STAGING LANES ANDRA OFFICE CHRISTMAS CLOSURE DATES
BE SCAM AWARE
ANDRA would like to remind its members to be scam aware following the discovery of a fake ANDRA website pretending to sell ANDRA merchandise.
While the website looks very similar to the actual ANDRA website, the contact phone number at the top is an international phone number which is not related to ANDRA, and it can only be assumed that purchasing through the site will see your monies siphoned elsewhere.
Please note: ANDRA is not currently running an online merchandise shop, so if you see any ANDRA merch for sale online, anywhere – do not click/call/contact, it is a scam.
This is an extremely convincing impersonation, other than the international number and the old office address, they have done a very good job of replicating details and look and feel, so please help us spread the word far and wide so no one is taken
The ANDRA office will be closed for the Christmas break from 12.30pm on Monday the 23rd of December 2024, reopening at 8.30am on Monday the 6th of January 2025.
All at ANDRA wish you a happy and safe holiday season. If you need anything during this period, please contact your local Division Director. For their details, please click here.
advantage of. ANDRA also encourages you to be on the look out for increasing scams on Facebook and other social media platforms – ANDRA will never send you a friend request or set up a personal profile for the association or any of our events, and always beware of comments and inbox messages sharing what appear to be ‘live stream’ links, as these are most often not legitimate.
Remember – if ever in doubt, please contact ANDRA directly on (08) 8271 5355 (main office) to be safe.
UPDATE FROM THE CEO
It has been a hectic couple of months for ANDRA drag racing, with a host of events already run for the 2024/25 season.
The options for competitors in South Australia and Victoria have been especially plentiful with Dragway at the Bend and Mildura’s Atlantic Oils Sunset Strip hosting some big events so far.
It has been great to see so many options available to competitors to head out on track, but at the same time, we must balance this with the question of how many events is too many? And how many events can competitors afford to attend each season?
This is the topic currently being discussed amongst the tracks and it certainly is a fine balancing act. We need to be providing good quality events and having a solid competitor base to support those events, but the reality is that budgets are limited and not everyone can afford to race every weekend. The downside of this reality is that nominations can be limited at some events and when numbers are low, that brings the very viability of events for venues into question.
South Australia has been without a regular major track for the best part of two decades and the welcome opening of Dragway at the Bend has seen regular competition return to SA, which of course is fantastic news. However on the other hand, it needs to be considered how this increase in quality events at Tailem Bend may affect other tracks in the region.
Are we looking at a situation where racers are now perhaps only travelling away from Adelaide to race once or twice a season, where previously they would have travelled five or six times a year? And if so, how is this change directly affecting the tracks that they previously would have been competing at.
The only way to really determine the right balance of events for tracks is to try them and see how much support they receive – and this is why we may see calendar changes over the coming time period, as
tracks look to adapt to the market and learn from running different events at different times.
In the meantime, we (ANDRA) need to be doing more to grow the competitor base and we need to be more active in providing a structure for a feeder pathway into competitive drag racing. As part of this, promoting drag racing to a new market is key, as we seek to encourage the general public to have some fun with their own street car, bike or scooter at street meets and hopefully spark a love for our great sport.
With this in mind, we shared a promotion space at the recent Adelaide Vailo 500 with the South Australian Drag Racing Association (SADRA) and the Drag Riders Association of South Australia (DRASA) and focused on attracting new competitors. I am happy to say this promotional event proved very successful and we were able to grow a database of new competitors who we are hoping to see on-track at ANDRA member tracks very soon.
Keeping in mind that there are two types of events – participation based events and showcase events which attract a significant crowd – and how we can support and utilise both to grow our sport is also something we are looking at. Showcase events are typically the National Open type events, with Top Fuel, Funny Car and other big attractions on offer – think events like the Spring Nationals, the Westernationals, and so on. Participation events meanwhile are everything else, predominantly based around Sportsman racing and Street events.
Traditionally the Showcase events have attracted large numbers of participants, in some cases 300 or 400 nominations. But a question we are currently considering is, do we need that level at all Showcase events if we are serious about providing an entertainment product?
After all – the attention span of the public seems to be getting shorter and shorter.
ANDRA Chief Executive Officer
Tim McAvaney
For instance, a three hour window for cricket is now the most popular format of the game, with Twenty/Twenty attracting good numbers.
Don’t get me wrong – I am not saying we need to re-invent the wheel here, but we do need to consider what is workable for an event and how that may look in the future. At the same time, participation events also need to be viable, and that means good numbers of competitors and reduced costs including prizemoney – but that topic is one for another day!
If you have feedback or questions you would like to share with us, please email info@andra.com.au
In the meantime, on behalf of everyone at ANDRA, I hope you have a happy and safe Christmas season and look forward to seeing you at a track soon.
Best wishes,
Tim McAvaney
ANDRA Chief Executive Officer
Photo thanks to BrightDesign.com.au
SUPPORT CONTINUES TO FLOW FOR ANDRA REGIONAL SPORTMSAN CHAMPIONSHIP
As the new ANDRA Regional Sportsman Championship bursts into life, the list of businesses and racers throwing their backing behind the series continues to grow.
Since the last issue of FASTLANE Magazine, published in late August 2024, the Australian National Drag Racing Association (ANDRA) has been pleased to welcome the following new partners:
• Langtree’s Machinery Services – sponsor of Junior Dragster
• Goodyear Racing – sponsor of Super Street
• Lectron Australia – sponsor of Competition Bike
• The Super Sedan Competitors group – sponsor of Super Sedan
• Top Sportsman Competitors group – sponsor of Top Sportsman
• The South Australian Drag Racers Association (SADRA) –sponsor of Super Gas
• Gallagher - sponsor of Modified
These great companies join previously announced series partners Huntsman Racing (Supercharged Outlaws); Ballistic Performance Parts (Modified Bike), and Jackie Watt Consultancy / Fardella and Watt Racing (Super Stock) in sponsoring brackets, as well as Top Qualifier Medallion sponsor, New Gen Business Park.
“To have such amazing companies and supporters behind our ANDRA Regional Sportsman Championship is something all at ANDRA are very excited about as we look to grow this series into something truly special,” ANDRA Chief Executive Officer, Tim McAvaney, said.
“We thank each and every one of these valued supporters for the faith they have placed in ANDRA and our series, and with their backing, we look forward to delivering the best possible racing experience for competitors, teams, spectators and sponsors alike.”
It has also been recently announced that the series will now benefit from the relaunching of the ANDRA Contingency Program, driven by ANDRA partner Goodyear Racing and Penske Racing Shocks, through Australian distributor NTT Racing.
To learn more about the Contingency program and how you can get involved, please see page 12 of this magazine.
