Plenty of thrills expected at MG Taranaki Stratford Speedway season opener

Superstocks will be one of four classes to race for the City of New Plymouth Classic trophy on opening night.

After a winter layoff and a previous season that was severely affected by rained-out meetings, both organisers and drivers at MG Taranaki Stratford Speedway are raring to go for the opening meeting of the season this coming Saturday, October 28.

The promised El Nino weather pattern that will lead to a hot and dry summer has yet to be seen and the two practice sessions that had been scheduled for the first two weekends in October, along with two additional sessions that were scheduled, have all been rained out.

With some luck, the final practice session for October 21 would have run, giving competitors some time to tune and set their cars before hitting the track at race speed.

With six National titles set to be raced for at the local track this summer, including the Sentry Hill Motel New Zealand Stockcar Championship, the Plant & Fabrication Services New Zealand Modified Championship and the MC Fale Transport North Island Saloon Championship, organisers are expecting to see a number of visiting drivers throughout the season as they set up their cars for the Stratford oval prior to the championships.

The R&R Mechanical Opening night will feature six classes racing, with Superstocks, Saloons, Minisprints and Streetstocks all racing for their City of New Plymouth Classics. Youth Ministocks and the crowd favourite Stockcar class will complete the race schedule.

Visiting drivers have already registered in the Streetstock, Minisprint and Stockcar classes for opening night so it is looking likely that most, if not all classes, will front for their first racing of the season with good numbers.

Club President Kim Sharpe says the committee and club are excited about the new season and getting back on the track racing with an action-packed season of entertainment.

“A lot of work has been undertaken during the off-season to increase safety and give Stratford Speedway a fresh look, with more upgrades planned throughout the season with a safety aspect in mind as well as improving the running of the events. Our staff and volunteers are all ready to go as are the drivers, who are all important parts of MG Taranaki Stratford Speedway.”

Kim says the club has good support from sponsors which is appreciated.

“Car numbers are looking good and as it is our 60th anniversary of racing, this season will be one to be remembered for years to come so make sure you get to the track for good value family entertainment.”

You can see what’s happening each week and purchase tickets online at www.stratford-speedway.co.nz