A pit pictorial
Russ Murray’s race photographs grace these pages in almost every issue, but Russ finds as many interesting subjects in the pits as on the track. Here’s a sample of his observations from Mac Park, Mount Gambier, over Christmas 2023. Most people go to the bike races to see the racing, and to watch a particular race or rider. The same applies to the photographer with the rest being a ‘bonus’. In reality, all the images required for a story can be shot in a day although you still have to be there in case something of note just happens to occur.
For me personally, I find a pit walk is mandatory, partly to photograph a particular bike and associated details - something that can’t be done during the racing. It is also an opportunity to gain some information about the bike and rider as well as provide some non-racing images to add to a story.
It is here, especially at historic race meets, that the ‘atmosphere’ of a race meet exists, whether it be working on a bike, prepping for the next race, chatting to the pit crew (if you are lucky enough to have one) or just relaxing whilst waiting for the next race. Then of course, there is the ‘family’ atmosphere that prevails, particularly at Mac Park over Christmas. These images were taken at the South Australian Historic Road Race Championship. It is a favorite track for many, partly for the actual race track which is both grippy and suited to older bikes with it’s 12 corners and long back straight but also for the wonderful atmosphere, something that seems to be the norm within historic road racing. ■ Russ Murray