Motorsport Australia Speed Read - November 2020

SPEED READ N O V E M B E R

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A HISTORIC NOVEMBER Historics take to the track nationwide, some for the first time since Feburary, with Australian legends and iconic vehicles lining up in some fantastic categories.

NEW GOVERNMENT FUNDING OPEN FOR VIC CLUBS

NEW LOOK ARC TO BE BIGGER AND BETTER IN 2021

Victorian Motorsport Australia affiliated clubs can apply for government assistance through the Community Motorsport Program.

The RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Rally Championship season was officially confirmed, with a six round calendar for 2021

M O T O R S P O R T . O R G . A U

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO A SPECIAL GROUP As the annual FIA Volunteers Weekend draws close, Speed Read takes the opportunity to thank our hard working officials.

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CONTENTS 4

Girls on Track enabling opportunities

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Paul Woodward elected to Motorsport Australia Board

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Margot Foster and Kristen Bailey to continue serving on Motorsport Australia Board

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New government funding open for Vic clubs

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A special thank you to a special group

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Thrilling finale looming large for IPRA

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Symmons Plains celebrates 60th birthday in style

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Historic return for Queensland circuit racers

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HSRCA festival heats up Wakefield Park

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Motorsport Australia Member Rewards

22

Kings van Gisbergen and Tander give Holden perfect farewell

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WAU proud to associate with Motum in 2020

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Indigenous crew selected for 2021 Racing Together program

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Off Road Cups witness epic showdowns

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A handful of events confirmed for Summernats 2021

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New look ARC to be bigger and better in 2021

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ARC to stand tall in standalone Canberra rally

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Nominations open for 2020 Awards season

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Blockbuster 2021 for Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships

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Fond Adelaide Memories

40

Piastri tests F1

41

Rust proves lucky charm for outstanding Ricciardo

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Elfin fans rejoice with release of special historic book

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COVER PHOTO

More than 100 entries from New South Wales took part in the ever popular Historic Sports and Racing Car Association New South Wales’ (HSRCA) Historic Spring Festival at Wakefield Park.

Photo: Priceless Images Photography

275 Canterbury Road, Canterbury VIC 3126 PO Box 172, Canterbury LPO Vic 3126 Member Hotline 1800 883 959 (9am - 5pm AEST) Telephone 1300 883 959 or +61 3 9593 7777 Website motorsport.org.au E-mail info@motorsport.org.au

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“We’re trying to give equal opportunities to everybody so those who want to work hard can have the opportunity to succeed” Photo: Instagram @shann_ann

- Rosanna Tennant

GIRLS ON TRACK ENABLING OPPORTUNITIES The most recent Motorsport Australia online FIA Girls On Track program, presented by D2N Technology Solutions, has seen an insightful chat between Australian motorsport journalist Emma Notarfrancesco and international media personality, Rosanna Tennant.

Throughout last month’s one-on-one interview on Motorsport Australia’s Instagram channel, Notarfrancesco and Tennant discussed a range of topics and fielded questions from the public.

The duo also touched on the successful Girls on Track program and the impact that it had on the thousands of participants throughout the world Currently based in London, Tennant, who serves as presenter for the FIA’s Formula 1 and 2 World Championships, is a big advocate for the program and believes it helps young women think outside the box when it comes to their careers.

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“The reason I like the program is it’s not just for women and girls who want to be racing drivers, it gives them a taster of all the roles in not just motorsport, but the sporting industry as a whole,” Tennant said.

“It enables them to have a go at things and I think a lot of us are guilty of not trying to get out of our comfort zone on many occasions.

“The days that I have experienced with Girls on Track have been fabulous because there it is fitness, media workshops and STEM workshops.

“I think the program is great in unlocking all those opportunities rather than just closing down ideas and careers that you think are “just for boys”.

“It’s bringing people into a network with a lot of information, fun and gaining with confidence and it’s a wonderful community to be a part of.

MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

“Yes it’s focused more on women getting into motorsport, but I think it’s important especially because of the times we’re living in now. We’re trying to give equal opportunities to everybody so those who want to work hard can have the opportunity to succeed.”

Notarfrancesco and Tennant join an impressive list of individuals to have featured in the online chats, including Erebus Motorsport Managing Director Shannon Kiely, Carsales Consumer Editor Nadine Armstrong, 2016 RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Rally Champion Molly Taylor and Triple Eight Racing’s Jessica Dane.

Click here to view the full chat between Notarfrancesco and Tennant.

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PAUL WOODWARD ELECTED TO MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA BOARD Motorsport Australia is pleased to announce Paul Woodward has been elected to the Motorsport Australia Board, representing the state of Queensland.

Paul’s election follows the retirement of Laurence Svenson.

WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO BE ON THE BOARD?

Paul has significant motorsport experience, having been involved in the sport for many years as both a competitor and official, including serving as President of the Brisbane Sporting Car Club.

Motorsport Australia recently published the latest edition of its Board Charter, further outlining the roles and responsibilities for Directors.

Outside of his many motorsport achievements, Paul has extensive senior management experience, having worked in various roles for the Queensland government.

Paul was understandably proud on being Queensland’s Elected Director.

“It is a great honour to serve on the Board of Motorsport Australia,” Paul said.

“The impact of COVID-19 on Motorsport Australia and all affiliated clubs has been huge and I look forward to both the opportunity and the challenge of taking the sport, to which we have all devoted so much time and energy, forward.

“While my background has been gravel rallies, I want to work with our stakeholders to keep motorsport relevant to our clubs, competitors and officials regardless of the discipline they pursue.”

Motorsport Australia Presidentelect Andrew Fraser congratulated Paul on his election.

“We are pleased to welcome Paul to the Motorsport Australia Board and know his broad experience in the sport, as well as in senior management, will be very beneficial for our future,” Paul said.

“I want to keep motorsport relevant to our clubs, competitors and officials regardless of the discipline they pursue” “Paul replaces Laurence Svenson who retired from the Board after more than 11 years as Queensland’s Elected Director. Laurence has been part of many key moments during his time as a Director and on behalf of everyone at Motorsport Australia, we say a big thank you to Laurence and wish him well for the future.”

Paul will attend his first Board meeting in November.

