The inaugural Budget Enduro held at Victoria’s Broadford Motorsport Complex on Sunday, June 9, 2024, offered motorsport enthusiasts a day packed with high drama and thrilling action.
The event kicked off on a damp track, with Team Ron seizing an early lead in the first hour. However, Summer Roll Racing quickly asserted their dominance, overtaking Team Ron midway through the first hour. As the initial hour drew to a close, Summer Roll Racing maintained their lead, followed closely by Team Ron, with Trutrack Racing securing the third position.
The second hour saw some rapid and strategic pit manoeuvres. Team Ron managed to regain the lead right after the pit stops but only held onto it for six laps before Summer Roll Racing once again surged ahead. Unfortunately, Team Ron faced a setback 40 minutes into the second hour when a driver illness forced them back into the pits, causing them to drop to fifth place.
This incident set the stage for an epic contest between Summer Roll Racing, Trutrack Racing, and 924 Racing. These teams engaged in a fierce battle, repeatedly exchanging positions and the lead, which made for an exhilarating spectacle. Their relentless pace led to several breakouts, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats.
Lap 93 marked the only retirement of the day when AREGAMISOU Motorsports had to withdraw due to a clutch failure after some intense driving. Toywagrolla showed consistent performance throughout the event until a tyre failure necessitated a change and resulted in a penalty. Similarly, 924 Racing encountered unexpected tyre wear, forcing them to replace two tyres and incur a penalty as well.
D.I.R.T. managed to complete their first event, despite challenges, with a single car, earning the wooden spoon but showcasing commendable perseverance.
When the final lap concluded, Summer Roll Racing emerged victorious, completing 283 laps, finishing four laps ahead of Trutrack Racing. 924 Racing secured the third position, with Team Ron coming in fourth, followed by Toywagrolla in fifth, and D.I.R.T. in sixth.
The next event in the Budget Enduro series is set for July 7, 2024, at Sandown. Entries are now open, and participants can register at www.budgetenduro.com.au.