The Racing Magazine Australia - Issue 35, April 2017

Page 1

THE

NUMBER 35 - APRIL 2017

RACING MAGAZINE AUSTRALIA

SANDOWN SEASON OPENER CAMS Jayco Australian Formula 4 Championship double header

Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Australia’s opening round CAMS Australian GT Trophy Series returns for 2017 Australian Prototype Series makes its debut Radical Australia Cup refreshed

THENATIONALS.COM.AU


“NO ONE KNOWS YOUR P A S S I O N L I K E S H A N N O N S.�

Shannons insurance is for motoring enthusiasts just like you, with features like: n Choice of repairer n Agreed value n Multi-Vehicle & Multi-Policy discounts n Limited Use & Club Plate cover n Laid up cover n One excess free windscreen claim per year n Total Loss Salvage options n Home Contents Insurance including $10,000 enthusiast cover for your collectables & tools n Towing & storage costs as a result of loss or damage n Pay by the month premiums at no extra cost Call Shannons on 13 46 46 for a quote on your special car, daily drive, bike or your home, and speak with a genuine enthusiast.

INSURANCE FOR MOTORING ENTHUSIASTS | CALL 13 46 46 FOR A QUOTE | SHANNONS.COM.AU Shannons Pty Limited ABN 91 099 692 636 is an authorised representative of AAI Limited ABN 48 005 297 807, the product issuer. Some benefits only apply to comprehensive vehicle cover. Shannons has not taken account of your objectives, financial situation or needs. Read the Product Disclosure Statement before buying this insurance. Contact us for a copy.


WELCOME TO ROUND 1 Michael Smith Shannons Nationals Director Prototype Series making their debut. This series evolves from the existing Sports Racer category, and will include all types of cars such as LMP3 Prototypes and Le Mans-style cars.

On behalf of the CAMS National Racing Championships Board of Directors and staff, welcome to the first round of the Shannons Nationals for 2017. Since its inception back in 2006, the Shannons Nationals has gone from strength to strength, with over a decade of Australia’s most premier motor racing series and championships racing at nearly 100 events. We are also thankful for the continued support from Shannons Insurance, who join us for an eleventh year of naming rights partnership, and will continue for another three years. It’s been a year since we’ve raced at the Sandown International Raceway precinct, and a big round is in store for motor sport enthusiasts and fans alike this weekend. Not only will there be one—but two rounds of the CAMS Jayco Formula 4 Championship, which will highlight some of Australia’s freshest racing talent—and possibly the next Daniel Ricciardo on the grid. A brand new racing series also launches this weekend, with the Australian

We are also joined by the ever-growing Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge, which continues to show why this category is part of Porsche’s international racing pyramid.

4

New Year: New Shannons

6

Seeing double F4

8

Runner turned Racer

After making their debut with us at Sandown in 2016, the CAMS Australian GT Trophy Series will re-join for a second season, with a range of exotic GT cars lined-up for their endurance races.

12 Radical look for 2017

We also cannot wait to hear the roar of the Radical Australia Cup cars, which come to Sandown with fresh faces and a reinvented brand.

18 Map

Finally, as you wander through the paddock please enjoy the latest products from Shannons Insurance, check out the car displays and enjoy the weekend! Shannons have been an amazing longtime supporter of motor sport and we are delighted to work with them again this year in what promises to be seven rounds of fantastic motor racing.

• that CAMS and the Associated Entities do not make any warranty, implied or express, that the event services will be provided with due care and skill or that any materials provided in connection with the services will be fit for the purpose for which they are supplied; and to attend or participate in the event at your own risk.

15 Throwback: GT Trophy’s debut

18 Lap records 19 Entry lists 26 Round schedule 28 Officials thanks 29 Cars and Coffee 31 TV schedule

Publisher: Confederation of Australian Motor Sport

Michael Smith

Editor: Loren Hazelwood Graphic Designer: Gavin Kroon

MOTOR SPORT IS DANGEROUS

• to release Confederation of Australian Motor Sport Ltd (“CAMS”) and Australian Motor Sport Commission Ltd, promoters, sponsor organisations, land owners and lessees, organisers of the event, their respective servants, officials, representatives and agents (collectively, the “Associated Entities”) from all liability for your death, personal injury (including burns), psychological trauma, loss or damage (including property damage) (“harm”) howsoever arising from your participation in or attendance at the event, except to the extent prohibited by law;

14 A new Prototype

Enjoy the Shannons Nationals for 2017!

EXCLUSION OF LIABILITY, RELEASE AND ASSUMPTION OF RISK In exchange for being able to attend or participate in the event, you agree:

IN THIS ISSUE

You acknowledge that: • the risks associated with attending or participating in the event include the risk that you may suffer harm as a result of: • motor vehicles (or parts of them) colliding with other motor vehicles, persons or property; • acts of violence and other harmful acts (whether intentional or inadvertent) committed by persons attending or participating in the event; and • the failure or unsuitability of facilities (including grand-stands, fences and guard rails) to ensure the safety of persons or property at the event. • motor sport is dangerous and that accidents causing harm can and do happen and may happen to you. You accept the conditions of, and acknowledge the risks arising from, attending or participating in the event and being provided with the event services by CAMS and the Associated Entities.

Photographers: Nathan Wong, Daniel Thompson, Joel Strickland, Keith McInnes, Rebecca Thompson Contributors: Rob James, Richard Craill Production: Skoop Printing Feedback: Email communications@cams.com.au Advertising: If you would like to advertise please contact graham.sattler@cams.com.au


NEW YEAR: NEW SHANNONS A FRESH NEW LOOK TO CELEBRATE A DOZEN SUCCESSFUL SEASONS

It was just in 2006, when the first season of the CAMS National Racing Championships begun, which (can you believe) was 11 years ago. Since its humble beginnings, the Shannons Nationals has been renowned for being the home of Australia’s premier racing categories and has a lot to celebrate this season. While the Shannons Nationals enters its 12th season in 2017, the Nationals will also celebrate its 100th round this year (cue the celebrations at Phillip Island in May). Joining the ride for its 11th season is Shannons Insurance, who have been the name synonymous with the Nationals and the naming-rights partner since 2007.