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The Charter provides a great guide for understanding the role of a director, as well as identifying the skills and experience required to excel in the position. It provides an understanding of how those interested in shaping the sport can look to become involved at a Board level.

Publishing the Charter allows individuals within the wider motorsport community to consider applying in the future should vacancies arise, as Motorsport Australia continues to remain committed in building greater diversity within the sport – including at Board level.

The online Charter isn’t the only way to learn about what the Board does, with members encouraged to contact their current Elected Director to find out more about the role.

Click here to view the 2020 Board Charter.

MARGOT FOSTER AND KRISTEN BAILEY TO CONTINUE SERVING ON MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA BOARD Appointed Director Margot Foster AM OLY and Elected Director Kristen Bailey will continue to sit on the Motorsport Australia Board following extensions to their respective terms.

The Board appointed Margot for a further three years (2021-2023), while Kristen was re-elected for the same period as the Elected Director for South Australia and Northern Territory.

Margot joined the Board in 2018 and since then has been elected Vice President, the first woman to hold the position in Motorsport Australia’s history, while Bailey was elected to the Board in 2019 filling a vacancy that had arisen at the time.

“I am thrilled to have been reappointed as a Director for a further three years,” Margot said.

“Motorsport Australia has faced some significant challenges in 2020, but the way everyone involved in the sport has responded has been impressive.

“During my three years on the Board I have been inspired by so many wonderful competitors, officials and event organisers.

“During my three years on the Board I have been inspired by so many wonderful competitors, officials and event organisers” - Margot Foster, Motorsport Australia Appointed Director

“It is also pleasing to see how many women are already involved in the sport, or are eager to get their start. Over the next three years and beyond I will certainly work hard to make sure that we reduce the barriers to participation for all and increase diversity within the sport.”

Kristen was grateful for the opportunity to continue to serve as the Elected Director for SA and NT.

Appointed Director Margot Foster congratulating the award winners from the South Australian 2019 motorsport season

“Since joining the Board of Motorsport Australia last year it has further cemented my views about just how much motorsport means to so many people,” Kristen said.

“My ambition is to see the sport rebound strongly from the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and make sure that as a Board member, I do everything possible to see more people out there participating in, and enjoying, the sport we all love so much.

“As a competitor myself, I too am inspired by the many women competing in the sport and have been delighted to witness the passion of those already making their mark and as a Board that is something we are all eager to see continue.”

Motorsport Australia Presidentelect Andrew Fraser said he was looking forward to continuing the strong working relationship with both Directors.

“Margot and Kristen have made significant contributions to Motorsport Australia during their time on the Board,” Andrew explained.

“A Board with a diverse range of backgrounds and genders is important and allows for the views of the entire motorsport community to be heard.

“We are committed to increasing female participation at all levels of the sport, both in competition and in our administration.”

Elected Director Kristen Bailey presenting a trophy at the 2019 Motorsport Australia National Awards

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 7

Photo: Show 'n’ Go Photography

NEW GOVERNMENT FUNDING OPEN FOR VIC CLUBS Victorian based Motorsport Australia affiliated clubs can now apply for financial government assistance funding thanks to the introduction of the new Community Motorsport Program.

Delivered by Sport and Recreation Victoria (SRV), the Community Motorsport Program is the Victorian Government’s first dedicated motorsport investment program, providing eligible funding opportunities to clubs to support the delivery of infrastructure upgrades and equipment, build capacity and increase participation through programming, training, junior, women and girls’ participation and opportunities to host events and activities.

Available only to clubs affiliated associated with Motorsport Australia, Motorcycling Australia, the Australian National Drag Racing Association and Karting Australia, this exclusive program will allow clubs the opportunity to receive an extra boost in what has been a tough year.

Clubs can apply for grants through two separate categories with up to $20,000 available via the Motorsport

Club Assistance Category and up to $500,000 for Infrastructure Upgrades and Equipment.

Motorsport Australia CEO Eugene Arocca believed the program to be very beneficial.

“The new Community Motorsport Program grants could not come at a more important time and will go a long way in helping grassroots clubs get back on track and doing what they do best,” Arocca added.

Clubs wanting to apply for the Motorsport Club Assistance Category have until 30 June 2022 to submit their application with the program to be considered over four assessment rounds between now and then, while those wanting to apply for the Infrastructure Upgrades and Equipment Category must submit their application by 21 December, 2020.

All applications can be made via the Sport and Recreation Victoria website.

Club are encouraged to discuss their applications with Regional Development Executive, Daniel Gorgievski dgorgievski@motorsport.org.au

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Click here for more information on the Community Motorsport Program and funding options.

The Motorsport Club Assistance program will provide the opportunity to upgrade safety and operational equipment, train volunteers and officials and improve participation amongst juniors and women.

The Infrastructure Upgrades and Equipment program is for clubs requiring aid for facility equipment and both minor and major upgrades to the specific infrastructure at their facilities.

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A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO A SPECIAL GROUP

In a year where a worldwide pandemic has limited people from participating in or attending motorsport events, the appreciation for our sport and those who make it possible has never been more important.

And with motorsport starting to ‘Return To Race’ there is a special group of people who the sport simply wouldn’t be possible without.

While their efforts are regularly acknowledged throughout the year, later this month, they will again be celebrated through the annual FIA Volunteers Weekend, which takes place on 28-29 November.

Motorsport Australia officials are encouraged to submit their interesting story and photo within the sport to communications@mototsport.org.au and have their story shared ahead of the weekend.

Continue reading to hear from some of the 10,000 officials currently registered with Motorsport Australia.

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Photo: Revved Photography

Note: Photo taken before implementation of COVID-19 Restrictions

“Seeing drivers continuing to race after accidents makes me appreciate how important our role is”

JESS SCOTT

“I have been with Team Medical Australia for about 10 years now, but I have always been a race fan.

“I love working with TMA because we are like a mini family. We sometimes see the worst of the worst but we always take time to comfort each other.

“I think seeing drivers continuing to race after such serious accidents makes me appreciate how important our role is. We are so well trained and do it to the best of our ability.

“We get the best outcomes for the people that we see.”

LIAM TAME

“I had always been a massive motorsport fan but really wanted to get closer to the action so when the opportunity to take that step closer and lend a hand came in 2015, it was a no brainer from me.

