At the same time, it would also promote the class and increase the enjoyment for competitors.
The success of this event then sparked the idea for a North Island wide tour which was eventually launched in 2013 and named the Oval Superstars Tour (OST).
OST in now into its fourth season, and this season, Oceanview Speedway has been added to the roster.
The Minisprint class has grown significantly in popularity over the past few years.
Minisprints are based on a Midget chassis, with wings to assist with down-force.
New rules for the class this season give competitors a choice of their power package.
In the past, cars were limited to a 1300cc engine, but with significant performance modifications allowed.
Most cars had Nissan or Ford engines, producing between 200 and 220 horsepower.
This season however, competitors have the option of running a larger Toyota AG4E 1600cc motor, but with fewer modifications and a rev limiter.
The power output will be the same as the smaller race motors, but with the engines being less modified, there will be a reliability advantage.
At the time or writing, 21 cars have entered the River City Showdown on Saturday night.
Heading the list is current 2NZ and 2015-16 OST champion Dean Cooper.
Cooper had an unfortunate start to his quest to defend his title, getting tipped over in the Windy City Showdown last Saturday. But he will be repaired, and raring to go.
Drivers from Wellington, Palmerston North, Stratford, Kihikihi and Huntly have entered as at the time of writing, along with Whanganui competitors Trent Leslie (46V) and Cameron Hurley (82V).
Hurley won the inaugural OST Series in 2013-14, and will be looking for a strong performance on his home track.
Others to watch include Shane Dewar (41P), Christian Hermansen (48P), Jade Barnett (37K), and former Ministock competitor Bayley Betts (58S) who knows his around Oceanview.
The race format will consist of three qualifying heats to determine grid positions for the 25-lap River City shootout.
Minisprint racing is fast, furious and wheel-to-wheel, and the sight of a full field headed into Oceanview's notorious southern bend will get the adrenalin pumping.
Another feature event tonight is the West Coast Youth Ministocks Championship. A large field of visitors is expected to take on the locals.
Superstocks, Stockcars, Adult Ministocks, Production Saloons and Sidecars will round out the 23-race programme.
The ever-popular Golden Oldies Stockcars will also make an appearance.
Normal admission prices apply: $15 for adults, $10 for seniors (with Gold Card), $5 for children 8-15 years and $35 for families (two adults and up to three children).
