As the engines fired into life this season at Baypark Speedway, it wasn’t just the thrum of horsepower or the flick of clay off tires that stirred excitement — it was the stories. Stories of local battlers and international titans, of rookies rising and veterans returning, all united by a shared addiction to speed and the thrill of the oval.

From Early Day Racers to World Series Warriors

At just 22, Tylar Browne — better known as the “Prince of Baypark” — is already a familiar face. Racing under 96M, Tylar has progressed through to F2 Midgets with a fearless edge. “I want to win races and finish every night,” he says simply, a statement that echoes the bold ambitions of many on the track.

Australian star Zoe Pearce, also born into a racing dynasty, echoes that hunger. With her roots in Quarter Midgets and Junior Formula 500s, Zoe now competes in the Midget World Series. “I love that the competition in NZ is so tough — no one gives you an inch,” she says. Her approach? “Give it 110% each night and pace myself for the long races.”

International Flair, Local Heart

Baypark welcomed a flurry of global talent this season. Californian Logan Seavey, fresh off his second Chili Bowl title, returned to New Zealand with a clear aim: “I want to improve every time I hit the track.” Fellow American Buddy Kofoid, also a child prodigy of Outlaw Go-Karts, shared, “Racing in NZ is unique — the fans are so passionate, and the tracks are demanding.”

Ethan Mitchell, another U.S. import, sees the Kiwi tour as a vital challenge. “This is an opportunity to race the best, in one of the best places,” he said. “Baypark is big and fast — you’ve got to stay sharp.”

Homegrown Heroes on the Rise

Among the local talent, Keaton Dahm is proving a standout in Sprintcars. With a mechanical mind, he credits his dad and uncles for fuelling his passion. “I just want to keep pushing harder, learning more,” says Keaton, whose humble work ethic is winning over fans.

Six Shooter driver Josh McClymont also thrives on growth. “I’m aiming for consistent top five finishes,” he says. “Every race is a chance to improve.”

The Sprintcar Surge

Sprintcars at Baypark are stacked with talent. Adam Davis, having transitioned from F2 Midgets, is relishing the step-up: “I’ve learned so much. The Sprintcar demands more finesse, but it suits my style.” Brody Mathieson agrees, noting, “This season is about refining my racecraft and chasing podiums — we’ve got the equipment and the drive.”

Christian Hermansen, meanwhile, returns for another shot at Sprintcar glory. With an engineering mindset and relentless dedication, Christian is focused on maximising every lap. “I’ve been working closely with my crew — fine-tuning everything.”

Ben Mathews is another one to watch. With a career rooted in Midgets, his Sprintcar debut was about broadening horizons. “Baypark’s a beast of a track. But I love the challenge,” he grins.

Superstocks and the Spirit of Baypark

Among the bruisers in the Superstocks division, Elias Dykstra is carrying the torch for the next generation. Just 27, he’s already shown maturity beyond his years. “I’m not just here to make up numbers,” he says. “I want to be a contender.”

Veteran Ross “Horse” Ashby, described by many as the heart and soul of Superstocks, continues to inspire. His presence around the pits remains a steadying force. Young drivers watch him. Fans cheer for him. Ross is Baypark.

One Track, Many Dreams

Across these interviews, one theme repeats: Baypark is more than a track — it’s a proving ground, a family, and a launchpad for dreams.

From local up-and-comers like Keaton and Elias to global pros like Kofoid and Seavey, each driver brings something unique to the clay — courage, character, and a hunger to improve. Whether they’re chasing a win, a championship, or simply a clean lap, their journeys collide in the fast, unforgiving turns of Baypark.

This season, was not just about who crosses the finish line first — it’s about who dares to dream, to evolve, and to leave it all on the dirt.