I’m going to start this with a really broad question; did you know the Australian Racing Drivers’ Club (ARDC) is a non-profit organisation which sees all the profits generated invested back into the maintenance and the upgrading of Sydney Motorsport Park? No? Well neither did I!
After an afternoon with Samantha Stevens (Rally Driver and now Media and Marketing Operations Manager at ARDC) I got the answers to why ARDC is really for the People, Enthusiasts, Racers, Bikers and their Families!
The ARDC has played an integral part of Australia’s motor racing heritage. Can you tell us a bit about the history of the ARDC?
Sam: Since 1952, the ARDC has been more than just a club for drivers & riders. As you have mentioned the ARDC has played a proud and privileged role as an integral part of Australia’s motor racing heritage but also the foundation upon which Australian motor racing will continue to build into the future. Just briefly, the ARDC was first founded back in 1952, yes 62 years ago. It all started at our home track in Mt Druitt where our loyal members helped promoter Belf Jones run races every 6 weeks. Since then we’ve been a part of Australia’s most iconic pieces of racing history including building the pits of Mount Panorama in 1954, holding the first 6 hour race at Mt Panorama in 1962 and the purchase of the Amaroo Park Circuit in 1970 to name a few.
A lot has changed since the club was based out of the small circuit out at Mt Druitt. Where does the ARDC operate from these days?
Sam: The ARDC actually moved into its new and current home now of once Eastern Creek Raceway in 1996, but has since been renamed Sydney Motorsport Park.
Oh wow! I’ve actually been lucky enough to visit the original 3.93km Eastern Creek Raceway circuit when I was younger. I’ve had some truly great memories at the circuit. The complex has evolved dramatically over the years. Could you briefly explain exactly what has changed over the years at Eastern Creek?
Sam: It sure has evolved over the years! What you may not know is that in 2011, the circuit underwent a $12 million dollar upgrade which enabled the original 3.93km GP circuit to be split into four different configurations, creating a motorsport megaplex now known as Sydney Motorsport Park (SMSP). The new facility is just about utilised every day of the year, from car and bike track days and grass-roots racing through to massive motorsport and entertainment events.
So what 3 additional circuit configurations, Sam?
Sam: Well on top of the existing GP Circuit we now have the new extended Brabham, North and South Circuit. The new 4.5km Brabham Circuit combines the classic Grand Prix layout with an additional 830m of track that branches out from the southern end of the circuit. The North Circuit was the first new circuit for Sydney Motorsport Park, created via the addition of a link road between turns four and fifteen, utilising the northern half of the Grand Prix circuit. And finally running around the famous Corporate Hill, is the South Circuit which incorporates the 830m extension from turn 6 through to turn 14.
For more detailed information on the new configuration I’d suggest visiting: http://www.sydneymotorsportpark.com.au/about-the-park
Sydney Motorsport Park seems to be the host of many high profile and internationally recognized events these days. What are some of these events?
Sam: That’s correct. Sydney Motorsport Park has been the host for some spectacular events in the past and will continue to do so in the future. Our complex is the host of many international recognised events including the TopGear Festival, World Time Attack and V8 Supercar Rounds. But on top of this we also offer many events to cater for the grassroots motorsport enthusiast; our ARDC private days and track days are affordable days which allows you to get on the circuit and have a crack behind the wheel of your own vehicle. If you’re an ARDC member you’ll also receive further discounts to these days and many other benefits! Some of these benefits include free entry to events and festivals (such as V8 Supercars), free parking at events, discounts at the SMSP OFFICIAL STORE powered by V-Sport and much more.
The new facility is just about utilised every day of the year, from car and bike track days and grass-roots racing through to massive motorsport and entertainment events. Whether you’re a car enthusiast, avid motorsport supporter or even an amateur competitor there will definitely be something on the cards that sparks your interest.
What about those looking to get into grassroots Motorsports. Can the ARDC help?
Sam: Whether you’re thinking about getting into grassroots motorsports such as Supersprints, being an ARDC member is the perfect platform towards getting your CAMS L2S Licence and opening the gates to competitive fun! The ARDC is of course a CAMs affiliated club which is a prerequisite for a CAMS Licenses.
It’s not always been smooth sailing but right now Sydney Motorsport Park is at the pinnacle of Australian Motorsport for the Aussie Punter! The ARDC 62 years in, is Australia’s longest and most influential Racing Car Club. Go racing and receive ongoing benefits. They offer the member’s real savings, real track time and best of all the opportunity to engage with other like-minded people finding their ZEN out on track.
Bottom line is; for a little price to pay you’re going to be a part of something special. Get cheaper track and more consistent time than anyone else, get on Sydney’s premier venue and be able to attend some of Sydney’s best automotive festivals and racing events, as if you’re a part of the family.
ARDC, Join the club: http://www.ardc.com.au/