It’s burnout time in Cromwell this Saturday for competitors from around the South Island. No, not on the streets – on the purpose-built burnout pad at Central Motor Speedway.

Not your typical motorsport event, the demanding nature of burnouts has pushed competitors to high skill levels and to optimise their car’s ability to shred tyres.

We talked to burnout contender Che Watt of Alexandra about the addictive sport. Every burnout car needs a cool name, and his car ‘Slug’ has a strong following on social media.

“I’ve always loved burnouts and you don’t need lots of money to compete. I found this 1957 Austin J2 commercial in a paddock and built it up.”

‘Slug’ now sports a Chev motor, old-school two-speed transmission, new chassis, radiator in the back, big fans for cooling and ‘a whole heap more’, Che says.

Burnout coordinator for Central Motor Speedway Daniel (Rolly) Rolton says the burnout competition has become increasingly popular over the years.

“We’ve got a custom-built burnout pad located in the centre of the track. We run burnout comps there in a safely controlled environment with great views for fans right around the arena.

“It’s awesome to be able to run this fun event on Blossom weekend. There’s also demonstration runs on the programme, so fans get a taste of what’s coming this season.”

Rolly says he will accept entries for the burnout comp on Saturday, up until 2.00pm.  See you down at the track!

Spectators - to buy tickets click here.

Article added: Saturday 24 September 2022