To create more excitement in their hometown, co-owners Collin Puckett and Christian Duarte opened Nitro Toad Racing in August just outside of Magnolia in Todd Mission.

Puckett said the two opened the go-kart racing track to give Magnolia residents more recreational options.

“There is not a whole lot to do in Magnolia, and so we were trying to think of ... an outdoor sport that is a lot of fun,” he said.

Puckett said there is nothing like Nitro Toad Racing in the Magnolia area; the closest go-kart racing track is about an hour away, closer to Houston.

Both owners graduated from high school recently and worked odd jobs before investing in the track. While relatives who have owned businesses have offered advice, Puckett said he and Duarte are first-time business owners.

Duarte (front) and Puckett average about 30 mph on their go-kart racing track.[/caption]

“[We opened Nitro Toad] with the support of family and friends,” Puckett said.

The young entrepreneurs met each other nine months before opening the business while Puckett was working at the local hardware store. Duarte said launching Nitro Toad Racing was two years in the making from its inception to opening.

“I’ve always wanted to own a business,” Duarte said.

Nitro Toad Racing offers go-kart races, which last for about six to eight minutes each, Puckett said. Each race includes about 30 to 35 laps on the 900-foot track, depending on speed.

Duarte said the partners have plans to expand within their 5.9 acres of road-front property. He and Puckett said they would like to increase the size of the racetrack and add bleachers and space for food trucks.

Guests under 18 years of age are not allowed within the fenced area around the track, Puckett said.

Puckett said the go-karts average about 30 mph on the existing track but are capable of going much faster.

Counting Karts[/caption]

“Once we [expand] the track, we’re planning to be able to top them out at 60-65 [mph],” Puckett said.

He said the business is working to cater to college students who want something to do on weekends or in the evenings. Nitro Toad Racing is located not far from several colleges and universities, including Lone Star College campuses and Texas A&M University.

Additionally, the racetrack is located across from the Texas Renaissance Festival entrance on FM 1774. Puckett said he and Duarte are looking forward to the added business the fall festival will bring.

“Every day we get more and more people,” Puckett said. “Everyone so far has loved it. They’re really surprised by the power of the go-karts and how tough this track really is.”

10978 Oak Forest Drive, Todd Mission
832-229-3233
Hours: noon to dark (Tue.-Sun.)