Latest Speedway News

last updated Wednesday, January 25, 2012 11:48 AM

Wednesday 4 January 2012

Subject: Check out Steve "The Joker" Jordan in his Sweet Chassis V8 Super Sedan around GYMPIE SPEEDWAY...

Take a look at the latest in this series of Speedway vids bringing some action from off the Mountain. This 5 minute piece stars the current A1 Super Sedan Driver Steve Jordan in his new car.

Images Courtesy Craig Abbott/ORBITINGSTAR - Steve Jordan around Mothar Mountain 29Dec2011 (66Mb)

Friday 30 December 2011

Subject: National Super Sedan Series and Gympie Speedway "THANK YOU GYMPIE"

(Courtesy Amy Brown - Publicity Officer Gympie Speedway)

THANK YOU GYMPIE and beyond for your HUGE support at Mothar Mountain Speedway on Thursday night. In what would have been the biggest crowd I have witnessed at the mountain for a couple of years now. it was very overwhleming and humbling to know that the people of Gympie and beyond, dug deep and came along and supported our huge night of racing.

Pictured: Darren Kane, Lachlan Onley and Dave Gartner celebrate motor racing style at the completion of the first round Carline NSSS 2011/2012 at Gympie's Mothar Mountain Speedway.

With over 50 cars racing on the night and with the rain keeping it's distance, we knew we were in for a big one when we had people lining up at the gate from 2.00pm onwards waiting to get in. The size of the crowd was just unbelievable. There was not a spare seat on the grass or the hills, nor a spare seat in the grandstand and if you wanted to park inside, you surely had to get there early, the line up of cars outisde was backed up past Noosa Road and just as far on the other side.

As it was Round 1 of the Carline Mufflers National Super Sedan Series (NSSS), we had a benchmark to set and needed to prove to many drivers and supporters around the country, that this was the place to be and with many track prepartaions and numerous off field duties performed during the week, I think we more than showed them! Go Gympie!!

Our Junior Sedan drivers were priveliged enough to share the track with the big boys on Thursday night and they showcased some quality driving and put in consisitent efforts throughout the night. There was a minor altercation in the hairpin corner with two drivers, who for safety precautions were taken to hospital for thorough checkups, with all reports showing that they are fine.

Overall placings for the Junior Sedans on the night were - 1. Michael Learoyd (Q1), 2. Brendan Learoyd, 3. Will Muir, 4. Patrick Brennan.

The Modified Production class were out to prove that they could put on as good a show as the Super Sedans and were also very consisitent with their driving and the racing was impressive. With strong efforts from those who have only entered the class to those who are seasoned drivers, the crowd was surely impressed. Overall placings for the night were 1. Gavin Lorensen, 2. Glenn Truin, 3. Darren Truin, 4. Steve Cook.

Pictured: Round 1 Winner 2011/2012 Carline NSSS in Gympie - Lachlan Onley pre-race.

WOW - The Super Sedans sure were at Mothar Mountain on Thursday night and if you weren't at the track, you certainly could hear them, with reports that the noise travelled as far as Pie Creek. What a great way for the National Super Sedan Series to kickstart it's massive tour of Australia. With a great track and 23 nominated drivers, this was on the edge of your seat racing and it went right down to the wire before we evolved with an eventual winner. No driver left a stone unturned on that track and they gave it their all and they sure did put on a great show. Congratulations to all drivers and we wish you all the best for the rest of the Carline Mufflers Super Sedan Series. Proving that you don't have to be a local or even from this state to win at the Mountain, our top four place getters originate from NSW, QLD and SA.

Pictured: Darren Kane (2nd), Lachlan Onley (1st), Dave Gartner (3rd).

Overall place gettings for the night were 1. Lachlan Onley (NSW17), 2. Darren Kane (NSW1/Q36), 3. Dave Gartner (SA8), 4. Steve Jordan (A1).

Don't miss our next meeting on Saturday 14th January where we will be showcasing the Masondale Heavy Haulage Modified Production "King Of The Mountain". Beeee There!!!

Friday 23 December 2011

Subject: National Super Sedan Series Launches in Gympie this Thursday Night - 29th December 2011

(NSSS Media Release - courtesy Chris Metcalf - Event and Media Enquiries - Ph: 0410 500 571)

Thursday night (December 29), Mothar Mountain Speedway will stage the biggest event of the 2011/2012 season when it hosts the opening round of the Carline Mufflers National Super Sedan Series. For the second year in a row, the Gympie circuit has been selected to host the opening round of the national tournament, which comprises 11 rounds of competition across all six states.

Drivers from New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania will take on Queensland’s very best super Sedan exponents in a bid to secure an early points advantage in the chase for the championship. Queensland’s own Darren Kane is the defending series champion and the Gympie event will be the first step in his bid to become the first ever three-time Carline NSSS champion. Having won his third New South Wales Championship this season and scored a feature race victory on this circuit in November, Kane has earned the right to start favourite.

Darren Kane at Mothar Mountain - 2011		Steve Jordan at Mothar Mountain - 2011
		Photos courtesy - Craig Abbott/ORBITINGSTAR

However, there are 19 contracted drivers taking part in every round of the series in pursuit of the 2011/2012 championship, which culminates in Perth in March, including current Australian Super Sedan champion Steve Jordan. In addition to Kane and Jordan, Queensland drivers chasing the title are current Brisbane veteran Wayne Randall (the only other two-time Carline NSSS champion), Mackay’s Des Korn, Gladstone’s Graeme Elliott and Townsville young gun Trent Wilson, who finished runner-up behind Kane last season in a breakthrough performance.

After Queensland, Tasmania has the next biggest contingent with five contenders taking on the challenge. Led by Brad Smith, one of only two drivers to have contested every round of the series since it began, the Tassie troupe comprises current and four-time state champion Jarrod Harper, and two former state champions in and Dave Nichols and Steve Latham, both of whom are embarking on their maiden NSSS campaigns, along with former Tasmanian AMCA Nationals champion Sam Hughes.

The Victorian challenge will also be strong, with three-time Australian Super Sedan champion Michel Nicola and five-time Victorian Lucas Roberts leading the way. This highly credentialed duo will be joined in battle by Dave Mackenzie, who was one of the most improved drivers on tour last season.

New South Wales are represented on tour by series stalwart Tony Barklimore and Lachlan Onley, who is fresh from a feature race victory in Sydney last weekend, while South Australia are sending three of their best in Shane Best, Bill Miller and Dave Gartner. Miller has contested every round of the series thus far and has multiple feature race wins to his name already this season and Gartner is the only South Australian to have won a NSSS feature, however it is Best who has been the most consistent of the trio in the national series for the last three years, finishing inside the top ten overall on each occasion.

In addition to the contracted stars, several more of Queensland’s best are expected to take part, with Gympie’s own Mark Pagel a confirmed starter. Fresh from a feature race win in Maryborough on December 10, Pagel is a master of the Mother Mountain track and should head into the event brimming with confidence about his chances of scoring what would be his biggest ever win in the Super Sedan division.

The unique shape of the Gympie circuit always provides plenty of challenges for the competitors and maximum excitement for race fans. In addition to the Super Sedan action, Modified Productions and Junior Sedans will also be on the program and there will be posters and series magazines given away on the night. Super Sedans hit the track at 6:00pm, so be early to catch all the action when Australia’s best Super Sedan drivers are unleashed.

The 2011/2012 Carline Mufflers National Super Sedan Series is proudly supported by:

Carline Mufflers
Speedway Australia
Speedway Sedans Australia
Lukey Performance Products
Supercharge Batteries
Monroe Shock Absorbers
JD Couriers
Ian Boettcher Race Parts
American Tire and Racing Services
Hoosier Tyres
AFCO Shock Doctor
Oval Express Magazine
Elf Racing Australia
Bob Jane T-Mart Modbury
Motel Le Grande (Albany)
Comfort Inn and Suites Robertson Gardens

Full Racing Program for Thursday 29th December 2011 available here for download.

Friday 23 December 2011

Subject: Racing on Thursday Night at Gympie's Mothar Mountain Speedway

We have a full dirt-racing Speedway Program for next Thursday night's meeting at Mothar Mountain Speedway - Thursday 29th December 2011...

You can check out the big V8 Super Sedan 2 Seater at Centro Shopping Centre in Gympie on Tuesday 27th December and Wednesday 28th December 2011.

 

Get on up and check out some super action all packed into one big night.

This Thursday Night.

See below for full details.

Monday 19 December 2011

Subject: Mothar Mountain Speedway - Thursday, December 29 - NSSS V8s are back in town!!!