“My dad and I have been doing a lot of events together lately and people often look at us and think that he got me into it, but it was actually the way around. He joined much later and it’s since become a bonding thing because we go to a lot of events together.”

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 11

CATHY CROCI

“I followed my dad into motorsport and now my son has followed me. Motor racing is a big part of my life and it’s great to have him able to join me.

“It wasn’t hard for my son because he was really keen. He didn’t have much of a choice to be honest because he has been at the track all of his life.

“He couldn’t wait until he was 16 and now he is doing really well as a track marshal, which is great to see.”

GRETA NASON

“I have just done about every role available as a rally official, except for scrutineering.

“I will continue volunteering in the years to come. I was planning to do some rallies this year, but they have been cancelled, so I will be aiming to get back into the full swing of things next year. I am really looking forward to it.”

“I am really looking forward to it”

DAVID SMITH

President of North Shore Sporting Car Club and a key figure for Rally NSW and the Whiteline Twilight Rallysprint, Middleton has spent 40 years of his life dedicated to rally. Middleton is the lifeblood of his club and is highly regarded for his work as an official and administrator.

“I get a lot of pleasure being the president of a fantastic club, being on the state rally panel, being the major sponsor for the state rally championship and still competing regularly.

“I just love the sport.”

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Photo: Tim Allott

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THRILLING FINALE LOOMING LARGE FOR IPRA The Motorsport Australia Queensland Circuit Championships will hold its second and final round for the year later this month with a number of categories to feature as part of the MG Car Club of Queensland organised round.

Taking place at Morgan Park Raceway after the successful Warwick 1000 in August, good results for competitors over two days of action will be important, due to the shortened season.

One of the more intriguing narratives comes within the Improved Production Cars where multiple drivers are battling it out for silverware across the Improved Production Racing Association Queensland’s (IPRA) two major classes.

In the Under 2L class, Ewen Johnston holds a 20 point lead over Greg Craig and a further 11 points more of John Sheridan after the trio finished every race in August on the class podium.

It’s in the Over 2L class where things are getting interesting despite Ashley Isarasena holding a 22-point lead over Jason Grimmond as August’s round had three different winners across four races.

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Isarasena won two of those and steered his Mazda RX7 to runnerup finishes in the other two races, but was challenged for much of the weekend and he got fortunate when fellow race winners Brock Paine and Kyle Organ-Moore notched up multiple DNFs throughout.

With Isarasena holding his own against some of the top end drivers in the outright Improved Production category as a whole, the RX7 pilot was looking forward to the chance of getting back out and racing again and winning the club series.

“The Warwick 1000 was awesome because I beat my personal best lap time by seven tenths and I was able to stay up the front and have some great battles against some of the front running drivers,” Isarasena said.

“The RX7 is going great, it's easily the most fun car I've ever driven.

Last round the car was the best it's ever felt, Simon O'Dell Fontana has the engine absolutely screaming.

“The car is always good, my dad always puts a lot of effort into making sure it's as good as it can be which I'm super grateful for".

MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

Photos: Lee Wallis

“I'm just keen to see who enters the next round, there is rumours of a couple of fast new cars that may turn up so I'm sure I will have to be giving it 100% to stay up the pointy end.”

Fans unable to attend Morgan Park can stay up to date with the series for the entire weekend through the club’s Facebook page.

The Motorsport Australia Queensland State Circuit Championships takes place at Morgan Park Raceway on 20-22 November.

Click here to keep up to date with IPRA’s events, via their Facebook page.

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Photo: Angryman Photography

SYMMONS PLAINS CELEBRATES 60TH BIRTHDAY IN STYLE The MG Car Club of Tasmania has wrapped up the 2020 Motorsport Australia Tasmanian Circuit Championships in style with the weekend’s race meeting also celebrating Symmons Plains’ 60th anniversary.

With 118 competitors across a variety of the Championships’ regular categories taking part in the event, the meeting was full of entertaining action both on and off the track.

On track, all categories putt on a fantastic display of showmanship with close racing throughout the weekend,

most notably the Formula Vees and the Classic Regularity – where the timing system in the latter had to be adjusted as a way to determine winners within each class due to the closeness.

Off track, it was just as special as the club held a number of activations to celebrate the special milestone, including a drivers parade, car display and a special luncheon for the competitors.

Also being celebrated throughout the event were six attending individuals who had been part of the first ever event at Symmons

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Plains, including 91-year-old Frank Manly who even brought the same vehicle he drove at the meeting more than half a century ago.

MG Car of Club of Tasmania president Mark Dilger was thrilled with how the meeting turned out, paying tribute to two stalwarts of the club in the process.

“It was an excellent weekend. Good participation from the 188 competitors, which is a fair bit above our average and it was really close racing amongst all categories,” Dilger said.

“Everyone outdid themselves. The Formula Vee category at some

Photos: Angryman Photography

points had five people turning into a corner all at once. They definitely put on a good display in their races.

"Everyone was also in high spirits because they were happy to be there and we had perfect weather too, so it was a great meeting.

All in all, competitors were very pleased to get back to racing.

“It was the final round of the 2020 state championship which is certainly a wonderful way to cap off the season. Everything went beautifully.

“I also wanted to take this opportunity to thank Robin Wilmot and

Bronwyn Zuber, who have been two mainstays on the MG Car Club Tasmania committee for the full 16 years here. The weekend was their final event and they have been tremendous in all that time."

As for the milestone event itself, Dilger revealed how proud he was to be celebrating the circuit and for the club itself for be involved with the circuit.

“The event was to take place on the 13th March, but we had to push it back for obvious reasons but I feel it’s better late than never – at least it was in the same year,” Dilger said.

“When the track started out in 1960, it was just a black strip in a paddock.

To see the development where it is today is amazing. Especially since the MG Car Club of Tasmania have been running Championship rounds there for the past 16 years.

“A lot of that was under Motorsport Tasmania and then having Supercars there actually forces you to make changes in regard to safety. The track is national standard and we have ended up with a good circuit and we are very lucky."

