Introduction: In the world of motorsports, few experiences can match the adrenaline rush of sprinting around a dirt track at breakneck speeds. Today, we sit down with Josh McClymont, a young but seasoned speedway racer with a passion for the sport that’s second to none. In this exclusive interview, we delve deep into Josh’s racing journey, triumphs, and what it takes to be a competitive racer.
Age: 21 Years old Birthplace: Tauranga Living: Tauranga
Years Racing: 6 Years Motocross ,9 years Speedway Home Track: Baypark Speedway
Best Feature finish: 1st Place Classes Raced: Ministocks, Stockcars and Six shooters
Sponsors: Mcleod Cranes and Hiabs, The Plumbing collective, McClymont Lures, Auto super shoppes Judea, Link up Paints, Battenman
Q1: Every great journey begins with a single step when did you start racing and how did you get into it?
Racing has been in the family blood for generations, From Grandparents to Fathers. I started Racing at the age of 10 years old at Waharoa Speedway
Q2: What classes have you run over the years?
Starting off in Mistocks From 10 Till 17, I then raced a Stock Car from 17 till 18, Had some years off and now race in The six shooter class.
Q3: In the world of racing, success comes in many forms. What are you most proud of in your racing career?
Age 4 starting off with Motocross my proudest moment was claiming 1nz in 2008, Winning Jnr MIP in my first season in Ministocks. along with making great mates in the Ministock class. Stockcars was enjoyable with a couple wins, And the season just gone being my first in the six shooter class, I managed to claim some wins and also podium finishes in the great series that is run for the class.
Q4: What titles have you received while racing?
Six Shooters are a non Title Class, Which will hopefully change soon!!
Q5: What is your all-time favourite track to race at and why?
BayPark Speedway and Palmerston North Speedway
Q6: Racing isn’t just a seasonal endeavour; it’s a year-round commitment. What are you currently doing in the off-season and how do you prepare mentally and physically for this sport?
Lots of work to save up and buy more shiny parts and Hitting the home Gym
Q7: What do you hope to achieve this season?
I would like to keep the car on all 4 wheels like last season, Also wouldn’t mind carrying the Flag around a bit more
Q8: Success in racing isn’t just about speed; it’s about character what characteristics do you think are important to becoming successful in racing?
I Believe having a great passion for the sport is huge and most importantly sportsmanship and respect for other competitors.
Q9: Race cars are constantly evolving. What is happening with your car in the off-season? Any major changes we should look out for once the season starts?
If it ain’t broke don’t fix it, Some new amazing sponsors on board this year.
Q10: Speedway racing can be fast and dangerous. What do you think is one thing the fans will never understand until they are behind the wheel of a race car?
It’s not just about turning Left there is multiple things going on
Q11: What is your favourite race on the NZ race calendar?
As a spectator it is pretty hard to beat Superstock Teams. But as a racer I look forward to every meeting I Race.
Q12: Legends inspire legends. Who do you admire most in motorsport and why?\
Pop( Dave McClymont), Granddard( Brian Audas), Dad( Johno McClymont), Uncle( Brent McClymont)
Q13: What do you think of the changes and the way direction the speedway is moving at Baypark?
This is one of the main reasons I came back to Racing. I Love everything about it again and it has given me the love for speedway that I thought I had forgotten.
Q14: Sponsors are the unsung heroes of racing. Tell us about your sponsors, what kind of business they run, and the support you get from them.
Mcleod Cranes and Hiabs:
Experts in Cranes and Hiabs Consistently placing the right machine of the right size on site for you.
The Plumbing Collective:
Quality Plumbing, Gas Fitting and Drain laying across BOP
McClymont Lures:
Hand crafted game fishing lures made right here in Tauranga, Get Caught With Us.
Auto Super Shoppe Judea:
Vehicle repair shop with a focus on quality, skills, parts, fluids and lubricants, it doesn’t matter what you Drive.
Battenman:
Providing ceiling batten installation services throughout the wider BOP region.
Link Up Paints:
Offer advice and products for automotive, industrial, marine, wood finishes and home decorators.