Gympie's Mothar Mountain Speedway is geared up and cranked for the Opening Round of the Carline Mufflers National Super Sedan Series to launch from Mothar Mountain Speedway on Thursday 29th December 2011.

Nominated Drivers for the 2011-2012 National Super Sedan Series are: Q 36 Darren Kane, TAS 4 Sam Hughes, V 24 David Mackenzie, SA 8 Dave Gartner, SA 77 Bill Miller, VIC 0 Lucas Roberts, NQ 44 Trent Wilson, TAS 2 Jarrod Harper, Q 3 Graeme Elliot, V 3 Mick Nicola, A 1 Steve Jordan, QLD 61 Des Korn, TAS 6 Brad Smith, NSW 63 Tony Barklimore, S 23 Shane Best, N 17 Lachlan Onley, TAS 3 David Nichols, TAS 8 Steve Latham, TAS 88 Wayne Randall.

This hugely popular National Super Sedan Series will be Monumental at the Mountain with the phenomenon of the rumbling V8 Super Sedans juggernaut slamming the surface with spectacular driving skills and breakneck speeds. Strap in, come on up to the Mountain and sit up straight for some genuine high-octane fury unleashed.

In addition to the V8s we have the Junior Sedans and the Modified Productions making appearances through the night.

On this very special night we will have -

FOR THE KIDS - A JUMPING CASTLE AND BUNGEE JUMP

FOR THE BIG KIDS - THERE'LL BE A CHANCE TO WIN ONE OF TWO RIDES IN THE 2-SEATER SUPER SEDAN ALONGSIDE DARREN KANE PILOTING. TICKETS WILL COST $5 AND WILL BE AVAILABLE AT THE GATE ON THE NIGHT.

Ron Stafford excited to check out the big V8 2-Seater Super Sedan at Mothar Mountain Speedway

Tuesday 27th December and Wednesday 28th December 2011 - the 2-Seater Super Sedan will be on show at Centro Shopping Centre Gympie. Drop down to check it out up close. And remember you can be in it with a chance to win 1 of 2 rides up for grabs in a lucky draw at Mothar Mountain Speedway on Thursday 29th December 2011. Tickets for a chance to win a ride will be on sale at the Gympie Speedway gate on Thursday 29th December 2011 and are $5 each.

A 50/50 RAFFLE. TICKETS - $2 EACH OR 3 FOR $5. THE LUCKY WINNER WILL COLLECT 50% OF THE MONEY RAISED FROM THE SALE OF RAFFLE TICKETS ON THE NIGHT. THE OTHER 50% WILL GO TO OUR CLUB TO GO INTO A SPECIAL ACCOUNT FUND RAISING MONEYS FOR AN UPGRADED CATCH FENCE IN ORDER TO ATTRACT OTHER CLASSES OF RACING TO MOTHAR MOUNTAIN. SO BE IN IT TO WIN IT, AND BE TRULY ADDING TO THE CONSTANT IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM TO OUR ALREADY EXCELLENT FACILITIES.

Full Racing Program for Thursday 29th December 2011 available here for download.

For a fun filled night out for the whole family, for young and old, for the bold, for the beautiful - with some Seriously Sensational Speedway Action on show.

Mothar Mountain Speedway - Thursday 29th December 2011 -

BEEE THERE!!!

Saturday 17 December 2011

Subject: Monster New Video with Brendan Learoyd at Gympie's Mothar Mountain Speedway

The following video was made from footage collected from three cameras on 19th November 2011. This is Orbitingstar's third speedway test film. "There's still a bit of work to do... but it's starting to give a bit of an idea what's involved with getting a race car around Mothar Mountain Speedway. Enjoy."

Images Courtesy Craig Abbott/ORBITINGSTAR - Brendan Learoyd at Mothar Mountain 19Nov2011 (41Mb)

If you want to get fimed call Craig at ORBITINGSTAR on 0400 844 244, or mail to: craigabbott@orbitingstar.net.au

craigabbott@orbitingstar.net.au

Thursday 15 December 2011

Subject: Cool New Video on how to get around Gympie's Mothar Mountain Speedway

The following video was made from footage collected from three cameras on 19th November 2011. Thanks to everyone, especially Mark Pagel for being a good sport and letting us into his cabin. Enjoy.

Images Courtesy Craig Abbott/ORBITINGSTAR - Mark Pagel around Mothar Mountain 19Nov2011 (42Mb)

If you want to get fimed call Craig at ORBITINGSTAR on 0400 844 244, or mail to: craigabbott@orbitingstar.net.au

Monday 12 December 2011

Subject: The Mountain Lights Up for Saturday 17th December 2011

The Action at Gympie's Mothar Mountain Speedway screams alive again this weekend 17th December with a rock and rolla extravaganza!

There'll be plenty of rocking in the cars and plenty of rolling around the track when the Gympie Saloon Car Club presents the sensational Street Sedans North Coast Radiators 20 / 20 spectacular. Bang! We have visiting competitors coming from afar to join with a healthy local contingent to make good their struggle to assume the mantle of champion supreme 20 / 20 in 2011. With so much at stake in this prestigious bout the spectactor-enjoyment-thrill-quotient will be off the scale!

The track has received a premium perfect conditioning from the recent rain with the hydrology of the surface an even and deep consistency that can only be achieved with a thorough natural soaking from the heavens. This deep soak gets the track surface into a ready state of stickiness that allows the cars excellent traction - much the envy of the big V8 super sedans that were up last meeting (we were light on rain ahead of last meeting) - and leans towards lap record breaking opportunites. Sweet! So come on - go for it this weekend.

Nominations in Street Sedans North Coast Radiators 20 / 20 read like an honour roll of Champion drivers with a sprightly mix of youth, spirit, determination and good humour.

Street Sedans 20 / 20 nominations follow:

Brandon O’Keeffe / Darren Lyon G18;

Tiffany O’Keeffe / Adrian Stott G9;

Danielle Harris / Paul Swindell M27;

Gary Harris Snr / Gary Harris Jnr M80;

Frank Packer / Steve Cook G21;

Neil Keldoulis / Andy Pickering G8;

Wayne Slade / Mitchell Slade G19;

Jarrod Peacock / Stephen-John Lahiff G63;

Brad Yarrow / Lester Wilcox G97;

Chris Elliot / Richard Brosnan M2;

Keryn Goodwin / Russell Cowley M26;

Brayden Andreassen / Lewis Jones G192;

Mostert Woodrow / Tim Atkin BB39;

Daniel Henshaw / Gary Pagel G6;

Selina English / Tegan Jennings G25;

Bradley Jennings / Allan Jennings G22;

Jim Cowley / Brendan Cowley SC61;

Taran Knowles / Nigel Mulvena G12;

Kieralee Pearce / Ryan Pearce C77;

Jaymee Budgen / Michael Budgen SC93;

Aaron Sander / John Sander G20;

Dion Wood / Jason Protheroe SB38;

Sarah Franz / Rodney Midolo SC36;

Michele Blavius / Craig Franz SC35;

Kevin McMahon / Marshall Virtue G40;

Kent Shelford / Michael Shelford G33;

Darren Brady / Kuben Kunny G17;

Doug Rigby / Lee Steffens G27;

Josh Arthur / Josh Harm M85;

Beau Laverty / Wayne Laverty SC90.

Wow. That's 30 cars, 60 drivers, 6 heats x 2 rounds, 20 lap final + driver change and 20 lap final. This is big. Following the highly successful staging of the Modified Production T-Mac Auto Spares 30 / 30 in October we thought we had a hard act to follow. Well guess what folks? This looks like a lit wick about to blow! Kapow!!! You got to see this one.

In the support categories we got Junior Street Sedans returning to power on in a ripper night out for the kids. QLD 1 Junior Street Sedan Driver Sam Roza returns to the mountain for the first time this season and will be keen to blow the off-season away with some sizzling driving. Nominations for Junior Street Sedans are: Sam Roza Q1, Simon Walker C60, Ryan Packer G21, Harmony Lomax G66, Richard Cook GL45, Tyson McDonell G68, Jake Laverty SC90, Brock Marvin (ROF) SC93, Ross Humphrey (ROF) G46.

4 Cylinders make a welcome return to Mothar Mountain this weekend. We have another Q1 driver in Russell Cowley joining us for the first time this season. No doubt he will be bringing it, so get ready for some fantastic 4 cylinder stylings. These little zippy machines in the classic form of small block racing offers some competitive retro-style racing harking back decades. Many will remember when these types of cars were a familiar feature around the region's Speedways. Nominations for this weekend: Russell Cowley Q1, Blake Hancock 53, Alistair Mathers 52, Toby Cryer 3, Peter Kluytenberg M92, Tim Weir G7, Gary Cartwright M10, Mark Kelly SC18, Nathan Miller C32, James Elliott SB26.

