PARK RACEWAY
0 0 3 d l e i f e k a W e n i l o 6 v 1 l 0 a 2 V y 6 r a u 201 r b e 20-21 F 50 cars 100 drivers 137 laps around the nation’s spectator track 1 winner www.wakefieldpark.com.au
2016 Valvoline Wakefield 300
CONTENTS
| Schedule of events................................................... 3 | Valvoline Wakefield 300 entry list......................... 4 | Event preview........................................................... 6 | Valvoline Wakefield 300 drivers and teams......... 10 | Valvoline Wakefield 300 by the numbers............. 25 | NSW Production Touring Cars............................. 26 | Series X3 NSW........................................................ 27 | Stock Cars................................................................. 28 | Lap records............................................................... 30 | Circuit map.............................................................. 31
Welcome along to Wakefield Park Raceway for the Valvoline Wakefield 300 endurance race.
Matt Baragwanath Operations Manager
Once again, we have received numerous entries for the event, along with valuable support from our naming-rights sponsor Valvoline, who have committed to both the Wakefield and Winton events for another 12 months. It’s also pleasing to welcome Supashock Suspension as the pole position award sponsor, and Sunday’s action will be live streamed thanks to Toast AV. I’d also especially like to thank the members of the Wakefield 300 working group, who have made important contributions and suggestions which have enabled us to make some small improvements to the regulations for 2016. I hope you have an enjoyable weekend at the track and look forward to seeing you again soon. Cheers, Matt
2
2016 VALVOLINE WAKEFIELD 300 The official program of the 2016 Valvoline Wakefield 300 PROMOTER Wakefield Park Motorsport Pty Ltd 4770 Braidwood Road Tirrannaville NSW 2580 Phone (02) 4822 2811 Fax (02) 4822 2812 info@wakefieldpark.com.au www.wakefieldpark.com.au ORGANISING COMMITTE Matt Baragwanath, Lachlan Mansell, Daryl McHugh EVENT DIRECTOR Matt Baragwanath RACE DIRECTOR Daryl McHugh CLERK OF COURSE Jessica Nicholson RACE SECRETARY Louise Hallam CHIEF TIMEKEEPER Eldee Timing MEDICAL Ambulance Service Australia COMMENTATORS Brian Van De Wakker, Lachlan Mansell THANKS TO ALL THE OTHER OFFICIALS WHO HAVE VOLUNTEERED THEIR TIME FOR THIS EVENT PROGRAM EDITOR Lachlan Mansell PHOTOGRAPHS Judi McDonald, Rene Martens, John Smith, Alicia Jackson
February 20-21 2016
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Saturday 20th February 2016 7:15 7:35 7:55 9:00
Series X3 NSW scrutineering (scrutineering bay) NSW Production Touring scrutineering (scrutineering bay) Stock Cars scrutineering (scrutineering bay Valvoline Wakefield 300 scutineering (garages)
Event Time Category Description Duration 08:30 Drivers Briefing - all categories Q1 09:00 Series X3 NSW Qualifying 20 min Q2 09:25 NSW Production Touring Qualifying 20 min Q3 09:50 Stock Cars Qualifying 20 min P1A 09:55 Valvoline Wakefield 300 Practice 1 - odd numbers 30 min P1B 10:30 Valvoline Wakefield 300 Practice 1 - even numbers 30 min R1 11:05 Series X3 NSW Race 1 8 laps R2 11:25 NSW Production Touring Race 1 10 laps R3 11:45 Stock Cars Race 1 10 laps 12:05 Lunch 25 min P2A 12:30 Valvoline Wakefield 300 Practice 2 - odd numbers 30 min P2B 13:05 Valvoline Wakefield 300 Practice 2 - even numbers 30 min R4 13:40 Series X3 NSW Race 2 8 laps R5 14:00 NSW Production Touring Race 2 10 laps Q4A 14:20 Valvoline Wakefield 300 Qualifying - slower 50% 20 min Q4B 14:45 Valvoline Wakefield 300 Qualifying - faster 50% 20 min R6 15:10 Series X3 NSW Race 3 10 laps R7 15:35 Stock Cars Race 2 10 laps T10 15:55 Valvoline Wakefield 300 Supashock Top 10 Shootout 1 lap 16:30 Valvoline Wakefield 300 Driver/team special briefing
Sunday 21st February 2016
8:00 8:45 9:00
Valvoline Wakefield 300 scrutineering (garages) NSW Production Touring scrutineering (scrutineering bay) Stock Cars scrutineering (scrutineering bay)
Event Time Category Description Duration W1 09:30 Valvoline Wakefield 300 Warmup 30 min R8 10:05 NSW Production Touring Race 3 12 laps R9 10:30 Stock Cars Race 3 12 laps R10 10:55 NSW Production Touring Race 4 15 laps R11 11:25 Stock Cars Race 4 15 laps 11:55 Valvoline Wakefield 300 Pit exit open 12:15 Pit exit closed 12:20 Photo shoot with all cars on grid 12:25 National anthem R12 12:30 Valvoline Wakefield 300 Endurance Race 137 laps 20 minutes after race Podium presentation
3
2016 Valvoline Wakefield 300
Valvoline Wakefield 300 Entry List - Cars 1-83 No
Sponsors
Driver A
Driver B
1
Deputy.com
Steve Shelley
2
Rockfield Views/PHP Ashphalt
9
Car
Colour
Jake Shelley
Lotus Elise HPE
Black/White
Gavin Clay
Greg Quince
Mazda MX5
Red
MRA/Menai Mufflers
Terry Denovan
Geoff Stockley
Holden VH Commodore
Yellow
10
MX5 Parts
Paul Shacklady
Anthony Carter
Mazda MX5
Black/Silver
11
Canberra Hydraulics/ Discount Carports
Nathan Jess
Kerran Dal-Maso
Future Racer
Blue/Green
14
Tasker Joinery
Greg Tasker
Shaun Vanzyl
Mazda MX5
Blue
18
Sherrin Rentals
Grant Sherrin
Iain Sherrin
BMW 135i
Red
19
Sherrin Rentals
Michael Sherrin
David Ayres
BMW 135i
Orange
20
Gold Coast Embroidey/ Ozetees
Peter Lacey
Robin Lacey
Mazda MX5
Orange
22
Challenge Motorsport
Iain McDougall
TBA
Mini Cooper S JCW
Red
27
Tanner Autosport
Shane Tanner