4

|

T H E R A C I NG M AGA ZI NE

In 2017 the Shannons Nationals will also feature a new look, including the release of a new logo to showcase the Nationals in a new era to our evergrowing audience. This season will also feature six of Australia’s best purpose-built circuits alongside some of the country’s most exciting racing categories, while this weekend the Shannons Nationals will run five national championships and series.


2017 CALENDAR ROUND 1:

7-9 APRIL // SANDOWN

ROUND 2:

26-28 MAY // PHILLIP ISLAND

ROUND 3:

9-11 JUNE // WINTON

ROUND 4:

7-9 JULY // SYDNEY MOTORSPORT PARK

ROUND 5:

4-6 AUGUST // QUEENSLAND RACEWAY

ROUND 6:

8-10 SEPTEMBER // PHILLIP ISLAND

ROUND 7:

18-19 NOVEMBER // WAKEFIELD PARK

Championships and Series to feature at the Shannons Nationals this season: • CAMS Australian Endurance Championship

• Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Australia

• Australian Porsche Carrera Cup Series

• Kumho Tyre V8 Touring Car Series

• CAMS Jayco Australian Formula 4 Championship

• Radical Australia Cup

• Australian Production Car Series

• Australian Prototype Series

• CAMS Australian GT Trophy Series

+ More to come

T H E N AT I O N A L S . C O M . AU

|

5


RUNNER TURNED RACER Words: Richard Craill Images: Joel Strickland/Herald Sun John Steffensen is one of Australia’s fastest ever people over 200 and 400 metres—but this year he’ll be hoping he even faster over longer distances. Much, much longer distances. He’ll be talking kilometres—rather than metres. But the two-time Commonwealth Gold medal winner and 2004 Olympic Silver Medallist in the 4x400m relay isn’t turning to marathons—it’s motor racing that has got one of Australia’s most recognised athletes’ competitive fire burning again. Steffensen will make his major circuit racing debut this weekend at Sandown, racing a Porsche 911 GT3 Cup Car in the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge presented by Pirelli, linking with Zagame Motorsport to kick-start a second career in circuit racing and filling a life-long passion for all things four-wheels in the process. “I’m a massive rev-head, I love cars, so this ticks too many boxes for me, man!” Steffensen said.

6

|

T H E R AC I NG M AGA ZI NE

“To say I’m keen is an understatement … this is the closest thing I get to racing these days but I don’t have to punish my body any more!” Steffensen blazed to a pair of Commonwealth Gold Medals at the MCG in 2006, winning the 4x400m relay and then individual gold in the showpiece 200m men’s final. It was the pinnacle of a glittering athletics career that included being part of the Silver-medalling team at the 2004 Athens Olympics— also in the 4x400m relay. A growing relationship with former Bathurst 1000 podium finisher Cameron McConville has brought Steffensen into the Zagame Motorsport fold, where he will race a Porsche GT3 Cup Car in this year’s Porsche series.


To say I’m keen is an understatement … this is the closest thing I get to racing these days but I don’t have to punish my body any more!” John Steffensen

The Australian Grand Prix last year turned out to be the turning point for his ambitions to go car racing to launch into top gear. “I met Cam [McConville] this time last year and we spoke about the possibility—for it to be coming true this April is really cool, man, I love racing. I’m very competitive!” Steffensen beamed. “I did the Speed comparison test here [at the Australian Grand Prix] last year and Cam was racing the Formula 1 car and said ‘look, I love motor racing’. He said he’d help me get started and from there we just kept bumping into each other. “Cam developed the Zagame Motorsport team and called me up and said ‘John, there’s an opportunity there,’ and I said ‘sign me up,’ and here we are. “It’s all kudos goes to Cam and what they’ve done. Bobby Zagame has

been great and all kudos to what they’ve done. It’s a great group of guys and lots of fun to be around. All our testing has been loads of fun and we feel like we’re going well—it’s up to me to steer it home!” The 34-year-old, originally from Perth, oozes with passion when entering into a discussion about motor racing. His eyes go wide, his hands and arms gesture the traditional race driver gestures and he speaks with conviction about his desire to go and race to keep the competitive fires burning. “[It’s] 100% why!” he grinned. “I retired because the body couldn’t do it anymore and I just wasn’t good enough. But mentally you gather all this information about how to compete and that’s how it goes in life. Your mind is sharp but your body can’t keep up.” “I feel like, even working with the boys though testing that I’ve been able to use a lot of what I know through running. I’ve been able to communicate with the engineer and Cam and the feedback has been good. It should be great for my vocation as an ex-athlete. “This is purely for me to enjoy myself … to say I’m keen is an understatement!”

T H E N AT I O N A L S . C O M . AU

|

7


FORMULA 4 DOES THE DOUBLE Words: Rob James Images: Dan Thompson Now in its third season, the CAMS Jayco Australian Formula 4 Championship will host a double-round weekend for the first time here at the opening round of the Shannons Nationals at Sandown. Australian Formula 4 is no stranger to Sandown, with crews last visiting the Victorian circuit last September as a support event to the Sandown 500. Team BRM arrive at Sandown as the most successful squad, with the South Australian team claiming six out of six race wins at the circuit. CAMS Foundation Rising Star Simon Fallon will take possession of Chassis #50, which has won both championships and Sandown round wins – previously piloted by inaugural Champion Jordan Lloyd and 2016 Champion Will Brown. Cameron Shields, who is no stranger to the Shannons Nationals after winning last year’s Australian Formula 3 National Class title, and karting graduate Zane Morse are also representing the CAMS Foundation Rising Star at Team BRM. Aaron Love, the brother of last year’s 3rd place getter and 2017 Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge racer Jordan, will also make his circuit racing debut with Team BRM. Finalising Team BRM’s line-up is the recent addition of New Zealander Liam Lawson, who is the reigning New Zealand Formula Ford Champion.

