SPEED READ N O V E M B E R
2 0 2 1
'21 DONE AND DUSTED FOR SA KHANACROSS The Motorsport Australia SA Khanacross Championship celebrated its first multipleround season in a decade with an epic title fight between father and son.
LET'S RECOGNISE OUR HEROES OF 2021 Nominations open for the Motorsport Australia National and State Awards presented by Shannons Insurance.
MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA VACCINATION UPDATE
NOVEMBER UPCOMING STATE EVENTS
NEWMAN TOPS LAKE BARRINGTON EPIC
As events ramp up across the country, Motorsport Australia has provided a guide on how events can proceed, while meeting State Government COVID requirements.
Check out the upcoming club and state events happening all around the country in November.
After just missing out on a Precision Exhaust Lake Barrington Hillclimb victory last year, Benjamin Newman successfully got his revenge with an impressive win last month.
M O T O R S P O R T . O R G . A U
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INSURANCE FOR MOTORING ENTHUSIASTS | CALL 13 46 46 FOR A QUOTE | SHANNONS.COM.AU Shannons Pty Limited ABN 91 099 692 636 is an authorised representative of AAI Limited ABN 48 005 297 807, the product issuer. Read the Product Disclosure Statement before buying this insurance. The Target Market Determination is also available. Call us on 13 46 46 for a copy. This advice has been prepared without taking into account your particular objectives, financial situations or needs, so you should consider whether it is appropriate for you before acting on it. The information is intended to be of general nature only. We do not accept any legal responsibility for any loss incurred as a result of reliance upon it – please make your own enquiries. Competition conducted by Shannons Pty Limited, of Level 28, Brisbane Square, 266 George Street, Brisbane, QLD 4000. Competition commences at 12am on 12/8/21 and closes at 11.59pm on 10/12/21 (Melbourne time) (Entry Period). Entry is only open to eligible Australian residents aged 18 years or older. Eligible Entrants must be opted in to receive Shannons marketing communications and must not opt out during the Entry Period. Maximum cost of call will not exceed 55 cents + GST from an Australian land line. Higher rates may apply for mobile phones or pay phones. Prizes drawn at 12pm on 12/1/22 at Engage Interactive, 24 Washpool Crescent, Woongarrah, NSW 2259. The winner will be notified by phone and email by 14/1/22 and published in The Australian newspaper on 19/1/22 and on the competition website. Permits: ACT TP 21/01079 SA T21/958 & NSW Authority Number TP/00259. Images for illustrative purposes only. The Pontiac Trans Am will be provided to the winner as an unregistered vehicle. Registration or Club Permit for the Pontiac Trans Am, including any modifications required by the respective state or territory authorities (in order to effect registration or permits) will be the sole responsibility of the winner. ^Apply for and receive a new Shannons Motor Insurance (excludes CTP insurance) (“Motor Policy”) or a new Shannons Home & Contents Insurance Policy (includes building only, contents only or building and contents cover) (“Home Policy”) quote during the Entry Period. Limit 1 quote per vehicle or insured address. For the avoidance of doubt, an Eligible Insurance Quote for a combined building and contents policy constitutes one risk for the purposes of this Competition. **Applications made online for quotes must be submitted by 7/12/21, however, telephone applications will continue to be available until 11.59pm 10/12/21. Quotes and issue of policy are subject to Shannons normal underwriting acceptance criteria. *Purchase a new Motor Policy (excludes existing Motor Policy renewals) during the Entry Period. +Purchase a new Home and Contents Policy OR hold an existing fully paid Home and Contents Policy (current during the Entry Period). Customers that do not wish to participate in the competition can email enquiries@shannons.com.au. 1Actual period may be less than 365 days depending on the winner’s location and delivery/pick up date, however, won’t be less than 11 months residual benefit. The issue of Shannons Insurance is subject to Shannons normal acceptance criteria. The inclusion of this component of the prize does not constitute financial product advice or a recommendation to acquire any Shannons Insurance product. The issue of Shannons Roadside Assist is subject to the winner being issued the comprehensive car and motorcycle insurance portion of the prize and the Issuer’s normal acceptance criteria. Available for breakdowns that occur from 24 hours after purchasing Shannons Roadside Assist. 2 If the winner is a member of the Shannons Club with a profile image and enthusiast vehicle image at the time of the draw, they will receive $5,000 AUD cash. Full T&Cs and entry options at shannons.com.au/transam.
CONTENTS 4
What's on in November?
6
Motorsport Australia Vaccination Update
7
Motorsport Australia Awards season has arrived
8
Impreza WRX Club lead NSW grassroots motorsport return
10
Clements crowned SA Khana champion
12
Challenge Bathurst’s environmental win
14
2022 Australian Grand Prix locked in
16
WA and SA host successful development workshops
18
Driving Solutions driving key development programs
20
Newman tops Lake Barrington epic
22
A Bronze opportunity for more officials
24
Chopping stands down from JAC
26
New Medical Delegate created for Tarmac 2022
28
Unlikely victors in thrilling Kalgoorlie battle
30
Bentley wins challenging Loveday 400
32 Q&A with Oscar Piastri 34
Australian Hill Climb Championship cancelled
36
Supercars back with a bang
7 8 16 22 28
COVER PHOTO
Fourth and fifth place getters, Adam and Marc Tillett pilot their GTI Golf around Walky Park, in Walkerville All Cars Club's first ever khanacross championship. The event welcomed a club record 34 competitors. Photo: GMF Photography
275 Canterbury Road, Canterbury VIC 3126 PO Box 172, Canterbury LPO Vic 3126 Member Hotline 1800 883 959 (9am - 5pm AEST) Telephone 1300 883 959 or +61 3 9593 7777 Website motorsport.org.au
E-mail info@motorsport.org.au
32
WHAT'S ON IN
NOVEMBER?
Events in many states may be postponed or cancelled due the current COVID-19 restrictions. Please refer to government restrictions in your area and Motorsport Australia's Return To Race guidelines: motorsport.org.au/COVID19
NEW SOUTH WALES AND ACT
6 November: Back into it Motorkhana 7 November: SDMA Club Hillclimb 7 November: End of Year Bash 7 November: MGCCN KC4, Khanacross 11-14 November: 2021 Challenge Bathurst 12-14 November: Sydney Supersprint Event 3 13 November: 2021 National Patios ACT Khanacross Series R3 13-14 November: Rylstone Classic 13-14 November: Ringwood Hillclimb Tar Series R5 13-14 November: All Ford Day (NSW) 14 November: FNQ R9 Bitumen Khanacross 14 November: MG Car Club Canberra Multi Club Motorkhana 14 November: New England Sporting Car Club Khanacross #5 17 November: Driving Solutions Track Day 18-12 November: Beaurepaires Sydney SuperNight 20 November: 2021 Rockstar Automotive Rally Sprint 20 November: Bathurst Light Car Club November Come and Try Motorkhana 21 November: Bathurst Light Car Club November Khanacross 21 November: Multi Club Lap Dash 21 November: The Claytons Alpine Fun Run 27-28 November: Motorsport Australia NSW Motor Race Championship Event R7 28 November: Motorsport Australia Zestino NSW Supersprint Championship R6 30 November - 5 December: Repco Bathurst 1000
Photo: EDGE Photographics NSW: Repco Bathurst 1000, 30 November - 5 December One of the biggest events on the Australian motorsport calendar, the Repco Bathurst 1000 has turned into a six-day extravaganza in 2021. In addition to the Supercars grand finale, S5000, TCR Australia, Porsche Carrera Cup and National Trans Am Series will all feature in the event.
