SPEED READ S E P T E M B E R
2 0 2 1
WA OFF ROAD HITTING ITS STRIDE Steven Phillips has pulled off a brilliant victory in the Motorsport Australia WA Off Road Championship to claim the Cochranes Transport Mid-West Challenge in unlikely circumstances.
POHLNER ON TOP IN SA AFTER SUPER EFFORT
SEPTEMBER UPCOMING STATE EVENTS
TAYLOR EMBRACING CAREER-BEST 2021
The Motorsport Australia South Australian Rally Championship season has taken another twist in with Jamie Pohlner becoming the latest driver to win an event.
Check out the upcoming club and state events happening all around the country in September.
Two FIA Girls on Track ambassadors, Molly Taylor and Emma Notarfrancesco discussed a range of topics on their live chat, including Taylor’s impressive career so far.
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CONTENTS 4
What's on in September?
6
Pohlner on top in SA after super effort
8
Juniors impress during Tasmanian Motorkhana Championship
10
Phillips secures memorable Mid West victory
12
Victorian Government opens latest round of grant applications
14
Taylor embracing career-best 2021
16
Club Development Fund boosting grassroots
18
Girls on Track shines in the sunshine state
21
Motorsport Club Assistance Funding successfully boosts industry
22
Ricciardo's Racers takes over Norwell
24
CARS club hold successful motorkhana
26
Ingham proves big hit once again
28
Off Road calendar updated
29
Finke premieres on 7plus
30
ARC 2021 calendar update
32
FIA Driver Categorisation deadline closing in
33
Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships update
34
Motorsport Australia Sportscar Championship EOI
36
Ultimate Bathurst Prize
37
State Council & State Panel 2022–2024 nominations
6 10 14 22 26
COVER PHOTO With 35 crews from around state taking part in the Motorsport Australia WA Off Road Championship's third round, it was Steven and Riley Phillips who took out the Cochranes Transport Mid-West Challenge after a thrilling climax. Photo: Dakar Press Team Australia
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
29
WHAT'S ON IN
SEPTEMBER?
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 12 September: 2021 G K Denney Tyres Lap Dash - Round 2 18 September: Subinats 21 Boosted Performance Parts Shotgun Shootout and Motorkhana 19 September: 2021 Super Cheap Auto Spectacular 19 September: Club Lap Dash 26 September: Rallycross Round 3 26 September: Track School Trackday
QUEENSLAND 2 September: Targa Great Barrier Reef - 2021 Motorsport Australia Targa Championship - Round 1 3-5 September: QLD Titles - Khanacross 3-5 September: Pittsworth Sprints 2021 4 September: Mt Cotton Hillclimb Interclub Challenge 10-12 September: Cheapa Auto Spares 2021 Sprint Round 6 10-12 September: Noosa Classica Car Show 11 September: Globe Roamer Rally II 11 September: PCQ Come and Try 11-12 September: 2021 Historic Leyburn Sprints 12 September: Noosa Classica Tour
Photo: Red CentreNATS NT: Red CentreNATS, 3-5 September The Red CentreNATS return this month with more than 700 vehicles expected to be on show during the festival, which includes competition events, show and shines and lots of family friendly entertainment.
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Photo: Trapnell Creations QLD: 2021 Historic Leyburn Sprints, 11-12 September Despite being pushed back a couple of weeks, Leyburn will get the chance to celebrate the 1945 Australian Grand Prix for the first time in two years with the popular Leyburn Sprints taking place this month.
12 September: Geary Sports Car Annual Concours and Club Display 17-19 September: 2021 Historic Queensland 18-19 September: Rd 2 2021 Qld NSW Sprint Challenge & Rd 2 2021 Short Circuit Touring Cars Series 18-19 September: TCAC Round 3 Khanacross Series 19 September: QLD Motorkhana Championship & Series 19 September: Round 9 2021 Club Championship Round 1 Interclub Challenge 19 September: Open Sprint Rd 5 19 September: The Engine Shop Targa City Sprint 25-26 September: FNQ Rd 5 Gravel & R2 Interclub Khanacross 25-26 September: Mt Cotton Hillclimb R5
26 September: Mount Stuart Hillclimb Series Round 4 26 September: Tamborine Khanacross
SOUTH AUSTRALIA AND NORTHERN TERRITORY 3-5 September: [NT] Red CentreNATS 4-5 September: [NT] 2021 Triple Crown Drift Invitational 4-5 September: The Bend Classic 10-12 September: The Motorsport Australia South Australian Hill Climb Championship 12 September: Walky Park Khanacross Round 2 of the 2021 SA Khanacross Championship
17-19 September: [NT] Round 3 NAMSC 18-19 September: Motorsport Australia SCCSA 2021 State Motor Racing Championship - Round 4 19 September: 2021 SA Autocross Series Round 2 25 September: Streaky Bay Khanacross 26 September: S & J Automotive WRXSA Hillclimb Challenge
TASMANIA 11 September: State Championship Motorkhana Round 4 17-19 September: Baskerville Historics 25 September: Backwards Basky 2
VICTORIA 11 September: Khanacross & Motorkhana Avalon 12 September: MSCA Super Sprint 12 September: Multiclub Khanacross 17-19 September: PIARC Supersprint 18-19 September: Come and Try Days 19 September: Madcc Round 6 19 September: Western Victorian Crane Trucks Valley Stages 24 September: Sandown Spring Sprint 25 September: Impreza WRX Club Round 4 Motorsport 25-26 September: Victorian State Circuit Racing Championships Round 5 26 September: Victorian Hillclimb Championship Round 2 2021 26 September: METEC Motorkhana & Khanacross
Photo: Bob Taylor SA: Motorsport Australia SCCSA 2021 State Motor Racing Championship - Round 4, 18-19 September The State Motor Racing Championship has been highly consistent this year and competitors from a range of different categories will get the chance to compete at The Bend Motorsport Park.