8

|

T H E R A C I NG M AGA ZI NE

After finishing 2nd in last year’s championship with Nick Rowe, AGI Sport will be aiming to go one better in 2017 as they expand to a three-car lineup. Former Aussie Racing Car racers Harley Haber and Zak Best will make their Australian Formula 4 debut with AGI Sport, with Newcastle youngster Sage Murdoch also stepping up from state racing. Having made their Australian Formula 4 debut in 2016, Victorian open-wheel specialists Junior Racing Development (JRD) will continue to foster fresh driving talent with Sydney’s Jordan Mazzaroli graduating from karts. A new team also joins the Australian Formula 4 family in 2017, with Zagame Autosport fielding two cars for CAMS Foundation Rising Star Ryan Suhle and Dubbo teenager Tyler Everingham. The drivers will enjoy an abundance of track time this weekend, with two rounds and six 30 minute races to be held across Saturday and Sunday. The cars will qualify twice on Friday to determine the opening races on Saturday and Sunday respectively. The CAMS Jayco Australian Formula 4 Championship will next visit Barbagallo in Western Australia on May 5–7 for Round 3, before returning to the Shannons Nationals as part of the Phillip Island weekend on May 26–28.

GRADUATES Four drivers from the 2016 Championship have graduated from Australian Formula 4 into other


categories here and abroad. Reigning Champion Will Brown enjoyed a successful debut in the Super2 Series at the Clipsal 500, and is currently sixth in the immensely competitive championship. Jack Smith will enjoy a busy 2017 juggling a Super2 and Kumho Series program with touring car specialists Brad Jones Racing. Third in last year’s championship, Jordan Love will feature in a Porsche GT3 Cup car this year after being awarded the Jamie Blakey Scholarship by Porsche Australia. Charismatic Sydney-sider Harry Hayek will return to Europe in 2017 to race in the BRDC British Formula 3 Championship, where fellow Australian Formula 4 colleague Thomas Randle finished fourth in last year’s British Championship. Randle will this year take part in the British LMP3 Cup Championship, and earlier this year became the first Australian to win New Zealand’s Toyota Racing Series. After previously racing both Australian and British Formula 4 Championships, Zane Goddard and Luis Leeds will step up to the Formula Renault 2.0 Eurocup Championship.

CAMS FOUNDATION RISING STAR The CAMS Foundation has relaunched the Rising Star programme, having last appeared in 2013. 2016 Australian Formula 4 Rookie of the Year Simon Fallon and Australian F3 National Class

Champion Cameron Shields have been selected as the programme’s elite drivers, with Zane Morse and Ryan Suhle as the Rising Star’s karting graduates. “The CAMS Foundation has a great tradition in aiding the pathway for Australia’s next generation of elite motor sport drivers,” CAMS Foundation Chairman Valentina Stojanovska said. “On behalf of the CAMS Foundation I would like to congratulate Simon, Cameron, Zane and Ryan on becoming a part of the new CAMS Foundation Rising Stars program.” The four drivers will receive a $50,000 scholarship loan from the CAMS Foundation to put together a racing programme to compete in the 2017 CAMS Jayco Australian Formula 4 Championship. The CAMS Foundation has supported a multitude of aspiring Australian talent, with its alumni including James Courtney, Will Davison, Matthew Brabham, Macauley Jones, Jack LeBroq, Scott Pye, and most recently Joey Mawson. “We were thrilled at the quality of candidates applying to be part of the next-generation CAMS Foundation Rising Stars platform,” CAMS Foundation Director Mark Skaife said. “We believe that our four selected race drivers are unquestionably talented, and it is with great anticipation that we look forward to working with them to improve them - both in and out of the car.”

2017 RISING STARS

ZANE MORSE

SIMON FALLON

RYAN SUHLE

CAMERON SHIELDS T H E N AT I O N A L S . C O M . AU

|

9


ADVERTORIAL

FUELLING THE FIRE It might not be a sexy subject, but one Aussie company is proudly making the racing wheels go around thanks to a fire for all things fuel. Words: Richard Craill Images: RaceFuels Archive

“Fuel,” says Mark Tierney, a director of Melbourne-based motorsport staple Race Fuels, “Is not a sexy part of going motor racing.” And that’s probably the truth. Despite distributing the product that quite literally makes the internalcombustion wheels go round, it’s hard to get people excited about their racing fuels. You put it in the tank and it makes the car go: as a consumable, it doesn’t change the outcome of a race for a spectator in the same way, say, a soft tyre does when compared to a hard. To most, it’s just a useable commodity that costs more money the higher the Octane number is. Naturally Tierney, a long time racer who now helms a business that distributes nearly one million litres of fuel around every state in Australia per year, doesn’t share that opinion. Race Fuels was founded in 2003 and started distributing ELF racing fuels and products in Melbourne and Tasmania.

Today the business is the primary supplier of fuel to the V8 Supercars, Shannons Nationals, Australian GT, Bathurst’s 12 and 6 Hour races and a host of other events. It makes for a busier schedule than days gone by. “Across the year we would be supplying product to several hundred people each weekend, and that’s before you take into account needing to deliver product to V8 Supercars and the Shannons Nationals. They all operate very professionally and expect a level of service that’s a bit more than dropping off the fuel drum and saying ‘seeya’. “The business is as much about providing that service and support to teams and drivers as it is actually pumping fuel at race tracks.” The Race Fuels organisation is certainly larger than a Ford Ute and a trailer these days. An enormous B-Double transporter carries the fuel across the country with multiple staff on hand to ensure the product is properly and promptly distributed at each round. RaceFuels does not request pre-bookings, they believe it is their role to carry enough to cover all contingencies.

“It started with me dropping a few drums down to Sandown or Phillip Island in the back of a BA Falcon Ute – we later added a box trailer – on Friday morning and then we were done for the weekend,” “We have four types of fuel that we supply and we carry enough of each to make sure everyone that’s Tierney remembers.

10

|

TH E R A C I NG M AGA ZI NE


going to be at the race meeting is catered for, but we try to do more than that too,” Tierney explains.

“It’s a fact of life that the events wouldn’t get a permit unless they had a fuel management plan in place,” Tierney says.

