thenationals.com.au
“NO ONE KNOWS YOUR P A S S I O N L I K E S H A N N O N S.�
Shannons insurance is for motoring enthusiasts just like you, with features like: n Choice of repairer n Agreed value n Multi-Vehicle & Multi-Policy discounts n Limited Use & Club Plate cover n Laid up cover n One excess free windscreen claim per year n Total Loss Salvage options n Home Contents Insurance including $10,000 enthusiast cover for your collectables & tools n Towing & storage costs as a result of loss or damage n Pay by the month premiums at no extra cost Call Shannons on 13 46 46 for a quote on your special car, daily drive, bike or your home, and speak with a genuine enthusiast.
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. Some benefits only apply to comprehensive vehicle cover. Shannons has not taken account of your objectives, financial situation or needs. Read the Product Disclosure Statement before buying this insurance. Contact us for a copy.
A young stars emotional outburst after out-racing the most dominant driver in V8 Supercars history has us convinced – it’s time for the personalities in our sport to step up. SOMETHING interesting is happening. the motoring industry down under, defining characters like that is the only Over the last few years, it has been way the sport can survive. apparent that a sizable shift in the way that racing fans approach their sport has NASCAR is all about the stars and not been underway. Die-hard, old-school fans as much the cars, and that’s how it needs of the past might not be able to cope to roll here, too. And I’m sorry, Jamie, with it, but it’s clear: brand tribalism is a but it’s good that the fans are booing (as thing of the past in local motorsport. long as that’s where they draw the line). Like Sebastien Vettel in Formula 1 or That much was apparent at the recent V8 Kyle Busch in the ‘states, the fans need Supercars opener in Adelaide when the enemies - even if it’s because you are too largest roar of the weekend was reserved for a Volvo driver and not the good - as much as they Holden driver who he beat. need heroes. Embrace it, “Die-hard, even play up to it and you’ll Scott McLaughlin’s remarkable old-school fans battle with Jamie Whincup in of the past might be doing the sport a favour. the closing stages of race two There are brilliant not be able to at Clipsal was ripping stuff but personalities in our sport, it was the reaction from nearly cope with it...” both in the V8’s and at all 80,000 fans that was possibly other levels, but on the the most surprising result whole I don’t think we – and by that of the whole thing. They ‘oohed’, they I mean, the whole sport – do a good ‘ahhed’ and then they roared their heads enough job of selling them. off when Whincup ran wide in the final The Supercars have their own outlets with corner, allowing the Blue Volvo with its which to build theirs: so our mission in plucky Kiwi steerer back through. 2014 will be to tell you the stories outside This was a Bloody Volvo beating a of the main-game. Introduce some new Holden in the most General-Motors names and build some personalities of centric town in Australia and the fans our own. were going nuts for the former and There are plenty of great yarns to tell, and booing the latter and I think a lot of it our mission will be to tell them here over was down to who was involved. the next nine months. McLaughlin is the great young personality Enjoy the ride.. whilst Whincup is the dominant champion who comes off as slightly Craillsy. aloof and in this uncertain period within
4
Speed Shots
6
News in Brief...
8
Pitlane Whiteboard
10 Feature 2014 - A look ahead 12 Feature 2014 - Experts predictions 14 Feature Simon Hodge 16 Feature Fraiser’s Big Chance 18 Feature AMChamps: Beric Lynton 21 Round 1 - Categories & Entries 29 Meeting News 30 Television Coverage Lap Records Publisher
Australian Motor Racing Pty Ltd
Editor Richard Craill Art Director
Sarah Anesbury - 121 Creative Hilton
Writers Richard Craill & Amanda Jackson Chief Photographer: Nathan Wong Production Kwik Kopy Printing Hilton Feedback
We want your feedback. Please email us at admin@thenationals.com.au
Advertisers If you would like to advertise in the next issue of The Racing Magazine please contact 0414 294 153 or email admin@thenationals.com.au Disclaimer
While reasonable effort has been taken to ensure the accuracy of information provided, Australian Motor Racing Pty Ltd make no representation, express or implied, as to the accuracy, currency, reliability or suitability. Australian Motor Racing Pty Ltd expressly disclaim responsibility for any damages that may be caused by or in connection with the information provided.
thenationals.com.au | 3
4 | the Racing Magazine
MAKING A MARC Photo by Nathan Wong
Canon 1DX, 17mm, 1/25 @ f22, ISO50 THE Aussie built and engineered MARC Focus endurance racers certainly created an impact at the recent Bathurst 12 Hour race, finishing all three cars with limited issues. Their pace, performance and reliability is a testament to the Aussie engineering that has gone into the cars – with more than 80% of construction coming from the Gold Coast and surrounds alone! There will be more to look forward to this year, too, with the cars looking likely to get a Kerrick Sports Sedan series berth, as well..
thenationals.com.au | 5
TEAM BRM BRINGS UP THE TON AT HOME EVENT Formula 3’s champion team scores 100th victory as the series climbs towards its milestone race. Photo – Dirk Klynsmith
THE FIGHTING victory by Simon Hodge in the final race at round one of the 2014 Formula 3 Australian Drivers Championship was a more significant milestone for the South Australian based Team BRM than first recognised. The victory was the teams’ 100th points-paying Formula 3 championship race win. The team’s century came in the series’ 249th championship race, meaning the Adelaidebased outfit has won more than 40% of every championship race the series has contested since it was inaugurated as a National Series in 1999.
Darren Palmer won the first race for the team in the year 2000, in the second round of the Australian Formula 3 Championship at Phillip Island that year – in just his second ever Formula 3 race and first ever round. The 100th Team BRM win appropriately mirrors the first, Hodge’s maiden win also coming in his second round. The team has the two most successful seasons ever recorded in Australian Formula 3 history, including winning 19 races out of 20 last year, and 15 out of an available 20 in 2010.
SPORTS RACER SERIES SWITCH Date change shuffles calendar for sports car category 6 | the Racing Magazine
21 of the 40 drivers to have won an Australian Formula 3 championship points race have done so in a Team BRM car, Ben Clucas lending his name to 12 Team BRM victories with John Magro’s 10 the second best. The team has also recorded a further five races in non-championship races at the Australian Grand Prix and Gold Coast Indy events. The F3ADC will record its 250th championship race at Sandown, on March 29.
A LATE CHANGE to the Australian Sports Racing Series calendar will see the series now commence at Mallala in April with the Sandown round switched to Wakefield Park, in New South Wales, this October. The decision to switch rounds was made to ensure competitor safety and equality following delays in securing stock of the series’ control Kumho tyre for competitors. Though early plans had Sports Racer competitors utilising the same Kumho tyre as the Formula 3 Australian Drivers Championship, subsequent tests proved that the front tyre could not be safely fitted to several cars within the field. Replacement stock could not be secured
in time for the scheduled opening round; leaving competitors with options to either not compete, or run a potentially poorlyfitting front tyre. Series administrators have taken the step to ensure a level playing field for Sports Racer competitors by rescheduling the opening round to Mallala, and replacing Sandown with Wakefield Park. The Sports Racer category joins the Australian Motor Racing Nationals for the first time this year and bring their diverse mix of motorcycle engine powered, LeMans-style open top sports cars to the program. The series provides an affordable platform for a wide-array of Sports Racing cars to compete.
