Name: Amy Worthington

Official Position: Midget Coordinator/ Drivers Rep

Years working in Speedway: Approx. 8 years

Home track: Baypark Speedway / Western Springs

How did you get into Speedway?

You could say it’s in my blood. Dad was racing when I was born so as I got older, I was able to travel around with him when he was either racing himself or crewing for someone.

Have you worked at other tracks or been involved in other Speedways in New Zealand?

I’ve worked alongside a handful of tracks over the years including Western Springs (under both previous and current promotions), Huntly, Kihikihi, Baypark, Palmerston North and Ruapuna.

What does the role mean exactly tell us about the job?

The role is more than just at the track work it involves collating who will be there and providing a list to promotions. Providing the drivers with relevant information about the meeting. On race day it is organizing marble draws to set grids, being a liaison between SNZ and drivers, making sure drivers are on the dummy grid on time. Calculating points and setting the feature line up and ensuring everyone who needs a copy of the lineup has a copy.

If someone was interested in your role, what is the best way for them to get started?

Become familiar with the sport and the drivers, from there ask someone who is doing the job if you can shadow them or help for the night.

What do you love about Speedway?

The people you meet and the places you get to see, we’ve made some lifelong friends from different parts of the country thanks to Speedway.

What do you think of the changes made to Baypark Speedway since the new promotion started?

It’s been great, the atmosphere has changed and with every passing day I feel professionalism is being brought back into the Speedway. Also seeing competitors get looked after and listened to with the implementation of track changes and the ability to get through a race night has Baypark heading places.

What would you like to see changed or added to Baypark Speedway?

Access to the track, I feel like a second gate would help keep the show moving as we could load/unload the track at the same time. But since I know that isn’t possible, I really enjoy some of the behind-the-scenes interviews which help you get to know competitors better, I think they could be a good addition every now and then.

Have you won any awards for your role in Speedway?

I’ve been recognized by the Auckland TQ’s club a couple of times receiving their Presidents trophy for my work.

Do you have a favorite class or driver?

When doing your role you cannot have favourite drivers and must remain impartial. In terms of favourite class, I can’t go past a good midget race.

Do you have any other sports that you get involved with?

I tried social tennis once and it didn’t end well, so I don’t think sports are really my thing.

Is there anyone in the speedway that you look up to?

I honestly cannot pinpoint anyone specifically, there are so many people out there doing amazing things for the sport  that I take inspiration from.