WESTERN AUSTRALIA 4-5 September: Collie Motorplex Sprint 5 September: PC WA SSR7 5 September: Autocross Round 5 10-12 September: RallyVent 2021 11-12 September: Perth SuperNight 16-19 September: 2021 Make Smoking History Targa West 25 September: Badgi Bash
Photo: MG Car Club Tasmania TAS: State Championship Motorkhana Round 4, 11 September Tasmania's motorkhana state championship is in a fantastic position with consistent numbers, good development and entertaining battles for the title. The season continues this month with round four.
Photo: Sports Pixx Sports Photography
WA: Collie Motorplex Sprint, 4-5 September After a two-month break, the Motorsport Australia WA Speed Event Series with a double-header at Collie Motorplex. The season is reaching the pointy end with just five rounds remaining, including this weekend's at Collie.
MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 5
Photo: Matthew Talbot
POHLNER ON TOP IN SA AFTER SUPER EFFORT The 2021 Motorsport Australia South Australian Rally Championship season has taken another twist in the entertaining title fight with Jamie Pohlner becoming the latest driver to win an event. Taking place in Eudunda and its surrounds, the Copyworld Walky 100 welcomed a record number of 29 entries for the 150 competitive kilometre rally as they tackled 12 stages over a variety of lighting conditions. What started out as a tough battle for Pohlner, who was steering his
6 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
new Mitsubishi Evo 9 alongside Adam Branford, ended up being a comfortable finish as his closest rival in Nicholas Cagney retired after just three stages. After Cagney’s retirement, Pohlner and Branford gradually extended their lead after winning the next seven stages to make it nine consecutive before the second placed Stuart Bowes and Mark Nelson finished strong with victories in the final two stages. Bowes and Nelson’s late charge didn’t make a difference though as Pohlner and Branford won
with a one and half minute buffer separating the two top crews. Adding another podium to his impressive haul a further one and half minutes off the pace was Hunt and co-driver Jeremy Browne, while RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Rally Championship rookie Ryan Poel claimed fourth place alongside Bec Cutting. Rounding out the top five was Daren Herring and co-driver Matthew Wood. Following his victory, Pohlner was thrilled with the new car and its future.
Photos: Matthew Talbot
“We were a bit surprised with the speed of the car because we only got it a week before the event” - Jamie Pohlner
“We were a bit surprised with the speed of the car because we only got it a week before the event and we weren’t able to do any testing, so it was great to get off to a good start with it,” Pohlner said. “The car was quick and it definitely gives me hope, but with a couple of the real quick guys getting DNFs, it made it a bit easier. Still I am super impressed with the car. “Our main competition was going to be Nick as he is in my old car and it showed over the first few stages, but once he was
out, it was quite comfortable and we focused on staying consistent which we did. “Not sure where this leaves us. We’ll obviously do the South Australian ARC round and then maybe do a few more rounds on the national stage in the near future.” The next round of the Motorsport Australia South Australian Rally Championship will be as a component of the ARC’s AGI Sport Adelaide Hills Rally on 22-24 October.
MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 7
Photos: Motorsport Club of Tasmania
JUNIORS IMPRESS DURING TASMANIAN MOTORKHANA CHAMPIONSHIP The Motorsport Club of Tasmania held another successful round of the Motorsport Australia Tasmanian Motorkhana Championship in August with 31 competitors taking part.
While the sporting aspect itself proved to be quite the spectacle for those in attendance, the event proved a success as a result of the club’s commitment to the unearthing future talent.
Held at Symmons Plains Raceway, the competitors had two attempts at six different tests with their best time from each test accruing to an overall time.
Taking part in the event were 11 junior drivers, with each using the using the motorkhana for different parts of their own development.
It was a close battle at the top of the timesheets throughout the event as Stephen Turner and Timothy Craggs exchanged test wins, however it was Turner who eventually won – securing his second consecutive victory by just two seconds.
An impressive display from Kate Figgel saw the 15-year-old end up 13th fastest outright, and as the fastest junior of the day. She was one of three junior drivers to run a Hyundai Excel for the event, with 14-year-old Maklyn Midgley and 15-year-old Bella Wood also running in the same car. With assistance from the club, the trio are looking to compete in the Hyundai Excel series as part of the Motorsport Australia Tasmania Circuit Championships in the future. Event organiser Damien Midgley was proud of all the juniors for their efforts in the motorkhana and their development in the sport. “It’s fantastic that one third of the state championship’s field were young drivers who are wanting to enhance their skills behind the wheel,” Midgley said.
8 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
“What’s even better was that some of them were quite competitive with three finishing inside the top 20. “Many of the more experienced members were quite impressed with their efforts, in particular the three Excel drivers. “Maklyn and Kate both started doing motorkhanas towards the end of 2019 with Kate completing her first track day last month at Baskerville and Bella running in just her third motorkhana last month. “All three are doing quite nicely in their journey to eventually race Excels one, however all our juniors deserve a pat on the back for their enthusiasm to continue learning.”
Click here to view the full results.
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Photo: Dakar Press Team Australia
PHILLIPS SECURES MEMORABLE MID WEST VICTORY Steven Phillips has pulled off a brilliant victory in the Motorsport Australia WA Off Road Championship to claim the Cochranes Transport Mid-West Challenge in unlikely circumstances. With 35 crews from around the state taking part in the championship’s third round, it was Phillips and navigator Riley Phillips who took out the event after a thrilling climax.
10 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
Starting the event fourth off the line, Phillips managed to move up into third by the end of the first section where he stayed until the end of the second section.
In second place, almost seven minutes behind Phillips, was another Pro-Buggy crew in David Rowett and Derrick De Bruyn with the duo comfortably in second place by more than 12 minutes.
Trailing a fast charging Stephen Ketteridge-Hall and Harleigh Uren heading into the final section, Phillips was rewarded for persistence as both Ketteridge-Hall and Uren were forced to retire on the final section – giving Phillips the outright victory.