Ben Johnson
Proton Satria GTI
Green
34
Wellpro Racing
John Prefontaine
Robert Hackwood
Lotus Exige
Blue
39
Advanced Gas Maintenance
David Bailey
Adam Hughes
Toyota 86
Black/Orange
46
Triumphant Racing
Howard Glinn
Joshua Glinn
49
JB Lubricants/RB Bricklaying
Chris Belling
Rhys Belling
Holden HQ
White
55
Targa Racing
Anthony Bonnano
Adam Dodd
VW Scirocco
Blue
59
Shorehire
Wayne Cooper
Scott Bargwanna
Mazda MX5
Silver/Black
66
Ingenium Group
Glenn Potter
John Angiolella
BMW E30 325i Orange
68
CXC Global/CGR Performance
Dylan Thomas
Stuart Kostera
Daytona Coupe
Blue
73
Property Investment Store
Glenn Townsend
Anthony Soole
Lotus Exige
White
75
Hydra-Wash
Michael Hall
Rob Hay
Mazda MX5
White
77
Kool Jet
Todd Herring
Richard Herring
Mazda MX5
Green
78
Daniel Reynolds
Daniel Reynolds
Matt Stubbs
Mazda MX5
Orange/ Black
83
CXC Global/Royal Medical
Gavin Holland
Dave Thomas
Mitsubishi Evo Blue IX
4
Driver C
Ryan Glinn Triumph TR8
Royal Blue
February 20-21 2016
Valvoline Wakefield 300 Entry List - Cars 86-818 No
Sponsors
Driver A
Driver B
86
Pinnacle Automotive
Daniel Kapetanovic
88
Allcity Recyclers/ Trans Help Foundation
96
Driver C
Car
Colour
Daniel Sugden
BMW 328i
Black
Andrew Walker
Mark Nottage
Hyundai Excel
White/Red
Pulsar Driver Search
Chris Purnell
Mika Polota-Nau
Nissan Pulsar
TBA
98
Brett McFarland
Brett McFarland
Peter Green Jnr
Subaru Impreza WRX
Blue
101
Hi Tech Motorsport
Dave Williams
Scott Williams
Hyundai Excel
White
110
Targa Racing
David Viner
Rob Viner
Mazda MX5
Black
111
Downer/Targa Racing
Mark Mackay
Justin Ruggier
BMW Z3
Blue
123
Elements Cleaning
Steven Head
Owen Boak
Mazda MX5
Red
127
Brindabella Home Improvements
Trevan Spiteri
John Spiteri
Mitsubishi Evo White VI
130
Nick Cox
Nick Cox
Adam Gosling
BMW 130i
Black
141
One Way Racing
Elliot Wright
Greg Morsillo
Triumph TR7
Yellow/Blue
144
Parry Anastakis
Lee Field
Peugeot 205 GTI
Red/Black
146
Michael Wedge
Peter Batterham
Holden VX Commodore
White
164
One Way Racing/ Bevisco Interiors
Mark Morsillo
Rhys Morsillo
Triumph Dolomite
White
173
IGS Group/RPH Motorsport Logistics
Dominic Martens
Michael Ridings
Porsche 944
Blue
175
Bavaria/Ensign Racing Tony Ross
Paul Chapman
Mazda MX5
Black
178
BPG Motorsport
Adam Burgess
Craig Burgess
Ginetta G50
White
183
Ross Wood Electrical
Roland Rohrle
Ross Wood
Mazda RX7
Black
221
Construct Building Solutions/Braddon Auto Mart
Matt Thewlis
Chris Clearihan
Future Racer
Yellow
222
Autocolours/Supreme Dry Cleaners
Chad Cotton
Jase Collins
Future Racer
White/ Green
551
Jim Sharples Racing/ Fifth Gear Motoring/ Goodyear Phillip
Daniel Flanagan
Damian Lomax
Nissan 180SX
Black
Stephen Anslow
John Walker
607
Shane Otten
Mazda RX7 V8 Red
661
Elements Restoration/ Cojack Developments
Christine Boak
Alistair Jack
Toyota 86 GT
Silver
818
BYP Racing
Jimmy Tran
Benny Tran
Honda Civic
White
5
2016 Valvoline Wakefield 300
Valvoline Wakefield 300 Preview
Since its inception in 2008, the Valvoline Wakefield 300 has evolved into one of Australia’s most popular club-level racing events and that trend is set to continue in 2016. Event organisers have taken the option of running just a single 137 lap race, rather than the split format used in 2014 and 2015; this has set up the mouth-watering prospect of 50 cars all squeezed into the 2.2 kilometre Goulburn crcuit, and battling for supremacy over a threehour marathon. One of the key factors behind the success of the 300 has been the unique division system, which groups cars into classes based on their lap times, rather than their mechanical specifications. This has allowed vehicles with vastly different technical arrangements to compete on a level playing field, and has attracted a more diverse lineup of cars than any other Australian event. In previous years, cars in the fastest division
6
were required to make two compulsory fiveminute pit stops while all other divisions only had the single mandatory stop. For 2016, this has been tweaked; cars in Division 1 still have to stop twice for five minutes, but cars in Division 2 now have to do a five minute and a two-and-a-half minute stop. All the other divisions still only have the single stop. This change was made to discourage competitors from “sandbagging� - i.e. driving to a lap time to avoid the disadvantage of the extra pit stop, rather than maximising the performance potential of their cars. This adjustment to the division rules will also give Division 3 cars an opportunity to contend for victory, so overall it is expected more cars will have the opportunity to fight for an outright result. The Top 10 Shootout rules have also been
February 20-21 2016
Change is in the air Some key adjustments to the rules for the 2016 Valvoline Wakefield 300 have opened up the possibilites for this year’s race. Lachlan Mansell analyses the permutations. reviewed, and lap times set in the Shootout will no longer have any bearing on division allocations. As a result, the Shootout will be a spectacle of cars on light fuel loads and their best set of tyres, all gunning for the ultimate one-lap pace around Wakefield Park.
opposition from some other Loti, including the John Prefontaine/Robert Hackwood car from Queensland, and the Glenn Townsend/Anthony Soole entry. Other Division 1 contenders will be the Craig/Adam Burgess Ginetta, following on from its second place finish in the Winton 300.