Super Street make a popular return to add their particular spin on the night. This tight group have been turning it on for us in the last few meetings and are proving to be a very exciting competition. Super Street nominations for this weekend are: Glenn Richters M11, Neil Keldoulis G8, Steve Cook C13, Stephen-John Lahiff G46, Russell Notley G26, Chris Pendry GL28, Jason Flikweert G3, Kriss Warry GL40, Matt Rigby G28, Troy Sismey G4.

And joining us for the night are special guests the V8 AMCA cars churning out the crazy quick laps. We have 18 AMCA cars and drivers nominated for the night. The challenge for these drivers will be the setup and drive line around our brilliantly unique circuit. For those who haven't been to Gympie Speedway before - we got a hill, dips, a roll-off, a hairpin and gentle 'kink' to the right. Mwahahaha!! This circuit sorts out the boys from the men from the girls from the women from the cows in the paddock up on the hill above the track. And when you get it wrong, pack it up, pick up the pieces, take it home and bring it back for the next time. The 18 cars and drivers nominated for this weekends special attraction are: Andrew Baker Q68, Nathan Battersby Q47, Mark Horstman Q51, Jim Knight N7, Tony Curd Q90, Corey Battersby Q36, Glenn Boulter Q10, Darren Cowan Q50, Mark Kemp Q27, Dean Ballard Q46, Eric Knight Q66, Dallas Czerwinski Q96, Shane McKinell Q21, David Ohl Q37, Steve Potts Q32, Kirk Porter Q13, Rene Frenken Q72, Luke Frenken Q99. So good luck and good luck.

But wait, that's not all... someone said Modified Productions? You betcha!

Q1 Todd Doyle makes an appearance this weekend for the Modified Productions and he usually displays some driving genius. Modified Production is a thoroughbred class of racing with Mothar Mountain breeding up its fair share of State and National Champions and this is one of the supports for the main event this weekend. Nominated for Modified Production category: Todd Doyle Q1, Adrian Stott G23, Tegan Jennings G22, Jamie O’Meara G26, Scott Raymont G25, Gavin Lorensen G11, Michael Shelford SB54, Justin Jenkins G85, Brett Baxter G5, Allen Nottage G68, Darren White C94.

So much entertainment! Can we pack it all in? Come and see this Saturday afternoon and into the evening. Bring your friends, be the envy of your workmates, revel in serious holiday season silliness.

With fireworks ablaze between the cars the ensuing battles promise a cracker of a night full of daring manoeuvres and some really quick lap times.

Saturday Night - Mothar Mountain Speedway - BEEE THERE!!!

Program for Saturday 17 December 2011

Tuesday 22 November 2011

Subject: Dedication to Corporal Ashley Birt

The following annouoncement was made across the loudspeakers prior to the Mothar Mountain Race Meeting on 19th November 2011.

"The competitors, crews and officials of this Mothar Mountain Speedway Race Meeting in a minute's silence in the honour of the memory of Corporal Ashley Birt, who was tragically taken from his loved ones whilst serving his country in Afghanistan. Ashley was the youngest son of long-serving Gympie Saloon Car Club Members Don and Linda Birt. Anyone who has had any connection with Mothar Mountain Speedway would have fond memories of Gympie Thirteen, the flashy blue Falcon of Don Birt. Linda served for many years on the Executive of the Club, and this makes Ashley Birt a member of our Speedway Family... Please stand ladies and gentlemen join with us all in a minutes silence to honour the sacrifice made and the memory of Ashley Birt."

Image Courtesy Australian Department of Defence

Tuesday 22 November 2011

Subject: Kaney Canes it in Gympie

Perennial crowd pleaser Darren Kane celebrated his birthday with a solid performance on the Mountain last weekend - taking out the A-Main feature race and the third round of the 2011-2012 Hotondo Homes (Rockhampton) Super Sedan Championship Series. Coming well prepared to make terms with our unique circuit through the heats and supported by one of the slickest crews in the business, Kane proved once again his ability to crush the competition and exhibit why he is such a popular attraction at Mothar Mountain.

Of course we'd be remiss not to mention the valiant efforts of all the drivers and teams who made their respective journeys through the afternoon's events and into the evening's business end of things. Congratulations to all for the great show and dazzling spectacle. The local spectators have been very supportive this meeting, and we're about to keep them keen throughout the season - so hang on!

For a full wrap of all timed results see the MYLAPS RESULTS.

In the Performax International Junior Sedans Series a healthy field of 16 drivers competed on the night. A welcome to young Joshua Schultz who made his Junior Sedan debut - nice work... This category sees a pretty even mix of boys and girls, so it's always a polite rivalry as to who can win out in the end for bragging rights. On this night bragging rights goes out to Brendan Learoyd in the brand new G66 car. Sporting a cool blue livery and tunied to perfection, the younger Learoyd certainly came out to make a statement of intent for his season. Watch out kids, the blue-beast has arrived.

The Super Street Sedans turned up the heat with some close racing - the A-Main being taken out from start to finish with a fine drive from Steve Cook. Chris Pendry drove consistently to keep the pressure up, coming in second, with Stephen-John Lahiff rounding out the top three.

Street Sedans are becoming the heroes to watch with close competitive racing throughout the night into the A-Main feature with most of the cars starting the main race finishing on the same lap - in fact: 17 out of the 20 cars lining up for the feature were Gympie cars; 16 of those cars starting the 12 lap main race actually finished the race on the same lap as the winner; and the top five finishers were within 5 seconds of each other. The big winner in first place Doug Rigby, followed by Darren Brady in second and Kent Shelford, third. There was action aplenty also, with Kuben Kunny collecting the concrete and contracting his car by a cubic metre. Kuben assured afterwards that they'll be back next time (just need to pull the front out a bit). That's the spirit... that's entertainment.

In the Modified Productions, the brand spanking new car from Baxter Racing proved to be the machine to beat all night. Brett Baxter is realising some of his potential, and with a bit more luck, you never know how far he might go this year. The number G5 burning out some quick looking laps through the evening only to come unstuck in the A-Main.

Let's not take anything away from Gympie's Adrian Stott in his A1 Race Car Fabrications G23 machine, who throughout the heats had 2 wins like Baxter, and started the A-Main from the outside of the front row of the grid. Stott quickly assumed the lead on the first of the twelve-lap final and held firm to the finish in a dominent display of nerve and consistency. Well done Adrian, and you've thrown a thick and heavy gauntlet down to the rest of the paddock. The modified production category is a potent brew of adrenaline and skill - as the 'Home of Champions' Mothar Mountain breeds a constantly high calibre of competitor in this formula. Let us keep a keen eye on developments this year...

Worthy of a mention is Gympie's Gavin Lorensen as a fine example of the 'never-say-die' attitude - after having a couple of DNFs in the heats, Lorensen started the feature down near the back of the field, and as the race unfolded many drivers yielded to the constant demands of the track and the fundamentals of racing and he found himself finishing the race in second place behind Stott. Strange but true...

The V8 Super Sedans took the track by storm with a couple of dozen big racing machines thundering around. For a wrap of their events see the following report from Jason Crowe SSA MEDIA .

Monday 21 November 2011

Subject: Kane Conquers The Mountain

(21/11/11…Courtesy... Jason Crowe, SSA Media Release)

Just a week after clinching his third New South Wales Super Sedan Championship, Darren Kane scorched to victory in round three of the 2011/2012 Hotondo Homes (Rockhampton) Super Sedan Championship Series at Gympie’s Mothar Mountain Speedway on Saturday night (November 19).

Kane started his Ian Boettcher Race Parts Dominator-Mazda RX8 from pole position but had to fend off an early challenge from Australian champion Steve Jordan and a late-race surge from Wayne Randall before securing victory.

Randall started from the outside of row two and spent much of the race snookered in fourth spot before storming home to secure his second runner-up result in as many races, while Jordan was more than satisfied with the final podium spot in his first ever outing aboard his new JD Racewear Sweet-Dodge.

Also debuting a brand new car, Wayne Brims steered his Rocket-Pontiac into fourth place on a track that is far from his favourite, while Sean Black was very impressive in advancing into fifth ahead of series leaders Matt Pascoe and Ian Brims. Dempsie Pails, Barry Craft and newcomer Joshua McLaren rounded out the top ten ahead of Geoff O’Keeffe.

