As June fast approaches, we find ourselves just four and a half months out from the first race meeting of the 2025/26 season. Across the country, tracks are already locking in their championship events, and Baypark is no exception.

So far, Baypark Speedway has confirmed just one major title — but it’s a big one. In fact, it’s a championship that hasn’t been seen here in over three decades. The New Zealand Midget Car Championship is coming to Baypark, and for the very first time, it will be held at the modern version of the venue. The last time this prestigious event was hosted at Baypark was in the 1993/94 season — 30+ years ago — when the legendary Brett Horribin claimed victory in what would be his fourth and final national title before retiring.

Baypark first hosted the championship back in 1987, with Graham “100%” Standring taking the honours that year. This upcoming season marks only the third time the NZ Midget Car Championship has been staged at Baypark — and with its wide, high-speed layout, fans can expect some truly spectacular racing.

Interestingly, the current top three drivers in the national midget rankings — 1NZ, 2NZ, and 3NZ — are all overseas-based, meaning we won’t see those numbers on track for a little while, and with Baypark Speedway as hosts, could that open the door for a new local champion to emerge?

When it comes to Baypark’s midget history, we don’t have to look too far back to find success. In 2020, Hayden Williams captured the national title at Western Springs while piloting the BSL 27M — a proud moment for the Baypark Speedway community. Prior to that, we may need to reach back to the early 1980s to find another Baypark-based champion, but the tide is turning.

Today, the Baypark midget ranks are as strong as ever. Brock Maskovich, a two-time 2NZ, will be a serious contender on his home turf. Meanwhile, local driver Luke McClymont has already proven he thrives under pressure, having won the North Island Midget Car Championship at Baypark in 2023. And who knows — we might see a few new faces running the Mighty M on their cars this summer.

If there’s one thing we can say with confidence, it’s that Baypark knows how to deliver a top-class championship. The two national titles hosted last season are a testament to that. Like many fans across the country, we’re counting down the days to what promises to be a once-in-a-generation event this summer at Baypark Speedway.