Independent Race Series News
iRace TV - Round 5 - PRC + RocketSports + FT
iRace TV - Round 2 Feature - Part 3
iRace TV - Round 2 Feature - Part 2
iRace TV - Round 2 - Production Racing Cars RocketSports
iRace TV - Round 1
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iRace TV - Round 1 - POST-RACE
iRace TV - Round 1 - THE RACE
iRace TV - Round 1 - PRC and RocketSports
iRace 2013
Enter Round 1 of the 2013 Independent Race Series
Sydney Motorsport Park, GP South, 1 Feb 13
iRace 2013 Teaser from Sam Dale on Vimeo.
iRace TV - Round 5 - Production Racing Cars Highlights
iRace TV - Round 4 - Production Racing Cars Highlights
iRace TV - Round 3 - Richard Mork Interview
iRace TV - Round 3 - Rob Oshlack
iRace TV - Round 3 - Production Racing Cars
iRace TV - Round 1 - Flanagan + Flanagan
iRace TV - Round 1 - Production Racing Cars
iRace TV - Round 1 - Graham Lusty Interview
iRace TV - Round 1 - 2 Minutes with Leabeater + Byers
Entry Update
As you know the weather has been unbelievably wet in the past few months. This has had a real impact on the track works at Eastern Creek, putting the construction of the new South Circuit layout well behind schedule. So far behind that all events scheduled at the circuit between now and the end of July have been cancelled. This includes our scheduled Round 2. All of our remaining rounds are set to go ahead as scheduled.
All of this means its now only three weeks until Round 1 at Queensland Raceway! A reminder that this opening round is for Muscle Division, Production Racing Cars and Touring Car Challenge. The round itself will be held Saturday 31 March and Sunday 1 April. Friday practice is also available on Friday 30 March. Entries for this round are open, you can use the button below to choose your preferred method to enter.
You can also get a nice discount if you would like to enter for multiple rounds.
The remaining rounds of the series will be open to all categories, with Round 3 at Morgan Park 16-17 June, Round 4 at Eastern Creek North 5 August, Round 5 at Eastern Creek North 27 October and Round 6 at Eastern Creek North 30 November.
iRace Merchandise
We've just launched a basic line of iRace merchandise, available immediately. There is a nice iRace Polo shirt (and this same embroidered design can be added to other tops including hoodies and jackets if you choose), plus a range of caps - an iRace version and one for each category. You can choose your own sizes and colours, and order directly from the manufacturer, payment via PayPal or credit card.
Check out the products and links below, and feel free to send us your ideas for new products!
The direct link to our storefront is: www.zazzle.com/iracehq
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![](http://rlv.zcache.com/muscle_division_cap_hat-p148598645499106296f5o_125.jpg)
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![](http://rlv.zcache.com/production_racing_cars_cap_hat-p148041091598342193f5o_125.jpg)
![](http://rlv.zcache.com/formula_tasman_cap_hat-p148166790114836262f5o_125.jpg)
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![](http://rlv.zcache.com/rocketsports_cap_hat-p148791784933741175f5o_125.jpg)
There are regular discounts, so make sure you check this page before you check out to see what the current offers are.
Round 1 Entries Open
Entries are now open for our first round of 2012. As with previous years, you have a number of options for submitting entries - the old fashioned paper entry (you can download a PDF, print it out and post or fax it in), the even more old fashioned paper entry (where you can request us to send you a paper form so you can fill it out and send it in), or the all-singing, all-dancing online entry system. The one link below will take you to a page where you have all three options. We're also rewarding those who enter for multiple rounds with a discount system - the more rounds you enter, the bigger the discount.
Round 1 will be held at Queensland Raceway, 31 March - 1 April (with Friday practice available 30 March). Entries are open to Production Racing Cars, Muscle Division and Touring Car Challenge.
Round Three West End Mazda PRC Videos
We've put together three full race videos for each of the West End Mazda Production Racing Cars races held at Lakeside for Round 3. The videos are shot from onboard three of the category cars - Richard Mork, Paul Leabeater and Neil Byers. Hopefully they give an idea of what it's like to race in the Production Racing Cars category.
We've embedded the videos below, or you can view them (and a host of other videos) on our Vimeo page.
Enjoy.
Formal Announcement: West End Mazda Production Racing Cars
In another exciting announcement for iRace in 2011, West End Mazda are joining the series to support Production Racing Cars as naming-rights sponsor.
