As we approach the start of another thrilling season at Baypark Speedway, our registration records from the past three years tell a fascinating story of growth, shifting popularity, and the ever-changing landscape of our racing community. Some divisions are booming, others are holding steady, and a few have sadly taken a dip — but every number tells part of Baypark’s unique story.
Who’s Racing What?
Looking at the latest figures, Sprintcars continue to roar ahead as our largest class, with a total of 70 over the past three seasons. They’ve been a cornerstone of the Baypark programme, pulling in fans with their speed, skill, and unpredictability.
(Numbers are based on all 3 seasons added together) Ie, Sprintcars 18+31+21=70)
Close behind are our Superstocks (44 registrations,) a class that never fails to deliver action and panel-bending drama. F2 Midgets (30) and Ministocks (36) are neck-and-neck in the mid-field, a great sign for future growth, particularly as Ministocks remain the main pathway for young drivers to move up through the ranks.
Midgets have held a solid position with 32 registered, keeping the tradition of high-intensity, wheel-to-wheel racing alive. Six Shooters 25 drivers) and Super Saloons (34 drivers), while Stockcars, also on 36, continue to offer big grids and big hits.
At the other end of the spectrum, our Saloons class had seen just 5 registered drivers 3 years ago, and then that dropped to 1, before a halt was put on the class registration. While small in number, these drivers have still delivered some fantastic racing over the years— but for now, it’s an area we’d love to see grow again.
Growth and Decline
Over the past three seasons, Sprintcars and F2 Midgets have shown the healthiest growth in driver numbers, while Saloons and Six Shooters have seen a slow decline. Ministocks remain a key feeder class, with consistent interest from younger racers, which bodes well for the future of the sport.
Fun Fact: The Magic Number
When it comes to driver numbers, one stands above all the rest — Thanks to its appearance in multiple class tallies, it’s technically the “most common” entry in the books. in the past three years has been used 12 times. That’s a lot of drivers chasing the same number plate! In order, the Magic number is 9, then 7, followed by 18.
Looking Ahead
As we prepare for the new season’s registrations, there’s plenty to be excited about. The big classes look strong, the feeder divisions are producing the next generation of stars, and the smaller grids still bring plenty of heart and horsepower.
Whether you’re a seasoned competitor, a rookie looking to make your debut, or a fan keeping score from the stands, one thing’s certain — every number on our roster tells a story, and every driver has their part to play but only one, yes ONE driver this year will go out with the lucky number 1, and thats of course our NZ Superstock Champion 1NZ Todd Hemingway.
Some facts based on the last 3 seasons in regards to registration
Top 5 Most Popular Car Numbers
- 9
- 7
- 18
- 5
- 88
Photos supplied by The Write Angle