is a more cleaner fuel.

Tupai acknowledged the assistance of Ah Liki Construction, Bluebird Lumber and Hardware, Apia Concrete Products, Sai Motors, and the Apia Lua Limited for their support in constructing the Samoa Raceway.