West End Mazda is Australia's oldest Mazda Dealership, established at North Parramatta in 1962. They have since expanded to boast a Blacktown Dealership, and they are the most awarded Dealership in New South Wales having won 7 Dealer of The Year Awards for Sales, Service and Parts, and 12 Mazda Master Dealer Awards for Dealership Excellence.
The Production Racing Cars category came to life in 2008, with the Independent Race Series. The category caters for production-based cars, in effectively showroom specification with some essential safety modifications. The category pits a wide range of manufacturers against each other, with very close racing, and an excellent development ground for young drivers.
If you are looking for a new or used Mazda, service or part and accessories, West End Mazda are the people to see.The next round of the Independent Race Series, including the West End Mazda Production Racing Cars, will hit the track at Sydney's Eastern Creek, 29 April.
iRace 2010 - Short Highlights Video
iRace - All Our Friends
2010 iRace End of Season Festivities
Part 1 will be a Family Practice and Training Day using the fantastic training loop at MDTC. To drive on the day the fee is $80 (special price for iRacers), to be a passenger the fee is $50 (for iRacers).
Part 2 will be a 2-course Presentation Dinner in the function room at MDTC. The cost for the dinner is $29 per head.
You can choose which parts you get involved with and get more details on this special page on the iRace website: www.irace.net.au/presentation
The cutoff date for responses is December 3rd.
TV Alert!
The coverage will also be shown on SBS Speedweek on a date to be advised.
As always, check your local guide for details.
Flanagan Gets Launched
Flanagan won the prize as a result of consistently getting his race entries in early. Competitors were notified early in the year that there would be a reward for submitting entries early, and James was in the first five entries received for every round, often being the first to submit his entry.
The Drift Innovation HD170 is one of the best onboard cameras on the market, it features full high definition recording, a variety of mounts (plus a roll cage mount thanks to the guys from Launch) and a full colour LCD screen to help setup the perfect shot.
Launch Helmet Cams are based in Perth, and distribute a full range of fantastic onboard/helmet cameras. They have supported iRace for the duration of 2010, and supplied this fantastic prize. They also have a great deal going at the moment for iRace competitors on an iRacer Onboard package - just $549 for a Drift Innovations HD170 Camera, a Rugged Roll Bar Mount
and a 16GB SD Memory Card. Click here for all the details.
2010 iRace Champions
Gerry Murphy Supporting Day of Difference at Eastern Creek
Super Hoist Plus Production Racing Cars competitor Gerry Murphy will carry the Day of Difference (DoD) logo on the bonnet of his MoComm Racing HSV GTS in an effort to raise awareness about the vital work undertaken by this important charity.
The charity was founded in November 2004 by the parents of little Sophie Delezio who suffered unimaginable burns to 85% of her body in a terrible accident at her child care centre. Thanks to the skill and dedication of hospital staff, Sophie survived.
But there are many more children like Sophie, who suffer critical injuries and need our help. On average, 68,000 children aged 0-14 years are admitted to children’s hospitals due to injury.
That’s 186 per day and 8 every single hour.
Driver Gerry Murphy said “Sophie’s situation was the catalyst for us getting involved with DoD. I just wanted to do something to help her and the hundreds of kids like her. If our involvement can assist to raise the profile or prompt someone to donate, then I feel we have helped in some small way.”
The Day of Difference Foundation
The Day of Difference Foundation is a national children’s charity dedicated to working for critically injured children and their families across Australia, by supporting them on the life changing journey from Intensive Care through to recovery.
The mission of the charity is to offer family support, hospital resources, access to communications and accommodation, community engagement and education in the acceptance of difference.
The Family Support Program
The lives of families where children have been critically injured are often changed forever. The psycho social impact of the trauma they face is well documented in research and for some, it is lifelong and something from which they may never recover.
The Day of Difference Foundation aims to practically address the issues these families face through a new program called the Family Support Program; following the principles of family centred care. We believe this program will result in fewer hospital delinquencies and translate to cost savings in the overall heatlhcare of the family.