Jason Campbell started alongside Kane on the front row for the 30-lap feature event sponsored by Old Man’s Garage and kept pace with the defending series champ in second spot until a deflating tyre intervened and ultimately ended his challenge with just three laps remaining. Others who failed to go the distance included Barry Craft, Dale Christensen, Sam Grundy and Greg Maher.

Local favourite Mark Pagel, who made headlines during the week for his Karting exploits, won the opening heat but was out of action soon after with a broken diff. Also collecting heat wins were Kane, Campbell, Pascoe, Black and Wayne Brims. The only major incident of the night came when a three-wide squeeze through the dogleg resulted in Russell Dobson grinding to a halt, momentarily aflame and ultimately out of action.

Despite finishing sixth, Pascoe has extended his lead in the championship standings over Ian Brims, with Pails still occupying third spot in advance of the looming Randall and Kane.

Perseverance paid off for McLaren, emerging as the winner of round three of the Think Money Development Series in his debut race meeting, with fellow rookie Grundy finishing second overall. Colin Moss finished third overall and still holds a commanding lead in the series.

After a slow start to the Queensland Super Sedan season, this event proved to be a terrific spectacle with a strong 19-car field in attendance. The track enabled fast, hard racing with passing opportunities for those with the temerity to have a go.

The next round of the 2011/2012 Hotondo Homes (Rockhampton) Super Sedan Championship Series is at Maryborough Speedway on Saturday, December 10. The event will be a part of the Go Pink for Cancer fundraising initiative on behalf of the McGrath Foundation.

2011/2012 Hotondo Homes (Rockhampton) Super Sedan Championship Series progressive pointscore (top ten): Matt Pascoe 890, Ian Brims 768, Dempsie Pails 616, Wayne Randall 582, Darren Kane 579, Sean Black 486, Jason Campbell 485, Colin Moss 422, Dale Christensen 405, Mark Pagel 390.

2011/2012 Think Money Development Series progressive pointscore (top ten): Colin Moss 458, Andrew Roberts 335, Darren Saunders 317, Gordon Shaw 317, Darren Hawkings 314, Joshua McLaren 246, Sam Grundy 231, Craig Shaw 155, Russell Dobson 90, Rodney Craft 75.

The 2011/2012 Hotondo Homes (Rockhampton) Super Sedan Championship Series is proudly supported by:

Hotondo Homes
Think Money
Old Man’s Garage
Roma Windscreens
Shock Doctor

SUPER SEDAN ASSOCIATION

EVENT AND MEDIA ENQUIRIES: 0410 500571

Tuesday 15 November 2011

Subject: V8’s Ready to Roar in Gympie

(14/11/11…Courtesy... Chris Metcalf, SSA Media Release)

Gympie’s Mothar Mountain Speedway will host a star-studded field of Super Sedan stars this Saturday night (November 19) when round three of the Hotondo Homes Super Sedan Championship Series is decided. The unique Gympie layout always provides great racing and the quality of the driver line-up this weekend is exceptional. In fact, this is the strongest field of Super Sedan drivers to gather anywhere in Australia so far this season, with no less than seven state or national championship winners amongst the nominations.

Leading the charge will be current Australian champion Steve Jordan in his first serious hit-out for the year. Having missed the start of the season while awaiting an engine, Jordan is a hard charger who will be desperate to maximise his points haul in what will be the final opportunity for laps on the circuit before the opening round of the National Super Sedan Series hits Gympie in December.

Of course, current series leader Matt Pascoe will be confident of keeping Jordan and all other challengers at bay as he chases his third feature race victory in as many rounds. Pascoe, the current Queensland titleholder, is focussed primarily on this series in season 2011/2012 and will therefore be determined to expand his points advantage.

Matt Pascoe (left) currently leading the Series, and Daren Kane (right) will be keen to make an impression on one of his favourite tracks. PHOTOS COURTESY : JAMES BAKER - EXTREME PHOTOGRAPHICS

Fresh from defending his New South Wales Championship in Sydney last weekend, Ipswich’s Darren Kane is in fine form and searching for his first win on home soil so far this season. A two-time Australian Champion and two-time winner of the National Super Sedan Series, Kane is a benchmark performer and the defending series champion who will not be satisfied with a repeat of his runner-up finish behind Pascoe in the previous round.

Other big names in the field tonight include the New South Wales-based duo of Wayne Brims and Ian Brims, along with one of Queensland’s most successful drivers ever in Wayne Randall. Wayne Brims, who is a three-time winner of the New South Wales title and has also won the Victorian Championship on two occasions, will been unveiling a brand new car in what will be his first outing for the season. Ian Brims, meanwhile, is also a former New South Wales champion who currently sits second overall in the points after the opening two rounds in Rockhampton and Toowoomba. Randall is the most experienced driver in the field with three Queensland Championships, two National Series titles and a plethora of feature race wins across the country in a career spanning more than 30 years.

Of course, as is always the case in Gympie, there will be strong challenge from the locals with two Gympie-based drivers amongst the favourites. Young Dempsie Pails has been a revelation in his first season on the championship trail and he currently sits a sensational third overall in the series. Also expected to represent his hometown with distinction on Saturday night is Mark Pagel. A former Queensland Modified Production champion, the laidback Pagel is a smooth operator who knows the Mothar Mountain circuit better than anybody else in the field.

Other contenders on Saturday night include opening round runner-up Jason Campbell, who sits fourth overall in the championship, talented Toowoomba youngster Sean Black and the Brisbane-based duo of Dale Christensen and Paul Geary, the 2009/2010 series champion on the comeback trail after 18-months on the sidelines. Other starters include Greg Maher, Barry Craft, Gordon Shaw, Barry Grundy, Rodney Craft, newcomer Joshua McLaren, Russell Dobson and Colin Moss, who has upstaged some big names to be sitting fifth overall at the moment.

2011/2012 Hotondo Homes Super Sedan Championship Series progressive pointscore: Matt Pascoe 635, Ian Brims 525, Dempsie Pails 385, Jason Campbell 326, Colin Moss 323, Andrew Roberts 323, Wayne Randall 300, Darren Hawkings 287, Lee Wilson 287, Matt Williams 284

The 2011/2012 Hotondo Homes (Rockhampton) Super Sedan Championship Series is proudly supported by:

Hotondo Homes
Think Money
Old Man’s Garage
Roma Windscreens
Shock Doctor

Tuesday 15 November 2011

Subject: Fantastic Support Program for the big bangers in this weekend's racing

We have an impressive array of nominations in the support categories for this weekend's Gympie Speedway meeting.

The zippy little Junior Sedans always prove intensely spectacular with a healthy field of 16 cars nominated. Watch the contrasting racing techniques of these little beauties as they do their bit to pack down the track for their V8 cousins.

We have a couple of dozen Street Sedans taking to the track to blaze away and have a great time.

The Super Streets are back with a dozen hardened competitors duelling away through the night.

And to round out the entertaining support program we present the famous Modified Production Sedans who'll do their best to put on a top shelf performance.

So don't be caught at home on the couch this Saturday night.

Grab your group and get on up to Gympie's Mothar Mountain Speedway and get yourself a great gutful of g'd-up grinding dirt track racing action adventure.

We'll show you a diverse tour of formulas from the little speedy Junior Sedans through to the mighty ground-thumping heart-pumping V8 Super Sedans - tossing up great clumps of earth and clay as they regurgitate the track in their quest for mighty supremacy!

So what are you going to do?

Saturday Night - Mothar Mountain Speedway - Gympie - Beee There!!!!

Program for 19th November 2011 - Gympie's Mothar Mountain Speedway

Wednesday 02 November 2011

Subject: Our Sympathies extended to the Birt Family

Our deep-felt sympathies go to Don and Linda Birt and their family on the tragic loss of their son Ashley on the foreign field in Afghanistan. Don, a popular figure for many years and a recognisable face within the Mothar Mountain racing fraternity, always a fine role model for the younger generations - please gain some comfort in the quiet support offered during this time.

link to - Australian Government Department of Defence - Battle Casualties Notice

Monday 17 October 2011

Subject: Our own G11 Gavin Lorensen and Dustin Horne victorious in 2011 T-MAC Auto Spares and Race Gear Modified Production 30/30

Well the evening certainly did live up to all predictions as an epic. An epic of huge proportions with machine against machine, driver against driver (doubled with the 30/30) and everyone up against the familiar foe the weather. The ultimate winners of the feature program the Modified Production 30/30 were Gavin Lorensen and Dustin Horne.

Despite a good drop of rain for a short period, racing resumed and the night's program was completed in its entirety with consideration to the prevailing conditions. Thanks to all in attendance for your commitment in getting the show up and moving and making it through the evening.