Follow the series on Twitter @ShannonsNats
ROSS AND CAMPBELL TAKE PORSCHE OPENER Victorian racer Fraser Ross claimed his first round victory in Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Australia presented by Pirelli, with youngster Matt Campbell taking the Class B round win at the Top Gear Festival, in Sydney. Ross followed his Race 1 win on Saturday with victory in Sunday’s Race 2; his job made easier with fellow pace-setter Jon McCorkindale starting from the rear of the grid after failing to finish Saturday’s opening race. McCorkindale’s impressive drive through the field placed him second by the finish from Peter Fitzgerald, Class B race winner Matt Campbell, Tony Walls, Tim Miles, Scott Taylor, John Karytinos, David Ryan and Richard Gartner in tenth. Ross then led from the start of Race 3 though he couldn’t hold off the hard charging McCorkindale, who past Ross to take the Race 3 win from Ross, Fitzgerald, Campbell, Goodacre – who came from the rear of the field after a Race 2 DNF due to radiator damage – David Ryan, Tony Walls, Scott Taylor, Richard Gartner and Tim Miles in tenth. Second place for Ross was enough to secure the round win, joined on the podium by Fitzgerald and Walls with second and third for the round, respectively.
{
“I can’t explain how happy I am with the round win. This has been a long time coming and I feel the team has really working really well together this weekend,” said Ross. “I don’t want to jinx myself but I think I’m a contender this year. Obviously this category always has amazing talent in it and this year it no different. These new cars in GT3 Cup Challenge suit my driving style and I love the greater horsepower and rearend grip.” Campbell’s three Class B race wins placed him on top of the Class B round podium with Miles and Gartner in second and third for the round, respectively. “I’m pretty happy with myself this weekend. I knew I could be ahead of a few of the Class A cars but definitely not as many as I was, and was rapt to be battling against guys like Peter Fitzgerald and Tony Walls,” said Campbell. “I’ve certainly shown what I can do in a race car this weekend. Hopefully it’s a good step for something in the future.” The Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge will race with the Shannons Australian Motor Racing Nationals for the remainder of the season, including three rounds featuring longerdistance races that make up the prestigious Jim Richards Endurance Challenge.
}
Turn to page 16 to read more about Fraser Ross’ rise to become Porsche’s latest winner.
MUSTON CONTINUES RADICAL RUN NEALE MUSTON continued his remarkable run of success as he dominated the opening round of the Radical Australia Cup, held in conjunction with the Liqui-Moly Bathurst 12 Hour in February. On the series first ever visit to the Mountain, Muston qualified on pole and won both 12-lap races in his Excalibur Racing SR8, also setting a new class lap record at 2m07.76s in race one. John Corbett and Ross Lilley completed the
SR8 Round podium as fancied frontrunner Tim Berryman struggled in race two. The Sydney driver qualified second and finished in the same position in race one, but slipped down the field in the second to finish 14th. Peter White also finished on the podium in race one but also finished down the order in the second, visiting pit lane with three laps remaining and ultimately finishing as the last classified runner.
Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com /TheNationals
Michael Shaw was the man to beat in the four-cylinder SR3 class battle, edging out Peter Paddon and Kim Burke for the round victory. Shaw qualified 8th overall in his SR3, a strong effort given the horsepower advantage enjoyed by the 430hp SR8s pushing up and down the Mountain. The Radical Australia Cup will contest the balance of their schedule with the Shannons Nationals.
thenationals.com.au | 7
PITLANE WHITEBOARD It’s the anonymous Twitter account with more irreverence than David Reynolds that became so infamous that even Mark Larkham, one of the friendliest people on the planet, told him to ‘go away’. And we’ve given him a column.. Pray for all our souls, but especially that which belongs to the editor, who has given a twitter whack job this column. I remember the good old days when bravery in motor sport meant driving around the outside at Eau Rouge, or signing up to be official alcohol supplier to whatever team James Hunt was driving for. These days it is reserved for editors (Bravery? Or Stupidity? – ED), and people stupid enough to sign up for the V8 Supercars Aerodynamic Working Group. The parity in V8 Supercars is apparently wrong. Not that it was right before. But now we know it’s wrong, because some bogan who works in a factory on Dandenong Road has built a V8 Supercar from a flat pack purchased at IKEA Springvale, and despite missing screw D3 to attach to board A2, and having piece B4 left over, is faster than the other guys. So what do we do? Well duh, we form a committee. An Aerodynamic Committee, no less. I don’t know about you, but as a whiteboard I’ve been in a few committee meetings during my time in motor racing, and very rarely the participants could be described as aerodynamic. Granted, there’s lots of hot air to create a low-
8 | the Racing Magazine
pressure zone, but put a Snickers between some of them and Paul Morris and they’d probably get there in even time. Parity indeed. And what have they tried so far? Well they’ve tried back-to-back aero testing... now, we’ve conducted some back-to-back Aero testing in our time and we found that chocolate flavoured one not as satisfying as the peppermint one. Overall the bubbles of air made it excellent, but still not as good as say, a Kit Kat or a Wagon Wheel. Still, our aero testing at this point may be well ahead of where the authorities are currently at, because going by early season form, the numbers procured seem about as accurate as a pre-election budget estimate, or the ones that the cute girl gave my manager the other night. ‘What do you mean this isn’t Danica’s phone number?’ I can confirm a dartboard, the Melbourne weather forecast, or how many times the Sports Sedan guys would be pinged for noise this weekend was not used in coming up with the aerodynamic test regime. Rather the cars were taken to a RAAF base in Sale, and whipped up and down the runway a few times. Why they did it themselves I have no idea. It’s not as if expertise isn’t around in the sport at doing
this kind of secret aerodynamic testing at RAAF bases. Team Dynamik were doing it for years. Did you see how quick Simon Wills was in a straight line in 2004? Get those boys on the job, they’ll figure it out quick smart. Still it could be worse, there could be a New Zealander in front, and he could be using this mysterious device called a “jandal.” It’s that some kind of new millennium Brock Energy Polariser? Who knows? I have no idea. What we do know is that by Darwin – probably due to Roland having a whinge - that everybody will be made to use the control jandal.
Follow the Pit lane Whiteboard on Twitter: @pitlaneWB * It goes without saying (but I’ve had an eraser held at my throat until I finish writing this bit, so I’ll say it anyway) that the views expressed in this column are most certainly, totally, absolutely and wholly 100% those of the whiteboard and NOT this publication or it’s associated entities.
Bliss n ESO
WHAT on earth does Australia’s biggest hip-hop group have to do with Motorsport?
Easy. They love it! Pictured here is MC Bliss from Platinum-selling artists Bliss n ESO, who in 2013 produced the highest-selling Australian album on the ARIA Charts, and the second-highest selling album of the year, full stop. Their smash album ‘Circus in the Sky’ sold big-time last year and was even used by the AFL in their finals series promotions. The Sydney trio are noted rev-heads and have backed Formula 3 competitor John Magro for the last couple of seasons; but this year extended their support to the whole championship at their season opener in Adelaide. It all worked well, because the boys played to a massive crowd on the Friday night, too. It was a great tie-up and resulted in plenty of media for all concerned.. but we think that MC Bliss just likes ‘representing’ a race helmet. Word.
FOR THE WORLD’S GREATEST CARS. The engineering challenge was simple. Build a tyre that defines what sports driving performance is all about. And leave nothing behind. So here it is, the Kumho ECSTA PS91, our best ever tyre for the world’s greatest cars. For more information visit www.kumho.com.au/ECSTA-PS91
ECSTA PS91. IT’S PERFORMANCE DEFINED.