The final round for 2010 of the Independent Race Series will be held at Eastern Creek, 16 October. Find out more at the official website: www.irace.net.au
For more information on the Day of Difference Foundation, visit: www.dayofdifference.org.au
Rush Hour: Round 6 Report
![iRaceR6_7](http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4123/4925615959_8d01f08733_s.jpg)
![iRaceR6_4](http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4077/4925614289_2cdbbe9519_s.jpg)
Super Hoist Plus Production Racing Cars saw plenty of on-track action, with two of the races red-flagged when cars went into the gravel traps, but when the flags were green the racing was spectacular. Class X saw a dominant performance by Franck Donniaux in his WRX STi once again, winning outright in all five races. The V8 Class was blitzed by Daniel Flanagan in his
![iRaceR6_3](http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4099/4926208314_5ee857275e_s.jpg)
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![iRaceR6_2](http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4094/4926207874_c78827968d_s.jpg)
McHitch Touring Car Challenge turned plenty of heads for this round, with the introduction of the Oz Truck stock cars. The 500+ HP, V8-powered utes look the part, and proved that they can lap with the best of them, setting
![iRaceR6_6](http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4139/4925615389_634f94ac8c_s.jpg)
In all, another epic round of the Independent Race Series. TV coverage from this round will screen on SBS Speedweek, Sunday 5 September at 12.30pm. The grand finale for 2010 will be held at Eastern Creek, Saturday 16 October. Don't miss out!
Cracking Racing at the Creek: R5 Report
![DSC_4981](http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4116/4796235869_3037d64cdd_s.jpg)
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A successful round in no small part thanks to the awesome volunteer officials (with some great prizes going to a couple of lucky workers thanks to Blue Hills and Fastrack), and the spirit of the iRace competitors and their teams.
Coverage from this round will air on SBS Speedweek Sunday 25 July.
The next round of the series will be held at Queensland Raceway, 14-15 August. Entries are already open. The series returns to Eastern Creek for the season finale in October.
Support Mark Bell
![IMG_7972](http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4034/4698414713_b1c97ecd6b_m.jpg)
From all reports Mark's recovery is slowly progressing, but it will no doubt be a long haul. To support Mark and his family, iRace will be holding a fundraising raffle.
Tickets will be available at our Eastern Creek round next Friday (9 July), but we'd like you to pledge your support in advance if possible (and if you can't make it to Eastern Creek, and want some tickets, let us know and we'll sort something out). To reserve your tickets, please head to the support form by clicking here and complete your details.
Prizes have been arranged by R & A Mowers, operated by the Gurneys (HDT Muscle Division competitors), and with thanks to Parklands, Karcher and Makita.
First prize:
Parklands DX-250 electric kids bike
Second prize:
Karcher electric pressure water cleaner
Third prize:
Makita cordless drill
Tickets are $10 each or you can get 10 tickets for $50.
If you would like to share a message of support for Mark and his family, you can do it on our Facebook page (click here).
If you want to tell your friends about this, you can use the address: supportmarkbell.irace.net.au
Round 3: Winning Formula
![IMG_6880](http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2118/4509118742_be8ca5026d_t.jpg)
Qualifying was held in the morning, with two sessions for each category. Despite threatening clouds over the circuit on the Thursday evening as many teams unloaded their cars, Friday morning brought clear skies and warm temperatures, which would remain in place for the whole day.
Once qualifying was out of the way, the racing action came thick and fast, with eleven races between noon and 4.20pm.
![IMG_6976](http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2163/4509376673_a388612b74_t.jpg)
![IMG_6941](http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2338/4509463460_31fdf3281f_t.jpg)
Formula Tasman and LeMans Sports were combined, with Chris Farrell running very strongly in his Swift Formula Atlantic, and dominating all sessions. Sam Dale had hoped to offer more of a challenge to Farrell, but a slipping clutch saw him limp home in both races. Geoff Rands performed well to take out the LeMans Sports honours.
![IMG_6859](http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2137/4507694348_d5d686967f_t.jpg)
![IMG_6994](http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4061/4510102394_ae43c35c5c_t.jpg)
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![IMG_6983](http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4067/4510073388_27efe8ff39_t.jpg)
Blackberry Store joins iRace as Official Communications Partner
Blackberry Store (www.blackberrystore.com.au) is the premium source for Blackberry Phones / PDAs including the new Blackberry Bold and an extensive range of Blackberry Accessories. Blackberry Store is based at North Ryde, in Sydney, but serves the whole of Australia through it's extensive online store. They offer the very best in phones and PDAs, and also offer comprehensive support, training and accessories.