“At a lot of events like the Kumho “There’s so many regulations and OH&S issues surrounding the V8 rounds, for instance, they’re control of dangerous goods in only allowed to have 60 litres quantities that it’s not feasible of fuel in the garage at a time for people to bring their own so part of it is making sure that fuel to the track, especially at everyone is re-supplied across major events, any more. You the weekend. We go to them just wouldn’t get a permit, so instead of them coming to us so that customer service side of our role is to take that issue out of the equation and make sure things is very important. it’s safe and we’re conscious “It’s a logistical challenge to say of taking away everything we the least, the start of the year in bring in.” particular. Hailing from a passionate racing “We even go to the test family, Tierney believes it’s days and spend a lot of time critical that the enjoyment of the predicting who is testing where sport has to be number one in so we can plan our supply. It is operating the business. not uncommon for RaceFuels to attend multiple circuits on the “I think you have to be very fond of it to be involved at the level same day”. we are,” he says. But wait, there’s more. In this “We try and go above and day and age when you need beyond to help people out. to sign a waiver before you We’ve had several Melbourne go to the bathroom, there’s a teams without space in their significant safety effort around transporter come to us and the Race Fuels business to go ‘hey, could you take a drum the point where it’s unlikely back to Melbourne for us?’ and people could go racing without we’ll do it and drop it at their the procedures and standards workshop. It’s no problem. companies like Race Fuels provide. “It’s all part of what we do and hopefully it’s making it better Sean Scott, RaceFuels’ for everyone. We certainly get a operations manager, has a buzz out of it.” full time job preparing the compliance paperwork ahead of a race meeting.

T H E N AT I O N A L S . C O M . AU

|

11


RADICAL LOOK FOR 2017 Words: Editor Images: Keith McInnes – Radical Australia

As the first round kicked off for 2017 at the Bathurst 12 Hour in February, Radical Australia Cup returns for their second round at Sandown this weekend with a fresh look. This season will be the eighth year of the series, and has in 2017 expanded to a five-round calendar. Category Manager Greg Smith said the Radical package caters for all types of competitors, from cars running at track days to racing at Australianlevel events. “Radical is a complete package, which is a big part of its success,” Greg Smith said. “It is a tiered program, which caters for both amatuers and experienced competitors alike … the ARDC track days are an ideal, low pressure way for drivers to get miles and experience the whole Radical program. “Being based at Sydney Motorsport Park, our team is there to assist in every way, and with our driver lounge, dedicated pits and technical crew on sit, drivers have everything they need to compete at their level.” The Radical program allows competitors to ‘cherrypick’ their desired level of competition.

12

|

T H E R A C I NG M AGA ZI NE

“For those that are serious, we have driver coaches and engineers available to help them go quicker— something for which the dual seats in the Radical is invaluable—and as they progress, we can assist them to compete in the SuperSprint Series and ultimately Radical Australia Cup,” Smith continued. “If they so desire, we can also support them to compete overseas, just as each year’s RAC champion does as part of the European Championship.” Leading the charge currently in Radical Australia Cup is Peter Paddon, who will be keeping his eye on the series win so he can go back to Europe for another chance of international victory. Paddon will also have his work cutout for him, citing Kim Burke, 2016 runner-up Oliver Smith and Yasser Shahin as those who will be competitive all season.



A NEW PROTOTYPE Words: Editor Images: Nathan Wong

International-style Sports Prototype racing will take a leap forward in 2017, thanks to the introduction of the Australian Prototype Series.

“We’re expecting a very diverse grid of CN Prototypes, Sports Racers, Radicals and F1000s this year.”

Evolving from the former Australian Sports Racer Series, the Australian Prototype Series will cater for open-top and LeMans-style sports cars in Australia.

CAMS Australian Motor Racing Commission Chairman, Lyn Punshon, said the category has an exciting future.

A three-class structure will cater for all existing eligible vehicles, while international specification ‘CN Prototype’ cars will become eligible for the first time and will compete alongside the Sports Racers, enabling a broader eligibility list that will open the series up to more cars than ever before.

“CAMS have been supporters of the Sports Racer category since its inception, and we have been keen to broaden the base of vehicles accepted into it at a National Series level,” Punshon said.

The series is also pleased to confirm that Kumho Tyre Australia will serve as official tyre supplier and a sponsor of the 2017 Australian Prototype Series. Category spokesperson Liam Curkpatrick explained the new series and why it’s great for the category. “This evolution of what was the Australian Sports Racer Series is an important step to growing this segment of the sport in Australia,” Liam Curkpatrick said. “The new owners are broadening the eligibility list and opening the category up to even more cars and more competitors with a very inclusive approach to the competition. “Sports prototype racing is booming around the world which this series will aim to capitalise on and grow as a place where competitors and fans alike can enjoy these exciting cars.

14

|

T H E R AC I NG M AGA ZI NE

“To us, it is especially important to give owners of existing vehicles in Australia the ability to compete in the series. “The new series managers will work closely with the Sports Car Racing Association of Australia (SCRAA) on the evolution of technical regulations while they develop the series.” CN Prototypes have raced competitively internationally, including in the Asian LeMans Series, French-based V de V series and the new Creventic 24H Proto Series that was launched this year.


New team SYNEP Racing has confirmed the addition of two Wolf Racing Cars CN Prototypes to the series. The addition of CN Prototypes closes the gap to international-level Prototype competition and is set to make the Australian Prototype Series a legitimate pathway for drivers looking to access the increasingly popular LMP3 and LMP2-based series in Asia, Europe and America. Existing classes include Sports Racer – including West, Prince, Speads and HRP chassis, Radical / Supersports (such as four-cylinder Radical SR3 entries and Minetti Sports Cars) and the F1000 open wheelers. Each class will be recognised at each round, generating competition throughout the grid in every race. The series will continue on the Shannons Nationals program with five rounds scheduled this year at Sandown, Winton, Sydney Motorsport Park, Queensland Raceway and Phillip Island respectively.

2016 THROWBACK

GT TROPHY MAKES ITS DEBUT

Just 12 months ago, the Australian motor racing scene was exposed to the beginning of something big in GT racing, with the Australian GT category administrators announcing there would be not one—or two—but three GT classes to cater for the growing scene. The Shannons Nationals season opener at Sandown in 2016 saw the debut of the CAMS Australian GT Trophy Series presented by Pirelli, which displayed diversity including older spec cars as well as a mix of the ever-popular MARC cars. The category was divided into three classes, catering for all the needs of competitors including the Trophy, MARC and Challenge classes. The two 50-minute races at Sandown in 2016 featured 16 cars on debut, with the duo of Greg Taylor and Barton Mawer taking both of the race wins in the Trophy class … despite the Audi-pair enduring a penalty.