QUEENSLAND
6-7 November: R4 2021 Qld - NSW Sprint Challenge & R2 2021 Short Circuit Touring Cars Series 6-7 November: 2 Day Dirt 14 November: Ipswich West Moreton Auto Club Open Sprint R4 20 November: Accent Benchtops 3 River Rally 20-21 November: Khanacross/Burnouts November 20-21 November: 2021 Motorsport Australia Queensland State Circuit Racing Championship R4 21 November: CQMSC R5 Khanacross Series 21 November: HSCCQ Interclub Khanacross 28 November: Central Queensland Motor Sporting Club Driftkhana
4 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
Photo: PHB Studio QLD: Accent Benchtops 3 River Rally, 20 November The Queensland rally community get to enjoy an inaugural event this month with the fourth round of the Motorsport Australia Queensland Rally Championship. More than 100 competitive kilometres await crews over two heats.
SOUTH AUSTRALIA AND NORTHERN TERRITORY
6 November: NDCC Hillclimb Challenge 7 November: [NT] CARS Rallysprint 7 November: Scout Come & Try Khanacross 7 November: Mini's at the Mill 7 November: Collingrove Season Finale 14 November: LCORC 2021 Khanacross & SEAC R5 25-28 November: 2021 Shannons Adelaide Rally
TASMANIA
28 November: R4 2021 Tasmanian Supersprint Championship
Photo: Shannons Adelaide Rally SA: 2021 Shannons Adelaide Rally, 25-28 November This monster event will see 412 cars complete 230 competitive kilometres across 34 stages over four days of non-stop action. A hefty prize pool of $25,000 is also on offer for outright and interstate winners.
VICTORIA
Photo: Revved Photography VIC: Historic Sandown, 5-7 November Taking place at the iconic Sandown Raceway, more than 200 classic cars will feature in the Victorian Historic Racing Register's popular annual race meeting celebrating Australia's rich motoring history.
5-7 November: Historic Sandown 6-7 November: Coghlans Carnival 6 November: Western Victorian Crane Trucks Valley Stages 7 November: GCC Multiclub Hillclimb 7 November: Maffra and District Car Club Motorkhana 7 November: Victorian State Drift Championship 12 November: Mildura Mini Rally 13-14 November: PIARC Supersprint including Vic Superkart Racing 13 November: Maffra and District Car Club R8 14 November: Rob Roy Observed Section Trial, Motorkhana and Khanacross 14 November: NCCA Group5 R10 "King of the Khana's" 18 November: Whiteline Tarmac Rallysprint Series 2021/2022 R1 19-21 November: Just Send It Challenge 20 November: AROCA Phillip Island Sprints 20-21 November: Westmere Khanacross 20 November: MSCA All Come & Try Day 26-28 November: Island Magic 2021 27-28 November: King of the Hill 28 November: Sandown Spring Sprint 28 November: 2021 Down the Drains Touring Assembly 28 November: Conspiracy Crew Motorkhana - Come and Try 28 November: 30th Rob Roy Historic & Classic Hillclimb
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
6 November: SWTCC R6 11 November: 2022 Shannons Targa Rallysprint Series R1 13 November: WASCC November Night Masters Race Meeting 21 November: WA Time Attack 24 November: Summer Autocross Series R1 27-28 November: Collie Motorplex Sprint 28 November: 2021 GT Fabrication Targa Bunbury Sprint Photo: Targa West events WA: 2021 GT Fabrication Targa Bunbury Sprint, 28 November Part of the Targa West events calendar, a nice mix of around 100 cars will be on show throughout this fun and competiive sprint, which also runs a free Shannons Show ‘n’ Shine.
MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 5
MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA VACCINATION UPDATE
As events in Victoria, NSW and the ACT have started to ramp up, Motorsport Australia has provided a guide on how events can proceed, while meeting State Government COVID requirements.
“Vaccination requirements will protect everyone attending events, whether as competitors, officials or spectators”
With vaccination targets being reached across the country, more events are expected to return, while those in South Australia, Queensland, Tasmania, Northern Territory and Western Australia continue to enjoy more motorsport.
- Eugene Arocca, Motorsport Australia CEO
In Victoria, NSW and the ACT, proof of vaccination will likely be required to attend public gatherings and events, based on information made public by each State Government. This is a State Government requirement. Motorsport Australia CEO Eugene Arocca said event organisers and clubs needed to be aware of the restrictions that apply to their event and their attendees. “In Victoria, New South Wales and the ACT, the respective road maps to reopening outline that proof of double vaccination, or a valid exemption, must be provided,” Arocca said. “This is not an option, or something that is negotiable, it is a government direction that must be adhered to and any club or event organiser that does not comply risks significant financial sanction and prosecution. 6 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
“Motorsport Australia will do its best to assist events taking place around Australia to understand and meet the requirements that apply at the time of the event. Any double vaccination requirement, based on State Government restrictions, will be listed in the event’s supplementary regulations. “There is no leeway. These restrictions are in place for a reason, and vaccination requirements will protect everyone attending events, whether as competitors, officials or spectators.” Arocca said those holding events in states where there is currently no vaccination requirement will be able to continue as planned, but urged organisers to consider their own duties to provide a safe operating environment and manage risks. “For now, there are several states where proof of vaccination is not required and we continue to issue permits accordingly,” Arocca added. “However, as borders open up around the country, we can expect that other states may soon follow suit on vaccination requirements
and once they do, all Motorsport Australia events must be run in line with these restrictions and also our Return To Race document.” “Our own Return To Race framework provides clear guidance on how to manage the risk and consequence of transmission of the virus – and Organisers who decide its appropriate to include vaccination requirements can consult with Motorsport Australia. Motorsport Australia’s membership and permits team is available to assist event organisers and clubs with information on what they need to do to run events at the current time. As restrictions will likely continue to change, those planning events will need to be mindful of any changes to government directions and how it may impact their event.
Click here to read all the Frequently Asked Questions regarding the update.
MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA AWARDS SEASON HAS ARRIVED Nominations for the 2021 Motorsport Australia National and State Awards, presented by Shannons Insurance, are now open. Each year, the Motorsport Australia Awards season recognise the individuals who work tirelessly behind the scenes and go the extra mile in our sport, as well as honour the outstanding achievements of competitors across all disciplines and levels. This year, nomination forms can be filled out using an easy to complete online form. Motorsport Australia CEO Eugene Arocca encouraged everyone to consider nominating someone from their motorsport circle. “We have been through a year that has been extremely challenging for clubs and event organisers, as well as participants and our loyal officials,” Arocca explained.