The partnership will see Blackberry devices awarded to two Class winners in the Super Hoist Plus Production Racing Cars at each round. The prize will rotate between the different classes. To be in the running, Super Hoist Plus Production Racing Cars competitors will display Blackberry Store stickers either on the sides or front of their vehicle.
The Super Hoist Plus Production Racing Cars showcases a huge variety of production cars in action packed racing. The cars have only limited modifications from standard (most to enhance safety), but this only serves to make the action more fierce, as drivers in evenly matched machines battle it out for class honours. This new partnership will mean there is even more reward for taking the top spot.
The next round of the Independent Race Series will be held at Morgan Park, 20-21 March. Visit www.irace.net.au for more information.
Head to blackberrystore.com.au to see their great range of phones, PDAs and accessories on offer, and support the company that is supporting our series.
Fitting Send Off for Oran Park
Activities got underway on Friday morning, with official practice sessions, and then qualifying in the afternoon. Despite the threatening skies, the weather stayed dry for the whole meeting. Strong fields turned out across the board, with the most impressive in RocketSports, HDT Muscle Division and Super Hoist Plus Production Racing Cars.
Competition was fierce in qualifying, with pole positions taken as follows:
Super Hoist Plus Production Racing Cars - Franck Donniaux (D. Flanagan V8 Class, Richard Mork Class A, Bryan Fitzpatrick Class B, John Willmington Class C
HDT Muscle Division - Greg Boyle - Nissan Silvia
Formula Tasman - Sam Dale - Reynard 94D (Neil Kenny LeMans Sports)
RocketSports - Jade Barnes - Future Racer
McHitch Touring Car Challenge - Barry Jameson - Jaguar
Racing got underway on Saturday morning, and right from the driver's briefing it was clear that mixed emotions were the order of the day - happiness at having a chance to race at Oran Park one last time, and a tinge of sadness that it would be the last time.
In the Super Hoist Plus Production Racing Cars, competition within the classes was very strong. Class X saw Franck Donniaux (Subaru WRX) fighting it out with Anthony Soole (Lotus Exige). Donniaux made the most of his 4WD to take the early lead. The two drivers traded fastest laps, and Donniaux too the win in Races 1 & 2, with Soole getting the upper hand in Race 3. In the brand new V8 Class, Daniel Flanagan was dominant in Race 1 & 3, but had an off-track excursion in Race 2, and was forced to retire from that race - Geoff Kite didn't need an invitation, and capitalised to take V8 Class in Race 2. Class A belonged to Richard Mork in his Honda Integra - Morky enjoying some great battles, and relishing the chance to reminisce about all the laps he's done at Oran Park. Bryan Fitzpatrick took three class wins in Class B, making a welcome (and successful!) return to the series. And in Class C, John Willmington started 2010 the way he finished 2009, with a dominant class win. Full results available here.
HDT Muscle Division boasted a bumper field, and the racing was fantastic. Greg Boyle took the win in the scratch race, holding out Adam Lloyd and Mick Duff. Race 2 was the first of the handicap races, and a red flag after 9 laps saw the fastest cars unable to overcome their handicap. Rod Gurney took advantage though, driving a smooth race to take the win ahead of Paul Axiak and Alan Walls. Race 3 ran the full distance, and on the final lap almost the whole field was separated by only a couple of hundred metres. Paul Leabeater took the race win, also handing him the outright round win. Darren Gillis scorched through from a full lap handicap to take second, and Adam Lloyd was third. Full results available here.
Formula Tasman and LeMans Sports started with a promising field, with a couple of cars dropping out during the day. Sam Dale led the early running, but succumbed to gearbox failure dropping him from the lead of Race One, and ruling him out for the weekend. The Choon F3 cars wasted no time in taking over the lead though, and battling it out through all three races. David Choon took Race 1, but son Robert took the wins in Races 2 & 3. Robert took the round win, ahead of David, with Glenn Lynch putting in a solid performance to finish third. In the LeMans Sports stakes, Neil Kenny performed strongly, winning Race 1, but suffering a mechanical problem in the process, ruling him out of the remaining races. Andrew MacPherson put in a strong performance in his West (which he hadn't sat in until arriving at the circuit!), and took the wins in Races 2 & 3, and the LeMans Sports round win. Full results available here and here.