In the final race the pair were ninth with just 20 minutes remaining on the clock, with Mawer stepping up and recovering to first place at the drop of the chequered flag. “The team just said, ‘you’ve got a job to do, we’ll explain later, get your head down and just go’” Mawer said. Taylor saw the lighter side of the job Mawer did, and said that it made it more interesting, adding more pressure for the ‘little guy’. Coming home first for the MARC class and behind the leading Audi car was Jake Camilleri, who went on to win the class for 2016 with one round remaining. Scott Hookey, won the Challenge class in his 458 Ferrari, battling with duo Brendan Cook and Ockert Fourie. As we look to this weekend at Sandown, the Australian GT Trophy Series has 19 cars and for the first time will feature GT4-spec cars.

T H E N AT I O N A L S . C O M . AU

|

15


2017 CALENDAR ROUND 1:

7-9 APRIL // SANDOWN

ROUND 2:

26-28 MAY // PHILLIP ISLAND

ROUND 3:

9-11 JUNE // WINTON

ROUND 4:

7-9 JULY // SYDNEY MOTORSPORT PARK

ROUND 5:

4-6 AUGUST // QUEENSLAND RACEWAY

ROUND 6:

8-10 SEPTEMBER // PHILLIP ISLAND

ROUND 7:

18-19 NOVEMBER // WAKEFIELD PARK


Debut of the CAMS Australian GT Trophy Series at Round 1 of the 2016 Shannons Nationals Photographer: Nathan Wong / Speedshots Photography


LAP RECORDS

SANDOWN INTERNATIONAL RACEWAY CATEGORY: DRIVER: TIME: YEAR:

F5000 (OUTRIGHT) TOM TWEEDIE 1:05.7669 2013

CATEGORY: DRIVER: TIME: YEAR:

RADICAL KARL REINDLER 1:07.9933 2015

CATEGORY: DRIVER: TIME: YEAR:

AUSTRALIAN GT RICHARD MUSCAT 1:09.5639 2014

CATEGORY: DRIVER: TIME: YEAR:

PORSCHE GT3 CUP RYAN SIMPSON 1:11.1515 2016

CATEGORY: DRIVER: TIME: YEAR:

PROTOTYPE SERIES ROGER I’ANSON 1:12.4017 2016

CATEGORY: DRIVER: TIME: YEAR:

FORMULA 4 JORDAN LLOYD 1:14.1370 2015

EVENT MAP

13

BIG RIG GARAGES

18

|

TH E R AC I NG M AGA ZI NE

GRANDSTAND MEDIA


ROUND 1 SANDOWN RACEWAY, VIC

PORSCHE GT3 CUP CHALLENGE PRESENTED BY PIRELLI

GT3CUPCHALLENGE.COM.AU

The entire Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Australia series will be contested at Shannons Nationals rounds in 2017, with Round 1 beginning this weekend.

2017 CALENDAR Round 1: Round 2: Round 3: Round 4: Round 5: Round 6:

Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge is one of Australia’s most exciting, competitive and fast-paced motor racing categories.

7-9 April, Sandown Raceway 26-38 May, Phillip Island 9-11 June, Winton Motor Raceway* 7-9 July, Sydney Motorsport Park* 4-6 August, Queensland Raceway* 8-10 September, Phillip Island

* denotes Jim Richards Endurance Trophy rounds

Known for its fun, friendly, family atmosphere, the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge has an unrivalled sense of camaraderie among its drivers and teams–a large factor behind the series’ success in Australia. Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge held its first season in 2008, catering for Porsche enthusiasts looking to make the step up from club level racing. In honour of Porsche stalwart, Jim Richards, the Jim Richards Endurance Trophy will again feature three rounds of the 2017 season, adding an endurance element to the one-make series.

NO.

DRIVER

TEAM/SPONSOR

STATE

VEHICLE

13

Sam Shahin

HTFU

SA

Porsche GT3 Cup

16

John Karytinos

Richmonds Automotive

SA

Porsche GT3 Cup

19

Anthony Gilbertson

Hallmark Homes

Qld

Porsche GT3 Cup

21

Shane Barwood

Melbourne Orthopaedic Group

Vic

Porsche GT3 Cup

22

Andrew Goldie

WA

Porsche GT3 Cup

2017 CALENDAR

23

Brenton Grove

Grove Hire

Vic

Porsche GT3 Cup

Round 1: 7-9 April Sandown Raceway

25

Nick Karnaros

Porsche Centre Brighton

Vic

Porsche GT3 Cup

29

Rob Woods

Platinum Nightclub

NSW

Porsche GT3 Cup

34

John Morriss

Motorsport Leasing P/L

Vic

Porsche GT3 Cup

65

Ben Stack

DNA Racing

SA

Porsche GT3 Cup

68

Michael O'Donnell

SHOAL / Thomson Geer

SA

Porsche GT3 Cup

Round 3: 9-11 June Winton Motor Raceway*

78

John Steffenson

Motorsport Leasing P/L

Vic

Porsche GT3 Cup

79

Jordan Love

Motorsport Leasing P/L

WA

Porsche GT3 Cup

Round 4: 7-9 July Sydney Motorsport Park*

81

Michael Tsigeridis

Hunter French Real Estate

Vic

Porsche GT3 Cup

84

Brett Boulton

Bold Living

Qld

Porsche GT3 Cup

87

David Creig

Vic

Porsche GT3 Cup

88

Phil Morriss

Vic

Porsche GT3 Cup

Round 2: 26-38 May Phillip Island

Round 5: 4-6 August Queensland Raceway*

Morriss Racing Services

Round 6: 8-10 September Phillip Island * denotes Jim Richards Endurance Trophy rounds

T H E N AT I O N A L S . C O M . AU

|

19


ROUND 1 SANDOWN RACEWAY, VIC

CAMS JAYCO AUSTRALIAN FORMULA 4 CHAMPIONSHIP FORMULA4.COM.AU The first and second rounds of the CAMS Jayco Australian Formula 4 Championship will be featured at the opening round of the Shannons Nationals. Heading into its third season in Australia, Formula 4 has been developed in Australia as the critical step between elite junior karting, Formula 3 and Formula 1, as well as Supercars and sports car racing. The championship is a developmental single seater open-wheel racing category for young drivers who are serious about a pathway to the top level of motor sport.