If you are looking for business opportunities within the ANDRA Regional Sportsman Championship, please email info@andra.com.au
ANDRA CHAMPIONS DRAG RACING IN CANBERRA
ANDRA headed to Parliament House recently for the latest meeting of the Parliamentary Friends of Motorsport group, which provides a non-partisan forum for parliamentarians to meet and interact with the Australian Motorsport industry.
ANDRA, represented at this event by CEO Tim McAvaney, is a key member of the Parliamentary Friends of Motorsport group, as well as the Australian Motorsport Council. Minster for Sport, the Honourable Anika Wells, and Shadow Minister for Sport, the Honourable Anne Ruston, were in attendance to hear presentations from and meet with the members of the Parliamentary Friends of Motorsport Group.
To learn more, please click here
WHYALLA STEEL CITY DRAG CLUB TAKES OUT TOURISM HONOURS
On the 1st of November the Whyalla Steel City Drag Club was recognised at the Whyalla Business and Tourism Awards, taking out the award for Business Contribution to Tourism.
“To say we are proud is an understatement,” Whyalla Steel City Drag Club President, Archie Fabian, said.
“We were humbled to discover that we have been nominated multiple times, and to be recognised in this way is a real boost.
“To our Committee, thank you for all that you do – this is a team award and very much deserved.
“We are so lucky also to have amazing volunteers, and I am very thankful for all they do – this award is for them too, as without all of their efforts, we couldn’t do what we do. You are truly appreciated.
“To all of our entrants at our events and displays, thank you for your continued support of our club and its events.
“And to our sponsors, your unwavering and continued support allows us to make our events happen, thank you.
“To have this acknowledgement of our club and what we are trying to achieve for our racers and our community is just amazing.”
The Whyalla Steel City Drag Club has plenty of exciting events coming up, including a double header for its Club Championship in January (Round 3 on January 25 and Round 4 of January 26), a round of the ANDRA Regional Sportsman Championship on March 15/16,
and the Steel City Nationals on May 3/4.
To learn more about the club and to enter upcoming events, head to www.steelcitydrags.com
HAVE YOU GRABBED YOUR SPECIAL EDITION OF FASTLANE YET?
With plenty of history, amazing photos, and fantastic profiles on some of our sport’s biggest personalities, administrators and competitors over the 50 year journey, the 50th anniversary of ANDRA special edition of Fastlane
Magazine is a must-read.
ANDRA members can contact the ANDRA office to request a copy by emailing info@andra.com.au, or pick up a copy at selected race meetings.
ARE YOU LOOKING FOR
The ANDRA Member Benefits Program has been created to offer its loyal members the opportunity to receive discounts to products from supporting companies. By joining the program, your business and products will be promoted to a performance-based target audience. Participating businesses of the ANDRA Member
FREE TO JOIN! MEMBER BENEFITS?
Benefits Program receive promotion through ANDRA’s database of over 5000 members and race fans, as well as exposure through the ANDRA website and the regular MotorMail email newsletter. This is the perfect platform to launch new products, advertise monthly specials and any other sale promotions you may have.
If you would like more information on the program or want to complete your free registration, please visit www.andra.com.au/directory/andra-member-benefits-program
To view a listing of all ANDRA Member Benefits Program offers, please go to www.andra.com.au/directory/member-benefits-program-directory
As a valued ANDRA business partner, you can receive maximum exposure through the ANDRA Drag Racing brand and its events. Your company will be showcased whenever and wherever possible and there is a host of ways you can support ANDRA drag racing, including investment in the following:
For more information and to discuss opportunities, contact info@andra.com.au
WEBSITE RECOGNITION
MOTOR MAIL FEATURE –
MOTOR MAIL IS OUR MEMBERS ONLY NEWSLETTER, CONTACT US TO SEE AN EXAMPLE IF YOU DON’T HAVE AN ANDRA MEMBER LOGIN
FACEBOOK/TWITTER/INSTAGRAM RECOGNITION
ANDRA REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP BRACKET SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
ANDRA REGIONAL SPORTSMAN CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES SPONSORSHIP
Transit
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SCOOTING INTO
Scooter racing had a highly successful introduction to the Australian Drag Racing Scene at the Drag Bike Nationals, and ANDRA is ready to see this exciting new entry level option grow
Sixteen enthusiastic scooter racers were the pioneers at Dragway at The Bend’s ANDRA-sanctioned Drag Bike Nationals recently, ushering in an exciting new entry level option for Australian drag racing at the November 9 event.
What began as a tongue in cheek idea to add fun and some extra numbers to the all-bike themed event rapidly grew thanks to the enthusiasm of not only ANDRA and the venue, but also racers, their families, and newcomers to the sport alike.
Indeed, if entries had not been closed off, it is highly possible the field of 16 could have been even double in size.
And based on the feedback of those who took part, and those who watched and expressed their regret at not having entered themselves – scooter racing has a bright future as an exciting new way for established racers and newcomers alike to enjoy the sport of drag racing at ANDRA member tracks.
ANDRA Board Member, Central Australian Division Director, and Super Sedan NDRC West Conference Champion drag racer, Tony Miskelly, was part of all the fun after having played a key role in bringing competitive scooter racing to life.
Matt Walden (President of DRASA –the Drag Riders Association of South Australia – and a Central Australia Divisional Council Member) and I were chatting about the event and I said, why don’t you put a scooter class on?! Afterall, we have a lot of guys that race cars that probably wouldn’t go to an all bike event, but they have scooters and pit bikes and maybe we can create something here,” Miskelly said.
“That spurred further conversations with the venue, Matt devised the rules for the class including a Pro Tree start, and it rapidly ended up with a field of 16 entries, and we could have had plenty more in my opinion if entries hadn’t been closed due to schedule limitations.
“I enjoyed the hell out of it – it might not be an 8.5 second quarter-mile car, but once you hit the startline, the racing is serious. Yes it is really fun, but there is also a serious aspect as well.
“I might have gone out in the second round, but it was fantastic and if they put it back on again in the future, I will be out there for sure.
“I would really like to see Dragway at The Bend and other ANDRA member tracks running scooter drags at other events, and especially at all-bike themed events – I think it certainly brings a new dynamic, and it opens up the opportunity for people who might not have ever turned their hands to racing to get out on track.
“We had wives and girlfriends and sons and daughters and friends of racers coming out of
INTO THE FUTURE
the pits and onto the track for the very first time after years of being
“You might not have a high performance vehicle, but you don’t need one to get out there and try your hand at scooter racing.
“Yes it is a novelty at this stage, but I think there is something more to come for scooter racing and I am excited to see what comes next – after all, on debut, we had
the second biggest field of the event, and the reviews from the racers and those watching were overwhelmingly positive.”
One of those first time racers was KylieJo Raschella – wife of Anthony Raschella, mother of Junior Drag Bike racer Lawrence Raschella, and the runnerup against experienced bike competitor, Greg Oberti (pictured on the cover of this magazine).
