A Big Season Ahead for Baypark – Part 1
As the off-season seems to shrink with each passing year, our team at Baypark Speedway has been hard at work, ensuring we continue to elevate the level of speedway entertainment for our fans. The first challenge each season is crafting a calendar that aligns seamlessly with Speedway New Zealand’s national and island championships. This coordination guarantees that every registered driver has automatic release to compete. However, securing dates for some tracks can delay our schedule. We take great care to avoid clashes with major events that could draw competitors away, instead focusing on fresh ideas and attractions that will captivate both fans and die-hard enthusiasts eager to see their favorites in action on their home turf.
This season, we are honored to host two prestigious SNZ Championships. The highlight is the New Zealand Super-Saloon Championship, which will unfold over two thrilling nights in February. With recent track enhancements, we anticipate a strong turnout of competitors, aiming to reverse last season’s decline in registrations nationwide.
Additionally, the North Island Sprintcar Championship makes its return after two seasons, headlined last time by Jonathan Allard’s victory in the 0USA car. Strategically placed ahead of the New Zealand Title at Kihikihi on March 15th, our event is expected to attract South Island challengers eager to claim the coveted grand slam, which includes all four major titles, including the Grand Prix.
Behind the scenes, our promotions team has been diligently working with Gisborne Speedway and Wanganui to introduce an exciting new tri-series for Superstocks. Baypark Speedway is proud to play a pivotal role in this initiative, hosting the second round of the highly anticipated Superstock Thunder in November. Combined with the Rumble and the Hokey Ashby Memorial, this series promises to deliver thrilling Superstock racing, solidifying Baypark as a key venue for high-octane competition.
Thrilling action is also on the horizon for the Midget and F2 Midget classes this season, with an International Series set to bring top talent from the USA and Australia to compete against New Zealand’s best. The Midget World Series will feature five intense rounds, with excitement building around the participation of several international drivers, including the first female competitor in the in a long time to these shores. Baypark Speedway will be at the heart of this electrifying series, hosting the prestigious Bay Superstars 40-lapper and the gruelling Bay51—the longest Midget race on the calendar. Both events are scheduled for late December, with just one day in between to prepare the cars, promising back-to-back excitement for fans and competitors alike.
Adding to the excitement, a special non-SNZ championship for F2 Midgets is set to captivate fans under the banner of the Aotearoa F2 Midget Title. Previously held only once at Western Springs in 2017, where it was claimed by midget racing star Aaron Hodgeson, this event provides a bespoke opportunity for F2 Midget drivers, filling a significant gap in their competitive calendar.
This is just a glimpse of the thrilling developments we have in store for this season, with much more to be revealed in the coming weeks. Stay tuned for more exciting announcements!
photos suppled by: The Write Angle + Blissful Photography and Events