KUMHO.COM.AU
Proud Supporters of:
thenationals.com.au | 9
2014
THE TIMES THEY ARE A CHANGIN’ 2014 offers new opportunity for the world of Motorsport – at all levels. With new rules, new cars and new stars making their mark, the challenges of 2013 look to be swept aside for a bolder, fresher, more exciting new season. RICHARD CRAILL charts the changes ahead of an exciting season that stretches from club circuits to the global stage. Photos by Nathan Wong AT THE SYDNEY 500 V8 Supercar race last year, a man in a crisp, white shirt and with a pleasant yet confident demeanour sat down next to me whilst I was having a brief moment of quiet and, more importantly, Coffee. “You know,” he mused, with a sigh, “I’m quite pleased this year is just about over. It’s all felt like a bit of a waste of time,” Obviously, this was a surprising comment from said White-shirted man. I nodded, sagely, and smiled. “It has all,” he added, “Felt like we’re just sitting here spending our money waiting for something better to come around the corner... “.. you can quote me on that.. but don’t put my name to it!” he added, with a grin, before walking off to a waiting group of VIPs. This was an interesting comment but, on reflection, it perfectly summed up all aspects of motor racing throughout twenty-thirteen. It was a strange year. The V8 Supercars introduced a new car and had good racing and multiple winners – but the same driver ended up wining the title and, as deserved as Jamie Whincup’s crown was, you got the feeling that the end result undid a lot of the hard work that had been done by the sport that year to shake up the V8 establishment. In Formula One everyone was bored of Vettel winning by July, and bored of Ferrari telling Alonso that ‘second is not good enough’ much earlier than that. It was not, it must be said, a banner year of Grand Prix racing. Stateside, the two major sports car series entered a holding pattern before becoming one this year, NASCAR modified their playoffs (again) for 2014 and IndyCar continued to walk on very thin ice despite still putting on quite a show for the few people that watched it.
10 | the Racing Magazine
And at a National Level, it seemed that several key categories were just sitting, waiting, throughout 2013 before entering a new year with a new outlook and new potential to grow. The Kumho V8’s were dominated by one driver for much of the year, the Sports Sedans promised another epic Hossack Versus Ricciardello fight that never quite delivered (even if the series did throw up an incredible, deserved, surprise title win for Bruce Banks) and Saloon Cars, Radicals and the Australian Manufacturers Championship were dominated by much the same people throughout the year – and those winners deserve high praise.
“I’m quite pleased this year is just about over. It’s all felt like a bit of a waste of time,” And yet, as we enter a fresh new year and with the benefit of hindsight working for us, it is not impossible to see that that the man in the white shirt’s ‘holding pattern’ theory has some weight. In Formula One, new engines and new rules have completely shook up the establishment. Volvo has already livened up V8 Supercars and the Rolex 24 at Daytona – despite some parity dramas – proved that this whole ‘United Sports Car’ concept has some legs. Porsche are back at LeMans. Jacques Villeneuve and Juan Montoya back in IndyCar Racing. Dale Earnhardt Jr. won the Daytona 500. Jandals were put down and there was swearing on live television which will be remembered in the same context as Jim Richards’ Bathurst podium speech, I’m sure. The infamous whiteboard got itself a
column in this very magazine. A tasty start, I’m sure you agree. Here in Nationals-land, it looks like much the same. There are so many new faces in many categories that are going to make life very, very interesting for some of the established front runners. Will someone stand up and challenge Ryan Simpson for the title in the Kumho V8’s? What about Bruce Banks? Can consistency once again overcome the raw pace of Sports Sedan superstars to win another title? Stranger things have happened before – in fact it happened last year! Simon Tabinor has departed the Super Six Touring Cars and is now in the V8s and, if you go back and look at last year’s battle for second place, that means the artist formerly known as Saloon Cars becomes one of the most open championships anywhere. There are a heap of new faces in Porsche GT3 Cup and a Carrera Cup enduro at Phillip Island to enjoy. There are Sports Racers to race and Radicals to be rad. And many bad puns to be had. The best thing, though, is the overall constant that motorsport circa 2014 is looking more open, across the board, than it has in years. And that can only be a good thing for everyone involved. Especially that man in the crisp, white shirt.
NINE TO WATCH
THERE ARE nine rounds this year, so here are nine things to watch across the 2014 season, as pieced together by RICHARD CRAILL.
1. RICHARD MUSCAT dominated the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge presented by Pirelli last year. Watching who will stand up and be counted as his successor will be fascinating to watch as this season progresses.
4. NEW SERIES always offer questions about viability, numbers and all that fun stuff – but the Sports Racers are working off an established base and have proven quality racing. A worthy addition to the Nationals year.
2. THE FIGHT FOR SECOND in Saloon Cars last year, behind dominant champion Simon Tabinor, was a thriller. This year, that fight has become the battle for the championship and the Super Sixes are now the most open series in the land.
5. ROOKIES are the story of the year and no
3. HAVING SAID THAT, watching
dominate the Radical Australia Cup, to the point where the class battle for the SR3s has become the fight to watch of late – but the first person to knock off Neale will know they’ve driven, potentially, the race of their life.
Richard Muscat adapt to the Erebus SLS AMG GT3 car in Aussie GT could be a sight to behold. They’ve got a strong field this year, the GTs, but young Rich is very good..
more so than in Formula 3. There are seven of them this year, to be precise and watching them tackle experienced hands John Magro and Ben Gersekowski will be fun.
6. NEALE MUSTON has continued to
7. TALK IS CHEAP, but there is plenty
of chatter about new cars coming into the AMChamps later this year. Some of that chatter involves four interlocked circles on the front grille – and we know their track record in endurance racing isn’t exactly ‘lacking’.. 8. FORMULA FORD hasn’t had the best run of late and it’s going to be interesting to see if the rebranded, restructured format will work for this category famed for farming great young racing talent time and time again. 9. IN THE PAST the Nationals have promoted ‘blockbuster’ rounds, but this year all nine are packed. Even traditionally ‘quiet’ rounds at Winton and Wakefield have massive programs. That’s good for the tracks, good for the people involved and good for the series – which means it’s good for us, too.
thenationals.com.au | 11
EXPERT PREDICTIONS: WE PUT some of the people who know (or, who should know) under the pump and got their thoughts about the 2014 season. Turns out, there’s plenty to discuss..
Darren Smith – Shannons Nationals Series Commentator. SINCE THE inception of The Nationals the first round has always been very much anticipated by all involved.. and this year is no different! During 2013 Richard Muscat stole all the headlines in the Pirelli GT3 Cup challenge by winning the title. 2014 will see Richard take his next massive step in his career, strapping himself into one of Betty’s Erebus SLS AMG weapons. He has huge shoes to fill after the very special displays that Jack Le Brock demonstrated last year but I reckon that with the guidance & expertise behind him at Erebus, and his long term mentor John Morris, Richard Muscat will shine like never before in 2014. I can’t wait to see the Prancing Horse of Peter Edwards from Maranello Motorsport fresh from Bathurst 12 hour success, to see how far Peter can really push himself. Can the Super sixes Champion Simon Tabinor, in his new venture into Kumho V8 Touring Cars, get back to dominant form he displayed driving the Eurostar Diesels Commodore? Or can Terry Wyhoon take another title? This year the AMChamps has a great opportunity to thrust right back to the top of the Australian Motor racing scene: serious new management last year has put the BMWs, Mitsubishis, Mazdas, Renaults, Suzukis, Fords, Holdens and more in a very healthy place and will be well worth getting trackside for big races like the Great Southern 4 Hour at Phillip island. It’s going to be spine tingling, this year..
12 | the Racing Magazine
Garry O’Brien – Auto Action Journalist and Commentator We have gushed on about a Tony Ricciardello/ Darren Hossack gloves-off stoush in the Kerrick Sports Sedan Series for a couple of seasons now. When they did get together, and it was all systems go, there was nothing better at the Shannons Nationals than these Chev-powered winged monsters, the fastest tin tops in the country, rubbing panels at full noise. But as brutal as they are, mechanically they can be fragile. If their respective Alfa Romeo and Audi A4 bodied cars run reliably, both drivers have the hunger to not only score another series win, but to also beat each other.