“We have had a scooter in our shed for more than 16 years and I had never seen it running – once we heard about the scooter class, we decided to get it going with the help of Marius from DRASA I ran it up and down the driveway for a bit and decided to give it a shot,” Raschella said.
“It was so much fun – most of the people were out there for the first time, and there were a few more established racers as well, and together we all had a ball, beeping our horns in the lanes and getting out there and racing down the track.
“I was a bit nervous, and I had Anthony and Lawrence trying to coach me, but I told them to just let me have a go and see how it goes. My first reaction time was 1.3 seconds, so I was slow! But it was very exciting, and then we went all the way to the final!
“That was certainly unexpected – we have been joking that everyone else must have been scared of my pretty scooter, I had the prettiest, and oldest, scooter by far!” she laughed. “They all broke out, and then when I was in the final, it was my turn to break out!
“It felt amazing to be the runner-up, I had never been down the track before –I am at a track basically every weekend between Anthony and Lawrence racing, whether we are at The Bend or Mildura or heading elsewhere like Perth, but I have never raced myself and it was really, really cool to finally get out there.
“I totally love the scooter idea and I think it has opened up an opportunity for people
Photos thanks to Snapshot Media / Ben Alexander
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to get involved – I bought a race car once but the engine took too long and then I didn’t like the feel of it as it was a smaller car compared to what I was used to, so we ended up selling it and racing just wasn’t on my list anymore, so without this opportunity, I never would have got out there.
“I would love to see it grow and become a regular thing, and maybe we should add in a golf buggy challenge too, there are plenty of those around in the pits!” she grinned.
Sarah Tanti was another first time racer, with the wife of Competition Bike racer Shaun White and mother of Junior Drag Bike rider Emma Shattell finding the scooter class especially meaningful.
“It was absolutely awesome! I think we need to make a proper competitive bracket out of it. I cannot stop spruiking it!” Tanti said.
“I do not recognise myself as having a disability, but I have a fused leg and so I cannot physically ride a motorbike, and we are a bike family, so to be able to actually get out on track and experience what they experience was just really amazing.
“I come along and I crew and I am at the track all the time, but to actually be involved in the racing and experience the whole other side of it was epic and has opened a completely new dynamic to me – it is something I wouldn’t have been able to do otherwise.
“To experience the rush they do was great and I need to keep on doing this – I have already bought a brand new Repsol
Racing Edition scooter and I am so damn excited about it; I will be there with bells on at the next opportunity!
“I am 100 percent behind this continuing, and so many people said to me they wish they had taken part, so between that and the absolute fun that was had by all of us who did participate, I think it can grow for sure and provide a great new entry level way for people to get out on track and have fun and get involved in drag racing.”
From the first timers to experienced racers like winner Oberti, the scooter class had something for everyone.
“I only made it to the semi-final in Modified Bike at the event but I got the win in the Scooter class!” laughed Oberti.
“It was heaps of fun and everyone was having a blast not only on the track, but also in the staging lanes.
Kylie-Jo Raschella
Photo credit Snapshot Media/Ben Alexander
“I would love to see it come back at future all-bike events, and maybe even as an entry level option at regional events as well.
“It is great to have a way for new people to get involved - runner-up Kylie-Jo had only ever ridden a scooter for the very first time in her driveway just before the event and ended up making it to the final!”
From the venue’s perspective, the concept was also a great success, said Dragway at The Bend Chief Executive Officer, Alistair MacDonald.
“Drag Racing is a very serious sport and the passion from those involved is what drives it, so to have some fun and even label this quirky addition the ‘World Championship of Scooter Racing’ across our socials says it all,” MacDonald said.
“We’ve been on a drive in recent months to find out what competitors’ views are towards increasing participation in the sport. This concept is something that is aimed at being fun but could also be an avenue to help people get a foot in the door from a competitor standpoint.
“In the last month, we’ve held Lawn Mower Racing, a Rodeo and now Scooter Racing within the Dragway at The Bend precinct which shows our team is determined to provide spectators and competitors with a unique and entertaining experience. No idea is a bad idea!
“To see what was just an idea from the team a few weeks ago come to fruition with a full field of 16 entrants at the Drag Bike Nationals Presented by HarleyDavidson gives us lots to be excited about with the Scooter concept moving forward.”
ANDRA Chief Executive Officer, Tim McAvaney, said ANDRA is excited about the possibilities for scooter racing.
“We were so pleased to see the success of the scooter racing at the Drag Bike Nationals – this is all a bit of fun and nothing too serious, but at the same time, it provides an opportunity for new people to get involved in our sport at a really cost-effective price,” McAvaney said.
“At ANDRA we are very passionate about increasing entry level opportunities for Australian drag racing, and I think
scooter racing could play an important role in this.
“Participants can get used to the sport, get used to drag racing procedures, and have a lot of fun in a low pressure environment, all with a very accessible vehicle and licence level (scooter racing is covered under the entry level Super Street licence and can also be participated in using a Divisional Day Licence).
“It is Dial Your Own, so it doesn’t matter how fast or slow your scooter is, you can just get out there and have a go.
“And this is true not only for those who are completely new to our sport, but also for those who have had long involvements but not actually been able to get out on track – there are lots of teams with scooters and pit bikes, and we want to see them out there being raced
and putting smiles on the faces of new competitors.
“Why wouldn’t we want to give people the chance to get a taste of what our amazing sport is all about and you never know, maybe they go on to graduate from scooter racing to buying a competitive bike or a car or whatever it may be.
“ANDRA is definitely keen to see this grow, and that is why we were out at the Adelaide 500 recently promoting entry level bike, car AND scooter racing, and we are ready to support any of our ANDRA member tracks that want to run scooter racing.”
If you want to learn more about ANDRA scooter racing, contact your local Division Director (click here) or email info@andra.com.au
Tony Miskelly
Sarah Tanti
ANDRA RELAUNCHES CONTINGENCY PROGRAM
The Australian National Drag Racing Association (ANDRA) is pleased to announce the re-launch of the ANDRA Contingency program, as part of the 2024/2025 ANDRA Regional Sportsman Championship.
ANDRA partner Goodyear Racing and Penske Racing Shocks, through Australian distributor NTT Racing, has been a key driver in helping to reestablish the previously very successful contingency program, which provides an important avenue for ANDRA to further professionalism and sponsor engagement for the ANDRA Regional Sportsman Championship while providing further benefits for ANDRA members. NTT Racing Principal Bill McKenna was enthusiastic to build on his already existing relationship with ANDRA which sees Goodyear Racing sponsor the Super Street bracket within the ANDRA Regional Sportsman Championship.
“Goodyear has been supplying racing slicks direct from the factory to racers in Australia, through NTT Racing, for more than four decades and are a longstanding and proud sponsor of ANDRA drag racing,” McKenna said.