With the modifications to the division system, picking a winner from the field is harder than it has ever been; in reality, there are at least 15 cars that could stake a legitimate claim to being challengers for the overall victory. Nevertheless, there are still a few combinations that always seem to figure in the reckoning.
Also making the trek from Queensland are two very rapid BMW 135i entries for Grant/Iain Sherrin and Michael Sherrin/David Ayres. With vast experience in production car endurance racing, the Sherrins are a strong chance to upset the New South Wales drivers and teams on their home turf.
At the top of the list is the Deputy.com Lotus of Steve/Jake Shelley, which enjoyed a stellar season in 2015 with victories in both the Wakefield and Winton 300s, Jake claiming his third Wakefield win to become the most successful driver in the history of the event.
Another strong car from the German manufacturer is the Targa Racing BMW Z3 of Mark Mackay and 2014 Kumho V8 Touring Car Champion Justin Ruggier, which will run as part of Chris Gough’s slick Targa Racing operation.
However, the Shelleys will face some stiff
As has typically been the case, the event has attracted strong representation from the
7
2016 Valvoline Wakefield 300
Canberra region, including two-time Wakefield 300 Nathan Jess who teams up with Kerran DalMaso in a motorcycle-engined Future Racer. The Jess/Dal-Maso entry is one of three Canberrabased Future Racers in the field, along with Chad Cotton/Jase Collins and Matt Thewlis/Chris Clearihan. Other Canberra-based teams include the Fifth Gear Motoring Nissan 180SX of Daniel Flanagan/Damian Lomax, Proton Satria GTI of Shane Tanner/Ben Johnson and BMW E30 of Glenn Potter/John Angiolella. Mazda MX5s have been the weapon of choice in the AEC for a number of years and veterans Michael Hall and Rob Hay will compete for
8
outright victory in their Hydra-Wash Racing entry, while former national Formula Vee Champions Daniel Reynolds and Matt Stubbs are also a strong contender from the MX5 brigade. With the change in regulations, the stage is set for the mouth-watering prospect of a grandstand finish in which the faster cars are fighting their way through the field in the closing laps. The Wakefield 300 has a rich history of providing entertainment and excitement aplenty, and all the indications are that this race will be no different... bring it on!
February 20-21 2016
9
2016 Valvoline Wakefield 300
1
Deputy.com Lotus Elise HPE
Steve Shelley Starts: Best Finish:
3 1st 2015 with Jake Shelley
Jake Shelley Starts: Best Finish:
5 1st 2012-13 with Michael Shaw and 2015 with Steve Shelley
The Shelleys enjoyed a stellar season in 2015, with victory in both the Wakefield and Winton 300s. After some teeting problems in 2014, their Honda-powered Lotus emerged as a vehicle that was both fast and reliable. Tweaks to the divisions will probably elevate them to Division 1 this year, but the rule changes give them as much chance of winning as anyone. Hence, they enter the weekend as short-priced favourites.
2
Rockfield Views/PHP Asphalt Mazda MX5
Gavin Clay Starts: Best Finish:
0 Debut
Greg Quince Starts: Best Finish:
1 DNF
A pair of Queenslanders have entered their Mazda MX5 in this year’s Wakefield 300 - both drivers have experience in Queensland sports car racing but their Wakefield experience is limited, with just one start between the two drivers. A solid finish and a podium within their division would be a good result for this combination.
9
MRA/Menai Mufflers Holden VH Commodore
Terry Denovan Starts: Best Finish:
4 19th 2013 with Geoff Stockley
Geoff Stockley Starts: Best Finish:
3 19th 2013 with Terry Denovan
Several years of trials and tribulations finally yielded some success for Denovan and Stockley at last year’s Winton 300, the duo running as high as third outright at one stage thanks to slick pit strategy, before they eventually finished in the top 10. Reliability over a long distance has typically been the worst enemy of this car and they will be hoping for a trouble-free run this weekend.
10
February 20-21 2016
10
MX5 Parts Mazda MX5
Paul Shacklady
Starts: 2 Best Finish: 6th 2014-15 B-Main with Anthony Carter
Anthony Carter
Starts: 2 Best Finish: 6th 2014-15 B-Main with Paul Shacklady
Former Clubman racer Paul Shacklady again teams up with tarmac rally competitor Anthony Carter for their third attempt at the 300. On the previous two occasions they have run in the B-Main; this year the single-race format gives them the opportunity to compete for an outright result, and a top 15 finish is certainly achievable in the reliable Targa Racing MX5.
11
Canberra Hydraulics/Discount Carports Future Racer
Nathan Jess Starts: Best Finish:
8 1st 2008 with Chris Clearihan and 2009 with Jeff Davy
Kerran Dal-Maso Starts: Best Finish:
1 25th 2010 with Mick Hebditch
For the first time since 2010, Nathan Jess won’t be joined by Matthew Thomson in a 300km race with Thomson becoming unavailable at the last minute. Instead, Jess has called upon the services of Kerran Dal-Maso who last raced in the 300 in 2010. Always a front-running contender in the 300s, this Future Racer’s chances of victory hinge upon Dal Masso’s ability to get up to speed as quickly as possible.
14
Tasker Joinery Mazda MX5
Greg Tasker Starts: Best Finish:
2 14th 2013 with Sam Silvestro
Shaun Vanzyl Starts: Best Finish:
2 DNF
Former Supersports competitor Greg Tasker has had a mixed run in the 300km endurance races, combining a few good results with a few DNFs due to mechanical problems. Shaun Vanzyl has been out of luck with unreliability in the 300s, including last year’s race when he teamed up with Craig Burgess in the Ginetta. Tasker and Vanzyl will be aiming for a solid finish this year.
11
2016 Valvoline Wakefield 300
18
Sherrin Rentals BMW 135i
Grant Sherrin Starts: Best Finish:
1 9th 2015 with Iain Sherrin
Iain Sherrin Starts: Best Finish:
1 9th 2015 with Grant Sherrin
After a busy year in 2015, in which the Sherrins contested the entire Australian Manufacturers Championship, the Bathurst 12 Hour and 300s at Wakefield, Winton and Queensland, they are back for more this year, dovetailing the 300s with their production car commitments. The BMW 135i has proven a capable endurance package and is a definite outright podium chance.
