Website of the YearStratford Stockcar competitors Tyler Walker and Mark Duthie performed exceptionally well at the New Zealand Stockcar Championship held at Baypark Speedway in Tauranga on February 15 and 16.
The pair placed first and second respectively in the championship out of a field of close to 200 cars. After qualifying with club mates Bevan Phillips, Haydin Barker, William Hughes and Andrew Dodunski, the pair raced brilliantly in the finals.
There was a massive hit by William Hughes on a front running Rotorua car and Bevan Phillips superb blocking and protection, ensured the victory for the local drivers.
Walker was a target in the third heat of the championship and at one point looked to be out of contention after being slammed into the wall and the rocker cover ripped off the left side of the motor.
Advertisement
Advertise with NZME.However, a push start from Phillips allowed him to continue, the engine somehow managing to fire back up on just three cylinders but it was good enough to get across the line.
Duthie raced clean and smart all weekend, flying under the radar.
Club captain Jarrod MacBeth said the entire Taranaki Stockcar Club was pleased with the result.
"The result is excellent for the Stockcar class in Stratford which has been going from strength to strength in recent years. We are all proud of these two drivers for achieving what they have and also of course their mates on the track that assisted them to victory.
"We're proud of all our club members who travel away and represent Stratford Speedway."
The pair can now wear their new numbers with pride for the next 12 months.