“We were so pleased with the reaction to our support of the Super Street bracket and are now very excited to extend our support of ANDRA members even further by participating in the re-launch of the ANDRA Contingency Program.”
The re-launched ANDRA Contingency Program will provide cash or product bonuses for participants in the ANDRA Regional Sportsman Championship across the 2024/2025 and future seasons.
Bonuses will be paid to successful racers after each round of the Championship, where they reach the finals of their brackets, and meet the conditions of the program, which include use of the sponsor’s product or service where required, and display of the sponsor’s decal. ANDRA Contingency sponsors
receive direct exposure to the sizeable market inside ANDRA Drag Racing through promotional material circulated by ANDRA and contingency program information posted on the ANDRA website including business logos and website links.
On-track, sponsors will be front and centre for ANDRA members and drag racing fans at each event through vehicle signage, as well as television, online and print media coverage of ANDRA Drag Racing. Contingency participants are also listed as Championship Partners on all ANDRA Regional Sportsman Championship communications, on the ANDRA website, and in Fastlane Magazine. Each racer claiming an ANDRA Contingency bonus is also required to sign an Advertising Release, permitting the Sponsor to refer to use of their product or service in their own advertising; and ANDRA will also provide a Certificate of Participation for each product or service which is suitable for display at the sponsor’s place of business.
ANDRA Chief Executive Officer, Tim McAvaney, said he was excited to reestablish the program and thanked Goodyear Racing, Penske Racing Shocks and NTT Racing for their support.
“ANDRA members have told us how much they value the Contingency Program and with the support of Goodyear Racing, Penske, and their Australian distributor, NTT Racing, we are very pleased to be able to relaunch this concept as part of the 2024/2025 ANDRA Regional Sportsman Championship,” McAvaney said.
“Motorsport and ANDRA Drag Racing in particular is a particularly demanding test bed and a great way to promote products and services to a dedicated and passionate member base.
“The program is not limited to those who offer equipment or services used directly at the race track either – for example, our series encourages racers
to contest interstate events, so travel, accommodation and transport offerings would also find benefits from participating.
“Contingency information will be circulated to ANDRA licence holders and history tells us this information becomes a go-to reference for ANDRA members when it comes to choosing suppliers of products and services.
“We have a great opportunity to build a wide ranging Contingency Program for the benefit of members and suppliers alike. I strongly encourage any businesses interested in learning more about how they can increase their brand and product awareness through this program or other ANDRA business development opportunities to get in touch to discuss the possibilities.”
Participating suppliers must provide a bonus for at least two ANDRA Regional Sportsman Championship brackets per round, with vouchers or cash for $100 (winner) and $50 (runner up). Competitors must have displayed the contingency decals on their vehicle and have proof of receipt of having purchased the product from the supplier.
If you are a business seeking more information about the ANDRA Contingency Program, please email info@andra.com.au All competitors are encouraged to invite suppliers and sponsors to join the Program by directing them to contact ANDRA on info@andra.com.au or 08 8271 5355.
STEVE NORMAN CELEBRATED AS JOHN STORM MEMORIAL WINNER
The Australian National Drag Racing Association (ANDRA) is pleased to announce that Steve Norman has been awarded the coveted John Storm Memorial Trophy for the 2023/2024 season.
The John Storm Memorial Trophy is the most prestigious award available to Australian sportsman drag racers and was commissioned in memory of Mr John Storm, the first National Director of ANDRA. The perpetual trophy is housed in the ANDRA Head Office, with a smaller replica being presented to the winner each season.
“The John Storm Memorial Trophy is certainly a special award,” Norman said.
“It is something we never ever thought we would be able to achieve, but we did do lots and lots of miles and spent lots and lots of dollars, so it is very worthwhile and rewarding to pick it up.
“This has been not only a really successful season for us with seven victories, but also probably the biggest season we have had as far as trips away.
“We did two trips West where we normally only do one, we headed to Portland a couple of times and Mildura, and there
were a number of events at Dragway at The Bend as well.
“The Bend is certainly a favourite track for us, not least of all because it is close to home,” he laughed.
“It was a good season, and the biggest thing for us was that we had no breakages or engine failures all season long – which certainly makes life a bit easier!
“I have to give Reg and Ryan kudos for that – they are both geniuses when it comes to that side of things and I am just the lucky one that gets to drive it. I should also thank Peter Ridgeway for his support as well.
“We are looking forward now to continuing our racing in the ANDRA Regional Sportsman Championship including at Portland’s South Coast Nationals in December, and then we will take it from there.”
ANDRA Chief Executive Officer, Tim McAvaney, said Norman was an exceptionally well-deserving winner.
“The John Storm Memorial Trophy is something very special indeed for all involved in ANDRA Drag Racing,” McAvaney said.
“A passionate, dedicated and fierce racer, Norman and his family and crew have put in a fantastic effort all season long at tracks all around the country – there is no two ways about it, Steve’s support of the racing with travelling to so many rounds across the season was exceptional.
“I am so pleased to be able to announce Steve as the very well-deserving winner of the John Storm Memorial for the 2023/2024 season.”
For the 2023/2024 season, the Trophy was bestowed upon the competitor in Group Two, Three and/or Four who scored the highest cumulative points when all of the Summit Racing Equipment Sportsman Series rounds and all of the NDRC Sportsman Rounds held at ANDRAsanctioned tracks (up to and including the Sportsman Grand Final held at Dragway at The Bend in October) were taken into consideration.
For the 2024/2025 season, it will be awarded to the highest cumulative points getter in Group Two, Three and/or Four in the ANDRA Regional Sportsman Championship.
For a full listing of John Storm Memorial winners, please click here.
Photo credit Automotive Event Images
CHAMPIONSHIP POINTS LEADERS
NAME: SAVANNA CONDELLO
AGE: 14
HOMETOWN: ALBION PARK RAIL, NSW
GRADE AT SCHOOL: YEAR 8
STARTED RACING: NOVEMBER 2022
PERSONAL BESTS: 7.714 AT 86MPH
SPONSORS: FINELINE MOTORSPORTS
FAVOURITE RACE VEHICLE: MONIQUE AMBRUOSI’S MODIFIED DRAGSTER
FAVOURITE TV SHOW: F1 GP
FAVOURITE FOOD: PASTA
FAVOURITE ANDRA TRACK: DRAGWAY AT THE BEND
SAVANNA CONDELLO JUNIOR DRAGSTER
How did you get into racing and what do you consider as your racing highlights so far? I got into racing by watching my grandfather race when I was little and crewing for my brother (Zayne Condello) before I started myself. My racing highlights would definitely be coming second in the NDRC Eastern Conference and running my personal best recently at Mildura’s Sunset Nationals.
PROFILE
You were the runner-up at the Sunset Nationals in September as part of the ANDRA Regional Sportsman Championship – how was that event for you and in particular, the final?