19
Sherrin Rentals BMW 135i
Michael Sherrin Starts: Best Finish:
1 18th 2015 with David Ayres
David Ayres Starts: Best Finish:
1 18th 2015 with Michael Sherrin
The senior drivers in the second Sherrin BMW may not have the outright pace of their stable-mates, but they have proven to be a consistent and solid combination. They will play a valuable role in supporting their sister car and have the potential to finish in the top seven outright.
20
Gold Coast Embroidery/Ozetees Mazda MX5
Peter Lacey Starts: Best Finish:
3 3rd B-Main 2014-15 with Robin Lacey
Robin Lacey Starts: Best Finish:
3 3rd B-Main 2014-15 with Peter Lacey
The husband-and-wife Lacey combination has finished on the podium in the B-Main the last two years at the Wakefield 300; now the race has reverted to the single format, they still have the ability to compete for a win in their division and an outright top 10 finish is not out of the question if they have a trouble-free run.
12
February 20-21 2016
39
Advanced Gas Maintenance Toyota 86
David Bailey Starts: Best Finish:
1 10th 2015 B-Main with Matt Shylan
Adam Hughes Starts: Best Finish:
0 Debut
David Bailey’s Toyota 86 was one of the most consistent performers in the 300s last year, finishing at the top of its division on both occasions. Because of its flawless reliability, this car is one that often ends up punching well above its weight, finishing ahead of faster entries through sheer staying power.
46
Triumphant Racing Triumph TR7
Howard Glinn Starts: Best Finish:
0 Debut
Joshua Glinn Starts: Best Finish:
0 Debut
Ryan Glinn Starts: Best Finish:
0 Debut
One of the regular competitors in the MRA All British race meeting, Howard Glinn makes the step up to endurance racing with his two sons in 2016. Usually among the faster Triumphs in the field, the 300 will nevertheless be a steep learning experience for this trio but it should be a fun weekend for the Glinn family.
49
JB Lubricants/RB Bricklaying HQ Holden
Chris Belling Starts: Best Finish:
2 27th 2010 with Jason Sparks
Rhys Belling Starts: Best Finish:
0 Debut
After an absence of several years, Chris Belling returns to the Wakefield 300 with son Rhys making his debut in the endurance race. The HQ Holden will be far from the fastest car in the field but should be solid and reliable across the distance, and a contender for a podium in Division 7.
13
2016 Valvoline Wakefield 300
55
Targa Racing VW Scirocco
Anthony Bonnano Starts: Best Finish:
3 17th 2013 with Calum Ballinger
Adam Dodd Starts: Best Finish:
3 18th 2013 with Mark Bell
Aboard a Mazda 6 Diesel, two of the regular drivers from the Targa Racing squad claimed Division 7 honours in the Wakefield 300 last year. For 2016 they step up to the VW Scirocco which is still front-wheel drive and still automatic, but should have a little more straight-line performance, so Division 4 or 5 looks to be a realistic prospect.
59
Shorehire Mazda MX5
Wayne Cooper Starts: Best Finish:
0 Debut
Scott Bargwanna Starts: Best Finish:
0 Debut
It may be the first Wakefield 300 for this combination, but both drivers have significant endurance racing experience. Bargwanna, cousin of Bathurst 1000 winner Jason, is an accomplished sports car racer and this pairing was on target for a top four finish in last year’s Winton 300 before a gut-wrenching diff seal leak in the last few laps ended their day.
66
Ingenium Group BMW 325i
Glenn Potter Starts: Best Finish:
4 25th 2012 with Ray Kwong
John Angiolella Starts: Best Finish:
0 Debut
Cars from the Victorian BMW Drivers Cup have a history of punching above their weight, and Glenn Potter has a number of good 300 results to his credit including a top-five finish in last year’s B-Main. As with last year’s Winton 300, he has opted for Improved Production racer John Angiolella as his co-driver and is a fair bet for a Division 4 podium.
14
February 20-21 2016
68
CXC Global Racing Daytona Coupe
Dylan Thomas Starts: Best Finish:
4 2nd 2012 with Dave Thomas
Stuart Kostera Starts: Best Finish:
0 Debut
For the first time ever, Dylan Thomas won’t race a Mitsubishi Evo in the Wakefield 300. Instead, he will slot into a newly-built Daytona Coupe, which he’ll share with former Australian Manufacturers Championship, Formula 3 and Formula Ford front-runner Stuart Kostera. The Daytona has been through a thorough 18-month development phase and should have the pace to be an outright contender.
73
Property Investment Store Lotus Exige
Glenn Townsend Starts: Best Finish:
2 3rd 2014 with Anthony Soole
Anthony Soole Starts: Best Finish:
7 3rd 2014 with Glenn Townsend
While they have been out of luck at the Winton 300, Wakefield Park has been a much happier hunting ground for Townsend and Soole, who finished on the outright podium in 2014. Soole is one of the most experienced drivers in the event, having raced everything from a Nissan Pulsar to a Lotus, and performing consistently well within his division.
75
Hydra-Wash Mazda MX5
Michael Hall Starts: Best Finish:
Rob Hay Starts: Best Finish:
7 5th 2008 with Phil Taylor and 2012 with Chris Gough
5 2nd 2010 with David Raddatz
Two MX5 veterans unite for the first time in the Wakefield 300, having both enjoyed top five finishes on separate occasions. Hall’s car has typically been one of the front-running NC model MX5s, while Hay is a former winner of the Winton 300, and was a instrumental part of the MX5 Mania team’s crushing 1-2 finish in the 2010 race. Wet weather will particularly work to the advantage of this combination.
15
2016 Valvoline Wakefield 300
77
Kool Jet Mazda MX5
Todd Herring Starts: Best Finish:
3 21st 2015 with Richard Herring
Richard Herring Starts: Best Finish:
3 21st 2015 with Todd Herring
The Herring entry has been among the fastest MX5s entered in the 300 for the last few years, but has also been rather fragile mechanically, only achieving one finish from three starts. In 2016, the focus for this team will be on ensuring they have a trouble-free run; if they can do that, the car is fast enough for a top five finish.
