Gunnedah is gearing up for a big weekend when it hosts the two final rounds of the Australian Flat Track Nationals (AFTN) on November 16-17.
Flat track racing is motorbike racing held on an oval, dirt track, a competition style that is popular across the United States and Europe.
The fifth and sixth rounds of the AFTN will be hosted by the Gunnedah Motorcycle Club at the club’s oil track at Balcary Park on Hunts Road. Classes will include Pro 450, Junior Lites, Junior 85 and Clubman Open.
Gunnedah Motorcycle Club president Dale Holmes said the club was looking forward to the event.
“Gunnedah Motorcycle Club is excited to again host rounds five and six of the Australian Flat Track Nationals,” Mr Holmes said.
“The event will again be one of the most popular events of the year, with the national champion being crowned.
“Balcary Park is a well-known and popular venue on the AFTN circuit. Last year’s event attracted Max Whale and Tom Drane, both Australian riders competing professionally in the AMA American Flat Track competition.
“Hopefully, we will see Max and Tom competing again this year.”
Gunnedah Motorcycle Club has a number of members competing in the 2024 event, with Hugo Holmes currently sitting fifth overall, Lawrence Fairey sitting fifth in the Clubman Class, and Daniel Wicks at second and Jordan Dall in fifth in the 450 class.
The first round was held on August 31 and September 1 at the Mick Doohan Raceway in Brisbane. Rounds three and four will be held at Appin, New South Wales, on October 26 and 27.
Gunnedah first hosted the Australian Flat Track Nationals in 2023.
The Balcary Park gates will open at 8am for the weekend event for practice and qualifying sessions before racing starts at about 10.45am and continues until 3.30pm. It will be attended by riders and spectators from across Australia.
There are four races per round and race lengths of 6-15 laps. Flat track riders use a 19-inch wheel and tyre combination, and 17 inch for the 85cc class.
For tickets and to find out more, visit https://aftn.com.au/
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