Rounding out the podium was Extreme 2WD Trophy Truck pilot Brad Krepp and navigator Kerry Yaxley after the duo pulled off a brilliant final section to jump Murray Kifer and Latia Rodgers at the end.
Photos: Dakar Press Team Australia
Although their poor final section cost them an outright podium by just over a minute, Kifer and Rodgers didn’t go home empty handed as they secured the SXS Turbo class victory over Jayden Grewar and Justyn Grewar in fifth place. Other notable results saw the sixth placed Jared Percival secure Prolite honours and Peer Horn claim the Extreme 4WD class alongside Oliver Horn, despite being the last car to finish the event in 15th. The next round of the Motorsport Australia WA Off Road Championship is the Three Springs 330 on 25-26 September.
Click here to view the full results.
MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 11
VICTORIAN GOVERNMENT OPENS LATEST ROUND OF GRANT APPLICATIONS
Photo: MG Car Club of Victoria
Another round of the Victorian Government’s Community Motorsport Program has officially opened, with Motorsport Australia affiliated clubs in Victoria now able to apply for another round of Infrastructure and Equipment grants. Open until 11:59pm on 10 November 2021, Victorian clubs can apply for either infrastructure development grants of up to $500,000, or grants to help purchase equipment up to the value of $50,000. Twelve clubs, including the Ararat Car Club and the MG Car Club of Victoria, were successful in receiving
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“The funds will make a significant difference to the operation of the venue” - Ian Prior, Rob Roy Hill Climb project manager
Infrastructure and Equipment grants in the first round of funding. Rob Roy Hill Climb project manager at MG Car Club Victoria, Ian Prior was thrilled with the funding and what it would do for the region. “The funds will make a significant difference to the operation of the venue and ensure a better
competitor, volunteer and spectator experience – the whole community will benefit,” Prior said.
Click here for more information on the Community Motorsport Program.
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“I think this is my best year ever.”
Photo: Sam Bloxham
TAYLOR EMBRACING CAREER-BEST 2021 The latest edition of Motorsport Australia’s online FIA Girls On Track program, presented by Burson Auto Parts, saw rally star Molly Taylor and motorsport journalist Emma Notarfrancesco enjoy an insightful one-on-one chat. Held via Motorsport Australia’s Instagram channel last month, the two FIA Girls on Track ambassadors fielded questions from viewers and discussed a range of topics, including Taylor’s impressive career so far. Having gone to another level this year, Taylor is currently overseas contesting rounds of the FIA World
14 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
Rally Championship (WRC), and Extreme E Series under 2016 Formula 1 world champion Nico Rosberg. It’s her switch into Extreme E racing that has impressed many around the world as she and teammate, Swedish three-time World Rallycross champion Johan Kristoffersson, have convincingly won the opening two rounds of the inaugural season. However, while the 33-year-old is a deserving candidate for a position in the series, she revealed during the online interview that she was quite surprised with how the approach to drive with Rosberg came about.
“I got an email from Nico through my website and he wanted to talk about Extreme E, but I thought it was someone playing a practical joke on me who was going to get a good laugh out of it,” Taylor said. “However, I didn’t not want to reply because there was a one per cent chance that it could actually be him, so when we arranged a facetime and it real was Nico, it was incredible. Having those sorts of conversations and planning in lockdown was surreal. “I think this is my best year ever. To be overseas, competing at a high level with a three-time rallycross champion as my
Photo: Colin McMaster
Photo: Charly Lopez
teammate and a Formula 1 world champion as my boss is awesome. “There are so many things about it that are surreal, when you sit back and think that this series didn’t even exist two years. It has certainly helped the trajectory of my career.” Outside of Taylor’s 2021 aspirations, the duo also discussed women in motorsport, their support of Girls on Track and how the pair believed the program could give young girls a terrific insight into what motorsport was really like. “I think it’s great that this program can open up the door and provide opportunities and insight to young girls who are curious or might not even know much about motorsport at all,” Taylor explained.
“Hopefully we can get more girls to have more motorsport experiences - not just as a driver, but maybe team management, engineering, mechanics, media and all that other stuff. “It’s an incredible opportunity for girls to see the sport – the may decide they don’t like it but lots of people usually see how cool this is and why we are so passionate about it and why we continue.”
Watch the full FIA Girls On Track chat with Molly and Emma here.
“I grew up watching rally, but I didn’t understand how cool it was until I actually got into it myself and then that changed everything.
MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 15
CLUB DEVELOPMENT FUND BOOSTING GRASSROOTS The first instalment of the 2021 Motorsport Australia Club Development Fund has seen 13 affiliated clubs from four states receive financial grants. Established by Motorsport Australia to help grow membership and participation opportunities, the program has seen more than $100,000 distributed to our affiliated clubs since 2015. More than $13,000 was granted in this round, with each club using the funding to support various projects, training programs and/ or the purchase of equipment. New South Wales was the largest benefactor with six clubs received funding, including the Christian Autosports Club Of Australia, Renault Car Club Of Australia and Formula Vee Association Of New South Wales. Western Australia and South Australia each had three major clubs
Photo: Christian Autosports Club of Australia
“We have some members in our club who are on the autism spectrum and we just felt that there needed to be some education for our other members,” Orrock said. “There was a lack of understanding going on and for us the best way to move forward is to educate people because knowledge is power. We wanted to educate our members that these people are just a bit different. “The woman who addressed the club was brilliant and gave the attendees the tools on how to deal with autism, which we believe will help achieve greater inclusion throughout the whole club.
Photo: North Australian Motor Sports Club
“We have received a lot of positive feedback and people are starting to offer suggestions on how they can communicate better, which shows the lecture was a great success.
approved for funding, while the Northern Territory’s North Australian Motor Sports Club rounded out the list of successful clubs.