78
Reynolds Racing Mazda MX5
Daniel Reynolds Starts: Best Finish:
3 8th 2014 with Morgan Freemantle
Matt Stubbs Starts: Best Finish:
1 DNF
With no less than four NSW Formula Vee titles and several national crowns, Daniel Reynolds is one of the most talented drivers in the 300 and will be joined by fellow Formula Vee Champion Matt Stubbs. The last couple of 300s have not been kind to this team, with a range of niggling problems including multiple blown gearboxes in the Winton 300, so they will hope the problems are now resolved.
83
CXC Global/Royal Medical Mitsubishi Evo IX
Gavin Holland Starts: Best Finish:
2 6th 2015 with Daniel Byron
Dave Thomas Starts: Best Finish:
4 2nd 2012 with Dylan Thomas
Since his racing debut in the 2014 Wakefield 300, Gavin Holland has proven to be a strong performer, recording top 10 finishes in both the Wakefield and Winton 300s. Dave Thomas is experienced and was particularly strong in the wet conditions of the 2012 race, where he finished second with son Dylan. Given the strength of the competition this year, a top-10 finish would be a good effort.
16
February 20-21 2016
86
Pinnacle Automotive BMW 328i
Daniel Kapetanovic Starts: Best Finish:
4 3rd 2013 with David Krusza
Daniel Sugden Starts: Best Finish:
2 5th 2015 with David Krusza
Daniel Kapetanovic has been one of the most consistent performers in the Wakefield 300 the last four years, finishing in the top 10 every time, and on the outright podium in 2013. His co-driver Daniel Sugden put in one of the drives of the race last year, charging from outside the top-20 on the grid into the top five by the end of his stint. Another top five result will be the goal this year.
88
Allcity Recyclers/Trans Help Foundation Hyundai Excel
Andrew Walker
Starts: 1 Best Finish: 15th 2015 B-Main with David Lo-Iacono
Mark Nottage Starts: Best Finish:
1 16th 2015 B-Main with Ian Kegg
Walker made his debut in the 300km races last year and enjoyed the experience so much, he decided to return for more in his Hyundai Excel. This time around, he will be joined my Mark Nottage, a veteran of HQ Holden racing who more recently has been competing in the NSW Excel Series and driving with Ian Kegg in the 300s.
96
Pulsar Driver Search Nissan Pulsar
Chris Purnell Starts: Best Finish:
0 Debut
Mika Polota-Nau Starts: Best Finish:
0 Debut
The Pulsar Driver Search program was the brainchild of Kyle Austin, who has elected to run a couple of drivers in his Nissan Pulsar Challenge car for this year’s Wakefield 300. Both drivers are relatively inexperienced in circuit racing but Polota-Nau has a sporting pedigree, having previously been a professional Rugby Union player.
17
2016 Valvoline Wakefield 300
98
Brett McFarland Racing Subaru Impreza WRX
Brett McFarland Starts: Best Finish:
0 Debut
Peter Green Jnr
Starts: 1 Best Finish: 18th 2014 B-Main with Keven Stoopman
Former HQ Holden rivals, Brett McFarland and Peter Green Jnr will pilot the ex-Wilson Brothers Racing Subaru WRX in this year’s Wakefield 300 as a preparation run for the Bathurst 6 Hour. In the past, the Subaru WRXs have proven to be solid endurance weapons so there’s no reason this car can’t challenge for a top-five finish.
101
Hi Tech Motorsport Hyundai Excel
Dave Williams Starts: Best Finish:
1 DNF
Scott Williams Starts: Best Finish:
1 DNF
Former competitor in the Daewoo and Lotus one-make series, Dave Williams has recently started competing in the 300km endurance races aboard a Hyundai Excel. Last year he and his son Scott made their first start in the event but retired with some late mechanical problems, so they will be aiming to make it all the way to the chequered flag this year.
110
Targa Racing Mazda MX5
David Viner Starts: Best Finish:
2 5th 2014 B-Main with Rob Viner
Rob Viner Starts: Best Finish:
2 5th 2014 B-Main with David Viner
An impressive 2014 season for the Viners was followed by some heartbreakingly bad luck in 2015, mechanical problems conspiring against the father-and-son combination and robbing them of finishes in both the Wakefield and Winton 300s. The Wakefield 300 was particularly gut-wrenching as they experienced a blown engine while in a commanding position, so 2016 will be the year of redemption.
18
February 20-21 2016
111
Downer/Targa Racing BMW Z3
Mark Mackay
Starts: 2 Best Finish: 10th 2014 with Justin Ruggier/Ray Vandersee
Justin Ruggier
Starts: 2 Best Finish: 10th 2014 with Mark Mackay/Ray Vandersee
2014 Kumho V8 Touring Cars Champion Justin Ruggier returns to the circuit where he claimed a spectacular round victory, ultimately setting up his charge towards the title. Ruggier also set the current Wakefield 300 lap record in the 2014 race, driving the spectacular Skelta G-Force. He’ll once again be joined by Mark Mackay in what has proven to be a very strong endurance combination.
123
Elements Cleaning Mazda MX5
Steven Head Starts: Best Finish:
4 8th 2012 with Nick Martinenko
Owen Boak Starts: Best Finish:
3 20th 2013 with Lou Iezzi
Steven Head and Owen Boak both have several starts in the Wakefield and Winton 300s, and have been reasonably successful in the B-Main events over the last couple of years. While they may not be front-line contenders, they certainly have the potential to challenge for victory within their division.
127
Brindabella Home Improvements Mitsubishi Lancer Evo VI
Trevan Spiteri Starts: Best Finish:
0 Debut
John Spiteri Starts: Best Finish:
0 Debut
After competing in a number of club sprints and the NSW Time Attack over the last few years, the Spiteri fatherand-son combination have decided to make the progression into full-blown circuit racing in this year’s 300. The Evo has proven fast and reliable in its previous outings, and if the Spiteris can make it all the way to the finish, it would be a fine effort for their first event.
19
2016 Valvoline Wakefield 300
127
Nick Cox Racing BMW 130i
Nick Cox Starts: Best Finish:
0 Debut
Adam Gosling Starts: Best Finish:
0 Debut
NSW Production Touring Car Championship regulars Nick Cox and Adam Gosling team up for their first crack at the Wakefield 300, using the event as a rehearsal for the Bathurst 6 Hour in March. The BMW 130i race cars have typically proven to be easy to drive and able to punch out consistent times all race, so a division victory is well within Cox and Gosling’s reach.