Starting with A Main 1 in the Modified Production 30/30, we saw the grid line up as follows: Nathan MacDonald/ Shane MacDonald (CR32), Darren Pearson/ Steve Jordan (SC86), Jamie O'Meara/ Ty Horne (G26), Todd Doyle/ Allan Nash (BB7) (Q1/N1), Gavin Lorensen/ Dustin Horne (G11), Craig Franz/ Stephen-John Lahiff (SC37), Mark Carlin/ Peter Lack (V12) (V1), Brendon Bayfield/ Paul Redman (M18), Adrian Stott/ Darren Lyon (G23), Scott Raymont/ Jess Raymont (G27), Antony Gaunt/ Darryl Etherden (RK3), Darren White/ Robbie White (C94), Travis Hutchison/ Kane Heidke (M6), Trent Humphreys/ Blake Hancock (C32), Glenn Truin/ Darren Truin (C91), Josh Harm/ David O'Keeffe (SC90), Aidan Raymont/ Greg Raymont (G28), David Barbeler/ Michelle Barbeler (SB88), Shannon Blackburn/ Graham Beer (SC22), Michael Shelford/ Kent Shelford (SB54). This was a real war of attrition with only about half the cars finishing the full 30 laps.

At around 11.oo pm the A Main 2 was run. The grid lined up with the first dozen or so cars as follows: Darren Pearson/ Steve Jordan (SC86), Gavin Lorensen/ Dustin Horne (G11), Adrian Stott/ Darren Lyon (G23), Jamie O'Meara/ Ty Horne (G26), Scott Raymont/ Jess Raymont (G27), Mark Carlin/ Peter Lack (V12) (V1), Travis Hutchison/ Kane Heidke (M6), Brendon Bayfield/ Paul Redman (M18), Darren White/ Robbie White (C94), Craig Franz/ Stephen-John Lahiff (SC37), Michael Shelford/ Kent Shelford (SB54), Nathan MacDonald/ Shane MacDonald (CR32), David Barbeler/ Michelle Barbeler (SB88).

As anticipated, the rubber melted and the metal 'grinded', leaving the last half-dozen cars making the full 30 laps. The final standings as 1st place Gavin Lorensen/ Dustin Horne, 2nd place Darren White/ Robbie White, 3rd place Michael Shelford/ Kent Shelford, 4th place Scott Raymont/ Jess Raymont, 5th place David Barbeler/ Michelle Barbeler, 6th place Brendon Bayfield/ Paul Redman.

We thank the continuing support from our generous Sponsors T-Mac Auto Spares & Race Gear.

In the supporting categories starting with Street Sedans, we are seeing the emergence of a rising star in Brad Yarrow, who drove strongly and consistently through the evening to start the main race in second grid place behind best Kent Shelford on pole. Brandon O'Keeffe started the main 3rd on the grid, with gentleman Jim Cowley in grid 4 and Tiffany O'Keeffe grid 5 and Kuben Kunny rounding out the first three rows. Immediately on the first lap Yarrow took the lead and did not relinquish through the race. At the chequered flag Brad Yarrow held out a determined Jim Cowley for the win. Third place went to Kent Shelford.

In the 4 Cylinder Speedway Sedans Alistair Mathers led from go to wo to take out their feature, from Mark Kelly and Blake Hancock.

The Junior Street Sedans A Main was run around midnight. Ryan Packer finished way out in front. Brent Lorensen finished well in overall second place following a stewards DQ to Brody Thomsen. Mikayla Dawson filed in 3rd place and Tyson McDonnell placed 4th. It was good to see the Juniors hanging in their till the wee hours to get their racing jobs done.

The 'Women in Speedway' program was somewhat truncated due to the uncertainty early in the night due to the passing storm. A single heat was run in this exciting showcase event. Let's hope to see the opportunity of witnessing the full extent of these drivers in the near future. The women taking part on the night were, Sarah Franz (who took out the heat win), Tiffany O'Keeffe, Michele Blavius, Selina English, Danielle Harris, Robyn Falkenhagen and Kaye Arthur.

For a full listing of all the results with times and places see the MYLAPS results pages.

Mothar Mountain ... Rocks - Beee There!!!

Wednesday 12 October 2011

Subject: Mothar Mountain Modified Production 30/30 bringing it back big by T-MAC Auto Spares and Race Gear - Saturday 15th October 2011

A year has gone round, and again the brave line up for the exhilarating running of the T-MAC Auto Spares and Race Gear Modified Production 30/30. This year as in the past epic, we have on board teams of two drivers racing in turns in their respective cars. We have 22 cars nominated for this brilliant event this year, which makes 44 drivers taking up the challenge. So there'll be plenty of cut and thrust in the course of the evening.

Each driver will get 2 heats each and then 1x 30 lap feature each. The draw for the heats will be random. The combined points for each team will determine your team's start in the 1st feature. Whatever place your team comes in the 1st feature is where your 2nd driver starts the 2nd feature and the winner of that is the winner.

The 10 minutes driver change-over will be done on the race track along the main straight. You will be able to do what ever to your car in that time, with no limit on staff per car. The only restriction is that in the first 5 minutes no refueling is to take place as to let the cars cool down a bit.

We thank the continuing support from our generous Sponsors T-Mac Auto Spares & Race Gear.

In the supporting categories we have Street Sedans, 'Women in Speedway', Junior Street Sedans and 4 Cylinder Speedway Sedans.

What a fantastic lineup of hang-on-a-second, heart-thumping clay-track racing action making for one massively memorable speedway spectacular! Don't be left at home or sitting in some dark corner. Come to the light, climb up to Mothar Mountain Speedway - where all the hard-core track action takes place...

For details of nominations and other stuff, check out the Race Program

Wednesday 14 September 2011

Subject: Awesome Family Pass Giveaways up for grabs

(Courtesy: Amy Brown..Publicity Officer..Gympie Speedway)

Gympie Speedway and its Business Partners - Zinc 96.1 fm, Hot 91.1 fm, Classic Hits Gympie 4GY 558 am, Classic Hits Noosa 107.1 fm and Crow FM 90.7 fm and the local newspaper The Gympie Times are pleased to announce a super way to get the whole family trackside for all the Speedway action and excitement.

Up for grabs are - 20 family passes for a specific race meeting - granting free passage through the gates. This offer is running for the entire 2011-2012 Season and is being run for each meeting we have this Season. Which means that in the lead up to each meeting you have the chance to win one of the 20 family passes and get the family in for free for that particular meeting.

How's that for a ripper of a deal.

Keep your ears listening to the sounds of Zinc 96.1 fm, Hot 91.1 fm, Classic Hits Gympie 4GY 558 am, Classic Hits Noosa 107.1 fm and Crow FM 90.7 fm and check out the local newspaper The Gympie Times for all details, in the week leading up to each meeting.

Gympie's Mothar Mountain Speedway - 'The Home of Champions'

...still going hard after all these years...

Wednesday 14 September 2011

Subject: Complete Wrap-Up of Racing at Mothar Mountain Speedway - - 10th September 2011

(Courtesy: Amy Brown..Publicity Officer..Gympie Speedway)

All in all, a great night of racing, with strong fields, new cars, old cars and all your regular favourites braving the track and the cold for the first time this season. It was chilly, but at least the rain held off.

We had local Gympie Speedway Members come up victorious in each of the 4 categories of racing on track on the weekend. Here are the results as follows -

JUNIOR SEDANS
Brendan Learoyd set himself up for a good feature win by placing well in all 4 heats on the night. 14 cars were nominated on the night and Michael Learoyd current Q1 was put to the test by his younger brother and ended up finishing fourth.
RESULTS - 1 - Brendan Learoyd, 2- Jayden Peacock, 3- Jordan Ferguson, 4 - Michael Learoyd

STREET SEDANS
Kristian Walker scored himself 3 heat wins and a fourth to set himself up for the feature race, he never looked like losing and was driving confidently and was strong all night. Most drivers were consistent throughout the night and the 27 cars who nominated all put on a great show.
RESULTS - 1- Kristian Walker, 2 - Jim Cowley, 3 - Frank Packer, 4 - Darren Brady

SUPER STREET SEDANS
Steve Cook was the serious contender on the night, but local Gympie girl Jess Raymont, had other things in mind. After both having good runs in their heats, they went head to head throughout the feature. Jess finally got in front and held her line. Raymont clocked the fastest time and speed on the night and was certainly giving the boys a run for their money. Unfortunately the studs on her right rear wheel broke off and caused her to spectacularly roll her BA Falcon half a dozen times through the canteen corner on the back 'straight' before coming to rest on the roof against the wall. Jess and her passenger are both ok, but are bruised and sore and a little shaken. It won't stop Jess from racing and as soon as her dad Greg Raymont can get the car fixed, I'm sure we will see her back on the mountain.
RESULTS - (race was called on 17th lap after rollover) 1 - Jess Raymont, 2 - Steve Cook, 3 - Stephen-John Lahiff, 4 - Jason Flikweert

MODIFIED PRODUCTIONS
A strong field of 11 cars nominated for the night and saw local favourites Todd Doyle and Gavin Lorensen dictate most of the night, with both placing well throughout their heats. Aidan Raymont showed up in style in his new BA falcon and after a few teething problems were sorted out early, he was back on track and out to prove a point. Steve Jordan also managed to roll his car over in the final heat of the night.
RESULTS - 1 - Todd Doyle (Q1/N1), 2 - Gavin Lorensen, 3 - Aidan Raymont, 4 - Brett Barron

So there we have it. We got the first meeting out of the way with plenty of promise for the coming months. Let's get in behind all the action - fence-side - in the run to Christmas. Now that most of the winter sports are completed we can get down to the business of following all the greatest Speedway Action at Mothar Mountain each month.