“Despite these difficulties, we know there have been many examples of people going above and beyond to help navigate changing restrictions, postponement of events and creating solutions to grow the sport on a local level where travel has not been permitted. “As such, we look forward to receiving your nominations for 2021, highlighting those efforts that allowed motorsport
“We know there have been many examples of people going above and beyond to help navigate changing restrictions, postponement of events and creating solutions to grow the sport” - Eugene Arocca, Motorsport Australia CEO
to go on, or in some cases, help clubs find alternative solutions to allow events to run safely. “So please, take a look at the award categories on offer and consider how someone at your club or within the sport is worthy of recognition. “Motorsport Australia is also extremely grateful to have the support of our wonderful partners at Shannons Insurance as presenting partners for all our award ceremonies this year. We thank the team at Shannons for their continued support.”
Photo: Flash Studio
Many of the regular awards will return to highlight the efforts of 2021, including the Motorsport Australia Award of Merit, National and State Officials of the Year, State Event of the Year, Club milestone achievements, Service Stars and Service Awards. Motorsport Australia will also recognise the champions of the national and state categories that have been able to compete in each ceremony. Nominations for the Motorsport Australia National Awards, presented by Shannons Insurance, will remain open until 5pm AEDT on Friday, 12 November 2021.
Click here to nominate for either the Motorsport Australia National or State Awards, presented by Shannons Insurance.
Photo: Bob Gloyn
MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 7
IMPREZA WRX CLUB LEAD NSW GRASSROOTS MOTORSPORT RETURN Last month saw the return of motorsport in New South Wales as the State Government lowered its COVID-19 lockdown restrictions.
The Impreza WRX Club of NSW were one of three clubs to run an event during the first weekend back, with a reduced field contesting a motorkhana over eight tests on the Sydney Motorsport Park skid pan. Originally supposed to a run as a round of the club series, the club ran out of time to complete all five rounds in 2021, downgrading the motorkhana to an exhibition event. While initially disappointed, the event instead used the event as an opportunity to celebrate being out of lockdown in a social manner and give members the chance to compete in a pressure-free environment. The club’s Non-Speed Motorsport Manager, Michael Walker was thrilled with how the event
8 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
turned out, even with no official competition taking place. “The day went exceptionally well,” Walker said. “All 16 competitors had a great day with plenty of runs on the eight courses. “Just being back on the track in any capacity was worth all the effort to make it happen.”
R E A D Y
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Photos: GMF Photography
CLEMENTS CROWNED SA KHANA CHAMPION The 2021 Motorsport Australia SA Khanacross Championship season wrapped up last month with Michael Clements claiming the title. For the first time in more than a decade, the championship was run over three rounds as opposed to just one, with Clements having won two rounds on the way to the title. In what proved to be an epic battle, Clements ended up winning the championship by just four points over his son Bradley, who enjoyed a round win for himself, while Sam
Humphries comfortably secured the final podium position. The championship began with a bang in February as a huge field of 47 competitors entered the season opener, which was run by the South Eastern Automobile Club at its home location of SEAC Park. While very little separated the top four entries throughout the seven course event, penalties to Michael, Nicholas Cagney and Dale Cagney, paved the way for Bradley to claim top honours ahead of the trio. Following a significant six and half month break between rounds, the Walkerville All Cars Club held its first ever khanacross, and did it in style, as it welcomed a club record 34 competitors to Walky Park where they had multiple attempts at four different layouts. Bradley once again got the better start of the two Clements, but it only lasted one track as the 28-year-old suffered a
10 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
penalty on just the second run of the first track, before having a forgettable third run on the second track, which essentially ruled him out of the win. Despite fighting back with some overall run wins, Bradley ended up finishing the round in third place behind winner Michael and Humphries. Michael was in a league of his own throughout the second round, claiming the victory over Humphries by almost 30 seconds. The biggest success story of the second round was 14-year-old Oscar Farnden, who in just his first state khanacross championship round, finished in fourth place and only 13 seconds off the podium. In the final round of the season, the championship returned to its spiritual home with the Southern Districts Car Club hosting a two-day event at the Mid Murray Motorplex.
Photos: Angryman Photography
“It’s always nice to win a close competition, but I am very proud to have had such a tight battle with Bradley”
ROUND 1
- Michael Clements
ROUND 2
With the 29 entered drivers getting 11 heats at the course, the round honours was between the same four drivers who occupied the top four in the previous round. And just as he did at Walky Park, Michael Clements showcased his experience in khanacrosses, winning the event by just five seconds over Bradley – a five second penalty once again proving the difference after each claimed heat wins throughout the event. Humphries picked up his second podium for the year, edging out Farnden by just over one second, although the teenager continued to impress in his second ever event, posting the outright fastest heat time on two occasions. “I’m over the moon to have won the Motorsport Australia SA Khanacross Championship this year,” Michael said. “To have won in the way I did was quite satisfying. It’s always nice to win a close competition, but I am very proud to have had such a tight battle with Bradley this year.
“I can have family bragging rights this year, but no doubt he will be right up there again next year. “I must say a huge thank you to all the championship organisers and the clubs themselves for putting on wonderful events. “The competition this year was amazing. Not just from the point of view of having three rounds for the first time in a long time, but for the fact there were so many family duels taking place. It really was a fun year.” Just like the father-son battle for outright honours, the 2WD Championship had an even closer fallout with Adam Tillet just beating father Marc by two points after the three rounds. However in this father-son battle, Adam won the opening two rounds ahead of Marc in second place, before the father got his win in the finale. In addition to their 2WD one-two placing, both Tillets finished the year inside the top five with Adam fourth and Marc in fifth ahead of Farnden.
1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Bradley Clements - 8:39.06 Michael Clements - 8:47.94 Nicholas Cagney - 8:49.06 Dale Cagney - 8:49.60 Sam Humphries - 9:04.37
Michael Clements - 15:28.95 Sam Humphries - 15:55.79 Bradley Clements - 16:02.07 Oscar Farnden - 16:15.94 David McDonough - 16:34.33
ROUND 3 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Michael Clements - 16:14.13 Bradley Clements - 16:19.19 Sam Humphries - 16:32.83 Oscar Farnden - 16:34.00 Jaxon Rippon - 16:44.76
TOP 10 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.
Michael Clements Bradley Clements Sam Humphries Adam Tillett Marc Tillett Oscar Farnden Damien Wilson Shane Burn Nicholas Cagney Dale Cagney
Photos: GMF Photography
MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 11
CHALLENGE BATHURST’S ENVIRONMENTAL WIN For the first time ever, Mount Panorama will host a carbon neutral event when the 2021 Challenge Bathurst takes place this month. To encourage a more sustainable future for Australian motorsport, Challenge Bathurst organisers, along with partners Accelerate Events and the Bathurst Regional Council have enlisted Greenfleet to get involved with the event. Greenfleet is an Australian not-forprofit environmental organisation that helps individuals, communities and companies act in mitigating the impacts of climate change, as well as restoring ecosystems through planting bio-diverse native forests in Australia and New Zealand. The partnership will see Greenfleet plant trees at the iconic circuit during the event to help offset carbon and car emissions and will see the event reach carbon neutrality, which is an immediate way for motorsport to help tackle the global issue of climate change. More than 400 cars and 600 Motorsport Australia volunteer officials and licenced competitors are expected to attend the four-day regularity and supersprint event, making the partnership an easy decision for Challenge Bathurst organisers to make. “The rationale is that carbon offsetting is an immediate and cost-effective way to take responsibility for the environmental impact of the Challenge Bathurst Event,” event organiser Greg Evans explained. “While it’s hard to fundamentally change the amount of carbon emissions due to the engine type of most cars at Challenge Bathurst, it’s easy to offset the emissions by partnering with an organisation like Greenfleet. “This is also an emotional decision based on our competitor’s desire
Photos: Challenge Bathurst
to do what they love and offset the impact so we can all keep doing this for the next 30 years and more. “We don’t have to wait until 2050 to start being ‘net zero’. When I realised it cost five dollars a competitor to be net zero it’s really a no-brainer. “Hopefully our event will encourage others to consider doing the same for theirs.”
