Image: Peregrine
In a thrilling display of speed and skill, Wayne Newby of Rapisarda Autosport International (RAI) has solidified South Australia’s The Bend Motorsport Park’s Dragway as one of the fastest drag racing surfaces in the world.
Setting a time of 3.761 seconds over a 1000-foot stretch, Newby’s performance fell short of the world record Top Fuel time by a mere 0.12 of a second.
Newby’s remarkable run didn’t stand alone in the spotlight, as his RAI teammate and reigning champion, Damian Harris, secured the second position with an impressive time of 4.43 seconds. Not to be outdone, Supercars team owner Peter Xiberras secured the third position with a time of 4.83 seconds.
The impressive show of speed and precision by these seasoned racers further cements The Bend’s Dragway as a formidable track for professional drag racing.
The unforgettable run by Wayne Newby came on the heels of the official unveiling of the venue, attended by Premier Peter Malinauskas and Shell V-Power Motorsport Park Managing Director, Sam Shahin.
“I’m very very proud as Premier of this state to declare The Bend [dragway] officially open, I hope it sets us up for decades to come,” Malinauskas said.
This milestone event showcased the dedication and passion of the Shahin family, who invested two years and $35 million to bring The Bend Motorsport Park to life.
The Bend’s Grand Opening weekend was nothing short of spectacular, with a Saturday sell-out and a total weekend attendance of 35,694.
This success marks the return of top-level drag racing to South Australia after a two-decade hiatus.
Looking ahead, the National Drag Racing Championship is set to return to The Bend on January 13-14, 2024, headlined by Nitro Funny Cars.
The Bend Motorsport Park has made its mark in the world of drag racing, and with Wayne Newby’s record-breaking run, it has proven itself as one of the fastest tracks globally.
For more information about the The Bend Motorsport Park’s Dragway in Tailem Bend, click here.
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