2017 CALENDAR Rounds 1&2: 7-9 April Sandown

NO.

DRIVER

TEAM/SPONSOR

STATE

VEHICLE

5

Ryan Suhle

Zagame / Ray White

Qld

Mygale Formula 4

Round 3: 5-7 May Barbagallo

7

Tyler Everingham

Zagame

NSW

Mygale Formula 4

11

Zane Morse

BRM /Rising Star / Charman Earth Moving

ACT

Mygale Formula 4

Round 4: 26-28 May Phillip Island

21

Harley Haber

AGI Sport

NSW

Mygale Formula 4

27

Simon Fallon

BRM / CoolDrive / Fallon Development

Vic

Mygale Formula 4

Round 5: 28-30 July Queensland Raceway

30

Liam Lawson

Team BRM

NZ

Mygale Formula 4

44

Sage Murdoch

AGI Sport

NSW

Mygale Formula 4

61

Jordan Mazzaroli

JRD / Real Equity Real Estate / Mr Moto

NSW

Mygale Formula 4

73

Cameron Shields

McDonalds Toowoomba / Dependable Sheds

Qld

Mygale Formula 4

76

Zakkary Best

AGI Sport

Vic

Mygale Formula 4

Round 6: 18-20 August Sydney Motorsport Park Round 7: 20-22 October Gold Coast

20

|

TH E R A C I NG M AGA ZI NE

78

Aaron Love

Team BRM

WA

Mygale Formula 4

91

Josh Denton

Team BRM

SA

Mygale Formula 4

97

Nick Rowe

AGI Sport

WA

Mygale Formula 4


MEMORIES ARE MADE OF THIS … that’s where a Jayco will take you

Whether you plan to explore Australia a month at a time, getaway to your favourite J-PODS holiday spot on a regular basis, or set off on a lap with no fixed return date, your Jayco will make you feel right at home every moment you’re away. So start planning your Jayco adventure today. Visit jayco.com.au or call 1300 52926 78 to find your nearest Jayco dealer.

CAMPER TRAILERS

POP TOPS

EXPANDAS

CARAVANS

TOY HAULERS

MOTORHOMES


ROUND 1 SANDOWN RACEWAY, VIC

CAMS AUSTRALIAN GT TROPHY SERIES AUSTRALIANGT.COM.AU

PRESENTED BY PIRELLI The Australian GT Trophy presented by Pirelli was introduced to the Australian motor sport landscape in 2016, making its debut at Sandown 12 months ago.

2017 CALENDAR Round 1: Round 2: Round 3: Round 4: Round 5: Round 6:

The popular addition provided a number of key benefits for Australian GT, as for competitors, it added value to their machines as the competition gave them a dedicated home within the Australian motor sport landscape. The older generation machinery also presents a lower entry point into the most exciting form of racing in the country, and the perfect place for drivers to gain experience before stepping into the Australian GT Championship. Also welcomed into the Trophy Series are entries from MARC Cars Australia, which enjoy their own dedicated class within the field. The Trophy Series shares much in common with the Australian GT Championship, including compulsory pitstops, designed to balance out the racing to its longer 50-minute races.

2017 CALENDAR Round 1: 7-9 April Sandown Round 2: 9-11 June Winton Round 3: 5-6 August Queensland Raceway Round 4: 8-10 September Phillip Island Round 5: 18-19 November Wakefield Park 22

|

T H E R A C I NG M AGA ZI NE

7-9 April, Sandown Raceway 26-38 May, Phillip Island 9-11 June, Winton Motor Raceway* 7-9 July, Sydney Motorsport Park* 4-6 August, Queensland Raceway* 8-10 September, Phillip Island

* denotes Jim Richards Endurance Trophy rounds

NO.

DRIVER

TEAM/SPONSOR

STATE

CLASS

VEHICLE

Rob Smith

Audi Sport Customer Racing

Vic

Trophy

Audi R8 LMS Ultra

6

Rod Salmon

Audi Sport Customer Racing

NSW

Trophy

Audi R8 LMS Ultra

10

Emanual Mezzasalma

Harcourts Epping

Vic

Trophy

Porsche 997 Cup Car MY11

17

Travers Beynon

Candyman

Qld

Trophy

Audi R8 LMS 2011

22

Rick Mensa

Audi Sport Customer Racing

Vic

Trophy

Audi R8 LMS

25

Ryan How

Audi Sport Customer Racing

Vic

Trophy

Audi R8 LMS

33

Scott Hookey

Fiorano Motorsport

Qld

Challenge M

Ferrari 458 Challenge

48

Justin McMillan Dean Koutsoumidis

M Motorsport Interlloy

Vic Vic

Sport GT4

Reiter KTM X-Box

66

John Goodacre

Gap Solutions / SEKTOR

SA

MARC

MARC Focus V8

69

Richard Gartner

Safe-T-Stop

NSW

Trophy

Lamborghini LP600

72

Con Whitlock

Whitlock Bull Bars

Vic

Trophy

Audi R8 LMS

75

Steve McLaughlan

Audi Sport Customer Racing

Vic

Trophy

Audi R8 LMS Ultra

77

Jan Jinadasa

JJA Consulting Group

Vic

Trophy

Lamborghini LP560 GT3

88

Rio Nugara Jake Fouracre

Audi Sport Customer Racing

Vic Vic

Trophy

Audi R8 LMS Ultra

91

Keith Kassulke

MARC Cars Australia

Qld

MARC

MARC Focus V8

93

Jake Camilleri

MARC Cars Australia

Qld

MARC

MARC Mazda V8

94

TBA

MARC Cars Australia

MARC

MARC Mazda V8

Wayne Mack

Mack Bros Roofing Products

Trophy

Ferrari 458 GT3 2011

1

147

Vic


ROUND 1 SANDOWN RACEWAY, VIC

AUSTRALIAN PROTOTYPE SERIES PROTOTYPESERIES.COM.AU Evolving from the former Australian Sports Racer Series, the Australian Prototype Series will cater for open-top and LeMans-style sports cars in Australia. The series will make its debut this weekend as part of the opening round of the Shannons Nationals at Sandown. A three-class structure will cater for all existing eligible vehicles, while international specification ‘CN Prototype’ cars will become eligible for the first time and will compete alongside the Sports Racers, enabling a broader eligibility list that will open the series up to more cars than ever before. The series is also pleased to confirm that Kumho Tyre Australia will serve as official tyre supplier and a sponsor of the 2017 Australian Prototype Series.

