After missing the Teams Champs at Palmerston North in February, I was really hanging out for some Superstock teams racing. So a huge thank you to the crew at Waikaraka Park for making it happen. Sure there was only six teams entered but hey it was a dream come true for this fan and the Panthers were one of those teams. I certainly wasn't going to quibble about the gate prices and thanks WP for coming up with the 2 night concession.
So who were the other teams that were going to put their cars and bodies on the line and attempt to knock the Palmerston North Panthers off the top rung. After missing the show in Palmy, we would see the return of the Auckland Allstars. They were joined by the Kihikihi Kings, Waikato Wanderers, Hawkesbay Hawkeyes and Rotorua Rebels. For only six teams there was some serious talent spread right through all the teams and some of the best machinery available in the North Island.
Friday night was about making the finals the following night. Two groups of three and six teams races. Sure it would have been great to have a couple of more teams competing but I was more than satisfied with what was served up. The teams races were supported by good fields of Stockcars, Saloons and Ministocks to add a bit of variety. There was some great racing in all the classes which kept a decent Friday crowd entertained. The Panthers and the Rebels came out top of their groups but would they end up facing each other in the final.
Saturday night and a great show lined up by the WP crew. Five more teams races with the promise of more intensity. Add in a reasonable field of Super Saloons, a large field of Minisprints contesting the Gran Prix and a great lineup of Modifieds to contest the Auckland Champs. All on a well prepared track.
My highlights of the weekend were in no particular order
- Adam Joblin's drive in the 162S stockcar on Friday night, fast car and big talent.
- Scott Joblin's initiation into the Panthers in the first race of the weekend.
- The return of the Auckland Allstars.
- The mussel fritter van added to food alley - mmmmmmmmmmmmm.
- Watching Macca absolutely chucking the 99A Super Saloon into turn 3 from my possie at the pit gate.
- Ricky Mitchell's return to teams racing and that blocking effort against the Panthers.
- The Panthers almost faultless team work.
- The spectacle that a full field of Mods create.
- The semi-final between the Hawkeyes and the Rebels.
- Most of all was being able to watch Superstock teams racing 10 minutes from where I live..........BRILLIANT.
Lastly I will thank the Drivers, Owners, Crews and Sponsors. Just an awesome commitment from everyone to compete at this level.