SAMROA Assistant Secretary and member of the Training and Competition Committee, Janelle Orrock, was grateful the club received support to help secure the guest speaker from Autism SA for a subject that was vital. 16 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
- Janelle Orrock, SAMROA Assistant Secretary
Motorsport Australia CEO Eugene Arocca was full of praise for the clubs that were successful in the first round of 2021 Club Development Fund. “A big congratulations to all 13 clubs and their successful applications,” Arocca said. “We look forward to seeing the clubs benefit from these grants that will assist with increasing participation. “Motorsport Australia is always keen to help out where we can and the Club Development Fund is one of a number of ways in which we support our clubs.
One of the clubs to receive funding was the South Australian Motor Racing Officials Association (SAMROA), which used the funds for an education lecture on Autism. Including the lecture as part of a general training day, the session’s aim is to improve the communication between its members and some of the club’s other members who are on the autism spectrum.
“The CDF enables clubs like us to complete projects that have been putting off because of financial reasons.”
“I encourage any clubs with small projects in the pipeline or those needing to purchase equipment to consider applying for assistance.” Photo: South Australian Motor Racing Officials Association
“We’re very grateful to Motorsport Australia for giving us these opportunities. “The Club Development Fund enables clubs like us to complete projects that have been putting off because of financial reasons.”
The second and final round of the 2021 Club Development Fund campaign began last month and will continue to accept applications until 11:59pm on 31 October.
Click here for more information on how to apply for Motorsport Australia’s Club Development Fund.
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GIRLS ON TRACK SHINES IN THE SUNSHINE STATE The FIA Girls on Track Program took to Queensland late last month, with Norwell Motorplex and Triple Eight Race Engineering hosting events.
Norwell Motorplex was the first event to run of the two as it welcomed a number of schoolgirls from around the area to take part.
The program aims to build interest in all elements of motorsport amongst school aged girls in order to increase female participation in STEM subjects and highlight the opportunities available in the motorsport industry as a whole, not just behind the wheel.
Like many of the Girls on Track events, the girls participated in plenty of activities at the circuit such as a pit stop challenge, fitness and reaction, a STEM/ Lego workshop and media training.
18 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
While participants also got a chance
to jump on the simulator for some laps of iconic global circuits, one of the more popular activities was the go-kart sessions on the racetrack, putting the students’ driving skills to the test. Lola, who was attending her first FIA Girls on Track program, was inspired by the event and was eager to work towards becoming a race engineer.
Photos: Jules Ingall
“I want to be an
engineer and work on race cars in the future and doing things like STEM helped with that.” - Lola - student participant
“I really enjoyed the day, especially being able to race the kart on the track,” Lola said. “I also had fun during the STEM workshop. I learned how to build a car – even if it was with Lego. I want to be an engineer and work on race cars in the future and doing things like STEM helped with that.” The following day, Triple Eight Race Engineering held the second event with many of the similar activities available for attendees – only instead of getting to cut laps on a race track, the participants were treated to an exclusive tour of the Repco Supercars Championship team’s workshop by Triple Eight Commercial Operations
Officer and Co-Owner and Girls on Track ambassador Jessica Dane. Triple Eight engineer Romy Meyer and Earl Bamber Motorsport’s Madeline Stewart were also on hand across the two days to help the program. The next instalment of FIA Girls on Track will be at The Bend Motorsport Park as part of the Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships on 16-17 October.
Click here for more information on FIA Girls On Track.
MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 19
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Photo: Revved Photography
MOTORSPORT CLUB ASSISTANCE FUNDING SUCCESSFULLY BOOSTS INDUSTRY More than 100 grant applications were successful during the second round of the program, with funds dedicated toward Safety and Operational Equipment, Volunteer and Officials Training, Women and Girls Participation, and Events and Activities. Some of the successful clubs to receive funding included the Ballarat Light Car Club, who received $10,000 for participation and safety equipment, the Lotus Club Victoria who used its $5000 funding to run a women and girls ‘Beyond Driver Training’ Program, and the Motorsport Australia Victorian State Circuit Racing Championships, who received $20,000 for their fifth round of the 2021 season.
and improve the experience they can offer at all levels of participation and competition,” Spence said. “Support for events and infrastructure are important, and so is training and education for the volunteers who are the heart and soul of clubs across the state.”
“It’s been a tough 18 months for all of us in the sporting community, and I am sure the Community Motorsport Program will go a long way in helping Victorian grassroots clubs. “It might not be something clubs have considered, so I encourage them to consider making an application as soon as possible. Our staff are always willing to assist with completing applications and as has already been seen, hundreds of thousands of dollars in grants have already been made to our clubs.”
“These financial assistance programs are fantastic opportunities for clubs to receive money for their projects”
Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence was pleased to see so many clubs receive funding and was excited for what they would do for the growth of motorsport. “We’re backing Victoria’s motorsport clubs to grow their membership
- Eugene Arocca, Motorsport Australia CEO
Motorsport Australia CEO Eugene Arocca echoed Spence’s comments and believed the program would be very beneficial. “These financial assistance programs are fantastic opportunities for clubs to receive money for their projects,” Arocca added.
The Victorian Government’s Motorsport Club Assistance program is currently open, and applications will remain open until 21 December, 2021 The current round of applications for Infrastructure and Equipment will close on 10 November, 2021.
Click here to view a full listing of already approved grant recipients.
MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 21
RICCIARDO'S RACERS TAKES OVER NORWELL Motorsport Australia’s junior development program has welcomed plenty of eager young guns keen to get their first taste of motorsport at Norwell Motorplex.
On top of each session and slalom challenge, the participants also spent time learning the fundamentals, as well as getting a hot lap in the Mustang from the experienced racing drivers.
Visiting every state around the country, Ricciardo’s Racers is a program aimed at helping young Australians aged 12–17 to learn the basics of motorsport and build their skills through fun exercises in a Ford Mustang.
