THE 2019 Master of Mac Park is finally here and promises a big weekend of motorcycle racing.
An influx of late entries has seen the field swell for the time-honoured event, with three big days set down at the iconic McNamara Park circuit.
It all begins today with practice, before qualifying and racing tomorrow, culminating with the feature events on Sunday.
Some big names from the past have re-emerged for the weekend, which should throw up a real challenge to title favourite William Strugnell.
Strugnell suffered mechanical issues on his main bike last year, but even on borrowed machinery was able to finish second to Arthur Sissis.
Sissis will not be here this weekend, nor will last year’s third place finisher, Furner’s Dallas Skeer, as both have Australian Superbike (ASBK) commitments.
Despite that, Strugnell will certainly have his hands full, with former ASBK rider John Hunt arriving with both 600cc and 1000cc machinery.
He will be one to watch in the main feature race, along with Adelaide’s Scott Christie.
The former A Grade rider will surely be on the pace and capable of an “upset”.
The 2006 Master of Mac Park Karl Schmidt has brushed off his gear recently and will make the long haul south from Darwin to look to add another title to his resume.
He has been in fine form lately, with several big race wins at Darwin’s Hidden Valley.
With such a long trip he is certain to want to take something back to show for his efforts.
Of course one rider who cannot be discounted is triple Master of Mac Park winner David Trotter, who returns to racing to chase another coveted title.
Millicent’s Chris Tyler is another Limestone Coast rider who will be on the pace on a 1000cc machine.
It all adds up to another huge weekend, with no shortage of entertainment across various classes, including the popular sidecar events.
While the father and son duo of David and Stephen Jones will start favourites and chase their fifth Master of Mac Park sidecar title, the Mount Gambier duo of Adrian van Uitert and Mark Holloway will be right on their tail.
Other classes include Superbike, Junior, Supersport and Premodern/Naked.
Prize money has increased this year which has no doubt helped to attract a big field, but there is also something special on the agenda for those riders who reach the Master of Mac Park feature.
All riders who make the starting grid will be presented with the first ever Master of Mac Park medallions to acknowledge their efforts in the historically tough event.
Gates will open tot he public at 8.30am, with qualifying to start from 9am Saturday through to 12pm.
Racing will kick off at 1pm.
Sunday will see racing action from 9am, with the feature races to start around 1.30pm.
Full canteen and bar facilities are available.
Do not forget to cut out the coupon below for free admission.
