By Matthew Agius
The Australian V8 Supercar Championship Series travels across international and several state borders to the nation’s west coast for the V8 300 at Barbagallo Raceway.
Barbagallo Raceway is a real favourite amongst drivers in the championship. The short circuit layout is relatively unchallenging, as long curves and small chicanes are the only real problems drivers encounter. Two straights are incorporated into the V8 circuit configuration, with a nasty downhill breaking area heading into the final corner punishing any driver who locks their brakes – a facet of the course that will be made even more interesting by the reverse grid race in the second sprint. The most challenging aspect of the circuit is the sand that often blows across the track surface. This area of Western Australia is one of the reasons why the Dutch never decided to settle in the Great South Land – it’s really, really dry – and the sand can really demolish a set of Dunlop control tyres. Before the track was resurfaced, it was even worse for tyre durability with the then abrasive tarmac shredding rubber to pieces.
The V8 300 at Barbagallo has been a permanent part of the Australian Touring Car championship since its inception. Although racing formats have often changed slightly over the years, it has been a traditional part of the ‘sprint’ racing series for the V8 championship. This year’s running incorporates one 120 kilometre sprint on Saturday and two 140 kilometre races on Sunday (the first of which being the reverse-grid race).
Barbagallo is a great event to go to, you can see a lot of the track depending from where you sit, with top spots at the final turn and the opening section of corners providing great action.
