Baker claims state title

Pimpinio speedway driver Jock Baker has regained a South Australian Limited Sportsman Title, clinching his third state championship at Tolmer Speedway in Bordertown.

Baker previously won the Victorian title last year and the South Australian crown in 2006.

“After coming runner up the last two years in South Australia, it was fantastic to finally take out the number-one spot this season,” he said.

Baker had pole position after three heats and battled for first position for the first 12 laps against Mount Gambier driver Kahn Aston.

“It was good tight racing. The lead would have changed 15 to 20 times,” he said.

“I’d bank myself into the lead one corner and then Kahn would get in front the next. It would have been great viewing for the spectators.”

Baker has been racing all of his life, following in the footsteps of his two older brothers Max and Dean.

“I was the 10-year-old kid in the pits, crewing for my brothers, mucking around with go-karts until I was old enough to race,” he said.

Dean Baker made a comeback to the track at the weekend after a 27year break.

He started all heats at the rear of the field but was able to secure fourth position in the finals.

A blown tyre led to him retiring in the final.

Jock Baker said there were variables in motorsport.

“The car, setup, tyres, the track and driver ability all come into play and thankfully we had everything right for the final and won,” he said.

Fellow Wimmera driver Travis Matthews came fourth in the final and Clint Baker, son of Kevin Baker, one of the founders of the Limited Sportsman class, also took to the track.

The South Australian championship was the first race for the season.

Horsham Blue Ribbon Raceway’s first meeting for the season will be on December 30.