Burnout competitors from Napier to Southland are converging on Cromwell this Saturday. Not on the streets – on the purpose-built burnout pad at Central Motor Speedway.

Far from your typical motorsport event, the demanding and addictive nature of burnouts has pushed competitors to high skill levels and to optimise their car’s ability to shred tyres.

Burnout coordinator for Central Motor Speedway Daniel (Rolly) Rolton says there’s some ‘pretty cool kit coming’.

“We’ve got some pretty impressive machinery coming this year, probably the highest quality, biggest field we’ve ever had.”

Last year saw a win for the locals, as Alexandra’s Che Watt and his burnout car ‘Slug’ smoked out their rivals.  Slug is a 1957 Austin J2 commercial, now sporting a Chev motor, old-school two-speed transmission, new chassis, radiator in the back, big fans for cooling and ‘a whole heap more’.

“DSPRNG is back, after placing at the national title and earning a spot at Australia’s Summernats. Gaz is raising funds to get there, and one lucky person will win a ride with him in DSPRNG.”

Napier’s Shane ‘Arnie’ Donaldson is bringing ‘LOLIFE’, his iconic 1977 Ford Falcon ute. No ordinary ute, it’s powered by a methanol-injected, incredible-sounding 410ci sprintcar motor.

“We’ve got a custom-built burnout pad located in the centre of the track. We run burnout comps there in a safely controlled environment with great views for fans right around the arena. All race grades will also be out on track, so fans will get a taste of the season ahead.”

Rolly says the win could be anyone’s – the quality of entries is just so high. One thing’s for sure, there’ll be plenty of action.

Article added: Friday 22 September 2023