Then Ethan Rees (127G) caught 87B Thomas Stanaway at the end of the pit straight at pace, with Stanaway’s car launched high into the fence in the hit of the night.
But Long then nailed the younger Rees as well.
Despite all that hard attention the Giants were leading through 45G Nick Vallance until his wheelguard was removed by another Hawkeyes car and he had to retire to the infield.
James Kirk was best of the Gisborne drivers still running, finishing third in 331G.
The Canterbury Glen Eagles from Christchurch joined Hawke’s Bay in the final and went on to win the title.
Former Gisborne driver, and Peter Rees’s younger son Asher (126C), crossed first to win it for Christchurch.
Earlier, the Giants raced off for fifth and sixth against the Stratford Scrappers.
Vallance won it and Ethan Rees finished fourth, to give Gisborne fifth place. Kirk and Gary Davis (31G) blocked well to ensure the win.
Peter Rees was unable to race due to the damage to his car in their semifinal.
The meeting was the debut appearance at a New Zealand teams event for Gisborne’s Kirk.
“It was a mind-blowing experience; there was so much to soak in,” Kirk said.
“I feel I stepped up for the team and I’m pleased about that.”
Kirk was philosophical about their semifinal loss.
“The opposition took advantage of the situation after Pete was hit so hard his motor was wrecked. We did our best, that’s for sure.”
Ethan Rees said the feeling in the Giants camp was still good despite the result.
“The vibe’s good and we are all OK for the next national event in Auckland at Waikaraka Park on March 2 and 3.” The Giants won that championship last year.
