For most of the field, the Sunset Nationals means a tow to Mildura. For Madison Sparrow, it means a ten-minute drive.
The South Australian Drag Racers Association Super Street racer will contest her home event, the Mildura City Council Sunset Nationals, at the Davison Ford Sunset Strip across September 19-20 – round three of the 2026/2027 ANDRA Regional Sportsman Series.
“We’re really looking forward to the Sunset Nationals at the Davison Ford Sunset Strip in Mildura,” Sparrow said.
“It’s our home track, and we’re incredibly lucky to have such an amazing facility just 10 minutes from home.”
Local knowledge only goes so far, though, with Sparrow still learning a substantially different combination in her Holden VR Commodore.
“The car underwent some major mechanical changes last year, and I’ve still been getting used to the new combination, especially launching off the trans brake and working on my staging and reaction times,” she said.
“I thought it would be pretty straightforward, but after a few runs, I quickly realised it takes a lot of practice, focus and consistency to get it right.”
That work is aimed at a season Sparrow hopes will take the Commodore well beyond the Sunraysia region – and the car itself is due for a change of appearance once Mildura is done.
“I’m excited to see what this season brings. We would love to get the car to The Bend, as it’s really suited to quarter-mile racing, and Portland is always high on our list too. It’s one of our favourite tracks to visit,” she said.
“After the Sunset Nationals, the Commodore will be getting a bit of attention on the outside with a fresh new look, which I’m really excited about.”
Sparrow was quick to share the credit, both in her own pit and across the fence.
“I also want to give a huge thank you to my Dad. He puts an incredible amount of work into the car and makes sure it’s always well prepared, reliable and safe. I couldn’t do it without him,” she said.
“And of course, a massive shoutout to the team at the Davison Ford Sunset Strip. They do an amazing job preparing a quality track and running fantastic events.
“What a lot of people don’t realise is that this incredible team are all volunteers who give up their time to make our sport possible.
“We can’t wait to hit the track and see everyone at the Sunset Nationals!”
The Mildura City Council Sunset Nationals will be held at the Davison Ford Sunset Strip across September 19-20, with ANDRA Christmas Trees and championship points on offer across 10 brackets. A Test ‘n’ Tune will be held on September 18.
For event information, visit www.sunsetstrip.org.au
For more from ANDRA, visit www.andra.com.au
