Tender Belly Athlete Interview: Nolan Payne

Colorado native Nolan Payne, age 13 (yup, you read that right!), has taken the go-karting world by storm ever since he traded in his hockey skates for a competitive race kart four years ago. Payne has sped his way to the top of several outdoor IKF sanctioned podiums, and he is currently the Unser Racing Junior & Adult record holder. Tender Belly commends this speed demon on his fearlessness, as he cruises near 80 mph while pulling over 4G of lateral forces during races.

We asked Nolan some questions about his life as a competitive go-karting athlete, and he gives us the scoop below: 

When did you first get involved in your sport?

It all started after I finished my first drive in a professional race kart. I was hooked on the sport after that, so my dad helped me make a decision between go-karting and hockey. We soon sold off my hockey gear and started looking for a used kart and cheap gear for my new sport: karting.

What has been the most rewarding experience in your career?

The most rewarding thing that has happened while karting was gaining my first sponsor, Tender Belly. Having such a great company supporting me made me feel accomplished, and it helped lower the cost of the sport.

What has been your biggest accomplishment as an athlete?

Winning the Colorado Karting Tour LO206 expert season and finishing 2nd overall in North America in the Briggs Racing Series.

What is the best place you’ve visited because of your sport?

Hopefully someday I will travel to Brazil or some other country for the World Championships, but for now I just race in Colorado.