We look forward to our next action packed meeting on Saturday night - 15th October 2011.

Tuesday 6 September 2011

Subject: Racing at Mothar Mountain Speedway - This Saturday Night - 10th September 2011

The new season is upon us.

Saturday night 10th September 2011 has Gympie Speedway making its first murmurs for the new Speedway Season with a host of dirt racing machines converging on the iconic kidney-shaped and undulating venue for the first foray into fast laps and fun for 2011-2012. It all starts here - when the cars are fresh after the winter-break and the drivers are hungry for some 'track action'.

We have a big line-up with over 60 nominated cars in categories as vast and exciting as Junior Sedans, Street Sedans, Super Streets and the Modified Productions circuiting in what is anticipated to be a top night out. See a whole bunch of cars, new and old doing their darnedest to get out front and going for glory.

So what's left to do but to pack up the family and make the mighty pilgrimage to the 'Mountain' for some hot dirt-track entertainment. It's a sure-fired way to welcome the new season. So what you gonna do?

Beee There!!!

Check out the Racing Program for 10 September 2011 - Gympie's Mothar Mountain Speedway

Friday 5 August 2011

Subject:PERFORMAX INTERNATIONAL JUNIOR SERIES

PERFORMAX INTERNATIONAL JUNIOR SERIES concluded Saturday night with the presentation of trophies and prizes at the Gympie trophy night.

Congratulations to Jayden Peacock who finished first with 457 points and received a massive trophy and $400 for the team.

Nathan Barbeler came in second with 400 points and received as nearly as big a trophy and $300 for the team.

Following closely in third overall position was Michael Learoyd, only 1 point behind with 399 points and received a trophy and $200 for the team.

For those teams that competed in all rounds they received the following attendance prizes drawn at random.

Patrick Brennan ................Weekend holiday at Coolum Get Away Resort (Thanks Murray )

Nathan Barbeler...............Pair of racing gloves from Aussie Trackwear (Thanks Tracey)

Dan Smith........................$200 voucher from Col's Fibreglass (Thanks Col)

Brendan Learoyd..............$100 voucher from T/Mac Auto Spares (Thanks Kay & Jim)

Billy Duffield.....................$200 voucher from Col's Fibreglass (thanks Col)

Simon Walker...................$100 voucher from T/Mac Auto Spares (Thanks Kay & Jim)

Kayla Barron....................$200 voucher from Col's Fibreglass (Thanks Col)

Michael Learoyd...............$100 voucher from T/Mac Auto Spares (Thanks Kay & Jim)

Hayden Turner..................$200 voucher from Col's Fibreglass (Thanks Col)

Stephen English................$100 from Performax international

Kellie Pagel.......................$200 voucher from Col's Fibreglass (Thanks Col)

Congratulations to all competitors and a big thank you to all the sponsors and everyone who contributed to make this series happen.

Below are all the final points.

1	C76	Jayden Peacock		457
2	SB17	Nathan Barbeler		400
3	G99	Michael Learoyd		399
4	M8	Brody Thomsen		381
5	B42	Jordan Ferguson		349
6	G66	Brendan Learoyd		348
7	G22	Stephen English		314
8	M48	Kayla Barron		313
9	C28	Dan Smith		266
10	G97	Patrick Brennan		240
11	C77	Sam Roza		179
12	C23	Billy Duffield		156
13	C6	Simon Walker		142
14	B61	Will Muir		141
15	G94	Kellie Pagel		141
16	B53	Brody Fraser-McGee		122
17	G84	Hayden Turner		121
18	C99	Jack Kay		102
19	T1	Michael Gorman		90
20	V32	Brody Chrystie		90
21	A1	Cody Maroske		90
22	C21	Carter Armstrong		81
23	C10	James Kennedy		80
24	MK25	Brandon Atto		75
25	B38	Maddi McGee		72
26	C4	Dillon Whitford		68
27	CR36	Tim Smith		61
28	BB30	Bradley Scherer		52
29	B75	Lee McKinnell		43
30	BB13	Rachel Jenkins		39
31	GL2	Brooke Etherden		36
32	GL35	Brooke Collins		31
33	V81	Dylan Campton		30
34	MK5	Robert Hawkings		25
35	BB15	Jaydn Stone		25
36	C20	Isabella Armstrong		25
37	MK50	Cara Bowen		23
38	M26	Brianna Francis		21
39	C47	Tyson Whitford		18
40	SA5	Jesse Arthur		16
41	M27	Alexandra Kuzmanovic		12
42	B59	Simone Brehmer		6
43	M71	Aimee Gibson		1

Friday 5 August 2011

Subject: Working Bee - 13/14th August 2011

Hi all,

The final working bee of the off-season is upon us on the 13th and 14th August.

We are aiming to cap off the renovated pit area and fencing upgrades.

We would like to see as many people there to help out as we can.

There are only around thirty-five sleeps to go until the 2012 season get into gear - so let's get cracking and we'll see you there.

Cheers,

Friday 5 August 2011

Subject: Daylight Machinery Day - 21st August 2011

Hi all,

The Daylight Machinery Day for the upcoming season is scheduled for 21st August 2011.

It will be conducted at the Mothar Mountain race track from o9.ooam. (Please note that previous advice of off-site machinery has been revoked in order to keep continuity of appropriate insurance coverage.)

This is a great opportunity to get the racing machines checked over for spec.

We'll see you there.

Cheers,

Monday 30 May 2011

Subject: Scott Thomsen wins 2011 Super Street Qld Title

The 26th Qld Super Street Title held at Gympie's Mothar Mountain Speedway on the weekend was a close fought lap-reduced race with the eventual winner being Maryborough's Scott Thomsen.

Scott Thomsen 2011 Super Street Sedan Qld Champion - celebrating...

The A-Main Title Race was a bit touch and go when the drizzle arrived at around the scheduled running time of the B-Main event. The decision was made to pull the B-Main and run as an A-B-Main. The Street Sedans were sent out for their Final to help settle the track.

Eventually the field assembled for the Title Race. Chris Pendry from Gladstone qualified in pole position with Nigel Mulvena on his outside. In the second row, Kent Shelford and Josh Harm lined up. Scott Thomsen and defending Champion Neil Keldoulis started out of the third row. Out of the fourth row in position 7 was Jessica Raymont with Jason Flikweert starting in 8th spot. The rest of the field started as follows: 9 Lee Steffens; 10 Graham Beer; 11 Matt Rigby; 12 Stephen-John Lahiff; 13 Trent Humphreys; 14 TJ Horne; 15 Daniel Evans; 16 Steve Cook; 17 Nick Cook; 18 Brad Scorgie; 19 Tyler Mertin; 20 Peter Walker; 21 Mark Calvert; 22 Gary Harris Jnr. The entire field made a procession around and around the track for a good while in an attempt to pat the track dry from the intermittent showers that had hampered the racing over the preceeding bit. The slightly damp surface began to hold up and the race was started.

Chris Pendry and Nigel Mulvena immediately got to the business pedal and were pushing the limits. Kent Shelford went out early. The entire field held its shape for the most part in very competitive fashion over the next half-dozen laps with close and fierce racing in the trying conditions. Tyler Mertin departed after 5 laps. Nick Cook and Trent Humphreys called it a day around lap 7, and after lap 8 when the two front cars of Chris Pendry and Nigel Mulvena parked in the middle, the infield was starting to look like an expensive parking lot.