Cheslea Angleo
ROOKIE RUMBLE THE rookie class of the 2014 Formula 3 Formula 3 Australian Drivers Championship is the largest in years – and the most talented. We take a look at a talented group of youngsters looking for the next big step.. Naturally a category focussed on introducing new drivers trying to make their mark, this years Formula 3 Australian Drivers Championship features the largest – and arguably the most talented – group of young rookie drivers to race in the nations’ fastest cars in years. They come from all backgrounds, as well, and offer a remarkably diverse slice of what Australia’s motorsport developmental ranks have to offer. So, we thought it would be appropriate to find out about these rookie ranks – and how they are placed this year. Later this year we’ll profile those trying to beat the rookie crop this year, drivers like John Magro, Ben Gersekowski and Arrie Maree and, also the newcomers in the Kumho Cup, but for now, welcome to the Rookie class of 2014.
14 | the Racing Magazine
SIMON HODGE (Adelaide, SA)
CHRIS ANTHONY (Cooma, NSW)
THERE are some drivers who find themselves revelling in a car with grip, and it looks like 20-yearold South Australian university student Simon Hodge is one of those. Following his transition from the Australian Formula Ford Championship this year, Hodge has found himself a home in Formula 3 and it’s one he’s clearly enjoying. At the Clipsal 500 he dominated; taking pole, smacking the existing track record and taking all three races – the first two comfortably.
Last year’s NSW Formula Ford state series champion, Chris Anthony said he was ‘living a dream’ when he took to the Adelaide street circuit for the first time.. so ending up on the podium by the end of the weekend must have been doubly surreal. Another of the teenage brigade, Anthony’s debut was impressive in approach and performance – but also for the fact few expected it. Surprise, it seems, can still be a powerful ally when it comes to building a reputation..
CHELSEA ANGELO (Melbourne, VIC)
GARNET PATTERSON (Werris Creek, NSW)
HODGE may have dominated in Adelaide, but Cheslea Angleo was arguably the highest-profile addition to the Formula 3 field. At 17, she’s still young and yet with two years of Formula Ford experience behind her, she’s steadily developing the right skills to show she has what it takes. Things started badly when she crashed in the first practice session, but the way she rebounded was positive; progressing throughout the weekend to have legitimate top five pace by the end of the weekend.
Some would argue that, with a full championship-winning season in the NSW Formula car championship behind him Patterson hardly qualifies as a ‘rookie’ and in some senses they would be correct: His experience in an earlier-specification Dallara means his transition to a later-spec car isn’t quite so severe as those jumping from Formula Fords or, worse, Karts – but it’s still his first step to a national level and that’s always a big one. Still, his experience and composure should help in his quest to win the National class this season.
“welcome to the Rookie class of 2014.” Simon Hodge
RICKY CAPO (Melbourne, VIC) PROOF of Ricky Capo’s performance capability at the Clipsal 500 Adelaide came early when, after a frustrating few sessions with a car that sometimes refused to start, he somehow managed to qualify a remarkable second with a last lap flyer. Not bad for a teenager with just a day or two’s worth of testing under his belt following a graduation directly from the world of karting. Impressive.
ROLAND LEGGE (Mackay, QLD) Young Mackay karter Roland Legge, looks even younger than his sixteen years but he was probably the biggest improver at the opening round of the championship. Jumping straight out of karts and with only two days in a racing car (full stop) before opening practice in Adelaide he was the most experienced driver on the grid; but his methodical approach was impressive.. in five ontrack sessions, he improved his lap times by nearly a full ten seconds.
thenationals.com.au | 15
A FASTER FRASER
With his first race wins now well under his belt, GT3 Cup Challenge contender FRASER ROSS is ready to take the next step towards becoming a championship contender.. but as he tells RICHARD CRAILL, the pathway to performing in a Porsche hasn’t been a standard one. Photos by Nathan Wong
A RACING DRIVERS first victory is always special and always manages to draw a range of emotions. For 24-year-old Victorian Fraser Ross, it was one of achievement. After two full seasons and a few near-misses, his maiden race and round victories in the opening round of the Pirelli Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Series represented a new beginning, the turning of a page from a couldbe contender to a proper challenger for the title this year. The Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge has seen the likes of Roger Lago, Matt Kingsley, Kane Rose and, of course, Richard Muscat pass through its ranks and move on to bigger things and Ross hopes he will be the next to follow in their steps. “They always say the first one is the hardest and it’s great to get it in a series as competitive as GT3 Cup challenge,” Ross says, when we chat on a sunny afternoon following the season opener at Sydney Motorsport Park. His race suit is sopping wet from being doused in champagne and his grin indicates that it’s well worth it.
16 | the Racing Magazine
“Each year I’ve been getting better: I’ve had two full years in the series and I haven’t been able to take the lead, get a pole position or get that maiden win so to do that this weekend is a really great feeling and a good sign of things to come for the future. I can’t wait.” Ross’ progression to GT3 Cup Challenge series leader didn’t track the more traditional path that young drivers generally take. “Usually people from karts step into the open wheelers like formula Ford, F3 or whatnot but we decided to go a different route – to historic touring cars, TransAm racing and stuff like that.. and then Porsche,” he explains. “Most people find that very surprising.. but I think it’s been a good transition. TransAm and Group N cars taught me the racecraft and I’m grateful for the opportunities I had and where I am now.
“My dad raced Shelby Mustangs for as long as I can remember. I’d go to the track with him. He built a regularity car – a Mustang – for me when I was 16. I love the Touring cars and what I love most about racing is the Geoghegan, Moffat and Jane things – they were awesome – so racing in Group N was awesome and it felt like I was racing them in a way! “Then one thing led to another and I wanted to get more serious about the sport and where I wanted to go, and one thing led to another..” Working for the family Advertising firm in Melbourne’s inner suburbs, Ross manages
several of the companies’ key accounts including, somewhat fortuitously, Porsche. But it also means that his racing ambitions have been somewhat balanced by the realities of maintaining a professional career, a partner, house and life’s usual day-to-day business. “I had in my mind that I wanted to make a living out of the sport, but as you get older you have
a bit of a think about things and now I’ve got a mortgage and debts, it means you can’t really live off the sport. I work fairly closely with motorsport, as our Advertising agency has the Porsche account, so it all works well but I’d say it’s going to be second to working full time. But as long as I can work and race as competitively as I can, I’ll be good.
“I’d love to do Carrera Cup,” Ross adds, singling out the next logical step in Porsche’s motorsport pyramid. “Financially it’s hard to achieve, but I’d like to stay in the Porsche family and still do Sports Car racing... perhaps go and do some more Group N races with the old man – that’s great fun racing with Dad – but I’ll definitely stay in Porsche’s if I can.”
Come and join the team who can get you closer to the action! TO R I A N
M
V IC
A
G
MA
EA
FL
RSHALLI NG
FL
A
G
TO R I A N
M
V IC
www.vicflag.org.au
T
MA
EA
For more information simply email info@vicflag.org.au or call 03 8796 5321
RSHALLI NG
T
thenationals.com.au | 17
AMChamps: Beric Lynton’s Title Tilt BERIC LYNTON has been at the forefront of Production Car Racing for years, but ranks 2013 as one of his worst ever. Our AMANDA JACKSON profiles the 2014 chances of the BMW driver. Words by Amanda Jackson. Photos by Nathan Wong. 2013 wasn’t a kind season to AMChamps racer Beric Lynton. In fact according to him, it was one of the worst. The Alphera Financial Services/Bruce Lynton BMW team found themselves on the wrong side of a ruling in round one and from there it didn’t get any better with reliability gremlins playing havoc with their program across the year. Despite all that Lynton and his crew persevered and with strong pace from their world-first BMW 1M race car were able to secure the runner-up spot in Class A for the year. Now as Lynton eyeballs the 2014 season, there are two key words on his mind: reliability and consistency. “It was definitely a tough season, probably one of the worst we have ever had,” said the 41 year old Bundall (Gold Coast) resident who has been racing for almost 19 years. “By the time we got to the end of the year both cars (Lynton was also running a customer car across the year) were in desperate need of a ‘birthday’ and that is exactly what we have done over the break. “Now we are looking forward to a promising year ahead – our pre-season testing is boding well and we are putting in a lot of work now to make sure we are prepared for anything 2014 has to throw at us.
