While there is a national championship on the line, the two main contenders for the 2015 Summit Racing Equipment Sportsman Series Junior Dragster title insist it’s fun first, honours second.
Queensland’s Eden Ward and from New South Wales defending champion Toby Austin in his final season as a Junior, are locked in a tight race with both drivers on the 160 points maximum heading into the Fuchs Winternationals at Willowbank Raceway this weekend.
They last met in the final of Round 4 of the Summit Racing Equipment Sportsman Series at the same venue back in April when Ward secured the win after Austin red lit.
Trying to our race each other with a group of racers nipping at their heals, both youngsters are showing maturity beyond their years by staying true to the goal of every racer… just having fun.
“No not nervous, looking forward to it,” said Austin. “Racing is about having fun whether it’s the Winters or just a track day.”
“Lee (Bektash) always makes sure we are having fun because that is what he believes it’s all about,” added Ward.
“He often asks if I’ve done my best and if I have then he tells me or any other driver to make sure we keep smiling. If we’ve lost for any reason he’s the first to boost our confidence by having a quiet chat.”
Going rounds is always fun especially when you find the sort of consistency these two have in recent months. Ward ended last season with a win at the Australian Nationals then followed that up with a semi final berth and event win in 2015.
Austin too has enjoyed a remarkable run the past 18 months winning the 2014 championship and recording a semi final appearance, runner up and a victory in 2015.
Ask either driver their secret and they will give you a professional response.
“Weather I am racing Toby or any other driver I approach the race in the same way,” said Ward.
“Our strategy is always the same, we do our best to dial the JD in as accurately as possible and if I do my best to hit a good light, and if it all comes together, I have a good chance of winning a race weather it’s against Toby or anyone else that I have to race throughout the weekend.”
“My consistency is down to a good crew chief/mechanic – Dad,” explained Austin. “I try and cut a good light – not red – and hope for the best.”
Junior Dragster qualifying gets underway following Super Street on Thursday June 4. The program kicks off from 11am with 11 of the 12 Summit Racing Equipment Sportsman Series brackets commencing qualifiers in a packed schedule over the Queens Birthday Long weekend.
Tickets are on sale online now – including discounted pre-purchase only tickets. Looking to bring the family? Don’t forget that children aged 13 and under gain free admission, while students with ID and Concession Card Holders can access discounted entry (terms and conditions apply).
For more information including race scheduling please visit the event page here.
Image courtesy: dragphotos.com.au