Class: Superstock
Racing Number: 38M
Residence: Waihi
Registered to: Baypark Speedway
Years Driving: 25 seasons
Race Team: Ross Ashby Motorsport
Sponsors: Pollock Cranes, Ashby Engineering, Mobile Engineering
The Man Behind the Nickname
When you hear the name “Horse” at the speedway, there’s only one man it could refer to: Ross Ashby.
The nickname wasn’t about his prowess on the track; it originated from his early career days as an apprentice Fitter Turner for Radial Drilling in Waihi. Carrying heavy gear and supplies into the bush earned him the name “pack Horse,” which eventually just became “Horse.” Now, it’s a moniker that has stuck with him, both on and off the racetrack.
A Shift in Focus
After 25 seasons of racing, Ross has decided to slow down. While he still enjoys getting behind the wheel, the spark to race every weekend has dimmed. “I’ve been there and done that,” Ross says, reflecting on his time in the sport. These days, he races when time allows, scratching the itch when it comes. His decision to transition into coaching and managing roles for the Busters team wasn’t difficult. With age comes the realization that a career-ending injury could happen, and Ross is keen to stay involved in a less physically demanding capacity. “I’m still heavily involved with the Busters,” he adds, clearly passionate about contributing to the team’s ongoing success.
The Evolution of Superstocks
With a quarter-century in the sport, Ross has witnessed numerous changes in Superstocks, some positive and others not so much. “To be totally honest, I think the class is at an all-time high,” he says. Despite the escalating costs, which are a common gripe among competitors, Ross sees no shortage of cars showing up every weekend. “If you want to win, it takes time, dedication, and money,” he notes, recognizing that these factors aren’t new to motorsport.
A Decorated Career
Ross’s career is filled with achievements, particularly in team racing. He proudly cites winning the prestigious Palmerston North Teams Champs three times with the Busters as his greatest accomplishment. Additionally, he’s claimed two titles at Teams Nationals and earned numerous local trophies. His personal trophy cabinets are full, a testament to his competitive nature and skill behind the wheel.
The Racing Bloodline
Speedway racing is in Ross’s blood. With a father and uncle deeply involved in the sport, it was almost inevitable that he would follow in their footsteps. Before committing to racing, Ross’s athletic pursuits included basketball and rugby. Today, his focus is solely on speedway, a sport that has given him purpose and a strong sense of identity.
The Story Behind Number 38M
While his current number, 38M, might not have a dramatic backstory, it carries significant meaning. Initially racing under number 5 in his first A Grade stock car, Ross later adopted the 38 when he moved to Huntly. He even had the privilege of racing as 38R, a number previously worn by the legendary Barry Hunter. Now, he proudly races as 38M, a number synonymous with his identity in the sport.
The Thrill of Teams Racing
Ross describes teams racing as an experience like no other. “Absolutely unreal,” he says. He encourages anyone who hasn’t been to Palmerston North Teams Champs to attend, calling it an electrifying event where drivers are “absolute warriors.” The atmosphere is second to none, making it a must-see for any motorsport fan.
The Hokey Ashby Memorial: A Tribute to a Racing Legend
For Ross Ashby, speedway racing is more than just a sport—it’s a family tradition, a connection that ties him to his roots, his heritage, and most importantly, his father, Hokey Ashby. The Hokey Ashby Memorial, an annual event held at Baypark Speedway, is not just another race on the calendar; it’s a heartfelt tribute to a man who meant the world to Ross, both on and off the track.
Hokey Ashby was not only Ross’s father but also his best friend, mentor, and biggest supporter. Their bond was forged through countless hours spent in the workshop, on the road, and at the racetrack. Together, they shared the ups and downs of racing life, celebrating victories and overcoming setbacks. “My old man was my hero,” Ross says with a sense of pride and nostalgia. “We spent so much time together through racing, and I’m so glad that we had this sport to bring us closer. It was more than just a hobby; it was our way of life.”
