The second race for the weekend has the historical privilege of being the first reverse-grid race since the now defunct Canberra street race in 2002. With only half points on offer, it will be interesting to see how the faster cars come through the pack in what is already a difficult circuit to pass on. Tyre selection will play a big part in getting through the pack for many teams, but it will be also important for drivers to keep a cool head during the race, with reduced points on offer, passing moves should be realistically attempted and be performed with minimal contact. Already may higher funded teams have had to open the coffers to fund repairs, it is almost certain that most would not be looking forward to reverse-grid carnage this weekend.
As the most dominant driver at Pukekohe Raceway, being dubbed the ‘king’ of the New Zealand circuit, Super Cheap Auto Racing’s Greg Murphy has continued to protest reverse-grid racing at three race sprint rounds, and hopes that he can defend his title at the track by suffering as little damage to his recently repaired car.
“My thoughts on the reverse grid races are exactly the same as most of the other guys – I’m definitely not a fan of them,” Murphy said.
“But, they’re a part of the championship and you just have to get on with it and race, especially at Pukekohe, which is a race that means so much to me.
“I’ve got no doubts that the reverse grid races are going to play a deciding part in the championship. I just hope we can get through them unscathed after Adelaide, we can’t afford any more unnecessary damage.”
After two events so far, (one for points and one not), many teams have worked extra hard to have their cars fully prepared for the Pukekohe round of the championship. Outfits such as Super Cheap Auto Racing have had to repair both chassis after significant damage, whilst others such as the Holden Racing Team, HSV Dealer Team and Stone Brothers Racing have had just the one car to repair.
