[translated with Google]
The founder of Action Karting passed away on Friday, August 18, 2023.
He was a great karting enthusiast even before being an admirable professional: Gilbert Dannonay dedicated a large part of his life to the sport that he helped develop and promote, both nationally in his native France and internationally. Founding President of the Valence circuit in 1975, Gilbert continued to invest time and energy in the world of karting for another 43 years, accompanied by his wife Françoise. Distinguished by the generosity that characterises a pure supporter of the discipline as well as the spirit of initiative and enterprise that is typical of a successful entrepreneur, Dannonay has achieved international recognition for his achievements. Organising, together with his teams and his volunteer friends, two world championships, 18 European championships and more than 30 French championships, Gilbert has written several pages of karting history.
During these years, Dannonay has also coordinated a series of relevant events that have provided a significant contribution to the karting promotion activity in France, collaborating with various French federations and even with the international federation. Gilbert made his commitment to the world of karting even more concrete in 2001, founding, together with his son Julien, the Action Karting company. The French shop grew rapidly and established itself on the market as a key player in the distribution and development of the sport of karting. Thanks to his total dedication and his excellent competence, Dannonay has shaped a company that has transformed into an absolute protagonist of the sector and has left a precious legacy to the whole world of karting, both professionally and from a human point of view.
Gilbert Dannonay is remembered by TKART as a character who has always been distinguished and fair, qualities that are not taken for granted in today's world. Condolences from the editorial staff go out to Gilbert's family and all his loved ones.
© Photo: Action Karting's Facebook profile