South Dakota set for major upgrade as GT Challenge de las Américas comes to Guyana

The South Dakota Circuit is poised for a historic transformation following a comprehensive track inspection on Thursday, signalling a new era for motorsport in Guyana.
A delegation led by the Director of the GT Challenge de las Américas, Eduardo Aguilar, and the Caribbean franchise holder for the series, Franklyn Boodram, visited the facility to assess its readiness for international competition.
They were hosted by a team from the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC), led by its President, Mahendra Boodhoo. The inspection focused on bringing the circuit up to the stringent standards required to host the prestigious GT Challenge series.

A fast-track with potential
Following the assessment, Eduardo Aguilar expressed confidence in the circuit’s layout and potential. He noted that while the track already possesses the inherent capabilities to host high-tier racing, specific modifications are necessary to ensure the series runs smoothly.
“The track has the capabilities,” Aguilar stated. “It is fast, and with some minor improvements, we will be ready to get the series going here.”

Technical upgrades and safety
The planned upgrades are designed not only to meet safety regulations but also to enhance the racing product’s speed and competitiveness. Franklyn Boodram highlighted that the modernisation efforts would significantly increase average lap speeds.
Key infrastructure improvements identified during the inspection include the extension and rehabilitation of kerbs to allow for better cornering speeds and track limit definitions; the creation of an active pit lane, which will see competitors safely re-join the main straight of the circuit; and safety enhancements with updated barriers and runoff areas to protect drivers and spectators.
However, Boodhoo confirmed that the club is fully aligned with these recommendations and that the physical work on the ground has already commenced.
He emphasised that the motor racing body is committed to meeting every requirement to ensure the event’s success. Boodhoo outlined a vision for the South Dakota Circuit to become a hub for international motorsport tourism.
“This will be a major motorsport attraction,” Boodhoo said. “We expect fans from Latin America, the US, and the Caribbean to converge at South Dakota. Furthermore, race engineers from Europe will be travelling in to support the teams.”
To accommodate this influx of international visitors and VIPs, the GMR&SC plans to introduce premium hospitality stands to elevate the spectator experience to match that of global sporting events.

A new era for Guyanese motorsport
The collaboration between the GT Challenge de las Américas and the GMR&SC represents a pivotal shift in the local motorsport landscape. By adopting international standards, the organisers aim to produce a racing product that is both safe and thrilling.
As construction crews begin the rehabilitation of kerbs and the restructuring of the pit lane, the South Dakota Circuit is well on its way to securing its place on the international motorsport map, promising an exciting future for fans and racers alike.