2017 CALENDAR Round 1: 7-9 April Sandown Round 2: 9-11 June Winton Round 3: 7-9 July Sydney Motorsport Park Round 4: 4-6 August Queensland Raceway Round 5: 8-10 September Phillip Island

NO.

DRIVER

TEAM/SPONSOR

STATE

CLASS

VEHICLE

2

Adam Cranston

Synep Racing

NSW

Kumho Cup

Wolf GB08 Tornado

3

David Crampton

Vantage Freight

NSW

Radical

Radical SR3

4

Terry Peovitis

Orlando Phoenix

WA

FL1

RFR F1000

5

Josh Cranston

Synep Racing

NSW

P1

Wolf GB08 Tornado

6

Anthony Haggarty

Haggarty Racing Team

NSW

Radical

Radical SR3

15

Simon Haggarty

Haggarty Racing Team

NSW

Radical

Radical SR3

16

Mark Short

MSR Motorsport Fabrication

SA

Kumho Cup

Prince LSR

31

Peter Paddon

First Focus

NSW

Radical

Radical SR3

33

Michael Whiting

Taylor Collision

SA

Radical

Radical SR3

35

Chris Sutton

Sutto's Motorcycle Supply

Vic

Radical

Radical SR3

42

Philip Hughes

Hughes Supercar Services

Vic

Radical

Radical SR3

44

Jason Makris

Mirage Racing - Marina Mirage Gold Coast

QLD

P1

West WX10

53

Jonathon Stoeckel

Bryan Stoeckel

Vic

Kumho Cup

West WR1000

55

Mark Laucke

Laucke Flour Mills

SA

P1

West WX10

66

John-Paul Drake

Synep Racing

SA

Kumho Cup

West WX10

68

Kim Burke

Kim Burke

NSW

Radical

Radical SR3

T H E N AT I O N A L S . C O M . AU

|

23


ROUND 1 SANDOWN RACEWAY, VIC

RADICAL AUSTRALIA CUP RADICALSPORTSCARS.COM The Radical Australia Cup returns to the Shannons Nationals this weekend for their second round for 2017.

2017 CALENDAR Round 1: Round 2: Round 3: Round 4: Round 5: Round 6:

A variety of races and formats from which drivers can ‘cherrypick’ to suit their desired level of competition will be a strong feature for their eighth season in Australia.

7-9 April, Sandown Raceway 26-38 May, Phillip Island 9-11 June, Winton Motor Raceway* 7-9 July, Sydney Motorsport Park* 4-6 August, Queensland Raceway* 8-10 September, Phillip Island

* denotes Jim Richards Endurance Trophy rounds

Once more the cars are dedicated to the mighty 1500cc Hayabusapowered Radical SR3, with the series making a strong debut at the opening round at Bathurst entering a 24-car field.

2017 POINTS 1: Peter Paddon, 62 2: Oliver Smith, 57 3: John Morriss, 46 4: Kim Burke, 42

NO.

DRIVER

TEAM/SPONSOR

STATE

VEHICLE

5: Tony Haggarty, 32

1

Peter Paddon

First Focus

NSW

SR3RS

3

David Crampton

Vantage Freight Services

NSW

SR3RSX

5

Simon Haggarty

Axiom Wealth/Radical Aust

NSW

SR3RS

6

Tony Haggarty

Axiom Wealth/Radical Aust

NSW

SR3RSX

9

Chris Medland

Radical Australia

NSW

SR3RS

32

Sue Hughes

Hughes Motorsport

NSW

SR3RS

33

Michael Whitin

Taylor Collison Ltd / Laucke Flour Mills

SA

SR3RS

Round 3: 27 May Phillip Island

47

Peter Clare

Shared Runway

NSW

SR3RS

52

Bill Medland James Winslow

Radical Australia

NSW NSW

SR3RSX

Round 4: 8 July Sydney Motorsport Park

53

Simon Meade

Strategy One Human Resources

Vic

TBA

68

Kim Burke

Radical Australia

NSW

SR3RSX

78

Greg Smith

Radical Australia

NSW

SR3RS

86

Oliver Smith

Radical Australia

NSW

SR3RSX

88

Rowan Ross

Radical Australia

NSW

SR3RSX

2017 CALENDAR Round 1: 4 February Mt. Panorama Round 2: 8 April Sandown

Round 5: 11 November Highlands Motorsport Park

24

|

T H E R A C I NG M AGA ZI NE


4 YEAR/800,000KM EXTENDED WARRANTY ON ARGOSY & CORONADO 114.

GIVING YOU ADDED PEACE OF MIND FOR THE LONG ROAD AHEAD. Freightliner Trucks continue to be the trusted choice for truck drivers, built tough to suit the rugged Australian conditions. So tough and reliable in fact, that we offer an impressive 4-year/800,000km extended warranty across Argosy and Coronado 114 models.* With the thought of long journeys and thousands of kilometres ahead, you can rest assured you’re making a smart business decision. Boasting one of the strongest service networks across the nation and an offer packed with this much value, there has never been a better time to get into a Freightliner. Visit your nearest Authorised Freightliner dealership today for more details.

The extended warranty* offer is available from participating Freightliner Truck dealerships on new truck orders placed between 1 January 2017 and 31 December 2017. Extended Warranty is subject to standard terms, conditions and exclusions.


