PHOENIX, AZ -
February 25, 2026
FZShifter.com is excited to announce the launch of the
2026 “Gold Rush”, a premier incentive prize package designed to reward and grow the Junior Shifter karting category. Featuring a total season-ending cash purse of
$10,000, the program looks to provide tangible financial support to the next top junior shifter competitor.
The Gold Rush is open to all FZ85 Junior drivers who register for the program. The $10,000 prize pool will be awarded to the top five points-earners at the conclusion of the 2026 season, distributed as follows:
- 1st Place: $5,000
- 2nd Place: $2,500
- 3rd Place: $1,250
- 4th Place: $750
- 5th Place: $500
Top-Level Events
The program will focus on local and regional events while mixing in key events such as America’s Trophy event in Tucson, AZ, as well as several SKUSA Pro Kart events. These top-level events provide competitors to explore different racing circuits, event control, and all while experiencing the cost-effectiveness of the FZ85 platform
Strategic Racing and Cost Reduction
In an effort to maximize seat time while respecting racer budgets, FZshifter.com has implemented a "Double Main Event" format for key dates at
Adams Motorsports Park (AMP) and
Santa Maria. These double-race days will run on a
single set of tires, significantly reducing the cost of entry for competitors.
To further incentivize participation, the second Main Event of these double-headers carries no additional entry fee. The grid for the second Main will be determined by the fastest laps set during the first Main, ensuring high-stakes competition from start to finish.
Support and Eligibility
FZshifter.com is committed to technical compliance, parity, and accessibility to competitors looking to compete in a competitive shifter platform.
FZ Shifter
technical support will be on-site at all scheduled events to assist competitors, alongside
incentivized lease engine kits to program members upon request to ensure a level playing field and immediate access.
The Gold Rush is about more than just the trophy; it’s about creating a real financial incentive while providing competitors a true mix of events across a season to keep their skillsets improving. By combining a significant cash purse with cost-saving measures like our single-tire double-headers, the program is making high-level shifter karting more sustainable and rewarding than ever before.
Schedule & Registration Details
Drivers must enter the Gold Rush prior to qualifying at an event to begin scoring points. A one-time $100 entry fee covers the entire season. Registration forms and the full 2026 schedule are available now:
Click Here