In 2000, Founder Henry O’Cleary teamed up with Peter Brock, former Australian Grand Prix promoter Ron Walker and the RACV to promote fund tree planting towards fleet and individual car owners in a bid to offset car emissions.
With Motorsport Australia already working towards a sustainable future, as well as holding the highest level of recognition in the FIA's Environmental Accreditation Framework, CEO Eugene Arocca praised the event for their environmental efforts.
Since its inauguration, Gleenfleet has planted almost 10 million trees across 500 forests Australia and New Zealand and Greenfleet CEO Wayne Wescott was looking forward to once again spreading its message within the motorsport industry.
“Challenge Bathurst and the Bathurst Regional Council should be congratulated for their foresight and environmentally responsible approach to running this amazing event,” Arocca said.
“There is a critical need to take action on climate change and we all have a responsibility to reduce our impact on the planet. However, completely reducing your carbon footprint isn’t easy,” Wescott said.
“This is a terrific initiative and has the full support of everyone at Motorsport Australia. Sustainability and the environment will need to be front of mind for all of us involved in motorsport as we head into the future, utilising the many innovative and brilliant minds who work in the industry.
“People come to Greenfleet because they want to take practical climate action, and that’s what we help them do.
“Motorsport Australia’s latest Strategic Plan refresh outlines our desire to make the environment and sustainability a priority in our short and long term future.
The 2021 Challenge Bathurst takes place at Mount Panorama on 11-14 November.
“We are eager to see similar initiatives rolled out across the country and will work hard to reduce the sport’s overall footprint. This is certainly a significant area of opportunity for the motorsport industry.” 12 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
This year’s Challenge Bathurst won’t be the first time Greenfleet has worked alongside the automotive industry after its foundation in 1997.
“We commend Challenge Bathurst on the steps they are taking to reposition motorsport for a changing climate.”
Click here for more information on the event.
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Photo: Alpine F1 Media
2022 AUSTRALIAN GRAND PRIX LOCKED IN The date for next year’s Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix has been confirmed with the FIA announcing the 2022 FIA Formula 1 World Championship provisional calendar last month. Part of a record 23-race season, the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix will no longer host the first race of the year, but will instead host the third round on 7-10 April, 2022.
entirely, a new high-speed zone and new surface for the first time since it was originally laid in 1995.
aerodynamics, as well as seeing Daniel Ricciardo in McLaren colours. While support categories are yet to be announced, as usual, there will be plenty of activations off track for fans to enjoy.
“I am sure the many Australian Formula 1 fans are excited to see the world’s best drivers on our shores once again’”
In what is the first full running of the Australian Grand Prix since 2019, drivers will finally get to experience the new and improved Albert Park circuit, which has had seven corners modified, two of which were removed
14 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
- Eugene Arocca, Motorsport Australia CEO
The race will also provide Australian fans with their first look at the newly designed F1 cars, incorporating better
Of course, the event would not be able to proceed without the hundreds of Motorsport Australia officials volunteering their time and services and interested individuals can soon register their place in the coming weeks here. Motorsport Australia CEO Eugene Arocca was pleased a date was finally confirmed and encouraged officials to look at attending.
“To have a date locked in is fantastic for the sport and I am sure the many Australian Formula 1 fans are excited
Photo: Red Bull Content Pool
to see the world’s best drivers on our shores once again,” Arocca said. “I am also confident that our world class officials will be extremely keen to play their role in delivering the event. “We have the best officials in the world and I’ve said it many times before, the way they handled themselves in 2020 was a true testament to their passion and dedication and I know we will see so many of them return again in 2022.”
Less than six months remains until the 2022 Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix takes place with event infrastructure works to commence in four months, giving the Victorian Government and Formula 1 plenty of time to create a logistical and safety plan for the event.
Photo: Revved Photography
Click here to view the full 2022 calendar.
The 2022 Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix will be held on the iconic Albert Park street-circuit on 7-10 April, 2022.
The must-have book for every Australian and New Zealand fan of Formula One ‘A GREAT CELEBRATION OF AUSTRALASIAN FORMULA ONE’ MARK WEBBER MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 15
Photos: Turn 7 Media
WA AND SA HOST SUCCESSFUL DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOPS It was a busy month for both Ricciardo’s Racers and FIA Girls on Track in October with both programs running events in Western Australia and South Australia. The Bend Motorsport Park in South Australia was first up with the circuit welcoming 30 young schoolgirls to the FIA Girls on Track, which saw them participate in a full day of activities designed to give them an insight into motorsport.
From the pit stop and simulator challenges to STEM and media activities, the program gave the young girls an opportunity to see the fundamentals of motorsport as an opportunity to showcase the various roles that exist in motorsport, both on and off the track. The day was then capped off with a tour of The Bend’s resident motorsport team, Jam Motorsport, which included a walkthrough of the team’s workshop by team manager and co-founder Courtney Tyler. Two days later at the circuit, Driving Solutions ran a sold-out Ricciardo’s Racers program, where children aged 12-17 were taught the basics of motorsport through fun exercises in provided cars. Motorsport Australia Director for South Australia and the Northern
16 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
“It was great to see so many passionate teenagers attend both programs.” - Kristen Bailey, Motorsport Australia Director
Territory, Kristen Bailey, attended the weekend’s activities, getting involved with FIA Girls on Track and overlooking Ricciardo’s Racers. “It was such a fantastic weekend at The Bend, and it was great to see so many passionate teenagers attend both programs,” Bailey said. “For the FIA Girls on Track day, I was thrilled to be able to be part of the team and help run the event. Hopefully we inspired the girls to look at finding a role that sees them be involved in the sport that we all love.