ROUND 1 SANDOWN RACEWAY, VIC

ROUND 1 SCHEDULE FRIDAY 7 APRIL TIME

DURATION

ON TRACK

0930 - 1000

30 minutes

Formula 4 Practice 1

1005 - 1025

20 minutes

Prototype Practice 1

1030 - 1050

20 minutes

Radical Australia Cup Practice 1

1055 - 1125

30 minutes

Formula 4 Practice 2

1130 - 1150

20 minutes

Prototype Series Practice 2

1155 - 1225

30 minutes

Porsche GT3 Practice 1

1230 - 1250

20 minutes

Radical Australia Cup Practice 2

1255 - 1315

20 minutes

Prototype Series Practice 3

1320 - 1335

15 minutes

Formula 4 Round 1 Qualifying

1345 - 1400

15 minutes

Formula 4 Round 2 Qualifying

1405 - 1435

30 minutes

Australian GT Trophy Practice 1

1440 - 1500

20 minutes

Radical Australia Cup Practice 3

1505 - 1535

30 minutes

Porsche GT3 Practice 2

1600 - 1700

60 minutes

Meeting Rides

M O T O R S P O R T

26

|

T H E R AC I NG M AGA ZI NE


ROUND 1 SANDOWN RACEWAY, VIC

ROUND 1 SCHEDULE SATURDAY 8 APRIL TIME

DURATION

ON TRACK

0910 - 0940

30 minutes

Formula 4 Race 1

0945 - 1000

15 minutes

Radical Australia Cup Qualifying 1

1005 - 1035

30 minutes

Australian GT Trophy Practice 2

1040 - 1100

20 minutes

Aust Prototype Series Qualifying 1

1105 - 1125

20 minutes

Porsche GT3 Qualifying 1

1135 - 1205

30 minutes

Formula 4 Race 2

1215 - 1230

15 minutes

Radical Australia Cup Qualifying 2

1240 - 1300

20 minutes

Australian GT Trophy Qualifying 1

1310 - 1320

20 minutes

Prototype Series Race 1

1330 - 1350

20 minutes

Porsche GT3 Race 1

1400 - 1420

20 minutes

Australian GT Trophy Qualifying 2

1430 - 1500

30 minutes

Formula 4 Race 3

1510 -1600

50 minutes

Radical Australia Cup Race 1

SUNDAY 9 APRIL DURATION

ON TRACK

0910 - 0940

30 minutes

Formula 4 Race 4

0950 - 1010

20 minutes

Prototype Series Race 2

1020 - 1040

20 minutes

Porsche GT3 Race 2

1050 - 1140

50 minutes

Australian GT Trophy Race 1

1150 - 1240

50 minutes

Radical Australia Cup Race 2

1250 - 1320

30 minutes

Formula 4 Race 5

1340 - 1400

20 minutes

Prototype Series Race 3

1410 - 1430

20 minutes

Porsche GT3 Race 3

1440 - 1530

50 minutes

Australian GT Trophy Race 2

1540 - 1610

30 minutes

Formula 4 Race 6

M O T O R S P O R T

w`

TIME

T H E N AT I O N A L S . C O M . AU

|

27


ROUND 1 SANDOWN RACEWAY, VIC

OFFICIALS OF THE MEETING CNRC Director

Michael Smith

CNRC Manager

Graham Sattler

Operations Assistant

Jack Lynch

Clerk of the Course

Colin Smith

Secretary of the Meeting

Gale Smith

Deputy Clerk of the Course

Matt Balcombe

Assistant Clerk of the Course

Mark Scorah Daryl Mc Hugh

Series Steward

Lynn Rattray

Stewards

Bradley Tubb Robert Piper

Starter

Gavin Newman

Emergency Coordinator

Anthony Jenkins

Chief Marshal

Roger Chirnside

Chief Flag Marshal

Arthur Cooksley

Chief Medical Officer

Dr Jack Spencer

Chief Timekeeper

Melissa Hutton

Chief Scrutineer

Angus Black

Chief of Fire and Rescue

Phil Craig

Chief of Recovery

Geoff Rowley

Chief of Pit Lane

TBA

Compliance Checker

Danny Jonas

Media

Loren Hazelwood

Commentators

Richard Craill Darren Smith

Photographer

Nathan Wong

CAMS Permit number 817/0904/03 Acknowledgments All Officials for their assistance over the weekend, Sandown Event Staff, Victorian Fire & Rescue Service, Victorian Flag Marshalling Team, Racesolutions Motorsport

Come and join the team who can get you closer to the action!

|

T H E R A C I NG M AGA ZI NE

M

T

M

TO R I A N

MA

EA

G

A

28

RSHALLI NG

V IC

FL

For more information simply email

MA

EA

A

G

www.vicflag.org.au

info@vicflag.org.au or call 03 8796 5321

TO R I A N

FL

Anyone over 16 years old can be a flagmarshal. No experience necessary, just bring your excitement!

V IC

RSHALLI NG

T


CUSTOM CARS & COFFEE This weekend Cars and Coffee Australia will have their immaculate cars on display in the paddock. The club runs monthly car meetings where people can kick back and relax with family and friends, all while enjoying the company of friends and family around great cars and coffee! It is designed so everyone with all tastes can enjoy each event, with cars ranging from hot rods, imports, exotics and modern sports cars. “It is all about enjoying our passion in a safe responsible manner.�

T H E N AT I O N A L S . C O M . AU

|

29



ROUND 1 SANDOWN RACEWAY, VIC

WATCH THE NATIONALS

NATIONALS TV LIVESTREAM TV FROM 9AM ON SUNDAY via www.thenationals.com.au or download the MotorsportsTV app through the App Store.

SHANNONS NATIONALS ON SPEEDWEEK Show 1: 16 April, 1.00pm • CAMS Jayco Australian Formula 4 Championship • Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Australia presented by Pirelli

Show 2: 7 May, 1.00pm • CAMS Australian GT Trophy Series presented by Pirelli • Australian Prototype Series • Radical Australia Cup All Speedweek episodes are now broadcast free to air on SBS HD & SBS One simultaneously.

SHANNONS NATIONALS ON FOX SPORTS Visit Fox Sports website for TV schedule

T H E N AT I O N A L S . C O M . AU

|

31


M O T O R S P O R T

#SHANNONSNATS


Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.