The Redlands was represented by two racing drivers, with both winning their classes at the Leyburn Sprints on August 19 and 20.
First time competitor Phil Sutcliffe, 49, of Thornlands brought home the trophy for Special Interest FWD, taking the lead in his 2010 3800T Nissan GTR.
Paul Stokell of Ormiston also won the Marque Sports Cars over 2000cc (log book) class, driving a 2014 3500S Lotus Exige. Track announcers described Stokel as one of Australia’s best and most versatile racing drivers.
Sutcliffe said his Nissan was ideally suited for the track.
“I entered hoping to win my class and get into the top seven or eight. This car has a massive hp with plenty of torque, so it suits the track. You get a chance for speed with some 90 degree turns,” he said.
“I like the competitive nature of racing but while it’s good to be at the pointy end of the race, I also enjoy the fun of it,” he said.
Sutcliffe said as a new competitor he was enjoying the atmosphere of the event, although he found the track a little slippery on the first day due to low temperatures and windy conditions. He said a change in recent circumstances meant he could now actively pursue a 20-year interest in motoring.
Stokell wowed the crowd with ‘hot laps’ to prize winners, something he does as a sideline to his Driving Events business. He currently owns four Lotus cars.
Preparing the cars for the event for both Stucliffe and Stokell was Rick Caputa of Capalaba Motor Repairs.
