The next season of the Prowear NZ Superlap season is fast approaching and because of this, we thought it would be a great time to look back at the most intense round of last season — the final! This time, though, we are going to look back at the final round through the lens of photographer Alexandre Bon-Guerra of Fine Lines. Alexandre, with a landscape, event, and wedding photography background has a unique eye different to most motorsport photographers, so it was quite a treat to have him on board for the event.
The final round was a nail biter for various reasons. It was always going to be exciting seeing who would take the event out overall, and who would take out each class. Leon Scott managed the overall win for the event, which was great to see. It's been a long time coming for the team, that's for sure.
Being back in New Zealand for the final round was awesome. I was able to catch up with drivers I hadn't spoken to in a while, and hear their thoughts on the sport, the series, and the cars around them. The thing I love most about time attack racers is their passion for the sport.
Another reason it was great being back was to check out the new and improved Hampton Downs facility. Note the pink high-vis? Yep, standard Hampton Downs Raceway attire now... Am I going bald? Eeek!
So much awesome in one photo. The Superlap pits are always brimming with powerful and unique Japanese tin (minus the Commodore). As you can see, the Superlap family are all close, all share, all help each other, and all amp each other for the win. Even the hatchbacks get turned into bench seats, for the girlfriends and wives waiting around at the event... nice work Jason and Khan!
One lad that is growing on me is Bradley Haines. Initially, I could never understand the reasoning behind some of his upgrades, but then I remembered that everyone is different and if Brad wants to do things backwards, then so be it! Aero first, power later — bring on the haters, as Bradley would say. There's also something admirable about learning to drive without power first, so for that I commend you. Bradley is also great for a laugh, so track him down in the pits and have a yarn.
After going for a ride out on the street in Iain Clegg's absolutely bonkers Nissan R35 GT-R that packs over 1000hp, I was eager to see it out on the circuit. With a set of slicks strapped on, Iain managed an impressive 1:08. That was with the heavy stock seats, Bose stereo, heater, AC — you name it! What you might not know is, Iain and the ST Hitec team helped me get back to New Zealand to cover the event for everyone. If you haven't had a chat with Iain, track him down in the pits, he's probably one of the nicest guys I have met in my life!
One driver I am excited to follow in the future is Brad Jesson. With a determination like no other and a mental fast Mitsubishi Evo VII, he'll be one to beat in the future. When we're back in New Zealand next we'll be sure to take a closer look at his car. Up and coming drivers such as Brad are what make the sport so exciting, as you never know how quickly they'll climb the ranks.
One of the last things that made the final round so awesome was seeing Mazda man, Andy Duffin attack Hampton Downs in his 20B-powered Mazda RX-7. If you haven't heard this machine in real life, you need to. Think F1 mixed with a tin of angry hornets — it's simply insane. It shoots kickass flames too!
Take the time to look through the gallery below, as there might just be a new shot of your time attack racer waiting for you! Until the next season guys, oh, and good luck with those builds!