The Sunset Nationals was a good time, especially with going rounds and getting my car very consistent. I was very happy with my outcome and I’m glad that the person I got out to was my brother. It was a tough final as always with Zayne, but a lot of fun.
How do you find racing alongside your brother Zayne, and how do you like racing together as a family?
I love racing with my brother especially because he gives me tips on how to do better and I love racing together as a family and travelling, while making new friends along the way.
What do you love about Junior Dragster Racing?
I love that the second my car turns on, I feel relaxed!
What future goals do you hold for yourself in your racing, and also away from the track?
My future goal in racing is to get a Modified dragster and travel, and my future goal away from racing is to either be a psychologist or an engineer.
Is there anyone you would like to thank for being part of your drag racing journey?
I would like to thank my sponsor FineLine Motorsports, my family for supporting my career and letting my brother and I travel, and my brother and my grandfather for teaching me everything I know about drag racing today.
NAME: DERRYN MCGREGOR
AGE: 42
BASED IN: MILDURA
OCCUPATION: TRANSPORT OPERATOR
STARTED RACING: EARLY 2000S
CLASSES COMPETED: STREET CAR AND MODIFIED BIKE
BEST ET AND SPEED: LOW 6.50S 1/8 MILE 113MPH; LOW 10.30S 1/4 MILE 128MPH
MAJOR SPONSORS: MY WIFE JUDY AND CAE PERFORMANCE
FAVOURITE SHOW: OUTBACK TRUCKERS
FAVOURITE FOOD: CHICKEN PARMI
FAVOURITE RACETRACK: I LIKE BOTH MILDURA & PORTLAND, THEY HAVE GREAT FACILITIES
DERRYN MCGREGOR MODIFIED BIKE
How did you get into drag racing?
At the time I was living in SA, I was visiting Mildura and decided to give it a crack.
What is it you love about racing in Modified Bike?
You can go and buy a street bike with no modifications and run low 10s over the 1/4 mile at low cost and with little maintenance, which also allows me to run two junior dragsters while competing myself. I get on well with all the other bike guys/girls and they are very helpful and accommodating when I am also running the two boys in the junior dragsters.
You took out the win at the Sunset Nationals – how was that event for you and what did it meant to you to get that victory?
It was a fantastic event, the bike ran very consistently, and I also had a bit of luck with a win on a double breakout. It was my very first ANDRA Christmas Tree after trying to obtain one for over 13 years.
What is your home track and what do you love it?
Mildura (Atlantic Oils Sunset Strip) – it is just around the corner and a great track with great facilities. The events are always run well, and the track staff and volunteers do a fantastic job
What has been the highlight of your ANDRA drag racing career so far and why?
Definitely winning my first ANDRA Christmas tree and all the new friends I have made.
What are your upcoming racing plans: Portland’s South Coast Nationals will be my next championship meeting, as we look to chase the 2024/2025 ANDRA championship.
Is there anyone who you would like to shine the spotlight on for their involvement in your racing?
I want to thank my family – our racing is a family affair and I love that we can race together.
ANDRA BOARD WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS
Following the AGM held at The Bend Motorsport Park on Thursday October 17, the Australian National Drag Racing Association (ANDRA) is pleased to officially welcome David Thornton and Wayne Downes to the ANDRA Board.
Thornton and Downes join ANDRA Chair Katie Cassar, Murray O’Connor (WA DD), and Tony Miskelly (CA DD) alongside independent seat holders Danya Borkowski and Patricia (Trish) Crossin AM in making up the seven-seat ANDRA Board.
Sunraysia Drag Racing Association President, David Thornton, was appointed to a one-year term as one of two track promoter representatives.
The 56-year-old Systems Programmer from Mildura has been around ANDRA drag racing for many decades, first as a spectator, then as a crew member –including for a Top Fuel team – and racer, building his first race car 20 years ago.
He has also been a member of SDRA for nearly 25 years, holding various positions across his tenure. Away from the track, Thornton first qualified as an electrician before going on to study engineering and moving into Automation System Controls. He has worked in that field for 30 years, including being self-employed for the last five.
“I think my business, club and racing experience together enables me to see things from all sides and work to achieve good outcomes for all,” Thornton said.
“I am pleased to be joining the ANDRA Board as a track representative – I believe it is very important for the tracks to have representation at Board level and I hope to provide another viewpoint to ensure fair and balanced decisions are made for the good of all ANDRA members.
“Working on the Board will definitely be a new challenge, and I look forward to meeting the other members and getting stuck into it. As a track representative, I hope to help improve areas which can prove a challenge to putting on race events, and make sure the rule book is kept up to date to prevent any ambiguity.”
Queensland ANDRA Divisional Director, Wayne Downes, was elected to one of the three DD-held seats on the Board on a three year term, replacing NSW DD, Aaron Brookes who joined the Board in June in the casual vacancy left by Nathan Peirano. Downes started as an ANDRA Steward in 1999 after some years crewing on a Super Stock car, before joining what was then known as the South Queensland Divisional Council in 2001.
Over the decades since, Downes has served as Division Director, as an ANDRA Board Member, Chief and National Steward, and a member of the National Rules Committee. The 58 year old from Rosewood in Queensland also owns a Competition Eliminator dragster, and after most recently working as a Fleet Condition Officer for local government, recently took up a role with Volvo Group Australia as their Campaign and Customer Service Coordinator.
“I am excited to be elected to the ANDRA Board. ANDRA has been through several challenging years but has continued to move forward and I am looking forward to the future and what ANDRA can bring to its members,” Downes said.
“With the challenges that ANDRA and drag racing in general has faced over the last several years I think we need to look at becoming more open to changes that are happening – it is no secret that we have strong competition out there and while we need to stand by our ethics and history, we also need to embrace change in the sport.
“I also feel that we need to actively work to help our junior competitors in the sport by establishing clear pathways for them to follow.
“I believe that my experiences working with internal and external customers and stakeholders will bring value to the Board and to ANDRA and I look forward to what lays ahead.”
Also at the AGM, ANDRA Chair Katie Cassar, who previously held a casual vacancy seat on the Board, was formally appointed as the second track promoter representative, for a two year term.
“I would like to officially welcome David and Wayne to the ANDRA Board,” Cassar said.
“There is no doubt they come to the ANDRA Board with a wealth of valuable experience and knowledge, and I look forward to working with them as the ANDRA Board continues to do its utmost to best serve ANDRA members well into the future.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank departing Board member Aaron Brookes for his service to the Board and look forward to continuing to work with him in his role as NSW Division Director.”