141
One Way Racing Triumph TR7
Elliot Wright Starts: Best Finish:
4 16th 2012 with Mark Morsillo
Greg Morsillo Starts: Best Finish:
1 DNF
One of three Triumphs entered in the Wakefield 300, this car has the honour of being the first Triumph to start and finish the 300, coming home 16th outright in 2012. Triumphs never had a glowing reputation for reliability as road cars, but the One Way Racing team has engineered this example into a solid endurance package, which will be competitive against the other Triumphs in the race.
144
Penrite Peugeot 205 GTI
Parry Anastakis Starts: Best Finish:
Lee Field Starts: Best Finish:
8 10th 2011 with Ashley Tollitt
1 DNF
Parry Anastakis has the record for most finishes in the Wakefield 300, taking the chequered flag an excellent seven times from 8 starts. The Peugeot has been developed into a rapid race car and one of the leading vehicles in the NSW Super TT Championship. Hong Kong-based Brit Lee Field is back in Australia for his second Wakefield 300 start, after also competing in the inaugural 24 Hours of Lemons Australia last year.
20
February 20-21 2016
146
Southern Cross Sheds Holden VX Commodore
Michael Wedge Starts: Best Finish:
1 DNF
Peter Batterham Starts: Best Finish:
1 DNF
Queenslanders Michael Wedge and Peter Batterham line up for their second run in the Wakefield 300, after doing both the Wakefield and Winton events last year. Niggling mechanical problems robbed them of a finish at Wakefield, but they came home in the top-10 in the Winton 300 B-Main. A division podium is a realistic possibility for this combination.
164
One Way Racing/Bevisco Interiors Triumph Dolomite
Mark Morsillo Starts: Best Finish:
5 16th 2012 with Elliot Wright
Rhys Morsillo Starts: Best Finish:
1 18th 2015 B-Main with Mark Morsillo
The Morsillo Triumph Dolomite could best be described as a wolf in sheep’s clothing, with a powerful, turbocharged V8 engine underneath the diminutive Dolomite bodyshell. It has proven to be fast in a straight line but not so quick around the corners, and has also experienced some reliability issues in past 300s. A top-20 finish would be a good effort.
173
IGS Group/RPH Motorsport Logistics Porsche 944
Dominic Martens Starts: Best Finish:
0 Debut
Michael Ridings Starts: Best Finish:
0 Debut
The series organiser of the NSW Excel Racing Series, Michael Ridings teams up with Dominic Martens in a Porsche 944 Challenge car. These cars have had success in the 300s in the past - one took victory in the Winton 300 B-Main last year - and both these drivers are solid and consistent. They won’t be battling for outright victory but they will be fighting for division honours, and top 12 outright is a realistic goal.
21
2016 Valvoline Wakefield 300
173
Bavaria/Ensign Racing Mazda MX5
Tony Ross Starts: Best Finish:
1 1st 2015 B-Main with Paul Chapman
Paul Chapman Starts: Best Finish:
2 1st 2015 B-Main with Tony Ross
The Queenslanders in the NA MX5 have been a couple of standout performers in their division for the last couple of years, finishing on the podium in the Winton 300 B-Main in 2014 and winning the Wakefield 300 B-Main last year. Now the field has been combined into the single race, an outright podium will be tough but a division win and top 12 outright result is well within reach.
178
BPG Motorsport Ginetta G50
Craig Burgess Starts: Best Finish:
5 18th 2014 with Adam Burgess
Adam Burgess Starts: Best Finish:
4 18th 2014 with Craig Burgess
The Burgess team finally broke through for a big result at the Winton 300 last year, finishing second outright in their Ginetta. They certainly have the potential to repeat that result at Wakefield and this car will come into the weekend as one of the favourites to challenge for victory. Reliability has long been the achilles heel for this team but it looks like they at last have a capable package in the form of the Ginetta.
183
Ross Wood Electrical Mazda RX7
Roland Rohrle Starts: Best Finish:
7 7th 2011 with Ross Wood
Ross Wood Starts: Best Finish:
6 4th 2010 with Hayden Pullen
Two of the veterans of the Wakefield 300 reunite for the 2016 event, both drivers having very good finishing records including a number of division podiums and top seven places outright for both drivers. Ross Wood has a particularly strong record, having finished every Wakefield 300 he has started and narrowly missing out on a podium finish in the 2010 race.
22
February 20-21 2016
221
Construct Building Solutions/ Braddon Auto Mart Future Racer
Matt Thewlis Starts: Best Finish:
1 17th 2014 B-Main with Steve Harrison
Chris Clearihan Starts: Best Finish:
3 1st 2008 with Nathan Jess
The Team Supreme operation will run two cars in this year’s Wakefield 300, former Pulsar Challenge front-runner Matt Thewlis being joined by 2008 Wakefield 300 winner Chris Clearihan. With the experience and abilities of these drivers, the expectation is that they will give their fellow Future Racer rivals a run for their money.
222
Autocolours/Supreme Dry Cleaners Future Racer
Chad Cotton Starts: Best Finish:
1 DNF
Jase Collins Starts: Best Finish:
1 DNF
Chad Cotton burst onto the endurance scene in 2012, winning the Winton 300 on debut (with Jeff Davy) and almost defending the crown (with Jase Collins) the following year. Since then, things have been a bit tougher but last year’s Winton 300 demonstrated the Team Supreme Future Racer is still a formidable weapon. Cotton and Collins will be aiming for the podium this year after an early retirement in the 2015 Wakefield enduro.
551
Jim Sharples Racing/Fifth Gear Motoring Nissan 180SX
Daniel Flanagan Starts: Best Finish:
8 8th 2009 with Shane Tanner
Damian Lomax Starts: Best Finish:
1 DNF
One of the most-capped drivers in the 300km races, Daniel Flanagan always extracts the best out of the machinery at his disposal. Last year, he finished seventh in the Winton 300 despite losing two laps in the pits with a clutch drama. Damian Lomax is not as experienced, but has shown potential and keeps improving with every race event. Watch out for this car to contend for a top six finish.