RocketSports put on some of the closest racing of the weekend, with the three different groups of cars in the field proving to be surprisingly evenly matched, with the Future Racers, the MX5s and the Holden Roadsters providing an excellent spectacle. Jade Barnes (Future Racer) had his eye on a clean sweep of wins, and after winning Race 1 & 2, was looking set to do so. 2009 Future Racer champion, Nathan Jess had other ideas though, securing the win in Race 3. Robert Free and Terry Clearihan continued their ongoing rivalry. Top of the MX5s was Chris Tonna, and the best of the Holden Roadsters was Terry Mayfield. Full results available here.
The McHitch Touring Car Challenge saw the inclusion of the new Gran Turismo class, opening the door for a more diverse field. In Race One, Barry Jameson had the upper hand in his Jaguar, ahead of Darren Saillard (Falcon Supercar) and Norm Stokes (Mazda RX7). In the first of the handicap races, Darren Saillard was a man on a mission, carving through the field to take the win. Grant Wilson in his awesome 1969 Chev Camaro V8 Giant held on for second place, and Andrew MacPherson was impressive in his Mosler to take third. In the finale, Saillard again blitzed through the field to take the win. Chad Parish in his debut in the ex-Perkins VX Commodore Supercar drove a solid race to finish second, and Norm Stokes was third. Saillard took the outright win, ahead of Parish in an impressive debut and a great showing from Grant Wilson. Full results available here.
A selection of onboard video from this event is available here, thanks to Launch Helmet Cams.
Look out for a gallery of photos soon.
The next round of the Independent Race Series will be held a Morgan Park, 20-21 March. For competitors, head to the online entry form to get your entry in. The Morgan Park circuit is fantastic, and really worth the journey for all those competitors from the southern states.
While You Were Out
- Super Hoist Plus became the naming rights sponsor of Production Racing Cars
- HDT became the naming rights sponsor of Muscle Division and HDT Cup
- McHitch Uniglide Trailer Couplings became the naming rights sponsor of the Touring Car Challenge
- Launch Helmet Cams became the Official Onboard and Helmet Camera Partner
- Toranas are now eligible for HDT Cup
- Super Hoist Plus now features a dedicated class for V8s
- Our 2009 Presentation Night was held at Marulan Driver Training Centre
- A new section was added to the website to showcase onboard camera footage
- We learned how to make our racecars a little safer
- We offered up some New Years Resolutions for racers
- Updated category regulations are now available
2010 is going to be a busy year! Strap in for an exciting ride...
Round 1 is just a week away. If you haven't gotten your entry in yet, don't delay - head to the entry form now, and don't miss your last chance to race with iRace at Oran Park!
The Super Hoist Plus Production Racing Cars
Heading into 2010, Super Hoist Plus are ramping up their support, and taking on naming rights of the Production Racing Cars category. The category will be known as the Super Hoist Plus Production Racing Cars, and all cars will bear Super Hoist Plus windscreen banners.
As part of the deal, Super Hoist Plus will also provide a $200 voucher towards Super Hoist Plus products as a prize for one competitor in each category at each round. These vouchers may be used cumulatively (if a competitor wins more than one, they will be able to use the total value towards a Super Hoist Plus product), but they not be transferred or exchanged for cash.
Super Hoist Plus are a family-owned and -operated company who supply quality products at everyday affordable prices, making it possible for anyone to own their own Super Hoist product. The range of hoists and other workshop equipment is very impressive, and offers something to improve just about any workshop.
Check out their extensive website, and support the company that supports our series, or contact Super Hoist Plus on 1800 71 72 73. www.superhoistplus.com
The Super Hoist Plus Production Racing Cars follow the true tradition of Australian motorsport - cars that can be bought from the dealer, made safe for racing with minor modifications and then raced hard - just like they used to do at Bathurst. The category features very close racing between cars from a huge variety of manufacturers.
The first outing of the Super Hoist Plus Production Racing Cars will be at Oran Park GP, 15-16 Jan 2010. Click here for all the details.
Production Racing Cars Gain V8 Class
Heading into 2010, we see the announcement of a new class within the Production Racing Cars category. The new class will be known as V8 Class, and will offer competition for a variety of naturally aspirated, V8-powered production cars. (Forced-induction production V8s will be eligible to compete in Class X.)
The first round of the 2010 Independent Race Series, featuring Production Racing Cars, will be held at Sydney's Oran Park, 15-16 January.
To access the 2010 Production Racing Cars Sporting and Technical regulations, please click here.