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 17

HISTORIC RETURN FOR QUEENSLAND CIRCUIT RACERS A long delay between events for clubs around Australia has been a regular occurrence in 2020 due to the nature of the year and for Queensland’s Historic Racing Car Club, it was no different.

of view, with the club running under Motorsport Australia’s Return to Race guidelines and all competitors complying happy to be racing again, the track action proved to be just as exciting as first anticipated.

With the club’s first event for 2020 being all the way back in February, it would have come no surprise when they attracted more than 140 local drivers from 20 different historic racing categories for its grand return last month.

Throughout the event’s 36 sessions, there were several tight battles occurring, including within the two large regularity trial groups where Greg Elliot managed to claim the most points in the Touring Cars group in his 1974 Ford Escort Mk1, while 1974 Alfa Romeo GTV driver Phillipa Covell was the best of the Sports Car group.

Thankfully, all competitors and officials were treated to typical Queensland weather with the sun beaming over the track across the whole event, adding to the special occasion that was the Historics Warwick.

While the event went off without a hitch from an organisational point

In the Historic Formula Fords, it was a thrilling two-car race to top honours between Dylan Fahey and Sean Sorensen but it was the former who eventually came out on top.

Other notable results saw Stan Adler win the Group SC trophy behind the wheel of his 1976 Porsche 911, Mark Taylor and his 1990 VL Commodore win Group A class, as did Group NC winner Craig Allan in his 1969 Ford Mustang and Edward Ohlrich older Group NB class with his 1964 Austin Cooper S. Despite no spectators attending the event, it was still a highly productive event for the club, who will be looking towards the near future and a far shorter wait for another event.

Click here to view the full results.

Photos: Shifting Focus

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HSRCA FESTIVAL HEATS UP WAKEFIELD PARK 20 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

October proved to feature a number of historic race meetings throughout the country as Australian motorsport continues to return to racing after a long period of no events.

And it was no different in New South Wales where more than 100 entries took part in the Historic Sports And Racing Car Association New South Wales’ (HSRCA) Historic Spring Festival at Wakefield Park.

The festival wasn’t the only event Wakefield Park has hosted in recent times, with the Goulburn based circuit having already gained lots of experience running events under the current climate.

With eight fields each getting between three and five races across the weekend, it was a highly entertaining event that featured a number of local stars, including national hill climb champion Malcolm Oastler and Wayne Seabrook, who was voted in the commentators’ prize earlier this year.

From open wheel categories Formula Ford and Formula Vee to the more grassroots level of regularities and supersprints, as well as all the historic categories from Group N to S, there was plenty of entertaining racing taking place all weekend.

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KINGS VAN GISBERGEN AND TANDER GIVE HOLDEN PERFECT FAREWELL Shane van Gisbergen and Garth Tander were crowned Kings of the Mountain with the pair securing a well-deserved victory in the 63rd Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000.

However nothing was going to stop the Kiwi from claiming his maiden Bathurst victory as he eventually prevailed and finished just eight tenths ahead of a fast charging Waters.

In what became the perfect send off for the final year of a Holden supported manufacturer team, the Triple Eight Racing duo led the 25-car field for a majority of the race after starting in third, before van Gisbergen eventually crossed the line ahead of polesitter Cameron Waters and Chaz Mostert.

“It’s just awesome,” van Gisbergen said.

It wasn’t an easy end to the great race for the 2016 Supercars champion with two late safety car interventions giving Waters, who was partnered up with Will Davison, every opportunity to snatch the lead.

“The last few laps were really tough with the Safety Cars but the team did a faultless job and the car got better all weekend, so thanks to my guys.

“We had a great car and it’s a great way to send out Holden. Thanks to Garth, he did an awesome job.”

“It’s weird now being in a codriver role,” Tander said.

“I would much prefer to be in the car at the end of the race having control over your own destiny but Shane was so good at the end there.

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“We had a great car and it’s a great way to send out Holden” - Shane van Gisbergen

Photos: Edge Photographics

Photos: Edge Photographics

CHAMPIONSHIP TOP 10

“This one will take a little while to sink in, it’s been such a strange year… a really special one, I’ll sit back and enjoy it.”

The 2021 Supercars Championship calendar will be released in the coming weeks.

Less than a second behind Waters was the Walkinshaw Andretti United driver in Mostert, who had veteran Warren Luff as his co-driver, giving Holden two spots on the podium in its final race as part the Virgin Australia Supercars Championship.

2020 SUPERCHEAP AUTO BATHURST 1000 TOP 10

2. Cameron Waters (2125)

1. #97 Holden Commodore ZB Shane van Gisbergen/Garth Tander

6. Fabian Coulthard (1800)

The two DJR Team Penske entries rounded out the top five with Fabian Coulthard securing fourth place for him and co-driver Tony D’Alberto ahead of 2020 Supercars Champion Scott McLaughlin and co-driver Tim Slade.

It was special day for McLaughlin as he celebrated his final outing in Supercars being officially crowned as a three-time champion, while Shell V-Power Racing took out the Teams Championship after an early retirement from Jamie Whincup saw Holden Red Bull Racing Team settle for second place ahead of Tickford Racing.

1. Scott McLaughlin (2576 pts)

2. #6 Ford Mustang Cameron Waters/Will Davison 3. #25 Holden Commodore ZB Chaz Mostert/Warren Luff 4. #12 Ford Mustang Fabian Coulthard/Tony D’Alberto

3. Shane van Gisbergen (2095) 4. Jamie Whincup (2049) 5. Chaz Mostert (1958) 7. Nick Percat (1743) 8. Anton de Pasquale (1637) 9. Mark Winterbottom (1586) 10. Scott Pye (1566)

5. #17 Ford Mustang Scott McLaughlin/Tim Slade 6. #20 Holden Commodore ZB Scott Pye/Dean Fiore 7. #5 Ford Mustang Lee Holdsworth/Michael Caruso 8. #18 Holden Commodore ZB Mark Winterbottom/James Golding 9. #99 Holden Commodore ZB Anton De Pasquale/Brodie Kostecki

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10. #44 Ford Mustang James Courtney/Broc Feeney

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 23

WAU PROUD TO ASSOCIATE WITH MOTUM IN 2020 Motum Simulation has released its latest simulator with the Motum MP6 Motorsport giving users a fully-immersive Virtual Reality experience as a racing driver.