To learn more about the ANDRA Board Members, go to www.andra.com.au/about-us/andraboard/
Wayne Downes
Dave Thornton
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STREET MACHINE DRAG CHALLENGE LIGHTS UP IN MILDURA
The Sunraysia Drag Racing Association’s Atlantic Oils Sunset Strip hosted day two of the 2024 Street Machine Drag Challenge tour on October 31, with the Mildura eighth-mile providing a perfect venue for plenty of exciting performances across a huge day and night of action.
“We’ve visited Mildura many times for Street Machine Drag Challenge events, I think nine times in total without checking the history books,” Street Machine’s Simon Telford said.
“The SDRA volunteers always look after us and put 100 percent into the track prep and clean-up work when necessary.
“We were blessed with great weather this year, but in previous years the track staff have worked overtime to combat the effects of less-than-perfect weather.
“We had some smoking fast times too;
Adam Rogash ran a 4.782 at 158mph in his Ford Capri, Keith Hards a 4.860 at 153mph in his XW Ford Fairmont (earning him his blue cap and entry into the DC Four Second Club) and Luke Foley ran a 4.974 at 146mph in his VH Commodore.
“Those guys finished 1, 2 and 3 overall and running well at Atlantic Oils Sunset Strip was critical for all of them to achieve those results.
“We love running in Mildura and we’ll be back. We just need to remember not to carry any fruit over the border to South Australia! One of our staff had a lovely box of mangoes and received a stiff fine and a talking-to!” Telford laughed.
SDRA President, David Thornton, was pleased to host the prestigious event.
“It was great to have the Street Machine Drag Challenge back at the Atlantic Oils
Sunset Strip this year,” Thornton said. “There is so much going on at, and between the tracks, you can’t help but be impressed with the effort put in by the racers.
“With outstanding runs across the day in all classes, it set the stage for the rest of the week.”
For more information and full results, visit www.streetmachine.com.au
Upcoming race dates at the Atlantic Oils Sunset Strip include the Davison Ford Summer Street Series (January 31, February 28 and March 28), the Twilight Nationals (ANDRA Regional Sportsman Championship event – February 1415), the Ken Scroop Memorial (March 8-9), Atlantic Oils Easter Supercharged Shootout (April 18-19) and the Riverland Nationals (May 31). To learn more, visit www.sunsetstrip.org.au
Photos thanks to BrightDesign.com.au and Street Machine
SOUTH COAST RACEWAY OPENS
ITS 24/25 SEASON
The first outing for the South Coast Raceway 2024/2025 season was marked with South Coast Mayhem on November 2. The Portland facility hosted the event in perfect weather, with both drag racing and burnouts thoroughly entertaining racers and spectators alike.
(Street Car). On the burnout pad, it was Kris Winterfield (V8 class) and Dylan Cutterbuck (6cyl class) who took home the chocolates from runners-up Cody Dixon (V8) and Dan Olsen (6cyl).
Taking out the drag racing victories were Mick Rouhan (Comp Car) and Dean Cleary (Street Car), over runners-up Dave Bunnik (Comp Car) and Chris Rouhan
Also celebrated at the end of day presentations was Kenny Stewart, taking out the $250 Best Package During Eliminations Award sponsored by Paul Rogers Performance Transmissions.
“South Coast Mayhem was a great little event and the perfect way to kick off our drag racing season,” South Coast Raceway Secretary, Scott Cleary, said.
Upcoming race dates at South Coast Raceway include the South Coast Nationals (December 7-8), Door Car Wars (11 January), Supercharged Shootout (1 February), and the Street Car Challenge (15 March). For full information, visit www.southcoastraceway.com.au
A GREAT TIME HAD BY ALL AT GUNNEDAH
The Tamworth Drag Racing Association hosted its final event of the year on November 2-3, with an enthusiastic field of racers and spectators soaking in all the action at Gunnedah Aerodrome.
“It was certainly warm enough and with six passes on Saturday and another three on Sunday, before elimination rounds, there was plenty of track time,” TDRA President, Bill Ausling, said.
“To our club members, volunteers, racers and crew members that helped, we say a big thank you, it can’t happen without you all.”
The Motor Bikes class delivered the closest final of the day with just 0.025
seconds difference at the finish line –Frank Rizzeri travelled all the way from Kayena in Tasmania to take the win on his 1988 Spada Honda from birthday boy Shaun Close of Muswellbrook riding the YZF Yamaha. In Group C, Kevin Chard from Inverell with his ’96 Commodore Ute did well to make the final after issues earlier in the day, but Jerome Kelly from Lalor Park in Sydney made the trip in his Ford Focus worth the while winning the race with a 9.424 on his 9.40 dial-in.
In Group B, two Tamworthians and two Scotts lined up for the Group B final, with the win going to Scott Good in his Falcon Ute after Scott Ham couldn’t quite get
the WRX Subaru to run close enough to his dial-in. In Group A, Stewart Tinson from Broadmeadow was just too keen in his 200SX Nissan with a -0.022 red light landing Brian Kelly from Narrabri the win in his 2009 SS Commodore. Also taking out awards were Scott Good (Best Reaction: 0.007) and Scott Ham (Closest to Dial-In, 8.600 on an 8.600 dial-in).
The next event for the TDRA will take place at Gunnedah’s Week of Speed Festival on March 15-16.
To learn more, click here to go to the club’s Facebook page.
Photo thanks to Michael Walker
Photo thanks to Peter Chaffey Photography
AS WINNERS TAKE HOME ANDRA CHRISTMAS TREES IN MILDURA
Round two of the 2024/2025 ANDRA Regional Sportsman Championship, the Sunset Nationals, was run and won on September 21-22.
It was celebrations all around at Mildura’s Atlantic Oils Sunset Strip after a full contingent of sportsman racers battled it out to see who would take home ANDRA Christmas Trees and valuable ANDRA championship points.
Rounding out the weekend with a win in their respective brackets were Michael Jennings (Goodyear Racing Super Street), Zayne Condello (Langtree’s Machinery Services Junior Dragster), Derryn McGregor (Ballistic Performance Parts Modified Bike), Ned Karanovic (Super Sedan Competitors Super Sedan), Glenn Henley (Top Sportsman Competitors Top Sportsman), Shane Baxter (Huntsman Racing Supercharged Outlaws), Rob Cassar (Lectron Australia Competition Bike), Steve Norman (Jackie Watt Consultancy / Fardella and Watt Racing SuperComp), Cory Dyson (Modified), and Graeme Spencer (SADRA Super Gas).
In Langtree’s Machinery Services Junior Dragster, it was brother versus sister when New Gen Business Park Top Qualifier and event winner Zayne Condello lined up against his sister, runner-up Savanna Condello, in the final.