2009 Champions
TV Week!
The coverage will then be repeated on Wednesday on Fox Sports Inside Speed - check your TV guide for exact timings of the program.
The TV coverage will feature highlights of the action from Oran Park, of iRace's biggest meeting so far. Don't miss it!
iRace Grand Prix
![Andrew Macpherson](http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3562/3819899083_a30a3db484_s.jpg)
Action got underway on Friday (14 August) morning, with unofficial practice. Qualifying kicked off after lunch, and the first of the races were held late Friday afternoon. The weather was perfect throughout, and Saturday morning brought more sunshine, and plenty of racing.
![Stuart Inwood](http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3571/3820150537_f0350c113a_s.jpg)
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![Adam Lloyd](http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3505/3820159981_51d1f826f5_s.jpg)
![Franck Donniaux](http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2600/3820593492_3edbb70b44_s.jpg)
![Clark Stott](http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3454/3819781929_b065388e0d_s.jpg)
In Class A, Clark Stott (Mazda 3 MPS) proved too good, to take the class honours over Geoff Kite and Hans Riehs.
![Neil Byers](http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2507/3819834803_c8bbc7bd3d_s.jpg)
![John Willmington](http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2640/3819801259_18c918a130_s.jpg)
![Chris Farrell](http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3430/3820756040_81216b7d3b_s.jpg)
![Ed Singleton](http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2634/3819928895_da01960644_s.jpg)
![Andy Cantrell](http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3517/3821017850_42b63cc730_s.jpg)
![David Raddatz](http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3486/3822025348_c5d537a44c_s.jpg)
A welcome addition on the card at Oran Park was the MX5 Challenge. The large field of these nimble machines joined the RocketSports ranks, and enjoyed two standalone races. In the RocketSports outright, the MX5's proved unbeatable, with David Raddatz taking the victory. He was closely followed by Matilda Mravicic, and Nick Martinenko. The Holden Roadsters mixed it
![Graham Smith](http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3535/3819989635_b955f93d14_s.jpg)
In the MX5 Challenge, honours in the Turbo category went to David Raddatz, in the NA Slick category, Shane Otten took the win, and in the NA Road category Corey Stevens took the honours.
![IMG_2832](http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2512/3820991734_d5630f8bb9_m.jpg)
The next confirmed event for the Independent Race Series will be held at Oran Park (South Circuit) 13-15 November. The team are working hard on securing an event in October - details will be announced as soon as they are available. We're working hard to keep bringing you our trademark brand of mate-against-mate, affordable racing.
So, watch this space!
Round Four Race Winners
Round Four Pole Winners
Press play to start the slideshow. Click the fullscreen icon (lower right corner) to view in fullscreen, then click show info to see the details on each driver.
Round Four Preview
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The round, to be held at Sydney's Oran Park, on the GP layout, will feature racing by all the iRace categories: Formula Tasman & LeMans Sport, Touring Car Challenge, Muscle Division, Production Racing Cars and RocketSports. Additionally, the round will see the debut of the brand new HDT Cup category, and the inclusion of the MX5 Challenge.
The Independent Race Series prides itself on mate against mate racing, and catering for a diverse range of competitors and cars. This round will feature a number of notable competitors:
![Andrew Macpherson](http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2544/3816259343_d90809e3ce_s.jpg)
![Andy Cantrell & Joe McGinness](http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3337/3537358668_449d8e47da_s.jpg)
![Terry Mayfield](http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2471/3537370644_58605ed625_s.jpg)
![Kylie Willmington](http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2594/3817136456_92bcc2ed4c_s.jpg)
![IMG_4379](http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2663/3817153312_e76d5a6b4f_s.jpg)
Practice gets underway at 0930 Friday, with Qualifying from 1330. The first of the races will take place from 1510 on Friday afternoon, with the bulk of the racing resuming at 0900 Saturday. The full schedule is available to download here.
Admission for spectators is free on both days. The pits are accessible, and the teams friendly, so come along and check out the Independent Race Series.
Countdown to Round 4
Entries have been rolling in for the event, and it's looking like some healthy fields will be in attendance, the standouts being Muscle Division and Production Racing Cars.
In Production Racing Cars, most of the guns from Round Two are back, and this time out they'll be joined by Graham Lusty in an XR6 Turbo Falcon, and Bryan Fitzpatrick will return in his nimble Renault Clio. Look out for some hot action from this group.