When the superbly sounding Cooroy Auto Wreckers car of Jessica Raymont was turned after 7 laps, she found herself restarting at the rear of the field. From there she drove a steady and fine race battling from 18th up to 6th position in lap 17. Josh Harm assumed the lead in lap 9 and held it in close quarters from Scott Thomsen, Neil Keldoulis and Jason Fikweert.

Meanwhile a stream of cars trickled like the rain on the track to the infield. More slides and spins on the slicky track saw some positional changes and some daring passing got Scott Thomsen to the front around lap 20. The next 4 laps positions largely remained unchanged and in lap 24 when the skies cried heavily, the cars began to spin all over the place and the Thomsen Team smiled. The race was called and with Scott Thomsen out in front, the 2011 Super Street Qld Champion was delivered. Second place went to Josh Harm who valiantly led the field for the middle part of the race. In third place came Neil Keldoulis, good on you Neil.

Out of the 22 starters only 9 cars crossed the line in the 24 lap distance. Filling out those nine positions were 4th - Lee Steffens; 5th - Graham Beer; 6th - Steve Cook; 7th - Jason Flikweert; 8th - Matt Rigby; and, 9th - Jessica Raymont.

The Luke Keldoulis Memorial Qld Title sponsored by these Super Street supporters:

Steve and Mandy Thomsen from Thomsen Builders

Richard Brosnan from Fraser Coast 4wd Recyclers

Tim Hurley from Urangan Automotive Services

Greg Raymont from Cooroy Auto Wreckers

T-MAC Auto Spares Daihatsu out front of the Modified Productions

The T-MAC Auto Spares 30/30 finals had to unfortunately be canned due to the persistent and increasing drizzle. A great disappointment to the drivers, teams and spectators alike, as it was shaping up to be a doozie.

The entire contingent of Modified Production drivers put in a huge effort in their preparations and racing program through the night. The two drivers per car format had the crowd not knowing who they should be rooting for with a vast array of Champion drivers and Champion cars circulating. The qualifying positions for the first feature were as follows: on pole Glenn Pagel/Mark Pagel; 2 Nathan McDonald/Shane McDonald; 3 Todd Doyle/Allan Nash; 4 Brett Baxter/Gary Pagel; 5 Gavin Lorensen/Brian Learoyd to name a few of the teams. A1 Max Clarke and his driving partner Quinton Clarke were out and about throughout the evening. As were the 'green machines' Cooroy Auto Wreckers cars of Jamie O'Meara/Tim O'Shea and Aidan Raymont/Ty Jones combos. This was really meant to be one heck of a blockbuster of a way to see out the season.

Brett Baxter Racing's Crew at work between Heats

What a pity this great event was cut due to the crazy rain sweeping down across the Mountain for the how-manieth time this season?! A big thank you to major sponsor of this event T-MAC Auto Spares and also to Gympie Oil and Gas for supporting the succesful raffle and very entertaining 'tennis ball campaign'. For those who were out at the track enjoying the entertainment and won prizes and have not yet collected your prizes please call Kay on 5482 8443, or Amy on 0409 286 113.

Glenn Pagel's Geritz Earthmoving car between Heats

A highlight during the night, despite the drizzle interupting the Modified Production 30/30, was seeing a great driver from the old days - Champion Peter Doyle circulating in his Champion son Todd Doyle's car. Peter did a number of laps during intermission increasing his pace with every lap. Up in the pits after his drive he was overheard saying, "She's got a bit of stick..." as he beamed a broad smile. Nicely done Peter. You brought back some fond memories of the old days to more than a few onlookers.

(PETER DOYLE FORMER CHAMPION - MAY 2011 - MOTHAR MOUNTAIN SPEEDWAY - PHOTO COURTESY - CRAIG ABBOTT/ORBITINGSTAR)

In other support categories - Street Sedans ran their A-Main in some pretty inclement weather. Gympie's Q1 Tim Atkin dominated throughout the race and shot out to almost half a lap on the rest of the field, having packed a couple of ducks under the bonnet with the horses and proving the worth of doing his homework on a vast range of track conditions and came out blazing. The race was cut short to 10 laps when a passing shower had the field doing pirouettes (clearly not the moves conducive to progressing cars around a track). Tim Atkin out front taking the win, with Darren Brady coming in second and Jarrod Peacock third.

With the Queensland Street Sedan Title only a fortnight away, there is enough time to get repairs done in readiness. Good luck to the Street Sedan drivers who are making the trip to Maryborough to run on the Queens Birthday long weekend.

The Performax International Junior Sedan Series Final Round was staged throughout the evening. About twenty of these agile little Charades and Corollas diced and weaved and got sorted for their A-Main. The front row was taken by Q1 Michael Learoyd and Jayden Peacock, out of the second row Brody Thomsen and Jordan Ferguson, out of the third row Michael Learoyd and Kayla Barron. The rest lined up in the following order: 7 Stephen English, 8 Billy Duffield, 9 Patrick Brennan, 10 Kellie Pagel, 11 Simon Walker, 12 Carter Armstrong, 13 Hayden Turner, 14 Isabella Armstrong, 15 Bradley Scherer,16 Brooke Etherden, 17 Brooke Collins and 18 Nathan Barbeler. The feature saw the showers arrive and these fearless young drivers did a top job of getting around with the circuit becoming a bit slippery. The famous Mothar Mountain hairpin became very unforgiving, not leaving much room for the slightest off-line.

After 5 laps the race had to be called, as on pretty standard street tyres the little cars were having a hard time clawing to the camber up the main straight. At the call Jayden Peacock came in first, second was Brody Thomsen, third Jordan Ferguson, fourth Michael Learoyd and fifth Brendan Learoyd. Keep an eye on these emerging talents as they make their impact in the coming years.

Congratulations to all the drivers who participated. It was a great effort under the trying weather circumstances. So for this season it is all but done.

We thank all our patrons, spectators, supporters, sponsors and drivers who have been involved with the Gympie Speedway this season. We're gonna have a talk with the big fella upstairs to see about some dry weather for next season, otherwise we might have to get a grant to put a roof over the track - now that'd be something...

Tuesday 10 May 2011

Subject: The sweet smell of racing fuel and the lovely burn in the eyes... V8 Super Sedans make their final appearance at Mothar Mountain for the current season

Results from the Mother's Day weekend's racing at Gympie's Mothar Mountain Speedway gives a pretty good indication of the enormous popularity of dirt-track motor racing with great crowds well appreciating equally great racing displays out on the track. A big thanks to everyone in attendance for your continuing support.

Results can be found on our results page as a link to 'MYLAPS SPORTS TIMING' site.

The run-down through the classes follows:

Super Sedans

The spectacular V8 Super Sedans showed up to give an impressive display of top-shelf racing, grinding out lap after lap of high-octane acrobatics. Tromping it up the main straight, lifting wheels well clear of the surface in an articulated dance of muscle and engineering marvel. Crowd pleasers every time, the Ian Boettcher Proton V8 Super Sedan Series are a welcome inclusion to our program. We hope to see them all back next season.

Steve Jordan in the Jack Child's #24

Steve Jordan (A1) in good form and in a stand-in car, was resolute in his win in an action filled thriller of a feature . Sean Black making a name for himself in with the big boys drove magnificently to land second place and a steady and impressive Jason Campbell piloted the ex-Gary Pagel machine into 3rd place. Campbell will be moving to a new chassis in the near future so keep a look out.

Sean Black with crew

For a comprehensive review :: Jordan Doubles Up For Jack Childs Racing (Sunday, 8 May 2011 Jason Crowe - SSA Media)

V8 Dirt Modifieds

Debut appearance and crowd was very excited to have them here. The three drivers did 6 sets of demonstrations laps and were clocking some pretty fast times. David Clark recorded a time of 16.431sec which is just short of the Super Sedan track record set by Matt Pascoe of 16.227sec.We will certainly be looking forward to getting them back for the 2011/2012 season. (courtesy Amy Brown)

V8 Dirt Modified #5 car of Qld's David Clark

Street Sedans

No surprises here with an all Gympie 1,2 & 3. Tim Atkin (Current Q1) took out the win in the feature race ahead of local Gympie boys - Brandon O'Keeffe and Darren Brady. Racing was very tidy and a credit to all drivers on the night. (courtesy Amy Brown)

Super Street Sedans

In the lead up to their QLD Title on May 28th, the 19 nominated drivers were ready to prove a point and stand their ground. However, with a few damaged panels, damaged bar work and even damaged ego's these guys and girls were not giving up without a fight. Taking out the feature race was 1 - Lee Steffens (Gympie) 2 - Josh Harm and 3 - Matt Rigby (Gympie). With over 30 drivers already nominated for the QLD Title here on May 28th, we are sure to expect even harder racing and possibly even more carnage. (courtesy Amy Brown)

QSCA Junior Street Sedan State Title

Sam Roza took out the QSCA State Junior Street Sedan Title in a fast-run final. Jayden Peacock came in second, third was Ben Stead, followed by Josh Wicks and Dan Smith. (see full story below)

Sam Roza victory lap and Brenton Knight (Ian Boettcher Race Parts) congratulates Sam on his Title win

In the final analysis we can be sure that we are in for one cracker of a finish to the season in the next couple of weeks on May 28th with the running of the T-MAC AUTO SPARES Modified Production 30/30, the Performax International ASCF Junior Street Sedans Series Final, Street Sedans out for their last run ahead of their Qld Title next month and the big one the Luke Keldoulis Memorial Qld Super Street Title.

