Circuit Excel Field returns to The Bend
State Championship racing returns to The Bend Motorsport Park this weekend as 40 Circuit Excels headline a packed two-day schedule promoted by the Sporting Car Club of SA which includes a large contingent of interstate competitors.
The 4.95km international configuration will reward the brave and produce good racing with its sweeping right-hand corners and fast 90-degree right-hander that is both uphill and blind on entry.
The Burson Auto Parts Circuit Excel Cup welcomes back reigning Super 3 and Super 2 contender, Bradley Vaughan as well as Toyota 86 Series competitor Jayden Wanzek who will go head-to-head with Championship leader, Joel Johnson.
Reigning State Champion Asher Johnston will be absent from this weekend’s events – a surprise to some competitors with the star focusing his full attention on a Darwin Supercars opportunity next month.
A new name to the category but not to the motorsport scene is Mark Rosser who will be driving the Jaguar-inspired #12. If round 1 pace is anything to go by, this car and driver combination will be battling for podium.
After finishing as the highest-placed South Australian at the Bathurst 6 Hour Invitational, Nick Scaife, will be looking to cement his place in the championship as the only other driver inside the top 5 (besides Joel) racing this weekend.
Young guns, Isaac Sparks & Aaron Oliver will be looking to bounce back after a character-building first round at Mallala hindered by mechanical dramas. Grunter Racing Team has also been busy in the break with an engine and gearbox swap for brothers Ben and Jake Gallyer.
The Masters grid will be combined with the State Championship class with a delayed start to save on transit time around the circuit. With Masters contenders Misch Nowickyj, Ivan Vantagiato and round sponsor Kim Anderson away, the door to challenge leader Brian Smith is wide open. Keep an eye on Martyn Butler and CERA Secretary, Andrew Young to maximise on points.
Circuit Excel will feature with qualifying and four races over the weekend. Keep track of results on Natsoft and visit the Circuit Excel Facebook page for the latest category updates.