THE new season of the NSW microsprint class racing is set to roar into Tamworth's Oakburn Park on Saturday night.
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The event will mark the first of Wide Open Promotion's Triple Crown Series, which will see the best drivers from across the state and beyond battle it out.
Former Australian champions Mitch Issacs, Les Nelson and Ernie Havas will be among the 12 drivers taking to the track in the first of three events, worth more than $10,000 in prize money.
The second event of the series will be held in Gunnedah in February, followed by the final event in Gosford in March.
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Wide Open Promotions' Darren Gesell said the first round of the series would be a highlight of an action-packed event.
"It is certainly going to be a highlight to see who can be the first feature winner of the new Triple Crown Series," Gesell told the Leader.
"Some of the best drivers in the country will be here for it, so it should be very exciting."
As well as the Triple Crown Series, Saturday's event will also mark the return of the Memorial Archie Classic for fender benders.
"We didn't get the chance to run this event last year, so to be hosting it on Saturday as well is pretty exciting," Gesell said.
"We have 12 guys nominated to see who can take home the five-foot tall trophy this Saturday night, in this full contact racing division.
"It will be interesting to see if reigning champion Keith Urquhart can defend the five-foot tall trophy on Saturday.
"It's a great way to kick the new season off in style."
Also making a return to Oakburn Park will be the Compact Speedcars, a category of racing Gesell said was a rarity in Tamworth.
"We don't see them in this area often. The last time they raced here was 15 years ago," he said.
"They are a purpose-built chassis, sporting a 1000cc motorbike motor.
"With the cars only weighing in at around 350 kilograms, the motor average is 200 horsepower.
"These little things sure are quick."
Gesell said the next generation of local drivers would also be on display on Saturday night.
"On the program we also have a few brand-new drivers joining our junior ranks for the first time, which is always good to see," he said.
"Juniors can now race from as young as 10 years old, so we encourage people to bring their kids along.
"It's sure to be a great night."
Saturday's action begins from 5pm.
Entry costs $20 for adults and $15 for children aged between 12 and 16.
Billy Jupp
Billy is a Senior Livestock Journalist for the Queensland Country Life based in Toowoomba. He has worked for a variety of different ACM mastheads during the past five years including the Namoi Valley Independent, Northern Daily Leader and The Land.
Billy is a Senior Livestock Journalist for the Queensland Country Life based in Toowoomba. He has worked for a variety of different ACM mastheads during the past five years including the Namoi Valley Independent, Northern Daily Leader and The Land.
