Avalon Raceway lights up this Sunday night, March 10th for the $5,000 to win Eureka Garages and Sheds Great Southern Showdown with over 40 Sprintcars set to compete with this weekend’s event the second last of the current season. Sunday night’s A-main also carries more points toward the season long Essendon Ford Sprintcar track championship where David Murcott holds a handy lead over Matthew Reed and Mike Van Bremen.
While Murcott may lead the track championship, Reed is also in contention while the Scoresby sign writer also heads the Eureka Garages and Sheds Sprintcar Series over defending champion Darren Mollenoyux and perennial contender Brett Milburn. All four drivers will be in Sunday night’s field while young American Geoff Ensign will also be a starter.
Avalon commentator Brian Alexander confirmed there is an element of excitement about this weekend’s event as he also encouraged fans to remember racing is on Sunday night with Monday being the annual Labour Day holiday.
“This event pays good prizemoney and with points toward the track championship and the Eureka series there is plenty to race for on Sunday night.”
“Track championship leader David Murcott has failed to make the last two A-mains at Avalon and guys like Reed and MVB have a real opportunity to try and capitalise, however I don’t expect Murcott to miss this weekend’s final as it’s getting to the crunch time in terms of the season,” said Alexander.
With only 90 points separating Murcott and Reed in the track championship this Sunday’s A-main is a vital event for both drivers while the last round of the track championship will be on Good Friday’s Easter Sprintcar Trail round. Murcott vaulted to the lead in the track championship courtesy of a stunning victory in Boxing Day’s Gold Cup while the popular livewire was also victorious at Avalon during October’s $10,000 to win Jackpot Invitational.
In addition to the $5,000 to win on Sunday, drivers will also be competing for $5,000 to win at Simpson Speedway on Saturday night while the overall aggregate winner across the two nights will also pickup a healthy cash bonus.
Recently crowned the Victorian Sprintcar champion, Darren Mollenoyux will be keen to continue his good form at the venue while Tim Van Ginneken was also impressive as he led Mollenoyux in the state title decider before eventually finishing runner up.
Warrnambool’s Jamie Veal will pilot the Victory Lane Racegear #88 for a special one off appearance as regular driver Stephen Bell attends to family commitments. Veal returns to the venue that saw him capture a $10,000 payday when he won January’s Essendon Ford President’s Cup.
American Ensign will drive for Victorian brothers Mark and Jason Smith on Sunday night while the Californian will also contest Good Friday’s Easter Trail round, also at Avalon.
“The fans have been very supportive of the Sprintcars this season,” said Alexander.
“We are nearing the end of the season and this Sunday’s event is only one of two Sprintcar events left on the calendar and fans are definitely encouraged to come out and see some excellent racing.
Racing will begin from the earlier time of 6.30pm with cars completing engine starts and hot laps just prior. Public gates will open at 4.00pm.
Admission:
Adults $25
Concession $20
Child 12-16 $10
Child 5-11 $5
Child Under 5 Free
Website; www.avalonraceway.com
For more info contact Jeff Drew 0418 160 985 / Gavin White email gwxp@speedway.net.au