Using state-of-the-art technology due to its motion profile and G-forces simulation, the Motum MP6 Motorsport is the world’s only portable simulator to offer such realism to users and allows them to fully immerse themselves into the game.

The new MP6 also comes with a range of technological advanced features and runs all popular racing games, including iRacing, Assetto Corsa and Project Cars.

As a result of its success, the company has now teamed up with Virgin Australia Supercars Championship outfit Walkinshaw Andretti United (WAU) as their official simulator provider, with the team and its main star in Chaz Mostert utilising the simulators on a regular basis.

Whether it be Mostert preparing for competition or for the Supercars Eseries, the team are big advocates for the Motum Simulation and its products, so much so that they have released a special static “Mostert Edition '' simulator that sports the WAU livery.

“It’s an incredible simulator and something Chaz and the entire WAU

team are proud to put our name to,” WAU team Principle Bruce Stewart said.

“We really value our partnership with Motum and look forward to seeing all 25 of the limited Mostert Editions out in homes and businesses of the WAU Army.”

With only 25 units available, the Mostert Edition simulator features a Walkinshaw Performance build plate and all the proper tools required to get a real familiarity with all racing conditions.

Having used it for this year’s BP Supercars All Star E-series, Mostert is a big fan of the simulator.

“I was extremely lucky to have the Motum set me up with the simulator for the Supercars Eseries earlier this year and it is definitely a pretty awesome product,” Mostert said.

“The series may not have been anywhere near real life, but having used the Motum Simulator during that period, as well as anytime I am preparing for a race, it definitely is the closest simulator I have used to feeling authentic.

“It’s also pretty exciting to be attached to Motum and have my own special edition simulator.

It’s definitely something for the ultimate Supercars fan.”

24 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

This year proved an extremely tough year for the whole Supercars championship, which saw Mostert and the team, along with a number of other teams spend more than 100 days on the road as they did their part to continue the season and work around border restrictions.

However it was a special end for Mostert with the 28-year-old finishing the year with a podium alongside co-driver Warren Luff at last month’s Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000.

For more information on all Motum Simulators, click here.

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SPECIALISTS IN PROFESSIONAL MOTION SIMULATION Motum Simulation was founded in Melbourne, Australia in 2016 by highly regarded automotive racing engineer Steve Hoinville, with the intention of making high-fidelity motion simulation technology available for motorsport, automotive, defence, aerospace, and industrial applications.

The unique patented Motum TrueMotion technology delivers 6DOF as a complete motion profile in a fullyimmersive VR environment, excelling in peak and sustained G-forces to generate intuitive and accurate motion cues. In addition to its motion offering, Motum provides highly engineered static simulators for motorsport, sim racing, and entertainment.

www.motumsimulation.com 29 Miles Street, Southbank, Vic, 3006 +61 407 898 606 sales@motumsimulation.com

INDIGENOUS CREW SELECTED FOR 2021 RACING TOGETHER PROGRAM “There's currently no representation of our indigenous people in motorsport... we decided to do something about it” Racing Together has officially selected 11 Queensland based teenagers to form part of its program in next year’s Queensland based X3 Circuit Excel Racing Series.

With more than 30 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander teenage candidates completing a variety of assessments aimed at testing their driving and mechanical abilities at Norwell Motorplex Driving Centre over the weekend, the selected 11 will now develop and build a car for the series with two of the group to get behind the wheel.

The lucky two to be chosen with driving responsibilities were 16-yearold Braedyn Cidoni and 14-year-old Karlai Warner, however others also may get an opportunity, depending on how the year pans out.

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Under the guidance of Racing Together founders Garry and Monique Connelly, Norwell Motorplex operator Paul Morris and Gunya Meta Indigenous Mentor Michael Orcher, the teenagers will become the first indigenous team to race in Australia, as well have the opportunity to progress into the sport in a professional or recreational capacity.

Winners with Motorsport Australia Board Member Andrew Fraser

Currently working as senior international motorsport official and Formula 1 race steward, the experienced Connelly was thrilled with how the weekend panned out and was proud of all participants.

“There is currently no representation of our indigenous people in motorsport in Australia,” Connelly said.

“A few months ago, we decided to do something about it, and we decided to sponsor a pilot program to bring kids 12 to 16, boys and girls, into motorsport.

“The enthusiasm of the participants was high at the start but grew by the hour as they drove a number of track activities in dry and wet conditions, plus did classroom sessions on road safety, car construction and design, first aid, personal health and conditioning and learning also about how to become an official.”

Running under the FIA guise and supported by Motorsport Australia,

MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

Connelly is hopeful the program can expand into a national level and one day get in line the Asia Pacific Ferrari Academy, but for the moment, the focus remains on 2021.

“We’ll see how they all develop.

Some of them also have excellent mechanical abilities,” Connelly added.

“The next step will be to start building a Hyundai Excel to compete next year.

We may use different drivers at different events. While the build is occurring, the drivers will do intensive training under Paul Morris and his team at Norwell.”

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OFF ROAD CUPS WITNESS EPIC SHOWDOWNS With the BFGoodrich Motorsport Australia Off Road Championship (AORC) not taking place this year as a result of border closures and state restrictions, there was some joy for off road competitors in October with two special national events taking place.

It was a solid performance from the winning Pro Buggy as the Habys claimed four sections and crossed the line a healthy eight minutes faster than Trophy Truck pilot Hayden Bentley and his three co-drivers of Viv Coe, Nic Ganley and Hannah Bentley.

Forming part of the Motorsport Australia Off Road Cup as two special standalone events, the Can-Am Loveday 400 (Central East) and the Black Diamond Drilling Kalgoorlie Desert Race (West) went ahead as planned with the prize for each winner being free entry into a round of their choosing in 2021.

Rounding out the podium was Garry and Tamara Turnbull, while Haby’s biggest challengers throughout the event in 2019 Tatts Finke Desert Race runners-up Josh Howells and Eric Hume were forced to retire on the third section, having led the field at the end of the previous section.

Starting off in South Australia, around 34 crews completed 10 laps of the Loveday 40km course over five sections, with Aaron and Liz Haby eventually coming away with the victory.

