Jordan Cox Drives Mark Crutcher’s Mustang to Victory in TA2 Muscle Car Series at Sydney Motorsport Park
On the first day of the TA2 Muscle Car Series Framed by Hytek Steel Framing, Jordan Cox emerged victorious in the opening race under the vibrant lights of Sydney Motorsport Park. Stepping into the driver’s seat of Mark Crutcher’s Mustang while the owner was away competing at the Hi-Tec Oils Super Series, Cox showcased his prowess by securing the fastest qualifying time and triumphing in the Top 10 Shootout. The field was stacked with esteemed Trans Am front runners, making Cox’s win even more noteworthy.
From the outset, Cox took control of the race and maintained his lead, ultimately crossing the finish line ahead of points leader Dylan Thomas in his Mustang. Cody Gillis claimed the third position, solidifying the Mustang’s dominance in the top ranks. Initially, Josh Haynes showcased his skill and challenged Cox for the lead; however, a collision with Gillis on Lap 2 relegated Haynes to the 17th spot, forcing him to mount a remarkable comeback.
The top 10 spots were entirely occupied by Mustangs, with Tom Hayman securing fourth place, closely followed by the promising 17-year-old Elliott Cleary. Ben Grice, Jackson Rice, Kyle Gurton, Haynes, and Brad Gartner completed the Mustang lockout. Nick Bates led in the Masters category until a clash with Russell Wright on the final lap forced both drivers to retire, accompanied by John Holinger’s Camaro.
Unfortunately, several competitors faced technical issues during the race. Brett Niall encountered overheating problems, Josh Thomas struggled with his car’s differential, resulting in a Safety Car intervention, and Josh Anderson grappled with drivetrain complications, forcing an early retirement.
The TA2 Muscle Car Series continues with three races scheduled for Saturday, commencing at 13:06, 18:06, and 20:11 AEDT. Fans can tune in to a live stream on Speedcafe from 13:00, while the broadcast will be aired live and free on SBS Viceland beginning at 17:40, simultaneously broadcasted on Fox Sports and Kayo.
Other Engaging Races on the First Day:
RX8 Cup Race: Brock Paine emerged victorious in the first RX8 Cup race, finishing ahead of Luke Webber, Justin Lewis, Justin Barnes, and Tim Berryman. Lewis initially led the race, but on Lap 8, Paine skillfully maneuvered into the lead, with Webber following suit on the next lap. Jack Pennacchia secured the sixth position, leading the pack of Terry Lewis, Tom Shaw, Ben Shaw, and Jackson Noakes.
Legend Cars Races: Bruce Duckworth emerged triumphant in the first Legend Cars race, while Shane Tate reversed the situation in the second race. Scott Morgan secured the third position in the first race, and Ryan Pring claimed that spot in the second race.
EFS Australian Excel Series: Ryan O’Sullivan triumphed in the first EFS Australian Excel Series outing, closely followed by Tyler Collins, Blake Tracey, Jaylyn Robotham, and Hugo Simpson. The top five finishers were separated by a mere 1.7 seconds.
Australian Trans Am Race: Ian Palmer comfortably secured victory in the first Australian Trans Am race, driving his Pontiac Firebird. Sean Englis and John Prefontaine, both piloting Ford Mustangs, claimed the second and third positions, respectively. Alwyn Bishop in his Plymouth Duster closely trailed behind Prefontaine, with Andy Clempson in a Mustang completing the top five.
Super TT Race: Cory Gillett emerged as the victor in his Chev-powered Nissan S13 in the first Super TT race, narrowly defeating Graham Elliott in a Holden Commodore SS. Brent Edwards showcased a remarkable performance by climbing from the back of the grid to secure the third position in his Ford Falcon XR6 Turbo. In the Stock Cars division, Danny Burgess triumphed over Brett Mitchell and Brendon Hourigan, establishing OzTruck’s dominance.
The first day of racing at Sydney Motorsport Park brimmed with excitement and showcased the remarkable skills and tenacity of the participating drivers. With a diverse range of series captivating the audience, motorsport enthusiasts were treated to an action-packed day filled with thrilling moments and intense competition. As the TA2 Muscle Car Series and other races continue throughout the weekend, fans eagerly anticipate more captivating battles on the track.