Todd will be joined by a number of other competitors who are still waiting for the paint to dry on their racing machines, including Robert Marchese. Robert's car (pictured left) still has some finishing touches to be completed, but he is very keen to get on track.
Other categories in action will be: Touring Car Challenge, Formula Tasman and RocketSports.
The full round schedule will be available shortly. Round Four of the Independent Race Series will take place on the GP layout at the Oran Park venue, with action kicking off 14 August, and concluding 15 August. More information on the round is available here.
For spectators admission will be free. For competitors, entries are still open, so if you want to enjoy this awesome venue, get your entry in asap.
Coverage from Round Two
Click here to view the video.
Click here to check out the excellent Speedweek website.
An iRace Open Day will be held at Marulan Driver Training Centre Saturday 20 June, and the next round of the series will be at Oran Park 14-15 August 2009.
First Batch of Round Two Photos Online
Check out the new gallery by clicking here.
![Kosi Kalaitzidis, Chris Clearihan & Jade Barnes](http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2126/3537374708_f7e68a1b94.jpg)
More photos will be added over the coming days.
Onboard with Anthony Soole at Oran Park
IRACE PRC LOTUS EXIGE from Anthony Soole on Vimeo.
Double The Fun for Round Two
![Oran Park](http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1159/3352820147_e893356c45.jpg)
Round Two is nearly upon us, and for this round the series heads to Sydney's Oran Park. Bumper fields in Production Racing Cars and RocketSports are expected, plus the fantastic SuperTrucks, and a strong lineup including Touring Car Challenge, Muscle Division, Formula Tasman and LeMans Sports.
The flowing Oran Park South Circuit will play host to some fantastic action, with Practice and Qualifying on Friday (15 May), a couple of races on Friday afternoon, and the bulk of racing on Saturday 16 May.
As always, the Independent Race Series features a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, where fans can get an up close look at the cars, meet the drivers, and generally get amongst it. For drivers, it is an affordable, mate-against-mate platform to enjoy motorsport.
To view the schedule for Round Two, please click here.
If you would like to compete at the event, it's not too late! Check out the online entry form here, and get in touch with our Competitor Liaison via email, or on 0412 785 486, to secure your entry.
If you can't make it to Oran Park for the event, you can keep an eye on the official website: www.irace.net.au for updates during the event.
Round Report - Round One - Morgan Park
The meeting took place under clear skies and warm weather, and was for many competitors (and the iRace Series) their first visit to the technical circuit.
Friday saw unofficial practice, and the first chance for the competitors to get to know the layout. There were no major occurrences during the day, other than an oil line coming lose on Robert Townsend's Minetti, leading to a fire, and Robert's unfortunate retirement from the meeting.
![Darren Saillard](http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3545/3375455048_2e9794a2c5_s.jpg)
In qualifying, the leaders remained unchanged - Saillard took pole for the Touring Car Challenge, Soole for Production Racing Cars, Dale for Formula Tasman/Le Mans Sports and Robert Free in the RocketSports. In each case the midfield groups were tightly grouped, promising some great racing come Sunday.
![Graham Smith](http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3615/3372404758_62439e6c12_s.jpg)
For the second RocketSports race, Robert Free led from start to finish again, but John Biddlecombe succumbed to a fuel problem, and was forced to retire from the rest of the meeting. Smith again got the better of O'Connor in the Holden Roadsters.
![Clive O'Connor](http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3619/3372420308_b83eb90dae_s.jpg)
In the RocketSports finale, Robert Free led all the way, but O'Connor managed to get the better of Smith in the early stages, running in second place. Smith got the upperhand at half-distance, and held second to the finish.
Robert Free took the overall win for the round, and Smith took the Holden Roadster honours.
![Sam Dale](http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3639/3369971502_9dd4e31234_s.jpg)
The Production Racing Cars proved to be highly competitive, with some very close racing. Anthony Soole dominated, in his Class X Lotus Exige. Behind Soole was a mix of Class A, B and C cars.
![Clark Stott](http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3612/3371617581_da84e9d24e_s.jpg)
![Anthony Soole](http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3457/3371578423_82c1d4f625_s.jpg)
![John Willmington & Carly Black](http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3589/3375453390_39e58e06a8_s.jpg)
![Nick Chambers](http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3426/3374672129_af5bdec961_s.jpg)
In the final standings for Production Racing Cars, Anthony Soole took the Class X victory, young-gun Nick Chambers won Class A, James Flanagan was victorious in Class B and John Willmington was dominant in Class C.