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Other notable results saw 2018 AORC runner-up Toby Whateley and navigator Simon Herrmann finish just 17 seconds behind the Turnbulls, while New South Wales veteran Phil Lovett and Luke Stanley finished ninth, just two

MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

places behind 2019 AORC runnerup Roydn Bailey and his co-drivers Lachlan Bailey and Tyson Warner.

“We are absolutely thrilled. It’s actually unbelievable. You could say that we had a comfortable weekend, but it really was great, especially since there was a huge lead up,” Aaron said.

“It rained on Friday which was fantastic for us because the track was in ideal conditions. We didn’t really go that well in Prologue due to having a brand new motor, but we turned it up on Saturday afternoon, got stuck in the job, and ran my own race really.

“We’re extremely proud to be a part of it and had a ball. We’re just grateful to be racing again, so a big thanks to Motorsport Australia and Loveday for putting it on.”

Photo: Bob Taylor

Photo: Dakar Press Team Australia

Photo: Bob Taylor

Photo: Dakar Press Team Australia

Photo: Bob Taylor

Moving out west where more than 40 crews featured as part of the popular Kalgoorlie Desert Race and it was a familiar name in Shane Elphinstone who earned a free ticket into an AORC round next year.

Making up the Motorsport Australia Off Road West Australian Cup top three behind the Extreme 2WD class winners were Troy and Deb Schoen with the duo finishing more than six minutes behind.

While he is a regular competitor in the Motorsport Australia WA Off Road Championship (WAORC), Elphinstone was in unfamiliar territory having come close to winning the race on multiple occasions, but finally sealing the deal this year.

Driving alongside Troy Higgins, the Pro Buggy driver gained top spot early in the 375km event, before gradually building on his lead and crossing the finish line just over a minute ahead of AORC star Beau Robinson and Paul Currie, who could never get past them throughout the event,

Click here for Can-Am Loveday 400 results.

Photo: Dakar Press Team Australia

Coming in at ninth place behind a number of Pro Buggies and SXS Turbos was Prolite class winner Jake Clucas, who was crowned as the provisional WAORC champion after winning one of the state championship’s rounds and finishing third in the other.

Click here for Black Diamond Drilling Kalgoorlie Desert Race results.

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 29

A HANDFUL OF EVENTS CONFIRMED FOR SUMMERNATS 2021 Summernats has officially locked in its 2021 calendar with a mixture of old and new events to form part of the five-event schedule.

With each event made up of car unveilings and product displays, large show and shines and exciting racing competitions, Summernats meetings have been growing fast in popularity over the past few years.

Beginning as early as January, the 2021 season welcomes its all new Summernats Slam, which takes place at the recently upgraded Sydney Dragway. More than $30,000 of prize money will be up for grabs throughout the event, which features a variety of entertainment for fans including high-octane drag racing, the Burnout Masters, motorkhanas and car displays.

Less than one month later, Summernats heads to the Melbourne Showgrounds for the Meguiar’s MotorEx which celebrates its 20th anniversary with a jam-packed weekend of drifting demonstrations, modified car builds displays and automotive celebrity appearances.

SUMMERNATS 2021 CALENDAR The third instalment of the calendar sees Canberra host the three-day Summernats Rev Rock ‘n’ Roll in March where the Burnout Masters will be on show once again, only this time the 2020/21 champion will be crowned.

The event will also see an array of brilliant vehicles old and new cruise down the streets of the nation’s capital.

The hectic schedule of four events in four months wraps up through another new installment, the Rare Spares Rockynats, which takes places in Rockhampton at the start of April before the iconic Red CentreNATS caps off the year in its traditional Father’s Day weekend timeslot in Alice Springs.

30 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

Summernats Slam Sydney Dragway, 7-10 January Meguiar’s MotorEx Melbourne Showgrounds, 6-7 February Summernats Rev Rock ‘n’ Roll Canberra, 5-7 March Rare Spares Rockynats Rockhampton, 2-5 April Red CentreNATS Alice Springs, 3-5 September

Click here for ticketing and info on January’s Summernats Slam.

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Photo: Jack Martin Photography

NEW LOOK ARC TO BE BIGGER AND BETTER IN 2021 The 2021 RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Rally Championship (ARC) season was officially confirmed last month, with a six round 2021 calendar to provide plenty of exciting rally action across the country.

With the first three events having been already announced, Motorsport Australia can now confirm those events will be joined by a brand new rally in Victoria – the Gippsland Rally – as well as the AGI Sport Adelaide Hills Rally, and a final round at a location to be confirmed, which will also double as the FIA Asia Pacific Rally Championship finale.

These events join the previously announced Netier National Capital Rally, Make Smoking History Forest Rally and Rally Tasmania to make up the full calendar.

Motorsport Australia Director of Motorsport and Commercial Operations Michael Smith said while the lack of events in 2020 had understandably

been disappointing, next year was shaping up to be an action packed year.

“The RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Rally Championship will go to new heights in 2021 and we’re delighted to confirm our calendar for next year,” Smith said.

“We’re also really excited to have a Victorian round back on the calendar, with the new Gippsland Rally to take place in August. This event will be a welcome addition to the calendar, joining our established and popular events around the country.

“On behalf of everyone at Motorsport Australia, I’d like to thank our partners RSEA Safety and Hoosier for their support during 2020 and of course to our event organisers for their tireless work as we prepare for 2021.”

As part of the FIA Asia Pacific Rally Championship campaign, the AGI Sport Adelaide Hills Rally will also act as a qualifying event for the finale in November.

32 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

“The RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Rally Championship will go to new heights in 2021.”

- Michael Smith, Motorsport Australia Director of Motorsport and Commercial Operations

Photo: Angryman Photography

October also saw the 2021 Sporting and Technical Regulations released, which included the new cups competitors will be battling it for next year.

competitor group as well as our event organisers and we are certain 2021 will be a fantastic year of rallying that will see increased competitor numbers and some really exciting events.”

On top of the prestigious prize of outright Australian champion, crews will also be able to enter new competitions like the White Wolf Constructions ARC Production Cup, White Wolf Constructions ARC Production Cup and ARC Teams Cup.

WHAT ARC COMPETITORS CAN WIN IN 2021

Smith believed the new classes provided some exciting opportunities for a wide range of vehicles to compete.

