Lucky 7: Baypark Speedway Gears Up for the New Zealand Super-Saloon Championship

This season, Baypark Speedway proudly hosts the prestigious New Zealand Super-Saloon Championship—a long-awaited return, as the last time the track held this event was the 2017-2018 season. That year marked the beginning of Baypark’s ongoing dominance, with the title of 1NZ champion held tight by an impressive string of “M” registered drivers, each one securing the top prize in Super-Saloons for the past seven years.

In 2018, Terry Corrin, behind the wheel of 41M, brought home the victory in front of an electrified home crowd. A year later, Steve Cowling claimed the title at Huntly, adding to his family’s legacy, as his father had previously won in 1996. Baypark’s streak continued in 2020 when Sam Waddell journeyed south to Woodford Glen and returned as the reigning champion. Then, in a masterful performance at Waikaraka Park, Peter Dickson, driving the 17M, extended Baypark’s winning streak.

COVID-19 put the 2022 season on hold, but the dominance continued when Chris Cowling secured the title, adding his own trophy to the family’s collection. Chris didn’t just win the New Zealand title; he made history as the first Super-Saloon driver to sweep the North, South, GP, and NZ titles—the “Four Crown.” He then repeated his New Zealand championship victory in 2024, despite entering mid-season.

Now, as February 14th approaches, Super-Saloon fans, drivers, and teams across New Zealand are gearing up for the ultimate challenge: ending Baypark’s 7-year hold on the 1NZ title. But it won’t be easy; three past and present champions still actively compete and dominate the class. With new forces like Damian Orr joining Baypark’s lineup, and powerhouses like Scotty Haywood, Edwards, and Emerson standing strong, the Baypark “M” army is poised to defend their track and title.

For fans, there’s only one place to be on February 14th as Baypark Speedway comes alive with the roar of engines and the thrill of defending a legacy. Can the home turf remain undefeated? Only time will tell in what promises to be an epic showdown.