Photos: Mr Dusty Media
“Ricciardo’s Racers is also a brilliant program, and I can tell from the reports that participants all really enjoyed themselves. It's great that we can run a program that helps participants build their confidence throughout the course of the session. "I believe in the Ricciardo's Racers program and have seen the benefits first hand with my own son having been a past participant." A week later, it was Western Australia’s turn to host the programs and once again, a huge turnout of participants attended Driver Risk Management Perth and Wanneroo Raceway for the events. A total of 64 young Australians took part in both Ricciardo Racers events across the weekend as they learned the fundamentals of driving in a controlled environment. Guiding them through the sessions in addition to the Driving Solutions team were Repco Supercars Championship star Andre Heimgartner, Toyota 86 Series driver Lachie Dalton and 2018 WA Formula Ford Champion Bryce Moore. The list of motorsport representatives for WA’s FIA Girls on Track event was just as impressive. WA Sporting Car Club Development Officer Lauren Cornes, Motorsport
FIA GIRLS ON TRACK REMAINING CALENDAR 9 November - Sydney Motorsport Park, NSW Australia officials Danielle Meyn and Telea Plummer, Speedway data analyst Chelsee Callaghan, Speedway star Laura Byrnes and WA circuit drivers Tayla Dicker and April Welsh were all on hand to run the day.
29 November - Port Melbourne Go Kart Track, VIC
A huge turnout of participants from Pinjarra Senior High, Fremantle High School and other individuals attended the event.
10 December – The Bend Motorsport Park, SA (Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships)
With both programs for WA now complete, attention turns to the remaining events for 2021 with South Australia, New South Wales and Victoria all on the calendar.
RICCIARDO'S RACERS REMAINING CALENDAR
30 November - Port Melbourne Go Kart Track, VIC 6 December – Bathurst High School, NSW
8 November - Sydney Motorsport Park, NSW
Click here for more information on FIA Girls On Track.
9 November - Sydney Motorsport Park, NSW
24 November - Sydney Motorsport Park, NSW 27 November - METEC Bayswater, VIC
Click here for more information on Ricciardo's Racers.
28 November - Sandown Raceway, VIC
MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 17
DRIVING SOLUTIONS DRIVING KEY DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS Motorsport Australia has partnered with Driving Solutions to grow the number of people getting involved in motorsport at a grassroots level. Driving Solutions will assist Motorsport Australia in running a number of its key development programs, including FIA Girls On Track, Ricciardo’s Racers and FIA Rally Star. Driving Solutions will also continue to run Motorsport Australia sanctioned track days, introducing new participants into Motorsport Australia affiliated clubs to take their next step in motorsport. Motorsport Australia CEO Eugene Arocca said the partnership built on a solid foundation of work that had already been undertaken with Driving Solutions in recent years. “The team at Driving Solutions have a wide range of expertise and have been an extremely important part of helping us deliver our various programs through the ongoing COVID pandemic,” Arocca said.
“The feedback from these various events has been overwhelmingly positive, as more and more people get their first taste of motorsport at a range of different events. “Any kind of driver training certainly has benefits for the wider community, but of course it also allows us to see more people getting a start in motorsport, whether through a track day or our popular Girls On Track, Ricciardo’s Racers, FIA Rally Star junior development programs. “We’re thrilled to be formalising our partnership with Driving Solutions and look forward to a strong working relationship that will benefit our clubs and the sport through a boost in participation numbers.” Driving Solutions Director James Stewart said together
“The team at Driving Solutions have a wide range of expertise and have been an extremely important part of helping us deliver our various programs” - Eugene Arocca, Motorsport Australia CEO
Photo: Mr Dusty Media
with the support of Motorsport Australia, their team have been working hard to see more people enjoying more motorsport. “Working with Motorsport Australia in recent months delivering these wonderful programs has been a great outlet for drivers to follow their passion for cars and motorsport in a safe environment, away from the public roads,” Stewart said. “There is a real benefit for everyone in motorsport to see these programs and track days up and running, as it inspires people to take the next step in the sport, join a car club and become a regular participant for years to come. “We can’t wait to keep delivering these programs and Motorsport Australia sanctioned track days in 2022 and beyond.”
To find out about the next Driving Solutions Track Day near you, click here.
18 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
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Photos: RedBeard PhotoMedia
NEWMAN TOPS LAKE BARRINGTON EPIC After just missing out on a Precision Exhaust Lake Barrington Hillclimb victory last year, Benjamin Newman successfully got his revenge with an impressive win last month.
In what turned out to be a thrilling contest, 50 drivers from around Tasmania got five runs on the Lake Barrington hill climb course, however it was the battle for the outright win between three drivers that had everyone talking. Newman fell short to Eddie Maguire by one second last year as the latter steered his Lancer Evo9 to a brilliant one minute and 33.45 second run of the course. For this year’s event, Maguire was behind the wheel of the same Viper ACR he won Targa Tasmania with back in April and would have been
20 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
full of confidence to win the hill climb for the second consecutive year. However Maguire would never find the same pace as he did last year and although he was constantly challenging for top spot, couldn’t get within reach, settling for third place overall. Instead, Newman’s biggest challenge came from a driver who didn’t take part last year, Peter Nunn. Nunn got the better start of the two and went faster on the first two runs, before both got into the 1:36s on the third run - Newman pipping him by three tenths.
Photos: RedBeard PhotoMedia
“It's always a great day out at Lake Barrington, even better to beat a Maguire.” - Benjamin Newman
While Nunn was unable to beat his own time of 1:36.40 in the remaining two runs, Newman shaved two and half tenths of his time to post an outright winning time of 1:35.90 – half a second faster than Nunn and almost one second ahead of the man who beat him last year. “It's always a great day out at Lake Barrington, even better to beat a Maguire,” Newman said.
“Eddie was no doubt distracted because he was busy signing autographs all day. “In reality, his Viper struggled a bit out of the slower corners, so I imagine the battle will be on next time at Barrington when he returns to the same Evo9 he got me with last time. “Peter Nunn jumped in to share the Subaru and was on the pace from the start, doing an amazing job with an unfamiliar car and course.
HILL CLIMB TOP 10 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.
Benjamin Newman - 1:35.90 Peter Nunn - 1:36.40 Eddie Maguire - 1:36.82 Stephen Maguire - 1:38.95 Tyler Page - 1:39.17 Crichton Lewis - 1:39.52 Nathan Oliver - 1:39.80 Igor Van Gerwen - 1:39.96 Daniel Little - 1:40.00 Nathan Newton - 1:40.67
“The event is a highlight of the calendar, the North West Car club do an amazing job running the event.”
Click here to view the full time sheet.
MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 21
Photo: Revved Photography
A BRONZE OPPORTUNITY FOR MORE OFFICIALS Further online training modules have now been introduced, with two Bronze modules added the growing list of online courses.
and IT improvements, aimed at making many of our existing processes easier to access for all.
General officials looking to upgrade to a Bronze level for Stewarding and for Timing and Scoring can now do so via the Motorsport Australia Member Portal.
Having all bronze courses online will assist all individuals wanting to complete the training prior to their assessment, making it easier and more cost-effective for those in rural and remote communities.
Individuals interested in obtaining their Bronze Stewarding and Bronze Timing and Scoring licences can do so by clicking here.
There are also plans to soon adjust the current Silver Module format, reducing the training from one and half face-to-face days to one full day.
A further two courses, Bronze Fire and Rescue and Bronze Scrutineering will also soon be added to the course list, meaning all eight Bronze Modules will be available to complete online. The decision to move the Bronze Modules online is part of Motorsport Australia’s ongoing simplification
CURRENT BRONZE MODULES ONLINE Circuit Rally Off Road Event Command Event Administration Steward (new) Timing and Scoring (new) Fire and Rescue (coming soon) Scrutineering (coming soon)
Click here to learn more about Motorsport Australia's Officials training.