ARC 2WD Cup – for eligible 2WD vehicles, both front and rear wheel drive

“Of course, all eyes will be on the outright Championship, which we expect to be fiercely contested next year, but these new Cups will allow people an opportunity to get involved in a number of events throughout the year, without having to commit to a full season,” Smith added.

“We’ve spent the past 12 months extensively consulting with the

RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Rally Championship (outright)

White Wolf Constructions ARC Production Cup – for PRC vehicles AGI Sport ARC Junior Cup – for those aged under 26 in front wheel drive vehicles ARC Classic Cup – for eligible classic cars, including pre-1986 club rally cars ARC Teams Cup – teams of three crew nominated before the end of documentation, with the best two results to count per event

2021 RSEA SAFETY MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP CALENDAR Pre-season test and launch day: Ballarat, Vic, 16 February 2021 Round 1: Netier National Capital Rally, Canberra, ACT 20-21 March 2021 Round 2: Make Smoking History Forest Rally, WA, 1-2 May 2021 Round 3: Rally Tasmania, Launceston, Tas, 26-27 June 2021 Round 4: Gippsland Rally, Vict, 7-8 August 2021 Round 5: AGI Sport Adelaide Hills Rally, SA 16-17 October Round 6: Location TBC – FIA Asia Pacific Rally Championship Finale, 20-21 November MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 33

ARC TO STAND TALL IN STANDALONE CANBERRA RALLY Rally crews will able to get a small taster for the 2021 season this month with the RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Cup to run as part of the delayed Netier National Capital Rally.

With the recent announcement of New South Wales and Victoria opening their borders on 23 November, it sets up an exciting prospect for the only ARC event this year, as

34

the 30 registered crews will be looking for the perfect confidence booster ahead of a huge 2021.

Also taking place as part of the Netier National Capital Rally will be the Hoosier Challenge with the winner of the competition to be awarded a free ticket into a round of their choosing next year.

Some big names are confirmed for the 16 stage rally, including 2019 ARC champions Harry Bates and John McCarthy, 2016 champion

MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

Molly Taylor, ARC regular drivers Luke Anear and Lewis Bates, as well MTA Motorsport Australia NSW Rally Championship title contenders Tom Clarke and Tony Sullens.

Prominent motorsport personality Jessica Dane has also be confirmed as the host of the ARC’s online coverage throughout the weekend.

The RSEA Safety Motorsport Australia Rally Cup and Netier National Capital Rally take place on 28-29 November in and around the Cotter Forest of Canberra.

Photo: Jack Martin Photography

NOMINATIONS CLOSING SOON FOR 2020 AWARDS The 2020 Motorsport Australia Awards season has officially begun with nominations now open.

Each year, the Motorsport Australia Awards recognise the individuals who work tirelessly behind the scenes and go the extra mile in our sport, as well as honour the outstanding achievements of competitors across all disciplines and levels.

From the Motorsport Australia Award of Merit, Service Star and Service Awards, to the State Event of the Year and Club milestone achievements, a variety of award recipients will be recognised and celebrated.

As of Wednesday 23 September, people have also been able to nominate their colleagues and fellow volunteers for both

the National and State Official of the Year Awards, with the 10,000 Motorsport Australia officials all eligible for these awards, which highlight the efforts of those who dedicate significant time and passion to our sport.

The nomination process will remain open until 5pm AEDT on Wednesday, 18 November 2020.

Click here to view the nominations forms to download.

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 35

BLOCKBUSTER 2021 FOR SHANNONS MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA CHAMPIONSHIPS “The prospect of our ‘Return To Race’ is very real and the [2021] calendar can be released with some certainty” - Michael Smith, Motorsport Australia Director of Motorsport and Commercial Operations

The 2021 Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships will take place at six rounds across the country, beginning in February at Phillip Island.

“We all know that 2020 hasn’t allowed as much racing as we would have liked, particularly at the national level,” Smith explained.

The Championships will also visit Bathurst, as part of the iconic Bathurst 6 Hour event, Sydney Motorsport Park, Morgan Park, Sandown International Raceway and The Bend Motorsport Park.

“With restrictions starting to ease around the country, the prospect of our ‘Return To Race’ is very real and the Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships calendar can be released with some certainty.

Categories competing at the events are still to be confirmed, however motorsport fans can expect to see top level national motorsport, including the Porsche Michelin Sprint Challenge Australia, Motorsport Australia GT Championship, Championship, VHT S5000 Australian Drivers’ Championship, carsales TCR Australia Series and many more.

“The exact make up of each event is still to be confirmed, but we’re working closely with a range of category managers to deliver a really exciting season of national motorsport.

Shannons Motorsport Australia Championships Director Michael Smith said the 2021 calendar promised plenty of excitement after an interrupted 2020.

36 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

“I’d also like to thank our event sponsors, including Shannons Insurance, Morris Finance, Burson Auto Parts and Michelin. All of our loyal partners make these events possible, so we are very grateful for the support.”

Photo: Speed Shots Photography

2021 SHANNONS MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA CHAMPIONSHIPS CALENDAR Round 1 Phillip Island, Victoria, February 2021 TBC* Round 2 Bathurst 6 Hour, New South Wales, 2-4 April Round 3 Sydney Motorsport Park, New South Wales, 1-2 May Round 4 Morgan Park, Queensland, 25-27 June Round 5 Sandown International Raceway, Victoria, 10-12 September Round 6 The Bend Motorsport Park, South Australia, 15-17 October Photos: Speed Shots Photography

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 37

FOND ADELAIDE MEMORIES It is a circuit that has been close to the heart of not just South Australians, but to Australian public as a whole.

where it hosted some of the best names in the history of racing, including Ayrton Senna, Michael Schumacher and Alain Prost.

The SA Government has declared the Adelaide 500 will not run in 2021, sparking plenty of discussion and an outpouring of historical memories from the iconic event.

Following the Grand Prix’s move to Melbourne a decade later, the Victoria Park based circuit then became the home of the Superloop Adelaide 500 in 1999 where it was known as the Clipsal 500 Adelaide.

