The 2009 Independent Race Series Launch is go for liftoff, and there are some exciting additions to help make it an even bigger event.

In addition to the on-track sessions, with some driver tuition available, and the BBQ lunch, the following additional activities will be taking place:

Licence and Logbook Processing

Competitors eager to get a head start on their 2009 administration can get all their paperwork out of the way at the event. iRace HQ staff will be in attendance, and ready to help you with your forms. (Relevant forms are also available for download here.)

Marketplace

Buy, sell, swap your racing gear. If you have a racecar or equipment you are selling, the 2009 iRace Launch Day is the perfect venue to display it to prospective buyers. If you have a larger item, or a car you wish to bring, please get in contact with Garry Willmington on 02 4841 1422 or Fax 02 4841 1017 or click here to email.

Anyone who has an item to sell or lease can list the item on our free Classifieds. Please visit the Classified Submission form here to submit your ad.

Get a head start on the 2009 Independent Race Series, get yourself to the Launch Day - 18 January 2009 at the Marulan Driver Training Centre.

The video above is a short highlights reel from the coverage of the first ever iRace round from Oran Park. The full package should be available early in the new year.

The 2009 Independent Race Series is set to take off, with an exciting launch day to be held at the brand new Marulan Driver Training Centre 18 January 2009.

The Independent Race Series is racing for racers. Costs are kept as low as possible, and in the prevailing economic climate, it's expected that this will prove even more important heading into 2009. The Independent Race Series is set for at least five rounds in 2009, Morgan Park 20-22 March, Oran Park (South) 15-16 May, Morgan Park 19-21 June, Oran Park (GP) 14-15 August and Oran Park (South) 13-15 November. More details on the 2009 series will be announced at the Launch Day.

In keeping with the affordable theme for iRace, the Launch Day will be an affordable event, with no racing, but plenty of opportunity for drivers to hone their skills ahead of an exciting season. The day will be an opportunity for competitors, prospective competitors, supporters and suppliers to get together, socialise and network without the pressure of a normal race weekend. Those keen to blow away the holiday cobwebs will have the chance to do some laps too, with the driver training facility open to road or production cars (at a fee of $50 per head for driver or passenger). Driver education will also be available to those who are keen to improve their skills. The day will also be a great opportunity to take some hard-working crewmembers or loyal supporters out for a few laps. There will be kids ride sessions, and iRace licence evaluations for new competitors.

Entry to the Launch Day is free. For those taking part in laps of the facility, the cost is $50 per head, and includes a free BBQ lunch (with soft drink). BBQ lunch is available to everyone else for $5. Soft drinks, tea and coffee will also be available. A 90db noise limit applies to all vehicles at the event.

The Marulan Driver Training Centre is a brand new, state-of-the-art facility, located less than an hour from Sydney. It features a 1km training loop, a short dirt oval, and a skidpan, as well as excellent classrooms and administration buildings. The facility was constructed by Garry and Natalie Willmington, and opened in late 2008.

So, for your chance to be a part of the Launch Day, and get behind the 2009 Independent Race Series, make sure you keep January 18th free, and head to the Marulan Driver Training Centre for a fantastic day. To secure your place now, contact Garry Willmington on 02 4841 1422 or Fax 02 4841 1017 or click here to email.

UPDATE to the Launch Day available here.

Directions to Marulan Driver Training Centre available here.