May the Best Mario Karter Win!

As spring approaches South of the Alps, the USO Vicenza center is buzzing with activities for all ages, including fun gaming tournaments. As service members and their families approached the doors Saturday afternoon, they could hear the faint sound of motors revving as the countdown clock beeps. Once the patrons enter, they realize that there is no actual motor running, it is just the start of the USO Vicenza’s first Mario Kart tournament. USO Vicenza broke in its newest gaming additions to the center, two Nintendo Switches, by holding a Mario Kart tournament for members of the military community. Racers played in heats of four, sitting in the front row to compete for the top two slots in a Grand Prix-style race to see who would move on to the next round.

While waiting their turn, the contestants were treated to an assortment of themed snacks like mushroom cap cupcakes, mystery box rice crispy treats, a power flower veggie tray, and princess peach tea. Two special guests made an appearance as excited volunteers dressed in themed costumes and entertained the patrons, livening up the event. As the races continued, the competition continued to grow more and more difficult. Soon, the last race of the day was up, and the drivers’ skills started to shine through, as any mistake they made could be the difference between winning and losing.

It was not only about crossing the finish line first but also about how many coins players collected that would add to their point total at the end of each race. In the end, points were tallied and the winners were announced. Fun was had by all who attended as the excitement and smiles could be seen on every face in the center, and new memories were created while being stationed overseas. With more competitions coming soon, it is time to dust off the Mario Kart skills and show the community who is the best Mario Kart driver in Vicenza!