The street circuit first ran in the mid 1980s as a round of the FIA Formula 1 World Championship

The four day event became a staple of the International Virgin Australia

38 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

Supercars Championship calendar as well as the state’s popular Mad March schedule that featured prestigious festivals such as Adelaide Festival and Adelaide Fringe.

Many of the great Australian drivers produced some memorable performances at the circuit, including Craig Lowndes, Mark Skaife, Marcus Ambrose and Jamie Whincup, who picked up four wins there – the most of any driver.

1994 Australian Grand Prix Photo: Kevin Phillips

2014, Craig Lowndes takes second place Photo: Red Bull Content Pool

F1 Steward John Corsmit and F1 Race Director Roland Bruynseraede Photo: Bob Taylor

Photo: Tim Schenken

Peter Nelson speaking at the Officials Briefing during the first ever Australian Grand Prix in Adelaide Photo: Tim Schenken

Photo: Edge Photographics

Photo: Bob Taylor

Brian Shead (Chairman - National Track Safety Committee) left and Tim Schenken looking over the plans of the Victoria Park section of the circuit in 1985 Photo: Tim Schenken

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 39 Photo: Kevin Phillips

Photos: Renault F1 Media

PIASTRI TESTS F1 “I was a little bit nervous beforehand but after the first lap I focussed on driving fast and having fun”

Australian teenager Oscar Piastri has taken one step closer to his dream of driving in the Formula 1 World Championship after successfully taking part in a threeday Renault F1 test in Bahrain.

Currently in the Renault Driving Academy, Piastri featured in testing alongside fellow academy drivers Christian Lundgaard and Guanyu Zhou and completed just short of 500 kilometres around the circuit.

“The Renault F1 car certainly lived up to the excitement,” Piastri said.

“I was a little bit nervous beforehand, which is pretty normal, but after the

40 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

first lap I got over that and focussed on driving fast and having fun. I think I adapted quite well and got up to speed reasonably quickly.

“I really enjoyed the day, so a massive thank you to Renault for this opportunity. I’m feeling very lucky to drive an F1 car, not everyone gets to do it, so a massive thanks to them.”

Having secured the drive after winning the 2020 FIA Formula 3 Championship earlier this year, Piastri is yet to confirm his plans for 2021, although will most likely race in the FIA Formula 2 Championship.

RUST PROVES LUCKY CHARM FOR OUTSTANDING RICCIARDO After a difficult first year for Renault in the FIA Formula 1 World Championship, Daniel Ricciardo has made leaps and bounds in 2020 for the French outfit, fighting his way into the Championship’s top five.

And while Ricciardo currently sits within the top five, up until October, there was one result that had continued to elude the 31-year-old.

“If I am doing what I am doing now, I will put myself in a position to try and take it (a podium) out.

I just need to keep it up.”

Remarkably, Ricciardo ended up getting the long awaited podium that same week as he finished third behind Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen in a dramatic Eifel Grand Prix.

“We will get the opportunity and if I am there to take it, I will” - Daniel Ricciardo

Speaking with Greg Rust as part of a Motorsport Australia interview series ahead of the Eifel Grand Prix in Germany, Ricciardo revealed how close he felt he was to securing a medium podium for Renault – and little did he know how close that podium was.

“For us, this year has been awesome.

It’s what we really expected by year two and now it’s coming through nicely,” Ricciardo told Rust.

“We have come close (to a podium) and I really believe if I keep going at this level, and I know the team is doing their part, but if I remain consistent and driving at the level I know I am at the moment, then I do believe we will get the opportunity and if I am there to take it, I will.

Watch the full chat between Rust and Ricciardo here.

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 41

ELFIN FANS REJOICE WITH RELEASE OF SPECIAL HISTORIC BOOK Historic motorsport enthusiasts can now celebrate 60 wonderful years of Elfin cars through the recently published history book, Elfin: The Spirit of Speed.

Written by David Dowsey, the 700page work of features interviews from more than 50 individuals who were prominent in helping Elfin founder Garrie Cooper build the iconic legacy, including those former Elfin employees, as well as star drivers like John Bowe, Kevin Barlett, Allan Moffat and Vern Schuppan.

The limited edition publication also features hundreds of high quality photographs, many of which have never been seen before, as well as delving into every model of the Elfin Sports Car. For publisher Bill Hemming, the man behind the book, Elfin: The Spirit of Speed is something special.

“The book is perfect for those interested in historic racing,” Hemming said.

“It’s an interesting book because it’s about people more than the cars and the people who actually did it all. It’s not a blow by blow of all the races they went to bit it’s all about the problems they had getting cars designed and made on a shoe string budget.

“As someone who deeply loves Elfins, I felt there wasn’t enough recognition for Garry Cooper, certainly far less than there should be, so we opened up the Elfin Heritage Centre in Melbourne, and it was also another motivator to creating the book.

"What I thought was going to be a 230 page coffee table book took five years and stretched to 700 pages, which is incredible. I am also really happy with David Dowsey. He had written a few car books which is why I appointed him with the responsibility.

42 MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA SPEED READ

“The book follows the story of Elfin as a whole, how the company and the cars were developed and who was involved. With 600 copies already sold, we have been getting a lot of positive reviews on the book so it’s fantastic.”

Motorsport Australia members will have access to a five per cent discount and simply need to use the code “SPEEDREAD” when purchasing Elfin: The Spirit of Speed.

Click here for more information on the book.

CONTACT US The Motorsport Australia member hotline is open from 9am to 5pm AEST So for all your motorsport needs call the Motorsport Australia Hotline or visit the website at motorsport.org.au Email memberservices@motorsport.org.au

l Hit up Motorsport Australia on social media for photos from events, news, videos and other great motorsport content.

SEND US YOUR STORIES! If you have a motorsport story which you think should be told, get in touch with us and it could appear in Speed Read.

If you have pictures or videos of motorsport you would like to share with us, we encourage you to do so. They could appear on our website, social media platforms or in Speed Read.

Please email communications@motorsport.org.au We look forward to hearing from you!

MOTORSPORT.ORG.AU 43

THANK YOU TO OUR CORPORATE PARTNERS

THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT THROUGH THE AUSTRALIAN SPORT COMMISSION RECOGNISES MOTORSPORT AUSTRALIA TO DEVELOP MOTORSPORT IN AUSTRALIA