18 | the Racing Magazine
“It is a long season with three and four hour races, 1.5 hour races and for us a 12 hour as well – racing programs like that really put the pressure on so your preparation, reliability and consistency can make or break your chances.” In spite of the challenges of late, it is easy to see the passion bubbling away under the surface which keeps Lynton and his crew coming back year after year. “I have been involved in production racing for a long time, and at the end of the day it is all about the challenge – the challenge of building world-first cars like our M3 and 1M and the on-track challenges for drivers and crew – races can be won or lost both in and out of the car,” said Lynton, who placed fourth during the 2007 Bathurst 12 Hour. “There is of course the fact I grew up around this sport and like most I have the bug for the speed, the thrill and the adrenalin, but also I think a big element of it is the camaraderie of it all. “For me a great thing about the AMChamps and production car racing is going at it tooth and nail, then getting out of the car and having a laugh with the guy you have been battling with. “We all lend a hand to each other too which is important – who wants to travel thousands of kilometres to race in a bracket where no one talks or helps each other out?” Along with the usual drive to win, 2014 brings an
extra dusting of motivation thanks to its status as the 40th anniversary for Bruce Lynton BMW – making it the longest serving BMW dealer in Australia. “As long as I have raced I have always run the number 23 where it was available, I am not superstitious but that is the number I have always used,” said Lynton. “However for 2014 I am honoured to park the 23 for a celebratory number 40, in recognition of what is a pretty big milestone for our business. “If we can snare some event victories with the 4-0 that will be pretty special – obviously we are here to win and we will be doing everything we can to be competitive at every round. “I feel it is going to be a good year, while the EVOs are formidable competition every one of them had issues at some point last year and we all know you don’t have to win every race to win a championship, but you do have to finish - that is where the BMW I think will have the edge!”
thenationals.com.au | 19
ROUND 1 SANDOWN, VIC
SHANNONS AUSTRALIAN MOTOR RACING NATIONALS SANDOWN 27- 30 March 2014 PROMOTERS
MOTOR RACING IS DANGEROUS
The CAMS National Racing Championships Pty Ltd ABN 39122509184
You are present at this meeting entirely at your own risk and it is a condition of admission that all persons having any connection with the promotion and organisation and/or conduct of the meeting, including owners of the vehicles and passengers in the vehicles, are absolved from all liability in respect of personal injury (whether fatal or otherwise) to you or damage to your property however caused.
AUTHORITY This meeting is conducted under the International Sporting Code of the FIA, the National Competition Rules of the CAMS Limited, the Race Meeting Standing Regulations of CAMS, Sandown Standing Regulations and Supplementary Regulations issued for this meeting. CAMS Permit No. 814/3003/02
OFFICIALS OF THE MEETING ORGANISING COMMITTEE
Rob Curkpatrick, Wayne Giles, Colin Smith, Gale Smith, Matthew Baragwanath
OFFICIALS OF THE MEETING
CLERK OF THE COURSE Colin Smith DEPUTY CLERK OF THE COURSE James Taylor ASSISTANT CLERKS OF THE COURSE Anthony Jenkins, Bill Crouch, Gale Smith SECRETARY OF THE MEETING Wayne Giles DEPUTY SECRETARY OF THE MEETING Renee Pickering EMERGENCY CONTROLLER Simon Maas COMPLIANCE CHECKER Danny Jonas CHIEF FIRE MARSHALL Phillip Craig CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER Dr KaseyZdanius CHIEF MARSHAL Roger Chirnside CHIEF RECOVERY Ken Johnson
CHIEF FLAG MARSHAL Terry O’Callaghan CHIEF MARSHALLING AREA Robin Wood CHIEF PIT LANE MARSHAL Ivan Tarrant CHIEF STARTER Jeff Benham CHIEF TIMEKEEPER Ian Leech SERIES STEWARD Steven Lisk STEWARDS OF THE MEETING Bradley Tubb, Michael Holloway CHIEF SCRUTINEER Angus Black JUDGES OF FACT Start & Finish - Ian Leech, Colin Smith, Jeff Benham Pit Lane Speed - Ian Leech, Colin Smith Kerb Hopping - TBA by Bulletin Noise - Angus Black RACE DIRECTOR Australian Manufacturers Championship Paul Overell Australian GT Championship Mike Dennis
IMPORTANT NOTICES AND GENERAL INFORMATION DISCLAIMER EXCLUSION OF LIABILITY, RELEASE AND ASSUMPTION OF RISK
MOTOR SPORT IS DANGEROUS In exchange for being able to attend or participate in the event, (and as a condition of the purchase or issue of a ticket), you agree: to release Confederation of Australian Motor Sport Ltd (“CAMS”) and Australian Motor Sport Commission Ltd, promoters, sponsor organisations, land owners and lessees, organisers of the event, their respective servants, officials, representatives and agents (collectively, the “Associated Entities”) from all liability for your death, personal injury (including burns), psychological trauma, loss or damage (including property damage) (“harm”) howsoever arising from your participation in or attendance at the event, except to the extent prohibited by law; that CAMS and the Associated Entities do not make any warranty implied or express, that the event services will be provided with due care and skill or that any materials provided in connection with the services will be fit for the purpose for which they are supplied; and to attend or participate in the event at your own risk. You acknowledge that:
TECHNICAL COMMISSIONERS Australian Manufacturers Championship Bob Hockley Australian GT Championship Ewan Cole Formula 3 Australian Drivers Championship Fred Severin Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Bob Buck Australian Super Six Touring Car Series Paul Grey DRIVER STANDARDS ADVISER Aust Saloon Car Series - Peter Dane
ENTRIES The organizers accept competitor entries and driver nominations in good faith. Every effort is made to adhere to the printed program of competitors but the promoter cannot accept responsibility for the failure of any driver or competing vehicle to appear. Although every endeavour is made to avoid inaccuracies in the description of competing vehicles, the organizers accept responsibility for any that may occur. The organizers reserve the right to postpone, abandon or cancel the meeting or any part thereof.
the risks associated with attending or participating in the event include the risk that you may suffer harm as a result of: motor vehicles (or parts of them) colliding with other motor vehicles, persons or property; acts of violence and other harmful acts (whether intentional or inadvertent) committed by persons attending or participating in the event; and the failure or unsuitability of facilities (including grand-stands, fences and guard rails) to ensure the safety of persons or property at the event. motor sport is dangerous and that accidents causing harm can and do happen and may happen to you. You accept the conditions of, and acknowledge the risks arising from, attending o or participating in the event and being provided with the event services by CAMS and the Associated Entities.
PROHIBITED AREAS The organisers of the event have made every effort to ensure the safety of spectators at this meeting. In the interest of public safety, all areas other than the official spectator areas are prohibited. The spectator areas are plainly defined and spectators are requested to keep behind the safety fence at all times. Do not walk on the
SERIES DIRECTOR & EVENT MANAGER Rob Curkpatrick
MEDIA MANAGER Richard Craill
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT & THANKS Thank you to: All Officials Victorian Fire and Rescue Inc Victorian Flagmarshalling Team Recovery Team Suzuki Racesafe Medical Team All Competitors, Drivers and Teams Category Managers Melbourne Racing Club Shannons Insurance Hi-Tec Oils Wade Calderwood, Matthew Baragwanath and Sandown Raceway Liam Curkpatrick & Andrew Johnstone Confederation of Australian Motor Sport
circuit at any time, or move into prohibited areas. In the event of an accident on the circuit, the public must remain behind the safety fence as their entry to the race track may cause further accidents and hinder officials.