Out of the participants, Rudraksh Seth was eventually crowned as the slalom champion – an impressive feat considering it was his first time behind the car.
With sessions taking place on both Saturday and Sunday, the participants completed a number of activities to learn about essential driving skills under the guidance of experienced instructors before wrapping up with a timed slalom challenge. Helping the teenagers throughout the weekend were Dunlop Super2 Series star Jayden Ojeda, Toyota 86 Series driver Lachie Dalton and Earl Bamber Motorsport’s Madeline Stewart.
“I felt pretty good to win the slalom course as it was one of my first times driving, which was really exciting,’ Seth said.
“The instructors
were detailed and easy to follow and they were really good at assisting us.” - Rudraksh Seth
Photos: [Photographer]
22 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
Photo: [Photographer]
“There was a lot to enjoy about the program. Especially the Slalom course and getting to do hot lap. It was fun being timed because you had to push yourself to the limit.
“The instructors were really good and super friendly. They were very skilled, which we saw during the hot lap. All three of them were great, especially Jayden.
“I rate the program 10 out of 10. I didn’t find anything wrong with it. The instructors were detailed and easy to follow and they were really good at assisting us.”
“I would highly recommend this program. If you enjoy racing, learning how to drive and being in cars, then this program is perfect for you.”
Another participant in Tanner Ash also enjoyed himself and highly recommended the program. “My favourite part was the Slalom challenge. It was really good to drive the Mustang. It was really fast. I just loved it,” Ash said.
The next Ricciardo’s Racers will be at The Bend Motorsport Park in October.
Click here for more information on Ricciardo's Racers.
“If you enjoy racing, learning how to drive and being in cars, then this program is perfect for you. ” - Tanner Ash
MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 23
Photos: Central Australian Rally Sports
CARS CLUB HOLD SUCCESSFUL MOTORKHANA The Central Australian Rally Sports (CARS) Club held its Pedro Mac's Memorial Motorkhana last month with 15 club members contesting the event at the famous Finke Desert Race complex. With competitors getting two attempts at four different courses and their best time from each combining to a final accumulated time, it was Phil Drew who turned out to be the standout performer as he won three of the four heats. Although he didn’t get to enjoy a clean sweep of wins, Drew still comfortably took out a five and half second victory having solidified his lead early in the event. Drew’s first biggest challenger came through Phillip Kerr who trailed by just two seconds at the halfway point before a disappointing third heat saw him lose touch with the leader and open the door for Yuri Kardashyan to have a crack.
However with Kardashyan struggling in the first half of the event and Drew highly consistent with his times, neither driver was able to get close to the leader. After his tough start, Kardashyan bounced back nicely in the third heat to win it outright and put himself
“These events really highlight the great camaraderie amongst our members” - Leonie Kerr, Central Australian Rally Sports club director
in contention for a runner-up finish, before making sure of it during the final heat when he went faster than Kerr again and clinched the minor honour. Missing out on a podium finish by just three tenths of a second was Chris McCormack, while Mitch Lawson rounded out the top five and took out a class victory in the process. Other notable results saw Taylah McDowell as the fastest out of women and Matthew Pearson the best junior driver.
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Remarkably, the motorkhana was Mitch Lawson’s first event with the club, while both McDowell and Jordan Lawson were one of three drivers who had competed just a couple of events before. Club director Leonie Kerr was thrilled following what was a successful event. “We had perfect weather for another perfect event for our club which is really important during this difficult time,” Kerr said. “There were so many people who work really hard behind the scenes, so a big thanks to all our event officials and club members who helped make the day possible, as well as a MOTORmotion for sponsoring and supporting our events. “A big congratulations to all the competitors, especially Phil for a well deserved victory and Matthew who continues to impress and improve with every event. “These events really highlight the great camaraderie amongst our members, which is what motorsport is all about.” The club’s next event will be a khanacross on 19 September.
Click here to view all the results.
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Photo: Mark Callaghan
INGHAM PROVES BIG HIT ONCE AGAIN 26 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
The Townsville City Autosports Club has once again held another successful edition of its annual Ingham Toyota Forest Rally with 16 crews featuring in the nine-stage event.
Taking out the victory after an almost perfect display was Lee Williams and Tom Bell with the duo winning six of the nine stages, including an impressive four-ina-row run to wrap up the event.
While there was some initial uncertainty about whether the event would go ahead last month due to lockdown restrictions, the state’s decision to open up regional areas helped the club put it on.
In second place almost two minutes behind was Paul Trezona and Ben Littlefield – a mighty effort considering it was Littlefield’s first ever event, while Megan Byrne rounded out the podium alongside David Byrne.
Despite the reduced entry list, it still went off without a hitch as crews put on a show for as long as they could – mechanical issues plaguing half of the field and preventing them from finishing.
RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Rally Championship crew Simon and Elysia Jansen had won the first stage before being one of the many to fall to mechanical
Photos: Mark Callaghan
“Everything was well received and competitors who travelled were very impressed” - Geoff Nicol, Ingham Toyota Forest Rally Event Organiser
dramas. Despite later returning and winning two stages, it was too little too late for the team. Event organiser Geoff Nicol was rapt with the event and was looking forward to many more to come. “The event went really well it was better than expected,” Nicol said. “It had been a number of years since we ran two of the stages. We weren’t sure how people would feel about it, but after making some changes, everything was well received and competitors who travelled were very impressed.
“A lot of the feedback from competitors and officials was quite positive which was good and it gives us hope to run it good event again this year. “The council is happy for us to do it again next year and we have already locked in a few things which is great.” The Ingham Toyota Forest Rally will take place on 20 August, 2022.
Click here to view the full results.
MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 27
Photo: Terry Hill Photography
OFF ROAD CALENDAR UPDATED The Hindmarsh Shire Rainbow Desert Enduro will not take place in 2021. Originally scheduled for at the end of August, the Victorian Off Road Racing Association (VORRA) pushed Rainbow back to a new date in September. However, with border restrictions and lockdowns in place across regional Victoria, VORRA made the call to cancel the BFGoodrich Motorsport Australia Off Road Championship (AORC) round. VORRA President Tony Carabott was disappointed to announce the cancellation. ”It is with sadness that we are cancelling the 2021 Hindmarsh Shire Rainbow Desert Enduro, but we just didn’t think it was feasible to run at this point,” Carabott said. “We’re now four weeks out from the event and while some may consider it quite early to pull the plug, many event organisers would know a lot goes into running a national event and there is a time where there is no turning back. That time is now. “It’s highly disappointing that we can’t run an AORC round this year, but we will look towards a bigger and better 2022.” Motorsport Australia Director of Motorsport & Commercial Operations Michael Smith echoed Carabott’s comments on the disappointment of Rainbow’s cancellation. “Rainbow is a fantastic spectacle for many people and it’s disappointing that it’s the first AORC event for the year to be cancelled,” Smith said.
28 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
“In any case, this sort of news will never be easy to hear and I applaud Tony and his team at VORRA for hanging on for as long as they could. “The reality in these situations is that there is plenty of uncertainty at the moment and the best we can do is just hope that things will improve over the coming months.” With Rainbow now cancelled, the 2021 Black Diamond Drilling Kalgoorlie Desert Race and Can-Am Loveday 400 will run as back-to-back rounds in October, subject to border restrictions easing later this year. Although first calendared to be the season finale of the 2021 season, the popular Kalgoorlie event will for now continue to run as both a round of the AORC and Motorsport Australia West Australian Off Road Championship, and in the same format which has made the event the popular and iconic race that it is. Competitors will then be given the opportunity to head straight to South Australia for the rescheduled Loveday event, meaning teams can stay on the road and will be able to complete two rounds in one ‘trip’, meaning
border restrictions will hopefully be less of a factor in this format. “2021 has forced us to look at some different ways to get as many rounds of the Championship as possible,” Smith added. “We’re also aware and understand that travel to some of the remaining events may not be possible to run as national events, but we will make those decisions closer to the scheduled dates with as much notice for competitors as possible. We will continue to monitor state border restrictions to ensure the Championship remains fair and open to as many as possible. "Back-to-back rounds will allow competitors to potentially spend a week or two on the road, without having to go home and then risk not being able to leave their home state if things change. “A huge thank you must go to all event organisers and our sponsors for their ongoing support during this unprecedented time."
2021 BFGOODRICH MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA OFF ROAD CHAMPIONSHIP CALENDAR Round 1: Cobb & Co St George 399 – completed Round 2: Tatts Finke Desert Race – completed Round 3: Kalgoorlie Desert Race – 21-24 October Round 4: Can-Am Loveday – 29-31 October
FINKE PREMIERES ON 7PLUS Extensive highlights of the Tatts Finke Desert Race are now available to watch free and on demand on 7plus. 7plus, Seven Network’s free video streaming service, premiered the 2021 race on-demand in August. The show will take a detailed look back at the second round of the BFGoodrich Motorsport Australia Off Road Championship, as well as the bike component of the event.
Included in the show will be racing highlights, competitor interviews and spotlight features, giving off road fans an insight into the biggest off-road event in Australia.
In the bikes, local David Walsh secured his second ‘King of the Desert’ title ahead of Victorian Jack Simpson and the third placed Beau Ralston.
This year saw international star Toby Price finally secure that long awaited victory on four-wheels ahead of championship leader Josh Howells and West Australian veteran Beau Robinson.
2021 SHANNONS Click here to view the MOTORSPORT documentary on 7plus. 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 South Wales, 1-2 May Round 4 Morgan Park, Queensland, 25-27 June Round 5 Sandown International Raceway, Victoria, 10-12 September Round 6 The Bend Motorsport Park, South Australia, 15-17 October
Photos: Speed Shots Photos: Terry HillPhotography Photography
MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 37 29
ARC 2021 CALENDAR UPDATE Further changes to the RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Rally Championship (ARC) have been confirmed. This month’s Les Walkden Enterprises Rally Tasmania will not run in 2021, however the event will take place next year, having already been announced as round three of next year’s championship. Despite this disappointing news, Motorsport Australia can today confirm it will add another event to
the 2021 calendar, with a Coffs Coast double header now scheduled for 20-21 November followed by the FIA Asia Pacific Rally Championship final on 26-28 November. The new Coffs event will be a shorter event, known as the Coffs Sprint Rally, with roads from previous Rally Australia events expected to be used. This additional round means the Championship will still feature five separate rounds this year, with the AGI Sport Adelaide Hills Rally in October, back-to-back Coffs Coast events and the two rounds already completed in Canberra and Gympie.
“We will now focus on delivering an amazing event in 2022 in Launceston”
Motorsport Australia Director of Motorsport and Commercial Operations Michael Smith said while the cancellation of Tasmania was understandably disappointing, October and November promised a busy and exciting finish to 2021.
- Michael Smith, Motorsport Australia Director of Motorsport and Commercial Operations
“The ongoing uncertainty around borders and the changing travel restrictions have forced our hand in announcing the cancellation of the Les Walkden Enterprises Rally Tasmania,” Smith explained. “We were eager to get to Tasmania and put on a fantastic event, however we know a call needed
to be made early on this event, given the logistics in getting cars, officials and competitors to the Apple Isle. As such we will now focus on delivering an amazing event in 2022 in Launceston and are really excited about returning to Tasmania in June next year. “A huge thank you must go to the event sponsors and the Tasmanian Government who have been extremely supportive over recent months. “We’ve also remained in constant dialogue with the RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Rally Championship competitors as well, so this Coffs Coast double header is certainly supported by many of our competitors who are eager to get as much rallying under their belt as possible. “A double header in Coffs Harbour is also an amazing opportunity for the northern NSW region. We know these events will bring an economic boost to the area through an extended stay in the region for so many crews, officials and support personnel. “We can’t wait to get there and deliver two amazing events based out of Coffs Harbour.”
