Speed Series wrap up at Queensland Raceway
National Trans Am Series at Queensland Raceway witnessed an eventful racing weekend, filled with dramatic moments and standout performances across the races.
Race 1 kicked off with high expectations, but an array of first-lap incidents resulted in the race being declared a non-result, leaving fans and drivers eager for the subsequent contests. The race suspension meant no series points were awarded, and the starting grid remained unchanged for race two later in the day.
Race 2 saw Tom Hayman seize his first National Trans Am Series win after a gripping battle with Pioneer DJ's Elliot Barbour. The duo quickly separated themselves from the pack, with Hayman executing a crucial move on lap 17, securing a two-second lead to triumph. Edan Thornburrow secured a podium finish, while series leader James Moffat came in fourth. The previously pole-sitting Cody Gilles faced a setback, finishing fifth, and teammate Elliot Cleary dropped to eighth place after a disappointing race.
Race 3 featured a dominant performance by Tom Hayman, who translated his pole position into a lights-to-flag victory. The New South Welshman led the race throughout, crossing the finish line ahead of Lochie Dalton from AWC and Elliot Barbour of Pioneer DJ. Safety car conditions came into play, and James Moffat managed to fight his way through the grid after an early spin, finishing fourth.
Race 4 witnessed Tom Hayman's remarkable form persist, as he secured a clean sweep of wins at Queensland Raceway. The race marked his third consecutive victory, as he maintained his lead from start to finish. Elliot Barbour claimed a commendable second place, and James Moffat, the series leader, rounded out the podium.
Meanwhile, in the Supercheap Auto TCR Australia Series, the action was equally thrilling. In Race 1, Will Brown showcased his prowess, converting his pole position into a dominant lights-to-flag victory. Brown's commanding performance secured him his first race win of 2023, finishing more than 10 seconds ahead of Tony D’Alberto. Zac Soutar completed the top three.
Race 2 witnessed rookie Brad Harris making his mark with his maiden series win in the reverse-grid race. Despite intense pressure, Harris managed to hold off challenges from Aaron Cameron and Will Brown. Harris secured victory by a margin of less than half a second, with Brown's performance from tenth position earning him third place.
Race 3 saw another solid performance from Will Brown, claiming victory in the category's final race of the weekend. An early safety car intervention brought excitement, and despite subsequent interruptions, Brown maintained his dominance. Aaron Cameron showcased his skills, securing second place, while rookie Brad Harris clinched third.
The Fanatec GT World Challenge Australia powered by AWS added to the excitement. Race 1 featured a notable win by Geoff Emery and Austrian driver Max Hofer. Emery's early stint set the foundation, and Hofer successfully maintained the lead, crossing the finish line ahead of Yasser Shahin and Garnet Patterson.
Race 2 concluded the weekend, with Shannons entry Liam Talbot and Garth Tander claiming the final race win. Despite a 15-second penalty, Talbot and Tander demonstrated resilience and skill, with Geoff Emery and Max Hofer taking second place. Triple Eight Race Engineering's Ibrahim and Jamie Whincup secured third, following a spin while leading the race.
The racing weekend at Queensland Raceway provided fans with a thrilling showcase of talent, strategy, and determination across the National Trans Am Series, Supercheap Auto TCR Australia Series, and Fanatec GT World Challenge Australia powered by AWS.
