Bargwanna steps up

Warragul local Ben Bargwanna has made the step up to Formula Ford as he continues to climb the motorsport ladder.

The Formula Ford racing is similar to Formula One, albeit with much lower-powered and slightly differently built cars.

The Formula Ford category has been a stepping stone for some of Australia's most successful drivers, including Daniel Riccardo, Mark Webber, Jamie Whincup, Craig Lowndes and Ben's father, Jason Bargwanna. This year the competition is celebrating its 50th year in Australia. Ben is looking forward to the step up. “The cars are fast, fun and the racing is so close that it's mind blowing," says Ben.

Ben plans to continue competing in the Victoria Formula Ford competition while he completes year 12 at St Paul’s, before entering the National Championship next year. Ben has already finished on the podium twice in the Victorian competition this year.

Ben has been working with the Garry Rogers Motorsport V8 Supercar team, that now runs Renault and Alfa cars. He has been working with Garry Rogers Motorsport mechanics and engineers, most recently at Phillip Island.

“Just to be part of a team like this is amazing, and whilst I am here to learn, to wash wheels, fuel cars, work with the team," says Ben.

“I take my race gear along in the boot, just in case they need me to drive” he jokes.

“It’s great to see Bens passion and drive and watching him in a large race team environment is exciting," says Ben's father, Jason.

“He is paying his dues and all good things come to those who wait.”