2021 RSEA SAFETY MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP CALENDAR Round 1: Netier National Capital Rally – completed Round 2: Accent Benchtops Rally Queensland – completed Round 3: AGI Sport Adelaide Hills Rally – 22-24 October Round 4: Coffs Sprint Rally – 20-21 November Round 5: Coffs Coast Rally – 26-28 November* *Event doubles as the FIA Asia Pacific Rally Championship finale Photo: CH Images
30 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
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FIA DRIVER CATEGORISATION DEADLINE CLOSING IN
The FIA has confirmed the deadline for individuals who want their international categorisation to be reviewed is 15 September. The FIA Driver Categorisation is the basis for all FIA associated Championships that use a driver system and can be adopted by any series around the world, including the Motorsport Australia GT Championship. Based on the driver's age and career record, the Categorisation has
32 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
three licence levels of bronze, silver and gold, which determines what level a driver can compete at. Drivers wanting to downgrade, or upgrade to a different categorisation level, have until 15 September to lodge a request form to the FIA. The process requires individuals to read the FIA categorisation regulations, log into the FIA’s new platform and apply for a review at a cost of €250.
Those who miss out on the advised deadline will have to wait until 15 September 2022 before applying again, meaning the changes will not go through until 2023.
Click here for more information on the FIA Driver Categorisation.
SHANNONS SANDOWN UPDATE The next round of the Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships will take place at The Bend Motorsport Park as part of a huge fortnight of motorsport action in October, with this month’s Sandown round unable to proceed. Melbourne’s ongoing lockdown, along with the various border restrictions in place, has forced Motorsport Australia’s hand, with a decision made early on the Sandown event to avoid any last minute cancellations. As previously announced, The Bend Motorsport Park will host back-to-back Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships round at the South Australian venue on the 15-17 October and 22-24 October.
The second week will now feature some premier national categories, including the popular Battery World Aussie Racing Cars Super Series, RA Cup Australia, GC Marine Australian Prototype Series and MRF Tyres Australian Production Car Series, National Sports Sedans Series, Porsche 944 and Bullrush Rally.
“We have been forced to make the call on this event now for the certainty of fans, competitors and our sponsor”
The first weekend will see a jam packed schedule, with the Supercheap Auto TCR Australia Series, Gulf Western Oil Touring Car Masters and the National Trans Am Series today confirming they will all host two rounds on the same weekend. The Australian Racing Group categories will be joined by another of their stablemates, in the Fanatec GT World Challenge Powered by AWS. Its format does not change and will continue to host its round of the Motorsport Australia GT Endurance Championship – a three-hour twodriver race for GT3 and GT4 sports cars. The popular and super competitive Porsche Michelin Sprint Challenge will also be one of the highlights of the opening weekend as it tackles the South Australian circuit.
- Michael Smith, Motorsport Australia Director of Motorsport and Commercial Operations
The 22-24 October weekend will also coincide with the RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Rally Championship round in South Australia, which will include an event at The Bend as part of itinerary to add to the motorsport extravaganza. The popular FIA Girls On Track and Ricciardo’s Racers development programs will also be seen at The Bend on the first weekend. Motorsport Australia Director of Motorsport and Commercial Operations Michael Smith said while it was disappointing to lose such an iconic round in Victoria, the double header at The Bend was an exciting prospect.
Photo: Revved Photography
“We know how popular the Sandown round of the Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships can be, with huge crowds attending the Victorian event in recent years,” Smith explained. “Unfortunately with the Victorian lockdown looking like extending in to September, we have been forced to make the call on this event now for the certainty of fans, competitors and our sponsors. We’ve worked closely with the Melbourne Racing Club over recent months and thank them for their efforts in trying to make this event a reality. “That said, we’re absolutely thrilled to be heading to The Bend for a massive fortnight of motorsport in October. With back-to-back weekends of the Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships alongside the RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Rally Championship and the Kincrome SXS Motorsport Australia Championship also featuring, it promises to be two events that cannot be missed. “I’d like to thank our competitors and category managers for their ongoing support and flexibility throughout 2021, as well as our sponsors who have been extremely supportive of these changes and the Championships more broadly.” Tickets will go on sale for both events shortly. The Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships takes place at The Bend Motorsport Park on 15-17 October and 22-24 October.
MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 33
MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPORTSCAR CHAMPIONSHIP EOI NOW OPEN
Photo: Speed Shots Photography
Motorsport Australia is now calling for expressions of interest to identify a candidate interested in acting as the official and exclusive agent of Motorsport Australia for the commercial organisation and promotion of the Motorsport Australia Sportscar Championship.
“This new Championship promises to deliver a new category to Australia and further build on the terrific work of the existing promoters of the Radical and Prototype series, and welcome those with LMP3 vehicles into a combined category to provide more opportunities for racing.
This new Championship is expected to feature LMP3 vehicles, alongside Prototype and Radical specification vehicles, giving competitors the opportunity to compete in an exciting new category.
“We expect there will be a large number of cars and competitors who will be eligible for this Championship, subject to the promoter and Motorsport Australia confirming the regulations once we appoint the new Promoter through the EOI process.
Motorsport Australia Director of Motorsport & Commercial Operations Michael Smith said Motorsport Australia had been working behind the scenes to prepare for the 2022 rollout of the category. “There has been a lot of hard work and consultation with appropriate stakeholders behind the scenes as we prepare for the debut of the Motorsport Australia Sportscar Championship,” Smith said.
34 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
“The LMP3 component also offers an exciting opportunity for international competitors to be part of the Championship in the years ahead, once international borders re-open. There are many cars in the Asia-Pacific region that we expect will be eligible and given the calibre and reputation of Australian circuits, we know the interest in racing in Australia will be strong. This desire will no doubt be even stronger given the recent pandemic.”