Over the four elimination rounds to get to the finals, Zayne won over Lily Horton (round one), Todd Wagner (round three), and Ava Walker (round four), with a bye in round two. On her way to the final round, Savanna meanwhile took wins over last year’s event winner Cooper Plummer (round one), Charlize Grivell (round two), and Tyler Jarvis (round three), before a semi-final bye. This wasn’t the first time the pair had faced off in the final, but
Celebrations were also had for the event runners-up in each bracket: Neil Mellett (Goodyear Racing Super Street), Savanna Condello (Langtree’s Machinery Services Junior Dragster), Greg Oberti (Ballistic Performance Parts Modified Bike), Joe Bresciano (Super Sedan Competitors Super Sedan), Leon Davies (Top Sportsman Competitors Top Sportsman), Tim Stewart (Huntsman Racing Supercharged Outlaws), Cheryl Beddoes (Lectron Australia Competition Bike), Pat Firriolo (Jackie Watt Consultancy / Fardella and Watt Racing SuperComp), Rocco Romano (Modified), and Colin Griffin (SADRA Super Gas).
and 160.51mph. Cassar couldn’t have been happier with a maiden Competition Bike win in Mildura, along with his first ANDRA Christmas Tree at the venue.
In Goodyear Racing Super Street, Michael Jennings took the win over runnerup Neil Mellett in the final round of elimination racing for the event. To get to the final, Jennings took wins in his Chevy Nova over New Gen Business Park Top Qualifier Malcolm Todd (round one) and Tony Antonino (round two) before a bye in round three and a semi-final win over Kevin Dark. Meanwhile, Mellett took wins over Andrea Stefanopoulos (round one), Paul Jennings (round two), and lastround runner-up Katrina Read (round three) before enjoying a semi-final bye.
In Ballistic Performance Parts Modified Bike, Derryn McGregor emerged victorious over runner-up Greg Oberti. In rounds one and two, McGregor took wins over Cheryl Beddoes and Johnny Ireland
before enjoying a bye in round three. On his way to the runner-up spot, Oberti had lined up for the win over Lucas Neagoe in round one and enjoyed a bye in round two before a win over New Gen Business Park Top Qualifier Dean Jamieson in round three.
In Super Sedan Competitors Super Sedan, Ned Karanovic took the win over runner-up Joe Bresciano. Before lining up against Bresciano in the final, Karanovic took wins over Robert Kardum (round one), Alex Gkroidis (round two), Gary Vogelsang (round three) and a semi final win over Desert Nationals winner Tony Miskelly. Bresciano meanwhile took wins over Dimos Stefanopoulos in round one, New Gen Business Park Top Qualifier Tony Tedesco in round two, and Brian Keane in round three before enjoying a semi-final bye.
In Huntsman Racing Supercharged Outlaws, Shane Baxter claimed his first win of the year over runner-up Tim Stewart. On his way to the finals, Baxter took wins in his Neil & Parks Dragster over Vince Monteleone and Jason Keily in rounds one and two. Meanwhile, Stewart and his Mustang Funny Car dispatched last-event winner Mark Hunt and New Gen Business Park Top Qualifier Doina Day in rounds one and two, respectively.
In Jackie Watt Consultancy / Fardella and Watt Racing SuperComp, New Gen Business Park Top Qualifier Steve Norman and Pat Firrolo went head to head in the final Chicago shootout match up with Norman taking the win over runner-up Firrolo. On his way to the victory, Norman also reset the Super Stock C/MPA ET and MPH records to 5.453 seconds and 125.27mph. The pair had found themselves in the final face-off thanks to earlier wins over Firrolo (round one), Leigh Donaldson (round two), and Mitch Oxley (round three) for Norman and Oxley (round two), and Donaldson (round three) for Firrolo.
In Modified, Cory Dyson successfully lifted the ANDRA Christmas Tree after defeating Rocco Romano in the final. In round one, Dyson’s Mullis Dragster racer took the win over New Gen Business Park Top Qualifier Luke Cartledge before a bye in round two, while Romano had successfully done battle with Ashley Johnson in round one and Pete O’Connell in round two.
In SADRA Super Gas, Graeme Spencer faced off against New Gen Business Park Top Qualifier Colin Griffin in the final round of elimination racing, with four-time ANDRA champion Spencer taking home the chocolates. On their way to the final showdown, Spencer had earlier taken wins from Adrian McGrotty and Jason Wilson in rounds one and three while enjoying a bye in round two. Griffin’s journey to the finals meanwhile began with a bye in round one thanks to his top qualifying status, before taking wins over Darryl Stephen and Des Woolstencroft in rounds two and three.
Also on track at the Sunset Nationals were the non-championship Street Car and Junior Drag Bike brackets. In Street Car, Danny Wilson took the win over runner-up Corey Read, while Seth Jarvis took the Junior Drag Bike win.
For results from the Sunset Nationals, please click here.
ANDRA thanks the Sunraysia Drag Racing Association and all of its volunteers and sponsors as well as all of the ANDRA officials and volunteers for an outstanding racetrack and a well-run event.
Cory Dyson
Rob Cassar
Michael Jennings
GOLDEN STATES
SPORTSMAN RACERS LIGHT UP THE NIGHT AT GOLDEN STATES
ANDRA Regional Sportsman Championship fans enjoyed a tremendous weekend of sportsman racing in the West for the Burson Auto Parts 50th annual Golden States at the Perth Motorplex across November 22-23.
A field of more than 170 ANDRA Regional Sportsman Championship competitors certainly impressed across November 22-23, and when all was said and done, it was Daniel Natalotto (Lectron Australia Competition Bike), Doina Day (Huntsman Racing Supercharged Outlaws), Alby Bakranich (Top Sportsman Competitors Top Sportsman), Michelle Morrison (Modified), John Szabo (Super Sedan Competitors Super Sedan), Paul McNamara (Ballistic Performance Parts Modified Bike), Craig Caton (Goodyear Racing Super Street), Tahlia Martin (Langtree’s Machinery Services Junior Dragster), Rob Gaikhorst (Jackie Watt Consultancy / Fardella and Watt
Racing Super Stock), and Jon Ferguson (Competition Eliminator) who took out the prestigious Gold ANDRA Christmas Tree trophies.
Taking out the runner-up spots were Brett Ghedina (Lectron Australia Competition Bike), Kasey McClure (Huntsman Racing Supercharged Outlaws), Vlado Turic (Top Sportsman Competitors Top Sportsman), Michelle Morrison (Modified), Denise Downe (Super Sedan Competitors Super Sedan), Christopher Fryer (Ballistic Performance Parts Modified Bike), Carlo Antonelli (Goodyear Racing Super Street), Brock Ferguson (Langtree’s Machinery Services Junior Dragster), Andrew
O’Sullivan (Jackie Watt Consultancy / Fardella and Watt Racing Super Stock), and Rick Johns (Competition Eliminator).
