NO OFF SEASON FOR NEW LISMORE PROMOTERS

Photo: Mick and Kim Sauer and family. Photo by: Tony Powell.

Story by Dennis Newlyn.

Castrol Edge Lismore Speedway’s new promoters Mick and Kim Sauer have worked tirelessly during the off-season to have the track spick-and-span for the season opener on Saturday night, November 5.

Much has been done to improve the circuit with ongoing maintenance during the winter recess. One of the major priorities was an upgrade to the safety fence, while a new lap score and timing board also has been installed.

It’s been a big job in the off-season months with a refurbishment programme that has also improved the look of the circuit.

A lot of attention surrounded track preparation for this upcoming season and, in the countdown to commencement, this involved delivery of a new tractor from Lismore Tractor Centre in addition to the purchase of a front end loader and Bob-Cat. 

The work has been non-stop and “I think Mick and I will have a few days off after we run our first meeting,” Kim said.

“We are putting in a big effort and we want people to come and enjoy a night at the speedway.” 

The work undertaken by the Sauers was not helped after Mick broke an ankle in a domestic accident, but a “moon boot” quickly fixed the problem as he maintained his work schedule, sometimes with painful difficulty.  Catering outlets also have been refurbished in the general upgrading programme.

A sponsors’ season launch will be held at the circuit on Friday, October 28, while a pre-season practice session is set down for Friday, November 4.

Kim advised, “the season looks promising. We are looking at a record car count and upward of 30 V8 Dirt Modifieds for the season opener.”

The traditional V8 Dirt Modified Lord Mayor’s Cup will commence the season on November 5 while one of the season highlights will be the running of the 2023 Australian V8 Dirt Modified Championship over two nights on April 8 and 9. (A rain date of April 10 has been set aside for the Australian Championship).

A prelude to the national title for the V8 Dirt Modifieds will be contested on April 1.

The V8 Dirt Modifieds are booked for eight race nights during the 2022-23 season (November 5, December 26, January 7, March 18, April 1, 8, 9 and May 13.).

NSW Championships for Late Models (December 3), Wingless Sprints (January 14), Super Sedans (April 22) and SSA Junior Sedans (April 22) will be held.

The annual Kids’ Christmas Party is scheduled for December 3, while 410 Sprintcar racing also will be featured, highlighted with a NSW v Queensland State of Origin series on January 17.

The time honoured Australian Speedcar Grand Prix – one of the oldest Midget races in the world – goes under the flag on February 4. This is an event that in more recent years in the GP’s long and illustrious history has been held at Castrol Edge Lismore Speedway.

Monster Trucks and a monster fireworks display are programmed for January 14, while the high flying Hot Wheel Stunt Show is booked for January 7.