![Darren Saillard](http://static.flickr.com/3451/3374665365_0e35da262e_s.jpg)
![Joe McGinnes](http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3611/3371615783_1acae7eb6c_s.jpg)
![Dave Gardner](http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3469/3369974764_51bf78e2f7_s.jpg)
In the final, Darren Saillard turned the tables, and took a dominant victory. Gardner took second place, with local driver Matthew Clift in third.
![Merrick Malouf](http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3641/3375478334_e9608ed485_s.jpg)
A solid weekend of racing at Morgan Park revealed what a great driver's circuit it is. The challenging layout proved popular amongst competitors, and is expected to draw larger fields at the next event held at the track in June.
The next round of the Independent Race Series will be held at Sydney's Oran Park, 15-16 May, when they host the SuperTrucks for their farewell from Oran Park. All the details are available on the official website: www.irace.net.au
Onboard at Morgan Park
Dave Gardner - VS Commodore - Touring Car Challenge
Morgan Park - Race Day
Touring Car Challenge & Muscle Division
1. Darren Saillard - BA Falcon V8 Supercar
2. Merrick Malouf - BA Falcon V8 Ute
3. Dave Gardner - VS Commodore V8 Supercar
V8 Supercar - Darren Saillard
V8 Giant - Philip Groeneveld
Muscle Division - Merrick Malouf
Production Racing Cars
Class X - Anthony Soole
Class A
1. Nicholas Chambers - Mini Cooper S
2. Clark Stott - Mazda 3 MPS
3. Richard Mork - Honda Integra
Class B
1. James Flanagan - Hyundai Sonata
2. Carly Black - Peugeot 206
3. Malcolm Rea - Toyota Celica
Class C
1. John Willmington - Nissan Pulsar
2. Candace Shafell - Toyota Corolla
3. Joshua Riehs - Proton GTi
RocketSports & Future Racers
Future Racer - Robert Free
Holden Roadster - Graham Smith
Formula Tasman & Le Mans Sports
1. Sam Dale - Reynard 94D
Marulan Driver Training Centre Support for TCC and PRC
The Touring Car Challenge features cars from the past 20 years of Australian Touring Car racing, and a diversity format where everyone has a chance to take victory.
Production Racing Cars is dedicated to road-based, production cars, from the showroom floor, via a couple of safety modifications, straight to the race track.
The Marulan Driver Training Centre is dedicated to road safety through driver training and education. The centre, around an hour and a half south of Sydney, features top quality training facilities and a 1km long, 8m wide track, specially designed to feature a variety of driving challenges. Visit www.mdtc.com.au for more information.
Competitors in TCC and PRC will display MDTC windscreen banners in recognition of the support.
Round One of the Independent Race Series heads to Morgan Park this weekend, 20-22 March. Keep track of all the action on www.iRace.net.au
Living on the Edge
Hans Riehs had been setting the track alight in his Class B Mini Cooper S, setting fastest time in the morning practice session (51.48s), and setting a time good enough for second on the grid before running wide heading towards Suttons. Unfortunately the car dug in as it entered the sand trap and suffered a slow roll onto, coming to a rest on its side.
Hans was uninjured, but took no further part in proceedings. The car suffered fairly minor (mostly cosmetic) damage, and is expected to return to the front of the Production Racing Cars pack in the near future.
New Car + Super Diesel Backing = Pumped John Willmington
With backing from Sydney-based Super Diesel, Willmington has acquired a new car - a SSS N15 Nissan Pulsar, powered by the popular SR20 engine.
Willmington is relatively new to circuit racing, having made his debut in 2007 at the final round of that season's AMRS. He's certainly not lacking enthusiasm or talent though, and his background in go karts has given him a good starting point.
John's main sponsor is also fairly new on the market. Super Diesel is a revolutionary new fuel with benefits that include:
- Fuel economy improved by 4 to 7%
- Black smoke reduced by up to 24%
- Engine noise reduced by up to 15%
Look out for Willmington and the Super Diesel Nissan Pulsar SSS at the first round of the Production Racing Cars, in the Independent Race Series. Keep track of all the latest news and information via the official series website: www.irace.net.au