Also celebrated at the end of day presentations were those who won the Top Qualifier Medallions presented by New Gen Business Park, with Chris Allen (Lectron Australia Competition Bike), Doina Day (Huntsman Racing Supercharged Outlaws), Vlado Turic (Top Sportsman Competitors Top Sportsman), Michelle Morrison (Modified), Tony Miskelly (Super Sedan Competitors Super Sedan), Ashton Kilvington (Ballistic Performance Parts Modified Bike), Gavin Donnelly (Goodyear Racing Super Street),
Images thanks to High Octane Photos
Services Junior Dragster), Rob Gaikhorst (Jackie Watt Consultancy / Fardella and Watt Racing Super Stock), and Jett Martin (Competition Eliminator) taking out this prestigious honour for their respective brackets.
In the non-championship Junior Drag Bike sportsman bracket also on track this weekend, Tyler James claimed not only the Top Qualifier honours, but also went on to win the event over runner-up, Seth Jarvis.
For Langtree’s Machinery Services Junior Dragster, it was a special win for Tahlia Martin, who was also presented with the prestigious Anita Board Memorial Trophy by the West Coast Junior Dragster Association and the Board Family following her victory. Tahlia Martin took the win over runner-up Brock Ferguson after having battled it out over three earlier rounds of racing while also enjoying a bye - getting the best of Jack Costello (round one), Lachlan Taylor (round two), and Brock Furlanetto (round four) with a bye in round three. Ferguson, meanwhile, took wins over Jesse Martin
three) before a win over his sister Belle Ferguson in round four. Top Qualifier Cooper Plummer made it through two rounds of racing with a bye in round one and a win over Demi Van Dongen in round two before being knocked out by Furlanetto in round three.
In Lectron Australia Competition Bike, Daniel Natalotto made it all the way to the end following three rounds of shootoutstyle racing to take the win over runnerup Brett Ghedina in the final. Natalotto had earlier enjoyed a bye in round one and wins in rounds two and three over Morry Canterella and Jaxan Standen respectively. Ghedina, meanwhile, also enjoyed wins over Morry Canterella (round one), Jaxan Stadan (round two), and Wayne Gummow (round three). After claiming the Top Qualifier Medallion, Chris Allen ran into mechanical issues and unfortunately took no part in the racing runs.
In Huntsman Racing Supercharged Outlaws. Victorian Donia Day got the best of runner-up Kasey McClure, who
get to the final, Top Qualifier Day took a win over Peter Appleby in round one before enjoying a bye in round two. Local racer McClure, meanwhile, successfully faced off against Vince Belladonna and Mike Evans in rounds one and two, respectively.
Alby Bakranich
Doina Day
John Szabo ( below ) Rob Gaikhorst ( left )
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In Competition Eliminator Jon Ferguson got the best of runner-up Rick Johns to claim the round win Saturday night. Ferguson earned his way to the final after taking wins over Russell Ladbrook in round one and Madison Brown in round two before enjoying a bye in round three. Meanwhile, Johns enjoyed a bye in round one before winning against Brett Glover and Connor McClure in rounds two and three, respectively. After Top Qualifying earlier in the afternoon, Jett Martin was unfortunately unable to line up for the elimination runs.
In Modified, Top Qualifier Michelle Morrison proved to be unbeatable, going on to claim the win against runner-up Andrew Frost. Morrison successfully raced her way through two rounds of eliminations, taking wins over Paul Garbellini in round one and Rachel Gannaway in round two before lining up against Frost in the final.
Meanwhile, Frost also took wins over Monique Ambrousi (round one) and Nicholas Wroe (round two) to get to the final match-up against Morrison.
In Super Sedan Competitors Super Sedan John Szabo got the best over runner-up Denise Downe in the final round of racing on Saturday night. Szabo had earlier successfully dispatched Kathy Regan in round one, Tyron Begg in round two, and Luke Guppy in round three before enjoying a bye in round four ahead of his finals match-up against Downe. Meanwhile, Downe won over Ned Karanovic and Paul Mobilia in rounds one and two, respectively, before prevailing over Top Qualifier Tony Miskelly in round three and Josh Roe in round four.
In Top Sportsman Competitors Top Sportsman Alby Bakranich found success at the end over runner-up and Top Qualifier, Valdo Turic. Bakranich raced through the first two rounds of eliminations, taking wins over Brock Moresby in round one and Mick Wormall in round two before lining up for a successful run over Turic in the final. Turic, meanwhile, enjoyed a bye in round one thanks to the Top Qualifier honours before going on to dispatch Roger Moorhouse in round two and Geoff Chaisty in round three to get to the final against Bakranich.
In Ballistic Performance Parts Modified Bike, Paul McNamara got the better of runner-up Christopher Fryer in the fifth round final match-up on Saturday night. In the earlier rounds, McNamara took wins over David Partington (round one), Tony Ambrosini (round two) and Bryan Finn (round three) before dispatching Top
Daniel Natalotto
Jon Ferguson
Michelle Morrison
Qualifier Ashton Kilvington in round four. Fryer, meanwhile, raced through the first three elimination rounds against Sean Hart (round one), Connor Wood (round two) and Brian Hotker (round three) before a bye in round four.
In Goodyear Racing Super Street, it was a battle of the Holdens when winner Craig Caton in the Monaro lined up against runner-up Carlo Antonelli in the Commodore in the final round of racing. To make his way to the final match-up, Caton took wins over Jason Ludlow (round one), Dean Burtoft (round two), Michael Jennings (round three) and Andy Oorschot (round four). Likewise, Antonelli made it to the final with a round one win over Zachary Giles and wins in rounds two and three over Chris De Bruin and Richard Stevens respectively. Meanwhile, Top Qualifier Gavin Donnelly found himself out of the running in round one, with Oorschot taking the win in that battle.
In Jackie Watt Consultancy / Fardella and Watt Racing Super Stock, Top Qualifier Rob Gaikhorst prevailed over runner-up
Andrew O’Sullivan, with the pair finding themselves in the finals after two earlier rounds of shootout-style racing. Gaikhorst proved unstoppable this weekend, with wins in both rounds one and two over O’Sullivan as well as in the final round.
The ANDRA Regional Sportsman Championship racers weren’t the only ones chasing championship points in the West this weekend either, with the Burson Auto Parts 50th annual Goldenstates event also hosting racing for Top Doorslammer and Top Fuel Motorcycle as part of the National Drag Racing Championship (NDRC) and local championships. When all was said and done, it was Russell Taylor (Top Doorslammer) and Wayne McGuinness (Top Fuel Motorcycle) who claimed the A-Final victories over runners-up, Brodie Zappia and Benny Stevens.
ANDRA thanks the Perth Motorplex management and all of its volunteers and sponsors for an outstanding racetrack and a well-run event. For results, please click here
The next round of the ANDRA Regional Sportsman Championship Series will be held at Portland’s South Coast Raceway across December 2 and 3. For event info, go to www.southcoastraceway.com.au
Tahlia Martin
Paul McNamara
Craig Caton
Images thanks to High Octane Photos
