Aussie Racing Talent Dazzles on the Global Stage

Rolex 24 at Daytona

The Rolex 24 at Daytona has concluded, with Australian racer Matt Campbell and the Porsche Penske Motorsport team achieving a commendable third-place finish on the podium.

Partnered with teammates Mathieu Jaminet and Kevin Estre, Campbell piloted the Porsche 963 for an impressive total of 781 laps, narrowly falling short of victory in a fierce contest with the leaders.

Despite a rocky beginning in both practice and qualifying, Campbell and his crew maintained a steady pace throughout the race, making an impressive leap from 10th to 3rd position.

In the LMP2 category, James Allen showcased his skills with United Autosports USA, finishing 9th overall. A post-race penalty elevated the #22 Oreca to the top of the LMP2 class results.

Josh Burdon, competing in the LMP2 class as well, made a remarkable comeback after starting from 18th in qualifying. Racing for Riley, Burdon pushed the team from 21st to 10th, completing a total of 765 laps and matching Allen’s result.

In the GTD brigade, Tom Sargent raced with Wright Motorsports, displaying solid endurance in his Porsche 911 GT3 R, finishing 27th overall after 719 laps. Starting from 32nd, Sargent’s steady performance kept the team competitive throughout the demanding race, although they were unable to penetrate the upper ranks.

Castrol Toyota Formula Regional Oceania Championship

Patrick Heuzenroeder put forth an exceptional display in Round 3 of the Castrol Toyota Formula Regional Oceania Championship (CTFROC) at Manfeild Circuit Chris Amon, clinching two podium finishes and showcasing his impressive overtaking capabilities in challenging weather.

Heuzenroeder, who has already accomplished almost 30 overtakes this season, kicked off the weekend strongly by qualifying in 6th position during a highly competitive session.

In Race 1, he exhibited stellar race craft, advancing from 6th to 4th, and eventually moving up to 3rd following a penalty imposed on his teammate Pierson, marking Heuzenroeder’s first podium of the season.

During the Dan Higgins Trophy race, Heuzenroeder once again demonstrated his adaptability, securing a well-earned 3rd place despite inclement weather and a red-flag interruption, notching up his second podium of the weekend.

This consistent performance has propelled Heuzenroeder up the championship standings, now only two points shy of fourth place overall.

Reflecting on his success, the young Australian expressed his delight.

“It’s fantastic to be on the podium with two third-place finishes,” Heuzenroeder remarked.

“I’m feeling confident and eagerly anticipate the next race at Teretonga.”