The EOI is a two stage process, with submissions now welcome to be presented to Motorsport Australia, covering off key details about any potential promoter’s plans for the Championship. The second stage will include detailed interviews with potential promoters before a final decision is made. Submissions must be received by 5pm AEST on Thursday, 30 September. Motorsport Australia will then consider the submissions and begin discussions with potential promoters. It is expected the preferred promoter will be informed of Motorsport Australia’s decision at the end of October.
Click here to view the Expression of Interest.
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RARE VISIT TO RACE CONTROL JUST ONE EXPERIENCE IN ULTIMATE PRIZE A tour of Motorsport Australia Race Control at the Bathurst 1000 in October is part of an unprecedented Ultimate Motorsport Prize up for grabs. The special tour of Race Control is one of many experiences featuring in the once-ina-lifetime prize, with Race Director Tim Schenken himself the be the personal guide for the visit.
category since the late 1980s, Schenken believed the prize was a special one and he was thrilled to be part of it. “Obviously Motorsport Australia Race Control is a very controlled environment and to be honest we don’t have that many visitors throughout the year because of that,” Schenken said.
“Their visit to race control which will give them a real ‘behind the scenes’ understanding of what goes on during an event”
“It is rare that anyone gets a oneon-one tour, but we are delighted that this experience has been made a part of the Ultimate Motorsport Prize.
As part of the tour, the former Formula 1 driver and Ferrari representative will give the lucky winner of - Tim Schenken, Supercars the raffle and a Race Director “I am sure the chosen friend a winner and special insight their fortunate friend will enjoy into the workings of Race Control the amazing list of experiences during a Supercars event. over the Bathurst 1000 weekend, including their visit to race control Outside of the Race Control tour, which will give them a real ‘behind some of the other experiences of the scenes’ understanding of the prize include a ride around what goes on during an event. Mt Panorama in the Supercars’ Course Car with Marcos Ambrose, “Pirtek and all the stakeholders have waving the green starter’s flag for done a terrific job pulling this prize the Bathurst 1000 and a VIP tour together and to see all the funds of the Shell V-Power Racing Team raised going to St Vincent’s Hospital garage with the Dick Johnson. makes it all that more impressive.” Tickets for Pirtek run raffle are $20 each and all proceeds will support St Vincent’s Hospital’s Peter Duncan Click here to buy your Neurosciences Research Unit. Having been the Race Director for Australia’s premier motorsport
tickets in the charity raffle.
FIRST PRIZE •
Return trip for two to the 2021 Bathurst 1000 from the winner’s nearest Australian capital city
•
Two nights twin-share accommodation
•
Wave the green starter’s flag for the Bathurst 1000
•
Ride around Mt Panorama in a Supercars’ Course Car with Marcos Ambrose
•
Three day Supercars Paddock Club access
•
Present the PIRTEK Pit Stop Challenge winners’ trophy and cheque on Friday night
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Visit to PIRTEK Victory lane
•
Exclusive meet and greet and VIP tour of the Shell V-Power Racing Team garage with the legendary Dick Johnson
•
Behind the scenes tour of Mt Panorama - including visit to the top of the mountain and podium
•
VIP (after hours) tour of the National Motor Racing Museum at Mt Panorama
•
Helicopter flight around Mt Panorama
•
Access to the grid before the race for the national anthem
•
A personal tour of the Supercars TV compound with Neil Crompton
•
A photo taken with the Peter Brock Trophy on the podium
•
A visit to Motorsport Australia Race Control with Race Director Tim Schenken
•
A signed photo with the race winners as the ultimate memento
•
A personal VIP concierge host for the weekend
•
Two PIRTEK merchandise packs
SECOND PRIZE •
Two Corporate Paddock Club tickets,
•
Two Course Car rides
•
Two grid walks at a 2022 Supercar event of your choice in Australia or New Zealand
•
PIRTEK merchandise pack
THIRD PRIZE •
Two General Admission tickets to a 2022 Supercars event of your choice in Australia or New Zealand
•
PIRTEK merchandise pack
*The ‘Ultimate Motorsport Prize’ does not apply to residents of Western Australia and South Australia.
36 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ
STATE EXECUTIVE AND PANEL NOMINATIONS OPEN Nominations for the next intake of Motorsport Australia State Panel members and State Council Executives are now open. A variety of roles across every state for the next threeyear term between 2022 and 2024 are now open. Some of the roles available on State Council include Elected Directors for Tasmania and Victoria’s State Council, Deputy Chairs in Victoria and Western Australia, and State Executive Members.
State Panel members support State Councils with the planning and administration of various disciplines and functions within the sport, and a number of positions are available for nomination. Motorsport Australia members interested in joining their local panel or State Council team next year simply need to fill out an application form, and submit ahead of the deadline date. While all panel nomination forms are due by 11:59pm AEST on 1 November, state executive position applications close at different times, depending on the state.
Click here to view State Council nomination forms
Click here to view State Panel nomination forms
CONTACT US The Motorsport Australia member hotline is open from 9am to 5pm AEST So for all your motorsport needs call the Motorsport Australia Hotline or visit the website at motorsport.org.au Email memberservices@motorsport.org.au
l Hit up Motorsport Australia on social media for photos from events, news, videos and other great motorsport content.
SEND US YOUR STORIES! If you have a motorsport story which you think should be told, get in touch with us and it could appear in Speed Read. If you have pictures or videos of motorsport you would like to share with us, we encourage you to do so. They could appear on our website, social media platforms or in Speed Read. Please email communications@motorsport.org.au We look forward to hearing from you!
MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 37
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THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT THROUGH THE AUSTRALIAN SPORT COMMISSION RECOGNISES MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA TO DEVELOP MOTORSPORT IN AUSTRALIA