22 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ Photo: Little Gem Photography
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Photo: Mark Teague
CHOPPING STANDS DOWN FROM JAC After serving on the Judicial Advisory Committee (JAC) since its inauguration and its previous iteration since 2005, Steve Chopping AM will officially step down as Chair as he looks to scale back his involvement in the sport. Chopping has made an enormous contribution to the sport both in Australia and overseas in a career spanning more than six decades.
1979 and 1995 and as Vice President to John Large OAM, as well as being Chair of the Supercars Stewards for 10 years and being crowned as the Official of the Year in 2012.
Outside of his most notable achievements, Chopping has held positions on at least one Motorsport Australia committee every year since 1976, which includes roles as Chair of the Superkarts, Officiating, Recognition and Fuel Regulation committees.
“If anybody can say they are living the dream, I truly believe I am and have been for a very long time, for which I am very lucky”
Throughout his time, the Tasmanian native has held many important roles at all levels of motorsport – from grassroots events in his home state to Formula 1 rounds around the world.
His highlights include serving on the Motorsport Australia Board between 24 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
Chopping also received Life Membership and a Motorsport Australia Award of Merit in 2017, one year after officially being named a Member of the Order of Australia.
Having started as a timekeeper during his first year of high school, Chopping quickly worked his way up the ranks and became Clerk of Course just four years after his first motorsport meeting and still just a teenager.
Chopping continued to gain experience at as many meetings as he could attend, and soon became a Steward – a role he would excel in for more than half a century.
On an international front, he was just as exceptional, and on top of holding a FIA Platinum Stewards Licence, Chopping sat on the FIA Anti-Doping Tribunal for many years. He also worked at Formula 1, Formula 2 and World Touring Car Racing Championship events around the world – his work on the latter category earning him the role of Chair of the Stewards for WTCR. With Australia's international COVID restrictions preventing him from contributing to the international panel in recent years, the break gave the lawyer of 49 years a chance to evaluate his current position in the sport. And although the decision was then made to step down as Chair of the Judicial Advisory Committee – he will remain involved in the sport on a casual basis. “Reluctantly, I feel that the time has come for me to stand aside as Chair of the Judicial Advisory Committee and reduce my activity within the sport,” Chopping said. “I am quite sad in doing so, but I feel the time is right and the sport is changing – especially since there are a lot of talented young people coming through the system. “I never really wanted to be one of the old guys that people wanted to replace and it seems I have created enough
Photo: Mark Teague
succession plans to put me out of a job. There is nothing left for me to do. “If anybody can say they are living the dream, I truly believe I am and have been for a very long time, for which I am very lucky. “Over the years, I have seen huge advancements in safety, competition and technology, as well as many talented people come into the sport,
so it’s only appropriate to give them the opportunity to advance and enjoy the same experiences I had. “I am also content with the belief that I have been instrumental in bringing about a change in the philosophy of stewards and have assisted many of our current national appointments to advance their stewarding careers. “I’ve had many highlights over the years. From seeing a young Michael Masi (Current Formula 1 Race Director) start in motorsport to attending international events and receiving all the accolades I have. “Finally, I must say a big thank you to all those individuals who played a significant role in my career of 61 years.” Motorsport Australia CEO Eugene Arocca paid tribute to Chopping. “It is with some reluctance that we accept Steve's resignation as Chair of the Judicial Advisory Committee,” Arocca said. "Steve has been a loyal servant to the sport and on behalf of everyone at Motorsport Australia I extend our thanks to Steve for his dedication to motorsport and officiating. "We have been very fortunate to have had access to his knowledge, experience and passion over the years. "While Steve is no longer the Chair of the Committee, we are pleased he will still be involved in events as a Steward wherever possible and in line with his ongoing availability."
MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 25
NEW MEDICAL DELEGATE CREATED FOR TARMAC 2022 Motorsport Australia is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Rik Hagen as the Medical Delegate for all tarmac rallies in Australia next year. Created in response to the three fatalities occurring at Targa Tasmania this year, Hagen will look at not only attending each event, but overseeing the development of future medical and safety management. Hagen enters the role with an extensive amount of experience both as a medical practitioner and in motorsport. From a professional point of view, Hagen started off as a rural based GP before becoming an Emergency Department doctor, as well as having several years with the Royal Flying Doctor Service. His experience in the motorsport industry spans more than three decades and includes time as the Deputy Chief Medical Officer for the Australian Grand Prix and Chief Medical Officer for the Korean Grand Prix, Make Smoking History Forest Rally and Rally Australia. Hagen also served as the National Medical Advisory Committee Chairman, as well as on the FIA’s Medical Commission. The 71-year-old is
26 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
currently the Deputy Medical Delegate for the FIA World Rally Championship in the Asia/Pacific region. “Firstly, it’s an honour to be appointed for this role and a massive compliment to the work I have been doing for the last 30 years,” Hagen said. “I am hopeful that in this role, I can help achieve world class standards of medical services at tarmac rally events, including Targa. “The role will evolve over time, and I am really proud to be able to be part of this new chapter of motorsport safety. “It’s not that these events don’t already have great medical services and practice great safety measures, however it would be great to improve to a worldwide standard. “We are already looking at ways we can improve, and one of those ways includes a training regime used in the WRC, which focuses on developing competitors’ responses when there is an accident as they usually are the first on scene.” Motorsport Australia Director of Motor Sport & Commercial Operations Michael Smith Photos: Speed Shots Photography congratulated Hagen on the role.
2021 SHANNONS MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA CHAMPIONSHIPS CALENDAR Round 1 Phillip Island, Victoria, February 2021 TBC* Round 2 Bathurst 6 Hour, New South Wales, 2-4 April Round 3 Sydney Motorsport Park, New “This is Wales, an important South 1-2 Mayrole we have created for 2022 and I congratulate Round 4 appointment,” Smith said. Rik on his Morgan Park, Queensland, “I25-27 couldn’t Junethink of anyone more qualified to take on the role as Round Rik has a5 wealth of experience Sandown Raceway, in the sportInternational and someone we Victoria, September hold the 10-12 highest regard for. Round 6 “We already have such high practices The Bend Motorsport Park, here for our medical and safety aspect South Australia, 15-17 October but having someone like Rik focused on ways we can improve will only make our world class events safer.”
MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 37
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Photo: Dakar Press Team Australia / Karina Donohoe
UNLIKELY VICTORS IN THRILLING KALGOORLIE BATTLE For the second year running, the Black Diamond Drilling Kalgoorlie Desert Race welcomed a massive field for the BFGoodrich Motorsport Australia Off Road Cup – West. Fifty-eight crews attended the West Australian event, which saw them complete three laps of the 121-kilometre challenging Kalgoorlie-Boulder course across three days of action. In an event filled with drama, SXS Turbo crew Nicholas Hicks and Mark Gater claimed an unlikely victory having fought their way up the field from 16th place.