23
2016 Valvoline Wakefield 300
607
Quality Racing Mazda RX7 V8
Stephen Anslow Starts: Best Finish:
6 1st 2011 with Ric Shaw
John Walker Starts: Best Finish:
1 7th 2014 B-Main with Brad Bassett
Shane Otten Starts: Best Finish:
7 1st 2010 with David Raddatz
As one of the fastest cars in the field, and one of only two cars with two former winners on board, the Quality Racing entry has to be listed as an outright contender. Shane Otten is always one of the most exciting drivers to watch in the 300s, while Stephen Anslow is smooth and consistent. It will be John Walker’s first race in the RX7, very different to the Mini he normally races at MRA meetings.
661
Elements Restoration/Cojack Developments Toyota 86
Christine Boak Starts: Best Finish:
0 Debut
Alistair Jack Starts: Best Finish:
0 Debut
Another team using the Wakefield 300 as a shakedown for the Bathurst 6 Hour, Boak and Jack will be hoping for a better run than they had in last year’s Winton 300 where their run was cut short by a bizarre electrical problem. Providing such a gremlin doesn’t reoccur, the Toyota 86 should be one of the most reliable cars in the field and a contender for a division victory.
818
BYP Racing Triumph TR7
Benny Tran Starts: Best Finish:
1 15th 2015 with Victor Vo
Jimmy Tran Starts: Best Finish:
0 Debut
In the fastest front-wheel-drive car in the field, the Tran team finished 15th last year after qualifying in Division 1 and having to make an extra pit-stop. The tweaks to the division system will definitely work to the advantage of this team and they have every chance of contending for a top five finish or even a podium if they get the strategy right.
24
February 20-21 2016
Valvoline Wakefield 300 - By the numbers
3.6 - average number of Safety Cars per race
9 - number of Safety Cars in 2012 (the most of any race) 10th - lowest grid position for the Wakefield 300 winners (Andrew Macpherson/Brad Shiels in 2014) 1:02.4926 - race lap record (set by Justin Ruggier in 2014) 1:03.0198 - Fastest time for pole position (set by Nick Cancian in 2015) 5 - number of different drivers who have set the fastest lap of the race (Ric Shaw four times, Shane Otten,
Ben Porter, Justin Ruggier and Robert Hackwood once each)
7 - number of Wakefield 300s Parry Anastakis has finished (most of any driver) 1 - number of drivers who have set the fastest lap of the race and won in the same year (Ric Shaw in 2011) 2hr 45min 11.2339sec - race record (set by Steve /Jake Shelley in 2015) 3hr 28 min 5.5428sec - time for the slowest Wakefield 300 in 2012 (it was also cut 10 laps short due to a time-certain cutoff).
8.3sec - smallest winning margin (between Andrew Macpherson/Brad Shiels and John Prefontaine/ Robert Hackwood in 2014) 4 - number of cars on the lead lap at the end of the 2012 race (the most of any races) 2 laps and 8.3sec - biggest winning margin (between Jake Shelley/Michael Shaw and Andrew
Macpherson/Ben Porter in 2013)
66.8% - overall finishing rate since 2008 9 - number of changes for the lead in the 2015 race (record number of lead changes) 5 - different leaders of the 2014 and 2015 races (the most cars that have led the race) 0 - the number of laps Nathan Jess/Chris Clearihan led on their way to victory in 2008 (they were
elevated to the top spot after another car received a post-race penalty)
25
2016 Valvoline Wakefield 300
NSW Production Touring No
Sponsors
Driver
6
N/A
Daniel
8
Car
Colour
Cap 3000
Williams
NSW Toyota Camry
Red
G And K Refrigeration Geoff
Kite
NSW Holden Commodore
White/Orange 6000
16
Oosthuizen Motorsports, Cxc Global Racing
Jacques
Oosthuizen
NSW Mitsubishi Evo 8 RS
Black/Blue
1997
18
Sherrin Rentals
Grant
Sherrin
QLD
Bmw 135I
Red
2995
19
Sherrin Rentals
Michael
Sherrin
QLD
Bmw 135I
Orange
2995
26
Gws Motorsport
Simon
O’Donnell
NSW Bmw 130I
Black
2997
39
Advanced Gas Maintenance, Suspension Concepts, La Lubricants
David
Bailey
NSW Toyota 86
Black/Orange
1998
43
N/A
Adam
Gosling
NSW Bmw E87 130I
Blue
2996
47
Wollongong Auto Parts Brett
Heeley
52
Sydney Building Approvals Centre
Joe
Krinelos
NSW Holden Red Commodore Vx Gts NSW Hsv Sv6000 White
62
Roadchill Express
Barry
Graham
NSW Bmw M135I 2013 F20
White
2979
Nigel
Williams
NSW Holden Vx Gts
Red
5700 6000
67
5700 6000
71
N/A
Cary
Morsink
NSW Hsv Gto
Black
78
Bee Kay Motors, Carrera Automotive Repairs
Matt
Stubbs
NSW Bmw E46 M3
Silver/Orange 3200
93
Symes Coaches
Greg
Symes
NSW Mitsubishi Evo 9
Yellow
1997
94
Oosthuizen Motorsports, Cxc Global Racing
Daniel
Oosthuizen
NSW Mitsubishi Evo Ix Rs
White
1997
NSW Bmw E46 M3
Black
3200
444 Property Investment Store
26
Anthony Soole
February 20-21 2016
Series X3 NSW No
Sponsors
Driver
3
