Roar of new engines
Two car types to make their debuts at Ayr speedway
Engine enthusiasts will be spoiled for choice on Saturday when Ayr’s speedway welcomes two types of race cars never seen before on the local track.
One is the 1000cc, four-cylinder Modlites which have been taking South East Queensland by storm since being introduced from the US.
Built on car chassis, the modified dirt racers are powered by an enormous 1000cc motorcycle engine mounted sideways with the exhaust on the left and a diff running to the back.
The second is the “outlaw” division where drivers race vehicles described as “mini Formula 500s”.
All the thrills and spills will be occurring at Ayr’s Pioneer Park Speedway on May 6.
Described as “330 metres of decomposed granite fun” by new owner George Ward, the speedway circuit is an icon in racing circles.
“I rode here in the 90s, it’s one of the best in Australia and known all around the world,” Mr Ward said.
“For me personally, I bought the place because it keeps the speedway open and we’re turning the lights on in North Queensland. No one else is doing that.”
This is the first big car meet at Pioneer Park Speedway since Mr Ward took over in mid-2022.
“I was 60, living on the Gold Coast and sick of traffic lights,” Mr Ward said.
“My son is a world champion speedway motorbike rider and he runs a speedway in Brisbane. He said ‘Dad, what are you doing on the Gold Coast? Go up there and start a new life without traffic lights’.”
Mr Ward has been busy building up the speedway since.
“I walked the town trying to meet new people and get things done. I ended up getting Autopro Ayr as a sponsor which has been a big help,” he said.
“I’m personally a bike person and Pioneer is primarily a bike speedway, but I can’t say no to the open wheelers.”
Open wheel refers to any dirt racing cars.
Competing on the same program as the Modlites and Outlaw categories on Saturday night will be Formula 250, Formula 400, Formula 500 and junior sedans.
“Only four kids signed up for junior sedans but I kept it because we need the young kids coming through,” Mr Ward said.
Spectators should bring chairs and blankets, as parking is no longer allowed on the hill.
The speedway opens to spectators at 3pm and racing begins from 6pm.
Ticket prices: Adults ($20), concession ($15), children under 12 free.