28 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
Right up until the chequered flag, there was no certainty about who would win the event, with many top contenders falling victim to the unforgiving course and either dropping down the order or completely out of the race. For Hicks and Gator, it was an incredible victory as they crossed the line just two seconds ahead of the SXS Turbo of Jason and Kiera Galea after both crews battled hard for the whole event. Both SXS Turbos benefitted from the problems of the bigger crews, most notably Dean and Jordan Terry – who had comfortably led the field for most of the event.
Having charged to a 15-minute lead, the Terrys looked set on winning the event, only to suffer mechanical drama deep into the final section. The leaders' withdrawal opened it up for the two SXS Turbo pilots, and although Galea was initially well in front, a spirited run from Hicks saw him claim the victory in his first ever appearance at the event. “I had very low expectations for Kalgoorlie, but we had confidence in the car and it was a fantastic weekend,” Hicks said. “It was an amazing event. Kalgoorlie has just a great vibe. The track is pretty
Photos: Dakar Press Team Australia / Andrew Eaton
“We went into it with the frame of mind that the event is not won on the first lap.” - Nicholas Hicks
busy and there is plenty of tight stuff, which is favourable for the SXS. “We went into it with the frame of mind that the event is not won on the first lap. We just talked through the race and took it one section at a time.
fourth place, the best pro buggy for the event came in the form of Paul Nappy and Gavin Cullen – the duo crossing the line three and half minutes behind Grewar, but securing a top five finish and class win in the process.
“Simon Hermann from SBF Engineering has been a massive mentor for me and has guided me through the whole way. I wouldn’t be in the sport if it weren’t for him and again, he was crucial during the event.
A disastrous second section ruined Stephen Ketteridge-Hall and Haylee Cowling’s chances of winning the event outright, however the seventh placed crew didn’t leave the event empty handed as they comfortably won the Prolite class.
“We blew our front diff twice during the weekend – once in the first section and the second during the final section. When that happened, we thought it was over, but we stayed positive and flicked it into 2WD mode, which helped us nurse it to the end."
Other notable class results saw the 12th placed Jeremy Lia and Jamie Tilbrook win the Sportslite class, Steve Pacey and Glenn Chaffer take out Super1650 and Nic Jennings secure the Production 4WD class alongside navigator Sebastian Jennings.
Finishing one and half minutes behind the top two crews were Extreme 2WD winners Brad Krepp and Kerry Yaxley - with the trophy truck rounding out a fairly surprising podium.
Click here to view the full combined results.
With another SXS Turbo crew in Jayden Grewar and Simon Hart finishing in MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 29
BENTLEY WINS CHALLENGING LOVEDAY 400 A dramatic climax to the 2021 CanAm Loveday 400 has seen BFGoodrich Motorsport Australia Off Road Championship (AORC) veteran Hayden Bentley and his daughter Hannah Bentley claim an unlikely victory.
Bentley wasn’t the only one to benefit from Cowie’s heartbreaking section DNF with Proud also picking up the Pro Buggy class victory in the process.
In what proved to be an extremely challenging weekend for the 32 entered crews, just nine were able to finish all 10 laps, including Bentley whose consistency across both days of action at Loveday helped him claim the 400km event by five minutes.
Just five minutes off the podium was Prolite class winner Rich Andrews, while David Adams edged out fellow Sportslite pilot Sam Bentley by 40 seconds to grab a top five finish and the class win.
Finishing the 2021 BFGoodrich Motorsport Australia Off Road Cup – Central race in second place behind the victorious Trophy Truck was Chris Pickert, while rounding out the podium a further eight minutes behind were Tyson and Chris Proud.
Photos: Bob Taylor
Qualifying in second place after an amicable Prologue performance, Bentley ended day one in the same position and trailing leader Wes Cowie by 39 seconds after two completed sections.
With Pickert also winning the Performance 2WD class, the top five drivers all came from different classes, highlighting the diversity the event offers to all competitors.
Cowie looked to have sealed the deal on the first lap of the fifth and final section, going two minutes faster than Bentley and extending the gap out to almost four minutes.
The national off road season has now been completed with all attention to turn to the 2022 AORC season – the calendar to be released in the coming weeks.
However, with just 10km to go on the final lap, Cowie’s Pro Buggy sustained drive shaft damage and he failed to finish the section ruling him out of contention. Cowie’s withdrawal handed the outright victory to Bentley, who also won the Extreme 2WD class win.
30 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
Click here to view full results from the 2021 Can-Am Loveday 400.
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Q&A WITH
OSCAR PIASTRI
Speed Read: So Oscar, how would you rate your season so far?
So, I think it has been the best season I have ever had.
Oscar Piastri: The short answer is that it’s been really good.
I think last year was pretty good, I just not always quite there in terms of pace and was never really the one setting the pace, but was always thereabouts, whereas this year, it feels like I am setting the pace and putting my strengths of my past seasons all together for this year. It’s been a good year so far.
SR: And the long answer? OP: Well, we started off pretty strong with a win in the opening round. Okay, we were a bit lucky and had a good strategy and won that, but I would say that the last three rounds (Silverstone, Monza, Sochi) we have been really strong and really quick. At Silverstone, we didn’t quite manage to convert the pole, but the last two rounds have been almost faultless, particularly in Qualifying and the feature race. Essentially we have had two poles and two feature race wins in a row.
SR: Do you feel that the last three years have really helped shape you to become the driver that you have become? OP: I wouldn’t even say the last three years. From the beginning really. I wouldn’t underestimate the impact that karting has on your development. It’s a very different driving style and technique to what I am driving now but its where you learn your basic fundamentals of racing and in particular racing against people and earning your respect. That all starts from well before you get towards the top. Specific to single seaters, I think pretty much every year has help me developed.
32 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
SR: Speaking of your time in single-seaters, talk us through how your development has improved over the years. OP: In British F4, there were a few things that could have helped me get better.