(PHOTOS COURTESY: CRAIG ABBOTT/ORBITINGSTAR)

Sunday 8 May 2011

Subject: Sam Roza takes out QSCA State Junior Street Sedan Title at Gympie's Mothar Mountain Speedway

Sam Roza last night took out the QSCA State Junior Street Sedan Title in a fast-run final. Jayden Peacock came in second, third was Ben Stead, followed by Josh Wicks and Dan Smith.

Unlucky after leading for much of the race was Brody Thomsen, who capitulated around lap 14, which saw the lead change several times over the next few laps. Gympie's Rohan Lorensen gave the lead a go, then Ben Stead ran out front for a few, before eventual winner Roza took the lead with 3 laps to go.

A yellow on the final lap was reminiscent of the tense finish to the recent Junior Title held at the Mountain only a few weeks ago. With only a straight to go, a yellow inducing restart, set the scene for a 'green-white-chequered' finish.

The remaining field held the racing clean and got through the busines of finishing with Sam Roza realising a fine win and a much deserved Qld Title.

Sam Roza - 2011 QSCA State Junior Street Sedan Champion

(PHOTO COURTESY: CRAIG ABBOTT/ORBITINGSTAR)

Friday 6 May 2011

Subject: Todd Doyle Qld Modified Production Champion

(report courtesy Jason Crowe - SSA Media)

Sunday, 1 May 2011

Todd Doyle has tonight led from start to finish, to win an exciting Queensland Modified Production Title at Toowoomba tonight.

Doyle won his fourth Queensland Title, defeating Mark Carlin of Victoria by 0.177, with Rodney Pammenter and Nathan MacDonald filling third and fourth respectively.

Defending Champion Aidan Raymont, made the B Main, elected to start at the rear of the A Main, but lasted twenty two laps before retiring from the event.

Result

1. N1 Todd Doyle, 2. V12 Mark Carlin, 3. CR8 Rodney Pammenter, 4. CR32 Nathan MacDonald, 5. CR27 Shane McDonald, 6. L3 Greg Worling, 7. V10 Trevor Mills, 8. G11 Gavin Lorensen, 9. CR61 Brendan Kennedy, 10. C18 Matthew Swarbrooke (37), 11. G4 Glenn Pagel (37), 12. A1 Max Clarke (26), 13. M46 Steven Zahl (24), 14. Q1 Aidan Raymont (22), 15. V7 Justin Drew (16), 16. RK11 Darryl Etherden (15), 17. G23 Adrian Stott (12), 18. CR23 Robert Trapp (4), 19. C42 Gavin Fletcher (0), 20. CR72 Shane Langton (0), 21. BB81 Dennis Shallcross (0). Time: No Time, Winning Margin: 0.177, Fastest Lap: 17.195 CR8 Rodney Pammenter

Congratulations Todd Doyle on another Champion Drive. That will go nicely with the great number of Championship Title wins you're collecting.

Gympie boys - Q1 Modified Production Champion Todd Doyle with Q1 Street Sedan Champion Tim Atkin at Gympie Speedway... Gympie sure knows how to produce Champions.

(PHOTO COURTESY - CRAIG ABBOTT/ORBITINGSTAR)

Friday 6 May 2011

Subject: V8 Dirt Modifieds at Gympie Speedway

V8 Dirt Modifieds will make their much anticipated debut at Gympie's Mothar Mountain Speedway this Saturday night. Queensland club champion David Clark, Kevin Britten and Brian Scott will try out the unique venue with some demonstration laps.

The cars will get 4-5 runs throughout the night to help nail the right settings to get around the track, and assess whether they could take a race meeting here next year.

The V8 Dirt Modified cars will be on display at the track from 3.00 pm, for those interested.

Tuesday 12 April 2011

Subject: Michael Learoyd wins 2011 Performax International Junior Sedan Qld State Title

Gympie's own Michael Learoyd proved yet again that in the big races you got to finish to win it.

In just his 4th season of racing, having started motor racing at age 10 and now only 14, Learoyd piloted his Charade to victory in an exciting and incident filled A-Main.

Steady and consistent throughout the heats and looking after his car, Michael started the 20 lap final in P4 in the rolling grid with Jayden Peacock, Brodie Chrystie and Nathan Barbeler ahead of him.

A good way through the race a yellow brought the field close together and just beyond the restart a very unlucky Brodie Chrystie was swiped and piled against the fence on the back stretch in the lead to the hairpin. With Chrystie unable to rejoin the race, placings changed and saw Learoyd in front at the restart. Regular visitor to Mothar Mountain, Sam Roza and Victorian Michael Gorman were tight in behind with Roza putting up a valiant bid for the lead.

On the (first) final lap with just metres to go, Roza flip-turned his car up and over in a dazzling stunt-driving roll-over display which dramatically stopped the race with solid reds. With rescue personnel rapidly deployed the crowd held its breath as Roza emerged unscathed and then waved to the crowd, walked up the home straight to heroically concede to Learoyd while the track marshals and crew recovered his machine and settled it in the midfield.

A resolve-testing restart with a 2-lap reset, young Michael Learoyd drove with composure beyond his years and held his cool to claim the Queensland Title.

When the dust settled the final finishing positions in the Performax International Queensland Junior Sedan Title were as follows: G99 Michael Learoyd (first), Tasmania Champ T1 Michael Gorman (second), B61 Will Muir (third), M8 Brody Thomsen (fourth), and G66 Brendan Learoyd (fifth). Well done to everybody involved.

Michael Learoyd 2011 Qld Junior Sedan Champion (CRAIG ABBOTT/ORBITINGSTAR)

In other category results from the night...

Modified Productions put on a solid show with local driver Todd Doyle winning three of his four heats and going on to victory in the feature race ahead of Gavin Lorensen, Steve Cook and Jessica Raymont. It is great to see such competitive racing.

In the Super Sedans Div1, with just a few cars running at the end, it really was 'survival of the fittest'. Results in their feature were 1st Jason Campbell, 2nd Matthew Williams and 3rd Russell Dobson. A motoring mishap after 6 laps between Mark Pagel and Colin Hockley resulted in a black flag for both of them. In an earlier heat, A1 Steve Jordan took some punishment which resulted in his needing a bandage on a banged up hand. These guys are made of pretty tough stuff.

In the Super Sedans Div2, results were 1st John Tischler, 2nd Les Pascoe, and 3rd Grant Shaw. Thanks to all the Super Sedans for blasting their way around the Mountain, we'll be looking forward to the next time your here. Fantastic!

We saw a good field of around 30 nominations in the Street Sedans, which tore around the track, having a good time. For the most part they behaved themselves and we saw some close racing. In the end it was Frank Packer up first in the feature, followed by Josh Harm, Tim Atkin and Darren Brady.

We thank all who attended this big meeting and hope to see you all well at the next on May 7 2011.

TRACK RECORDS

JUNIOR SEDANS - JAYDEN PEACOCK - 20.724secs - SET: 16-10-2010

JUNIOR STREET SEDANS - JAYDEN PEACOCK - 19.878secs - SET: 16-10-2010

4 CYLINDER SEDANS - JAMES ELLIOT - 19.870secs - SET: 17-12-2011

STREET SEDANS - MICK SHELFORD - 19.393secs - SET: 16-10-2010

SUPER STREET SEDANS - JESSICA RAYMONT - 18.538secs - SET: 16-10-2010

MODIFIED PRODUCTION - DARREN WHITE - 18.370secs - SET: 29-12-2010

LATE MODELS - DEAN HAWKINS - 16.889secs - SET: 10-10-2009

AMCA - DEAN BALLARD - 18.685secs - SET: 17-12-2011

SUPER SEDANS - MATT PASCOE - 16.227secs - SET: 04-05-2008