General News
9 February, 2022
Simpson Speedway ready for Podger Memorial
FOR the Podger family, the local speedway community, and drivers across Victoria and the country the Trevor Podger Memorial is one of the most important and prestigious events on the speedway calendar.
FOR the Podger family, the local speedway community, and drivers across Victoria and the country the Trevor Podger Memorial is one of the most important and prestigious events on the speedway calendar.
Podger was a trailblazing driver from the south west during the early 1970s, and at the time of his passing was the youngest registered Victorian driver in his class at just 20 years of age.
The 45th edition of the Trevor Podger Memorial headlines a varied program of racing at the Simpson Speedway this weekend, drawing the best super rod drivers from across the country.
Simpson Speedway toiled through a difficult 2020/21 season, but easing restrictions have seen a resurgence of crowds since December.
Speedway secretary and four-time Podger Memorial winner Mal Rankin said he hopes motorsport fans turn out in droves for what should be a spectacular night of racing.
“The memorial’s been one of our banner events for many a year now, it’s a big event for super rods, and a big event for Simpson,” he said.
“Our crowds have been very good for the year so far, and we hope that continues Saturday night.
“We’ve got no density limits, but everybody must be double-vaxxed to get in the arena, whether that’s official, pit crew, competitor, or spectator.”
Rankin said the race meant a lot to the local motorsport community and to drivers throughout Australia, and held a special place in his heart also.
“Personally, (winning) it meant more to me than the Victorian title did,” he said.
“It meant a lot to me, and I always put the extra effort in to try and do well in the event.
“Because I knew him, and what it meant to the family, it was always something I strived to win.”
Rankin said the field this year is open, but features a number of excellent drivers, including past winners Neville Gange (2021), Jamie May (2020), Michael Coad (2018), and Jason Kavanagh (2002).
Other events on the night include the Southern Speedcar Tour (round six), VSC unlimited sedans, and the wingless sprints front row challenge.
“The speedcars were pretty exciting last time they were here,” Rankin said.
“They’ve got their Victorian title coming up late in March, so this is their last chance to have a run at the track before their title.”
Rankin said the wingless front row challenge was a particularly interesting and fun event.
“There’s extra money put up if the highest scorer goes to the back, and they can take six cars with them,”he said.
“So obviously you’d pick your six closest rivals and take them back with you.”
Rankin said the four different events promised to be a lot of funfor everyone.
“It’s pretty varied entertainment on the night, with the four divisions it’ll cater to everyone,” he said.
“Hopefully we’ll have a nice smooth track to produce good racing, and it’ll be a good night of entertainment for everyone.”
Gates open at 4pm, racing starts at 6pm.