SAFETY The fencing erected around this circuit is there for your protection. It is forbidden to stand, sit or climb on it.
PARKING Vehicles are permitted to enter and park on condition that the promoters and circuit owners are not under any liability whether in contract or in tort and whether for negligence as an occupier, or on any other basis or for any cause for action, for loss or damage to the vehicle or its contents no matter how or whether such may be caused.
COPYRIGHT All material in this program is copyright and may not be used without permission of the publishers. The opinions of the contributors are not necessarily those held by the publishers or the event organisers.
thenationals.com.au | 21
ROUND 1 SANDOWN, VIC like:
discounts
ee ontents tools
e month
ike or
6 FOR A QUOTE | SHANNONS.COM.AU 11 006 471 709 (AFSL 235011), the product issuer. Some benefits only apply to relevant Product Disclosure Statement at shannons.com.au or by calling 13 46 46.
SCHEDULE THURSDAY 27th March 800
Gates Open
1300
Media Rides
DBYD Aust Super Six Touring Car Series
20 min
1320
Media Rides
Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge
20 min
1340
Media Rides
Australian GT Championship
20 min
1400
Media Rides
Radical Australia Cup
20 min
1420
Media Rides
Australian Manuf. Championship
20 min
1440
Media Rides
Invitational (closed cars)
60 min
FriDAY 28th March
22 | the Racing Magazine
700
Gates Open
915
Practice
DBYD Aust Super Six Touring Car Series
20 min
940
Practice
Australian Manuf. Championship
20 min
1005
Practice
Formula 3 Aust. Drivers Championship
30 min
1040
Practice
Australian GT Championship
20 min
1105
Practice
Radical Australia Cup
20 min
1130
Practice
DBYD Aust Super Six Touring Car Series
20 min
1155
Practice
Australian Manuf. Championship
20 min
1220
Practice
Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge
30 min
1255
Practice
Australian GT Championship
20 min
1320
Practice
Radical Australia Cup
20 min
1345
Practice
DBYD Aust Super Six Touring Car Series
20 min
1410
Practice
Formula 3 Aust. Drivers Championship
30 min
1445
Practice
Australian Manuf. Championship
20 min
1510
Practice
Australian GT Championship
20 min
1535
Practice
Radical Australia Cup
20 min
1600
Practice
Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge
30 min
ROUND 1 SANDOWN, VIC Shannons insurance is for motoring enthusiasts just like you, with features like:
SCHEDULE
n Choice of repairer n Agreed value n Multi-Vehicle & Multi-Policy discounts n Limited Use & Club Plate cover n Laid up cover n One excess free windscreen claim per year n Total Loss Salvage options n Home Contents Insurance including $10,000 enthusiast cover for your collectables & tools
Saturday 29th March
n Towing & storage costs as a result of loss or damage n Pay by the month Gates Open premiums at no extra cost TBA Drivers Briefings Call Shannons on 13 46 46 for a quote on your special car, daily drive, bike or 910 Practice your home, and Australian Championship 15 min speak withManuf. a genuine enthusiast.
700
930
Practice
Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge
15 min
950
Qualifying 1
Radical Australia Cup
20 min
1015 1040
Qualifying 1 DBYD Aust Super ENTHUSIASTS Six Touring Car Series INSURANCE FOR MOTORING | CALL 13 4620 46min FOR A QUOTE | SHANNONS.COM.AU Qualifying 1 Limited ABN 91 099 Formula 3 Aust. DriversofChampionship 20 min Shannons 962 636 an authorised representative Australian Alliance Insurance Company Limited ABN 11 006 471 709 (AFSL 235011), the product issuer. Some benefits only apply to
1105
Qualifying 2
Radical Australia Cup
20 min
1130
Qualifying 2
DBYD Aust Super Six Touring Car Series
20 min
1155
Qualifying 1
Australian Manuf. Championship
20 min
1220
Qualifying 1
Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge
20 min
1245
Qualifying 1
Australian GT Championship
30 min
1320
Qualifying 2
Australian Manuf. Championship
20 min
1345
Race 1
DBYD Aust Super Six Touring Car Series
10 laps
comprehensive vehicle cover. Shannons has not taken account of your objectives, financial situation or needs. First refer to the relevant Product Disclosure Statement at shannons.com.au or by calling 13 46 46.
1415
Race 1
Formula 3 Aust. Drivers Championship
12 laps
1440
Race 1
Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge
12 laps
1510
Race 1
Australian GT Championship
CPS
1 Hour
1620
Race 1
Radical Australia Cup
CPS
50 min
1715
Race 2
DBYD Aust Super Six Touring Car Series
10 laps
Sunday 30th March 700
Gates Open
910
Race 3
DBYD Aust Super Six Touring Car Series
10 laps
935
Warm Up
Australian GT Championship
10 min
Podium: Aust Super Six Touring Car Series
955
Race 2
Formula 3 Aust. Drivers Championship
12 laps
1025
Race 2
Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge
12 laps
Podium: Formula 3 Aust Drivers Champ
1050
Warm Up
Radical Australia Cup
1110
Race 2
Australian GT Championship
1220
Race 3
10 min CPS
Formula 3 Aust. Drivers Championship
Podium: Aust GT Championship
1255
Warm Up
Australian Manuf. Championship
1315
Race 2
Radical Australia Cup
1410
Race 3
Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Podium: Radical Australia Cup
Podium: Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge
1440
Amchamp Sandown 3 Hour Classic
18 laps 10 min
CPS
Race 1
1 Hour
50 min 12 laps
3 Hours
Podium: Aust Manufacturers Championship
thenationals.com.au | 23
ROUND 1 SANDOWN, VIC
Australian Manufacturers Championship ON THE WEB: www.amchamp.com.au
Car
SPONSOR
DRIVER (state)
state VEHICLE
13
Osborne Motorsport
Colin Osborne
NSW
Mazda 3 MPS
14
Dynagrip Aust/Kandi Warehousing
Kevin Herben
Qld
Honda Integra DC5
co-driver Luke King 18
Sherrin Rentals
19
Sherrin Rentals
Grant Sherrin co-driver Iain Sherrin Michael Sherrin co-driver David Ayres
20
Eastern Creek Karts
21
Disc Brakes Australia
Garry Holt co-driver Stuart Kostera Jake Williams co-driver Geoff Rands
22
Melbourne Performance Centre
28
GWS Personnel
30
Castrol/Turbosmart/DBA/Bilstein
AAW Australian Auto Wreckers
BMW 135i
Qld NSW
Mitsubishi Evo 10
WA NSW
Honda Integra DC5
NSW Vic
co-driver Glenn Seton
34
Qld
Vic
Bob Pearson
BMW 135i
Qld
Shane Marshall
co-driver John Bowe
Osborne Motorsport
Qld
co-driver Robert Marshall Peter O'Donnell
31
NSW
NSW
Mitsub Evo 10 BMW 335i
Vic NSW
Mitsubishi Evo 10
Qld
Colin Osborne
NSW
Mazda 3 MPS
George Karadimas
Vic
Ford Falcon XR6T
co-driver co-driver Matt Lehmann 35
