Few names carry as much weight in Baypark Speedway history as Brent “STICK” McClymont.

From the heyday of the original Baypark Raceway to the sweeping bends of the current modern coliseum, Brent has done it all. He’s been a titleholder, a fierce competitor, a respected sportsman, and above all, a pillar of the Baypark community.

With a race career that saw him carry the 1NZ, 2NZ, and 3NZ plates for so long that fans forgot his original number — 5M — STICK represents more than just speed on clay. He describes the heart and history of a sport that has defined Tauranga summers for generations.

Racing Through Eras: A Trackside Time Machine

McClymont is one of the rare few who raced at both iterations of Baypark: the original raceway, with its grassroots charm and roaring atmosphere, and the modern-day stadium, built on vision and ambition. When asked what stands out most between the two, his answer speaks volumes.

“The advancement of technology in the race cars, track systems, equipment, and promotions,” Brent says. “The size of the current track is a world away from the old one, and the professionalism now – it’s next level. Everything from car setups to team structures has changed dramatically.”

Yet despite all the upgrades and evolutions, there’s something about the old days that never leaves you.

“There was something raw and special about the original track,” he reflects. “But at the same time, what Bob Clarkson created here gave us a future. Without him, we wouldn’t have this incredible venue that’s now shared with the whole city.”

A Speedway Family Story

Speedway is more than a sport for Brent — it’s family. Literally, across three generations, the McClymont’s have raced at Baypark, creating an unbroken link through decades of motorsport.

“My dad raced at the old Baypark. I raced at both. Now my kids have raced at the new track too. We’ve made memories here that span lifetimes,” he says. “That’s pretty special, and not something you can just replicate somewhere else.”

The idea that Baypark’s future might now be uncertain hits him hard.

“It’s devastating,” he says, voice firm. “This place is part of us. It’s surreal to even think about it being under threat. So many people have poured their hearts into this track — from volunteers to promoters to the fans who come every weekend.”

then adds quietly, “Baypark has always been more than just clay and concrete. It’s our second home!

A Ground for Champions and Camaraderie

Baypark Speedway has long been known as the biggest and fastest track in New Zealand, and Brent is quick to point out that it’s been a proving ground for some of the country’s best talent.

“It’s where champions are made. Drivers from every class have come here and pushed themselves to the limit. It sharpens you up really quick,” he says with a grin.

But it’s not just the fierce racing that makes Baypark iconic. It’s what happens off the track — the barbecues in the pits, the friendships formed under floodlights, the kids falling asleep in deck chairs after a full night of racing.

“We’ve built lifelong friendships here. These are the people who came to our weddings, helped us when things got tough, celebrated wins, and picked us up after the crashes. That’s the Baypark family.”

The Making of STICK: From Green Kid to Respected Champion

Brent’s career started humbly — a 16-year-old full of enthusiasm, fresh off mountain bikes and indoor go-karts, and eager to jump into a real race car.

“I was green as anything,” he laughs. “But I grew up around the sport, watching it every weekend, so I knew I wanted it bad.”

From that point on, Brent set about learning not just how to drive fast, but how to drive smart — and with respect.

“You gain the respect of your competitors not just by winning, but by racing clean and fair,” he says. “I always respected the cars, the time, the money, and the effort that everyone put in — not just my team, but every team on the track.”

With strong support from his family, sponsors, and crews, Brent developed a career built on integrity and consistency.

“I was lucky enough to have the backing of some great people,” he says. “And the culture at Baypark, from promoters to drivers, really brought the best out of all of us.”

A Message to Tauranga: “This Matters.”

As Tauranga City Council weighs the future of Baypark, McClymont has a clear message — not just as a driver, but as a father, a fan, and a community member.

“Don’t take away something good for the whole community,” he says plainly. “This isn’t just about the drivers. It’s about the families, the spectators, the volunteers, the businesses who sponsor us, the motels that host travelling teams, the restaurants where people eat after a meeting.”

And above all, it’s about identity.

“My family grew up with Baypark. I always knew where my kids were on a Saturday night — at the track, safe and happy, surrounded by good people,” Brent says. “Baypark Speedway is in Tauranga. You take that away, and you lose a part of who we are.

The Legacy Lives On

Brent “STICK” McClymont’s story isn’t just about checkered flags or national titles — it’s about legacy. It’s about the values passed down from one generation to the next, the friendships built across pit bays, the thunder of engines echoing through summer nights, and the pride of calling Baypark Speedway home.

As long as the gates stay open and the clay stays fast, the spirit of drivers like STICK — and the memories of those who made Baypark great — will never fade.