Ridings Plant Hire, Hyundai Bathurst, Rise Again Smash Repairs Choice Home Loans Marts Tavern N/A Collins Racing
Tom
Manwarring
Adam Matt Ross Darryl Rod
5 7 9 11
Car
Colour
Cap
NSW Hyundai Excel
White
1498
Bryant Stockwell Donaldson Collins
NSW NSW NSW NSW
1495 1500 1500 1500 1500
Mercer
NSW Hyundai Excel
14 17
Liberty Auto , The Race Shed N/A Devil Racer Pty Ltd
White/Black Blue White Red/White/ Green Green
Ryan Mee Andrew Clarke
NSW Hyundai Excel NSW Hyundai Excel
White Red & Black
1500 1500
22
Chapman Motorsport
Matt
NSW Hyundai Excel
1500
25 26
Gems Gems Beauty N/A
Scott Fishlock Maurice Piper
1495 1498
27 28 34
Phil Emily Preston
Mcfarland Duggan Pierce
White White White \ Black
1500 1500 1500
David Michael
Lo-Iacono Ridings
NSW Hyundai Excel NSW Hyundai Excel
Black/Gold Pink/White
1500 1498
Paul
Bloodworth
NSW Hyundai Excel
White
1500
Nik
Hough
NSW Hyundai Excel
Black
1498
54
Automate Penrite Penrith Off Road Ware House ,All Soy Scentuals N/A Rph Motorsport Logistics, Ridings Plant Hire, Hyundai Bathurst G & W Bathroom Renovations Ridings Plant Hire, Hyundai Bathurst, Rise Again Smash Repairs New South Wales
NSW Hyundai Excel NSW Hyundai Excel X3 NSW Hyundai Excel NSW Hyundai Excel NSW Hyundai Excel
White/Black/ Red Silver Maroon
Mark
Atkinson
Yelow
1490
76 77 85
N/A N/A Bathurst Towing
Brenden Vinckx Thomas Muller Michael Golding
White Blue Silver
1500 1500 1495
95
Signform,Wetherill Park Automotives, Barden Ridge Auto Electrical
Ian
NSW Hyunda Excel 1998 NSW Hyundai Excel NSW Hyundai Excel NSW Hyundai Excel X3 NSW Hyundai Excel
Silver/Black
1500
13
43 46
49 51
Price
Kegg
Hyundai Excel Hyundai Excel Hyundai Excel Hyundai Excel
27
2016 Valvoline Wakefield 300
Stock Cars No 3
Sponsors Peak Race Tyres/ Evolve Technik
Driver David
Atkin
Car NSW Bmw M3R
Colour Silver
Cap 3246
5
Mcalister Ford
Ian
Mcalister
NSW Ford Ranger
Red
6200
7
Pirtek Coulters Excavations
Steve
Coulter
NSW Chev Oztruck
Blue White
6200
19
Asi Guys
Shane
Harris
Vic
Red
5700
22
Motorsport Training Australia
Trevor
Crisp
NSW Dodge Charger
Black Yellow
5866
24
Wilson Solicitors Penrith
Brian
Walden
NSW Chev Monte Carlo
Red
6000
27
Awesome Automotive Steel And Stuff Goulburn
Zac
O'Hara
NSW Chev Monte Carlo
Black
53
Pph Group Pl
David
Hender
Vic
Red Black
5700
77
Pirtek Coulters Excavations
Michael
Coulter
NSW Chev Oztruck
Blue White
6200
28
Chev Mote Carlo
Pontiac Grand Prix
February 20-21 2016
29
2016 Valvoline Wakefield 300
Wakefield Park Lap Records Category
Date
Driver
Car
Cap
Time
Outright
17/10/2015
Ricky Capo
Dallara F307
2000
0:53.7711
Formula 3
17/10/2015
Ricky Capo
Dallara F307
2000
0:53.7711
Sports Sedans
18/10/2015
Jack Perkins
Audi A4
6000
0:56.2669
Supersports
20/06/2015
Tim Berryman
Radical SR8
1500
0:56.7805
Radical Cup
20/06/2015
Tim Berryman
Radical SR8
1500
0:56.7805
Sports Racers
18/10/2014
Roger I'Anson
West
998
0:56.8120
Oz Boss
25/02/2007
Ty Hanger
Reynard 95D
3800
0:57.5504
Formula Race Cars
28/04/2012
Nathan Gotch
Dallara F304
2000
0:57.7042
Carrera Cup
5/04/2008
Aaron Caratti
Porsche 911 GT3
3600
0:58.9927
V8 Supercars
6/04/2008
Steve Owen
Holden VZ Commodore
5000
0:59.0351
Production Sports
12/08/2012
Tim Mackie
Lotus Elise
2000
0:59.5667
Formula Ford
6/04/2008
Paul Laskazeski
Spectrum 011
1600
1:00.1986
V8 Touring Cars
3/04/2011
Terry Wyhoon
Ford BA Falcon
5000
1:00.3279
Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge
3/04/2011
Roger Lago
Porsche 911 GT3
3600
1:00.7828
Australian GT Championship
5/03/2006
Greg Crick
Dodge Viper GTS
8000
1:01.5344
Wakefield 300
2/03/2014
Justin Ruggier
Skelta G-Force
2000t
1:02.4926
Improved Production Over 2 Litre
12/08/2012
David Loftus
Toyota Starlet
2000t
1:04.7700
MX5 Cup
24/08/2014
Matilda Mravicic
Mazda MX5
1840t
1:04.8112
Production Cars
20/09/2014
Aaron Seton
Mitsubishi Lancer Evo
2000t
1:04.8226
Improved Production Under 2 Litre
12/04/2015
Jordan Cox
Honda Civic
2000
1:05.1999
Aussie Racing Cars
5/04/2008
Ben McCashney
Ford Falcon
1300
1:05.6777
Mini Challenge
6/04/2008
Paul Fiore
Mini Cooper S
1598t
1:05.9316
Commodore Cup
3/04/2011
Geoff Emery
Holden VS Commodore
4200
1:06.6504
Group A/C
1/04/2007
Craig Markland
Nissan Skyline GTS
1990t
1:07.0363
Formula Vee
12/04/2015
Michael Kinsella
Jacer F2K10
1584
1:07.0951
Saloon/Super Six Touring Cars
18/10/2015
Ben Grice
Holden VT Commodore
3800
1:07.8774
BMW Drivers Cup
21/06/2014
Stan Armstrong
BMW E30 325i
2500
1:09.3390
V8 Utes
28/05/2006
Kerry Wade
Ford BF Falcon XR8
5400
1:09.6544
Group N
20/02/2000
Ross Donnelley
Ford Mustang
5000
1:11.6300
Pulsar Challenge
26/04/2015
Dimitri Agathos
Nissan Pulsar
2000
1:12.3992
HQ Holdens
21/06/2015
Keven Stoopman
HQ Holden
3300
1:15.4440
Excel Series
28/06/2015
Daniel Smith
Hyundai Excel
1500
1:15.7602
30