GWS Personnel
Ric Shaw
Vic NSW
BMW 130i
Jake Camilleri
Qld
Mazda 3 MPS
co-driver Scott Nicholas
Qld
co-driver Michael Sloss 36 40
Grand Prix Mazda Alphera Financial Services
Beric Lynton co-driver Tim Leahey
54
Donut King
55
Kintyre Racing
Tony Alford co-driver Peter Leemhuis Glyn Crimp co-driver Matthew Cherry
88
Network Clothing/Dentbuster
Mark Eddy co-driver Francois Jouy
Qld Qld
BMW 1M
Qld WA
BMW 1M
WA Vic NSW
For more entry information, visit www.thenationals.com.au
24 | the Racing Magazine
BMW 1M
NSW
Renault Megane RS265
ROUND 1 SANDOWN, VIC
Dial Before You Dig Australian Super Six Touring Car Series ON THE WEB: www.salooncars.net.au Car
SPONSOR
2
DRIVER (state)
state VEHICLE
Ben Grice
QLD
AU Falcon
3
Inland Motor Body Works
Jason Leoncini
VIC
VT Comm
4
Auddino First National
Tony Auddino
WA
AU Falcon
6
Morphett Vale Garage
Wayne King
SA
VT Comm
7
Buyaustralianmade.com.au
Phil Gray
VIC
AU Falcon
9
Silkgate Group
Ian Chivas
NSW
AU Falcon
10
BRE/ Morphett Vale Garage
Tony James
WA
VT Comm
16
Kleenduct Australia P/L
Harley Phelan
VIC
VT Comm
18
Truckphones.com.au
Brent Edwards
VIC
EA Falcon
27
Transley Solutions
Luke Westall
NSW
AU Falcon
33
Forklift Clearance Centre
Greg Murcott
VIC
VT Comm
37
All In 1 Service Center
David Wright
VIC
AU Falcon
38
Blackwell Race Engines
Gavin Ross
VIC
VT Comm
41
Dial Before You Dig
Mark Primmer
NSW
AU Falcon
42
Dial Before You Dig
Cameron Moss
NSW
AU Falcon
46
Sopranos Pizza Bar
Shaun Woodhouse
VIC
VT Comm
48
STR Truck Bodies
Matthew Palmer
VIC
VT Comm
51
Casey Accident Repair
Travis Lindorff
VIC
VT Comm
56
Baxter Electrical
Kane Baxter-Smith
QLD
AU Falcon
64
Cachet Homes
Chris Lillis
WA
VT Comm
67
Scotts Rods Exhausts
Lindsay Kearns
QLD
AU Falcon
68
Wayne Bates Racing
Wayne Bates
VIC
AU Falcon
81
Rick Gill Motorcycles
Rick Gill
WA
AU Falcon
For more entry information, visit www.thenationals.com.au
thenationals.com.au | 25
ROUND 1 SANDOWN, VIC
Radical Australia Cup ON THE WEB: www.radicalsportscars.com
Car
SPONSOR
DRIVER (state)
state VEHICLE
1
Excalibur Racing
Neale Muston
NSW
Radical
2
Radical Australia
Michael Shaw
NSW
Radical
5
Haggarty Racing Team
Simon Haggarty
NSW
Radical
6
Haggarty Racing Team
Tony Haggarty
NSW
Radical
9
Radical Australia
Chris Medland
NSW
Radical
11
Radical Team Melbourne
Robert Baird
VIC
Radical
17
PJS Air
Peter Johnston
NSW
Radical
24
Taylor Collison
Michael Whiting
SA
Radical
27
First Neon
Peter White
NSW
Radical
31
First Focus
Peter Paddon
NSW
Radical
32
Hughes Motorsport
Sue Hughes
NSW
Radical
33
RAW Racing
Tim Berryman
NSW
Radical
34
The GT3 Factory
John Morriss
VIC
Radical
35
Austech Wire & Cable
Andrew Richmond
VIC
Radical
co-driver Adam Newton
VIC
52
Radical Australia
Bill Medland
NSW
Radical
66
Django Racing
John Corbett
NSW
Radical
68
RAW Racing
Kim Burke
NSW
Radical
78
Radical Australia
Greg Smith
NSW
Radical
86
Radical Australia
Oliver Smith
NSW
Radical
88
Radical Australia
Rowan Ross
NSW
Radical
Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge ON THE WEB: www.gt3cupchallenge.com.au
Car
SPONSOR
DRIVER (state)
state VEHICLE
3
Eva Racing/Evolve Technik
Peter Grove
VIC
Porsche 911 GT3 Cup
5
Objective Racing
Tony Taylor
QLD
Porsche 911 GT3 Cup
7
Racing Dynamics/Fabeto Racing
Jack Falla
WA
Porsche 911 GT3 Cup
10
Hallmarc Developments
Michael Loccisano
VIC
Porsche 911 GT3 Cup
11
DDS Transport Solutions
Steve McFadden
QLD
Porsche 911 GT3 Cup
16
Kinpath Group
John Karytinos
SA
Porsche 911 GT3 Cup
30
Compass Global Markets
David Ryan
QLD
Porsche 911 GT3 Cup
35
Rentcorp Forklifts
Indiran Padayachee
NSW
Porsche 911 GT3 Cup
46
Anthony Skinner
Anthony Skinner
NSW
Porsche 911 GT3 Cup
65
Porsche Centre Brighton/TRP/Torque Money
Fraser Ross
VIC
Porsche 911 GT3 Cup
66
GAP Solutions / Sektor
John Goodacre
SA
Porsche 911 GT3 Cup
69
Dial Before You Dig
Jon McCorkindale
NSW
Porsche 911 GT3 Cup
81
Anacon Homes
Michael Tsigeridis
VIC
Porsche 911 GT3 Cup
222
Fleeplus
Scott Taylor
QLD
Porsche 911 GT3 Cup
707
HTFU
Sam Shahin
SA
Porsche 911 GT3 Cup
For more entry information, visit www.thenationals.com.au 26 | the Racing Magazine
ROUND 1 SANDOWN, VIC
Australian GT Championship ON THE WEB: www.australiangt.com.au
Car
SPONSOR
DRIVER (state)
state VEHICLE
1
Darrell Lea
Klark Quinn
Qld
McLaren MP4-12C
3
Motor School
George Foessel
Qld
Porsche 997GT3 Cup
co-driver Ben Foessel 5
Graham Lusty Trailers
Graham Lusty co-driver Geoff Fane
Qld Qld
Mosler MT900GT
Qld
6
Swirk
Rod Salmon
NSW
Audi R8 LMS Ultra
7
VIP Petfoods
Tony Quinn
Qld
Aston Martin Vantage GT3
9
TM Motorsports
Tony Martin
Qld
Ginetta G50 GT4
19
Hogs Breath CafĂŠ
Mark Griffith
Qld
Ginetta G50 GT4
25
Walz Group
Brendan Cook
Qld
Porsche 997 Cup
29
Trefeo Motorsport/Pirelli
co-driver Matt Kingsley Jim Manolios co-driver Ryan Millier 35
Rentcorp
Indiran Padayachee
36
Qld Vic
Chev Corvette
VIC NSW
Porsche 996 Cup Car
co-driver Richard Muscat
Vic
AMG SLS GT3
38
Eggleston Motorsport
Ben Eggleston
Vic
Aston Martin DBRS9
47
Supabarn Supermarkets
James Koundouris
NSW
Porsche FIA GT3-R
48
Interlloy M Motorsport
co-driver Steven Owen
51
Amac Motorsport
52 69
Supabarn Supermarkets
70
NSW
Justin McMillan
Vic
co-driver Steven Richards
Vic
Lamborghini Gallardo FL II
Andrew Macpherson
NSW
Porsche 997 GT3 Cup S
Keith Kassulke
Qld
Ascari KZR-1
co-driver Johnathan Venter
NSW
Theo Koundouris
NSW
Porsche 997 Cup S
Dale Paterson
Vic
Mosler MT900
71
Equity-One Mortgage Fund
Dean Koutsoumidis
Vic
Audi R8 LMS
73
Associated Projects
Michael Hovey
Qld
Porsche 997 GT3 Cup Car MY11
75
JAMEC PEM RACING
Steven McLaughlan
Vic
Audi R8 LMS 2011
77
JJA Consulting Group
Jan Jinadasa
Vic
Lamborghini LP520
88
IL Bello Rosso
Peter Edwards
Vic
Ferrari 458 Italia GT3
co-driver John Bowe
Vic
For more entry information, visit www.thenationals.com.au
thenationals.com.au | 27
MEETING NEWS All the latest breaking news ahead of round one of the 2014 Shannons Australian Motor Racing Nationals
