In the world of motorsports, few experiences can match the adrenaline rush of sprinting around a dirt track at breakneck speeds. Today, we sit down with Taylor Patton, a young but seasoned speedway racer with a passion for the sport that’s second to none. In this exclusive interview, we delve deep into Taylor’s racing journey, triumphs, and what it takes to be a true champion.
Age: 16 Birthplace: Tauranga
Living: Tauranga Years Racing: 2 years
Home Track: Baypark Speedway
Best Feature finish: 5th out waihi beach dirt track
Classes Raced: Just Ministocks
Sponsors: Truckworks, Ace drywall, BOP signs, JDL automotive
Q1: Every great journey begins with a single step when did you start racing and how did you get into it?
I started racing in 2021 and I have always loved it since I was little.
Q2: What classes have you run over the years?
Just ministocks
Q3: In the world of racing, success comes in many forms. What are you most proud of in your racing career?
Meeting new people and getting out on the track and having fun.
Q4: What titles have you received while racing?
Best prepared car and crew and top senior girl
Q5: What is your all-time favourite track to race at and why?
Baypark cause it is wide and it has a good running track
Q6: Racing isn’t just a seasonal endeavour; it’s a year-round commitment. What are you currently doing in the off-season and how do you prepare mentally and physically for this sport?
I’m working on the car and to make myself calm before a race I talk to myself and think that I don’t need to win I just need to have fun.
Q7: What do you hope to achieve this season?
A placing in the top five and to meet new people.
Q8: Success in racing isn’t just about speed; it’s about character what characteristics do you think are important to becoming successful in racing?
Just to go there and have fun, enjoy what you love most.
Q9: Race cars are constantly evolving. What is happening with your car in the off-season? Any major changes we should look out for once the season starts?
A better set up then last seasons, be on the look out for 29m.
Q10: Speedway racing can be fast and dangerous. What do you think is one thing the fans will never understand until they are behind the wheel of a race car?
How it’s a good experience and is very exciting
Q11: What is your favourite race on the NZ race calendar?
Fireworks night is amazing
Q12: Legends inspire legends. Who do you admire most in motorsport and why?
For me it is Kerry Remnant, I have looked up to him for so long he has inspired me to not give up.
Q13: What do you think of the changes and the way direction the speedway is moving at Baypark?
They have an amazing fan zone with food trucks and the merch shop which looks over at the pits when you first enter.
Q14: Sponsors are the unsung heroes of racing. Tell us about your sponsors, what kind of business they run, and the support you get from them.
Truckworks Mechanical and Engineering: Helps me with keeping my car safe at the workshop.
Ace drywall: He is an interior plasterer. He is my main sponsor.
JDL Automotive: This company works on cars and replaces my oil filter which is very helpful.
BOP Signs: This company does sign writing and has done an amazing job on the sign writing on my car for the last two seasons.
Q15: Behind every successful racer is a dedicated support team. Tell us about your support team.
My best support team would be My Dad, My Uncle Billy and My Best Friend Anika, they have been to basically every race and helped me out a lot.
Q16 Final Words: What would you like to say to your fans and the wider Speedway community?
Thank you for all the support and encouragement can’t wait to see everyone trackside.
See you guys out there!!
