Nelson Speedway Club has capped off a standout season by taking out national honours at the annual New Zealand Speedway Awards in Christchurch.
The club’s Milestone Homes Top of the South Speedway was named ‘New Zealand Speedway of the Year – Volunteer Promoted Venue’, recognising the work of members who have contributed throughout the season. The award capped a successful night, with the club collecting multiple honours.
The strength of the club’s youth grades was also recognised. Bailey Bensemann claimed the ‘Youth Open Wheel Competitor of the Year’, while Locky Martin won ‘Youth Ministock Competitor of the Year’. Both drivers enjoyed strong seasons, with Bailey placing in the South Island Series and Locky part of the New Zealand youth team that beat Australia later in the season.
Morgan Dumelow was awarded ‘Online Presence of the Year’ for her speedway coverage, including driver interviews, event highlights and behind-the-scenes content across media platforms, giving fans insight into the sport.
The club also featured strongly in other categories. Justin Hearne was nominated for ‘Track Official of the Year’, Riley Eathorne for ‘Stock Car Competitor of the Year’, and Rebecca Maling was a finalist for ‘Photographer of the Year’, with two nominations reaching the final selection. The club was also a finalist for ‘Event of the Year’ for hosting the New Zealand Streetstock title.
Attention now turns to the upcoming season, which includes the New Zealand Midget title and Sprint Car Grand Prix, alongside fireworks, teams racing and the PTS Stampede. The season begins on 17 October with the Trackman Trophies up for grabs.
