Latest News, Round 2
Tomlin extends lead, Hansford takes first win!
Ben Tomlin has extended his lead in the Qld Gemini Racing CAMS Championship taking a win & a second place for the weekend. Tomlin didn't have it all his way however & was pushed all the way with Ryan Hansford showing some great form in his newly acquired car.
Tomlin on 79 points is 30 Points clear from Tracey Whale (49) who is the best positioned of the female trio, with Melissa Thompson (45) & Rebecca Dawes (40) all battling for second. Next sees Ryan Hansford who after just one round has 37 points (of a possible 43)with his newly acwuired car has shown he has the goods to win & will be a force to be reckoned with. Dom Martens has shown consisitan form for 2009 & is on 36 rounding out the top 5 of the Championship.
Race 1 - Racing under lights
Racing under lights for the first time since 2006 saw action on the very first corner with Tim Boyle coming together with Tracey Whale ending Boyles race & bringing out the safety car. Ryan Hansford had already jumped to the lead on the first lap & when the safety car left the circuit Ryan lead all the way to the chequered flag covering his racing line & protecting his lead from Ben Tomlin who was hot on Hansfords heels. Next over the line was Melissa Thompson who was catching the front pair as the race progressed due to her superior tyre management & looking after her car for the entire race distance which saw her car come home stronger than any other in the field. In fourth & the biggest improver for the race was Rebecca Dawes, who started on 9th spot & with the remainder of the field was close to 2 seconds / lap behind the pace of the front running trio. 5th spot saw Tracey Whale, who although suffering frontal car damage still managed to survive & collect some valuable points for the weekend. Jai Tink had a great run & what could possibly be his best finish since starting in geminis came home with bragging rights from his good friend Dom Martens in 7th. in 8th spot was newcomer Arren Heeley followed by first time racer Phil Redpath & Robert Gately finished out the remaining field with team mates Phil Robinson (Brakes) & Tim Boyle (Damage) both retiring.
ABOUT GEMINI RACING
Gemini racing is one of Australia’s most affordable motorsport and entry level circuit racing categories. The cars have not changed a great deal since their racing debut 29 years ago - they still run the G161z 1.6 Litre motor, 4/5 speed gearbox and non-limit slip differential. Camshaft, engine specs and tyres are all controlled items. The logic behind this is to place more emphasis on driver ability and skill.
Such an affordable mass production vehicle, racing in a competition controlled to ensure competitiveness has created a following which is steadily increasing. Spectators love watching the Gemini's rubbing door handles in the return to a style of racing where overtaking is possible almost anywhere on the circuit.