CAMS MAKES USE OF FRONTAL HEAD RESTRAINTS MANDATORY FROM MID 2014 The Confederation of Australian Motor Sport (CAMS) is to make use of Frontal Head Restraints (FHR) mandatory from mid-2014. FHR’s are a safety device that reduces the likelihood of head and/ or neck injuries and are already compulsory in many motor sport events worldwide. Formula 1® mandated FHR devices called HANS (Head and Neck Support) in 2003 after extensive testing and these products are also mandatory in Australia’s premier touring car category, the V8 Supercars Championship. CAMS Chief Executive Eugene Arocca says it’s time the devices were made mandatory in all levels of Australian motor sport and expects this decision will be embraced nationwide. “We have a responsibility to continually review safety in motor sport and we felt it was an opportune time to review mandatory use of Frontal Head Restraints. “Safety is paramount in this sport. Ultimately the industry will embrace Frontal Head restraints at all levels and we are very comfortable making this decision as part of our responsibility in regulating motor sport in this country. “The facts and the information supporting FHRs is overwhelming. Use a Frontal Head Restraint and your chances of surviving a significant motor sport incident are far better than without.” said Arocca. The purpose of FHR devices is to stop the head from whipping forward in a crash, without
28 | the Racing Magazine
restricting the movement of the neck, as an FHR device maintains the relative position of the head to the body. CAMS has resolved to introduce regulations which mandate the use of forward head restraints in accordance with FIA standards as follows:
From 1 July, 2014 all international and national circuit races, road events and off road events, except where specifically exempted due to the type of vehicle; From 1 January, 2015, all state circuit races, road events and off road events, except where specifically exempted due to the type of vehicle. This does not include Speed events and Auto tests. CAMS will conduct an assessment to monitor the introduction and to determine its application to other disciplines and lower level competition. In the meantime, competitors are reminded that the use of these restraints remains highly recommended. Arocca said: “Personally, if I was competing at an event I would use a Frontal Head Restraint irrespective of the level of motor sport. Most importantly, this will be phased in together with an ongoing monitoring process, which we believe is the best way forward. “In real terms, when you consider that the cost of a basic FHR is equivalent to two good quality tyres, it would be difficult to logically argue against
the mandating of FHR, particularly given the FHR will outlast the tyres by a number of years.” Former V8 Supercar driver and Australian motor sport legend Mark Skaife believes this is a significant moment in the history of Australian motor sport and all drivers at all levels will be better off. “I think to make it compulsory now is absolutely required.” said Skaife He added: “The shift in policy is like when seat belts were introduced. At the end of the day we would not go racing without seat belts. Frontal Head Restraints are the same. “They take a little bit of getting used to in making sure the seat belts conform to body shape, but for me it’s a one hundred percent guaranteed thing that you should wear for any sort of motor sport.” “For me, to make it compulsory now, is a great thing. Elite drivers consider FHR devices as essential as their helmet. V8 Supercar Driver and CAMS Driver Development Manager Karl Reindler recalls one occasion in particular where a Frontal Head Restraint proved invaluable. “With the accident I had in Perth in 2011, it saved my life. I walked away from that accident with some burns but had I not had my Frontal Head Restraint on, who knows what the result could have been? “I think it’s a great move by CAMS and the devices are a lot more affordable now than what they used to be. “You can’t put a value on your own life.” said Reindler.
ROUND 1 SANDOWN, VIC Shannons insurance is for motoring enthusiasts just like you, with features like:
n Choice of repairer n Agreed value n Multi-Vehicle & Multi-Policy discounts n Limited Use & Club Plate cover n Laid up cover n One excess free windscreen claim per year n Total Loss Salvage options n Home Contents Insurance including $10,000 enthusiast cover for your collectables & tools n Towing & storage costs as a result of loss or damage n Pay by the month premiums at no extra cost Call Shannons on 13 46 46 for a quote on your special car, daily drive, bike or your home, and speak with a genuine enthusiast.
TELEVISION COVERAGE
INSURANCE FOR MOTORING ENTHUSIASTS | CALL 13 46 46 FOR A QUOTE | SHANNONS.COM.AU
Shannons Nationals TV
Shannons Limited ABN 91 099 962 636 an authorised representative of Australian Alliance Insurance Company Limited ABN 11 006 471 709 (AFSL 235011), the product issuer. Some benefits only apply to comprehensive vehicle cover. Shannons has not taken account of your objectives, financial situation or needs. First refer to the relevant Product Disclosure Statement at shannons.com.au or by calling 13 46 46.
Speedweek on Sunday at 2pm on SBS1
ROUND 1 Sandown Show 1
Sunday 6th April (2 Hours)
AMChamp: Sandown 3 Hour Classic
Aust Super Six Touring Car Series
Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge
Radical Australlia Cup
Show 2
Sunday 13th April (1 Hour)
Australian Formula 3 Championship
Australian GT Championship
‘Shannons Nationals’ on Fox SPEED dates & times TBA Live Internet TV from 9.00am on Sunday via www.thenationals.com.au
LAP RECORDS
SANDOWN LAP RECORDS AS AT November 2013
Main Straight Length: 899 Metres Track Width: 12.5 Metres (Main Straight)
Back Straight Length: 910 Metres (incl kink) 11 Metres (Back Straight)
Direction: Anti-Clockwise
NATIONAL CIRCUIT - LENGTH 3.1 KM OUTRIGHT
TOM TWEEDIE
Chevron B24/28
1.05.76
14th Sept 2013
V8 SUPERCARS
WILL DAVISON
FORD FALCON FG
1.09.411
14th Sept2013
KUHMO TYRES V8 TOURING CARS
TONY EVANGELOU
Ford Falcon BA
1:12.81
23rd Oct 2010
KERRICK SPORTS SEDANS
DARREN HOSSACK
Audi A4/Chev
1.08.56
2nd March 2008
PRODUCTION CARS
STUART KOSTERA
Mitsubishi Evo X
1.20.74
24th Oct 2010
SALOON CARS
TIM ROWSE
VT Commodore
1.23.83
24th Oct 2010
AUST SWIFT RACING SERIES
ALLAN JARVIS
SWIFT SPORT
1:33.93
25th Nov 2012
Dallara F307– Mercedes Benz
1.08.3678
17th Nov 2013
TOURING & PRODUCTION CARS
RACING CARS FORMULA 3 30 | the Racing Magazine
John Magro
At a brand new time of 2pm EST every Sunday!
For almost 20 years, Speedweek has been beamed into every loungeroom in Australian Capital Cities and Regional; Nothing’s changed...
:
ounts
ents s nth
or
OR A QUOTE | SHANNONS.COM.AU
6 471 709 (AFSL 235011), the product issuer. Some benefits only apply to nt Product Disclosure Statement at shannons.com.au or by calling 13 46 46.