That first year of the Formula Eurocup with Arden was challenging, but then the series title the following year with R-ace GP was awesome. I felt that was a really strong season for myself. There were still a few things needed to iron out from that, but that was my first ever title fight too and to come out on top was very satisfying. That battle then helped for last year’s championship battle. Hopefully it’s not so much of a battle this year but if does come down to it, I have been in that position twice before and it won’t be anything new. I guess it’s something I am used to. SR: Three years in a row fighting for a title against a teammate is a pretty cool achievement, surely you have exceeded your own expectations this year. OP: I think I have. I knew off the back of last year, I could try and
challenge for the championship, but F2 is a different beast compared to F3, which is also a lot of different to Formula Renault Eurocup. From Eurocup to Formula 2, it’s a different car and a different set of tyres but the races are basically the same length and style, whereas in Formula 2, the weekends consist of two sprint races and a feature race with a pitstop and for me, the changing of the compounds was a big change. I have exceeded my own expectations I may have been quietly confident I could challenge for the title. But I didn’t think I would be leading the championship halfway through and then leading it by more at this stage. It was a dream scenario before the season started
“It’s cool to be the hot topic in the F1 paddock and to be spoken about by F1 drivers and team bosses” What would you put down to your finest moment of the season so far? OP: There have been quite a few moments to be honest. The first one I had for the season was probably the first win, but I didn’t feel super strong. I know it’s weird, but I think it was actually during my first feature race the next day where I crashed with Dan Ticktum. Even though I didn’t finish, it was a big confidence boost because I was running top four from seventh. The pace was there and we were the quickest car on the particular
strategy I was on. The big learnings were my pace, how to control my pace and when to choose my battles. That was the first big moment where I realised that I could fight for at the front and fight for the wins already. Outside of that, the first pole because it had been a long time since I had a pole position. SR: It seems you’re all the talk of the town at the moment with a number of high profile F1 names talking you up – that must feel good? OP: Yes, it’s pretty cool to be honest. Obviously I know quite a bit about the situation next year, so I am not getting ahead of myself. It’s still cool to be the hot topic in the F1 paddock nonetheless and to be spoken about by F1 drivers and team bosses – it’s certainly a proud moment for me. My twitter was blowing up with all those articles, a lot of which have been motorsport websites, but nothing out of the ordinary. SR: Were you even aware of this so called interest from Alfa Romeo? OP: A lot of the talk about the Alfa seat came out of nowhere. I probably
know a lot more about the likelihood and that sort of the staff. But again it was still cool to have that sort of news come out of nowhere. SR: You're involved with an F1 team academy already in Alpine. Do you ever get the chance to bounce ideas off the likes of Fernando Alonso or Esteban Ocon? OP: Not really. There isn’t much crossover or opportunities to chat with them. Firstly because we’re still in COVID bubbles and secondly because they are also flying across world every second weekend. I have seen them around the factory a few times, but we never talk about racing or advice, just normal stuff that people talk about. SR: But you still get a chance to be involved in some way right? OP: I do get to listen in on some of the race weekend communications, which is cool. Alpine and the Academy have been really good at integrating us and keeping us in the loop of what the race team are doing during the weekend. Not setups specific, but just getting more involved in simulator support. We do get direct feedback from them some weekends, so that’s fun.
MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 33
Photo: Lauren Cornes
AUSTRALIAN HILL CLIMB CHAMPIONSHIP CANCELLED The last of this year’s Motorsport Australia National Speed and Auto Tests has been cancelled with the MG Car club of Queensland making the tough decision to call off the 2021 Motorsport Australia Hill Climb Championship. Originally scheduled to take place on 21-24 October, the Motorsport Australia Hill Climb Championship moved the date to 25-28 November to allow as much chance as possible for the event to go ahead. However, with Queensland’s current border restrictions looking unlikely to improve over the next few weeks, the club officially cancelled the event. Like last year, it will once again get the opportunity to host the Motorsport Australia Hill Climb Championship at the popular Mount Cotton Hillclimb in 2022 with the confirmed date to be released in the new year. “It is with much regret that we have to once again cancel the event 34 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
“We are hopeful of confirming a date for the Motorsport Australia Hill Climb Championship early in the new year.” - Annette Truscott, Event Secretary
however due to the uncertainty surrounding a possible date for the opening of the Queensland borders, we just couldn’t proceed,” event secretary Annette Truscott said. “We are hopeful of confirming a date for the Motorsport Australia Hill Climb Championship early in the new year and will announce it as soon as we know. “The MG Car club Queensland would like to take this opportunity
to thank everyone for their patience, understanding and support. It was all very much appreciated.” With the other Motorsport Australia National Speed and Auto Tests having been cancelled last month, Director of Motorsport & Commercial Operations Michael Smith thanked the club for trying to continue this year. “There was a small hope we could get at least one of the four national events completed this year, but unfortunately it just wasn’t meant to be,” Smith said. “A big thank you must go out to the MG Car Club Queensland for doing all they could to proceed with the event and waiting for as long as they could before pulling the pin. “At this point, we now turn to 2022 and look forward to the four clubs finally getting the chance to host the national events after what will have been two years of waiting.”
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Photos: EDGE Photographics
SUPERCARS BACK WITH A BANG The Repco Supercars Championship returned in style last month after more than 104 days between race meetings, with Sydney Motorsport Park hosting the Bunnings Trade Sydney SuperNight. While a few teams and drivers would have been forgiven for being rusty after such a long break, Dick
Johnson Racing’s Anton De Pasquale didn’t show any signs of rustiness.
two’s qualifying sessions, grabbing pole positions on each occasion.
The 26-year-old was the centre of attention for both days as he claimed a clean sweep of pole positions and won two races either side of disqualification in the other.
Starting from the front row for the weekend’s second race, a sluggish start from the Victorian allowed up to seven cars to pass him off the line, however he fought his way back into the contest to finish fifth.
The first day Supercars’ resumption at Eastern Creek saw De Pasquale dominate the field, converting his pole position to the win and crossing the line five seconds ahead of Championship leader Shane van Gisbergen. Brodie Kostecki rounded out the podium after an exciting threeway battle with Brad Jones Racing’s Nick Percat and Erebus Motorsport teammate Will Brown. De Pasqaule was once again a cut above the rest during both of day
36 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
Ahead of him, his teammate Will Davison was locked into a tight battle with van Gisbergen after the former had done a brilliant job after gaining the lead on lap one. Unfortunately an electronics issue for the Mustang pilot allowed van Gisbergen to pass him in the pit lane and the Triple Eight Racing star ended up charging home to grab his 12th win of the season.
Photos: EDGE Photographics
In another blow to what was already a forgettable outing for DJR, De Pasquale had his fifth place finish and points stripped postrace after it was found the team mistakenly fitted one of teammate Will Davison's tyres onto De Pasquale's car during the pit stop. None of those dramas would affect the team when it came to the final race though as De Pasquale converted his pole position to another race win, holding off a fast charging Brown. A fair way behind De Pasquale and Brown were both Triple Eight Racing cars with Jamie Whincup claiming the final podium spot at the expense of van Gisbergen. While there was a significant wait between rounds before the Bunnings Trade Sydney SuperNight, November will prove to be a busy period for the championship with three consecutive weekends at Sydney Motorsport Park. The 2021 season will then wrap at the end of November and start of Decvember with the iconic Repco Bathurst 1000.
RACE 20 1. 2. 3.
Anton De Pasquale Shane van Gisbergen Brodie Kostecki
RACE 21 1. 2. 3.
Shane van Gisbergen Will Davison Nick Percat
RACE 22 1. 2. 3.
Anton De Pasquale Will Brown Jamie Whincup
CHAMPIONSHIP TOP 10 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.
Shane van Gisbergen – 2198 points Jamie Whincup - 1860 Will Davison - 1735 Chaz Mostert - 1702 Cameron Waters - 1670 Anton De Pasquale - 1451 Nick Percat - 1342 Mark Winterbottom - 1272 Will Brown - 1222 Brodie Kostecki – 1208
REMAINING SUPERCARS CALENDAR 6-7 November - ARMOR ALL Sydney SuperNight Sydney Motorsport Park
13-14 November - BP Ultimate Sydney SuperSprint - Sydney Motorsport Park
19-21 November - Beaurepaires Sydney SuperNight - Sydney Motorsport Park 30 November - 6 December - Repco Bathurst 1000 - Mount Panorama
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