The loss of his father was a devastating blow for Ross, one that left a profound void in his heart. “Losing him was tough,” he admits, his voice tinged with emotion. “A lot of my speedway spark left with my old man. That’s how much he meant to me.” Despite this profound grief, Ross found solace in honoring his father’s memory in the best way he knew how—through the sport that had always united them.
The Hokey Ashby Memorial was born out of this desire to keep his father’s legacy alive. With the unwavering support of friends, family, and the speedway community, the event has quickly became a fixture on the Baypark Speedway calendar, drawing racers and fans alike. “I cannot thank Macau and Melissa enough for giving me the opportunity to have this meeting in his memory,” Ross says. Their support has been instrumental in turning a deeply personal tribute into a celebrated event that resonates with the entire racing community.
For Ross and his family, the memorial is more than just a race; it’s a chance to celebrate the man who shaped their lives, to remember his kindness, humility, and passion for speedway. “What would Dad think about it?” Ross reflects, “Hard to say—he was a very humble man who would just wander around and speak to everyone in the pits. He was never one to attract attention to himself. He’d probably just say ‘shit yeah’ with a smile on his face and play it down. But I know deep down, he’d be stoked.”
It’s a source of motivation, a reason to keep racing, and a way to channel his grief into something positive. “The memorial means everything to me and my family,” he says. “It’s a chance to keep Dad’s memory alive and share a bit of him with everyone who comes to Baypark. It’s our way of saying, ‘Thank you, Dad, for everything.’”
Through the Hokey Ashby Memorial, Ross Ashby continues to honor his father’s legacy, ensuring that his contributions to the sport and his impact on those around him are never forgotten. It’s a legacy that’s not just measured in trophies or accolades, but in the love, respect, and enduring spirit that Hokey Ashby brought to the world of speedway.
The 38M Tank
Ross is a self-proclaimed “tank man,” both for the look and the history behind these cars. “There are faster packages out there, but they’re not for me,” he admits. His car, the 38M, is self-built and runs a non-VVTi Toyota V8 from Watkins Racing in Christchurch. “It’s an awesome car that I will never sell,” Ross says proudly, showing his deep connection to his machine.
The Crew Behind the Success
Behind every successful driver is a dedicated team, and Ross is no exception. His parents have been his biggest supporters since day one. His wife Adele, his “biggest fan and shed buddy,” plays a vital role in his racing endeavors. Wally, his main crew member, is described as living and breathing speedway. “If Wally decided he’d had enough, I would hang up my helmet too,” Ross says, underscoring Wally’s importance. Other team members, including Melvin, Elson, Shayne, and Colin, have been steadfast supporters, sharing the highs and lows of Ross’s racing career.
Race Day Routine
Ross doesn’t have a strict race day routine; instead, he takes the day as it comes. However, one consistent habit is making sure everything is ready the night before. “I always make sure that I am loaded and ready to go on Friday night, even if it takes me till midnight,” he shares. At the track, his preparation is minimal, focusing on tire pressures and catching up with friends, embodying a laid-back approach to race day.
Goals and Inspirations
For the upcoming season, Ross’s goals are simple: to enjoy time with family and friends, race competitively, and secure good results with zero DNFs. He’s looking forward to competing in Nelson for the New Zealand title and possibly participating in the Rees Tour. As a coach, he wants to see the Busters succeed and create lifelong memories for his team members.
The Future and Final Words
As Ross looks ahead, he’s content with what he’s achieved and has no specific goals left to accomplish other than to enjoy the sport he loves. “When the enjoyment goes, so will the results,” he says, confident he’ll know when it’s time to step back. Until then, Ross remains a stalwart figure in the world of Superstocks, a driver who has given his all to the sport. To his fans, Ross has one final message: “Speedway has been a major part of my life, and I wouldn’t change a thing. To the fans I have had over the years and still have, thank you. You are another reason I still do what I do.”
