Steeped in a motor racing history that makes motorsport fans salivate, Narangba’s Lakeside Raceway played host once again to the latest in a long line of timeless battles.

With DHR returning with their all-conquering MX5 against the cream of the nation’s MX5 vanguard, the scene was set for an event capable of burning new memories onto the retinas of the assembled spectators and fans.

“It was awesome to get to run this car again – it’s running quicker than it ever has before, the car has never felt so good,” DHR driver Ash Miller expressed. After 8 months out of the MX5 circuit, July 22-24 saw Miller find his feet again in emphatic style.

“The last time we were here the car just wasn’t as tight. I think we’re on course for some fantastic races.”

Qualifying ended amid a flurry of rapid times, the best of which put DHR in a disappointing 4th on the 2F grid, plagued by tyre troubles that saw key rivals pip the #94 to the top few grid slots.

“We took a gamble on using old tyres but it didn’t pay off; the car just wasn’t hooked up as well as we would have liked and it showed in the times,” Miller said.

Come the racing, however, tyre troubles now solved, Miller’s fast-starting MX5 jumped ahead of both Corey Stevens and Cam Hein on the opening lap, and set about challenging the fired-up Ash Lowe.

As the laps wound down, Miller and Lowe gave no mercy; Miller attacking relentlessly, Lowe on the edge of adhesion as the DHR machine was kept at bay just long enough to gift Lowe the opening race upper hand.

“We had the car working well – Ash (Lowe) is formidable around here, and it was great to push him as hard as I know he was pushing himself,” Miller said.

Race two was no different – the #94 having benefitted from a setup tweak that settled the car and enabled it to challenge Lowe even harder – and the battle raged on.

“We were absorbed in the battle – we were keeping pace with the front running 2B cars, but my focus was all over the back of Lowe.”

The battle continued with fury, Miller pushing Lowe as the times tumbled towards record pace; Miller clocking a 59.14 to better his previous best time by almost a full second, and pull clear of the rest of the field as he and Lowe battled wildly.

However, the fairytale was cut short when, just 2 laps from the end of the race, a valve guide gave way, and with no compression in cylinder 4, Miller’s weekend was done.

“To push so hard, and have so much fun, then have that happen, it’s a real shame, but we’ve proved what we needed to and had a great time doing it. What’s more, the car is still for sale!”

Miller’s next run will be in somewhat different surroundings – half a world different, in fact, as Miller sets foot on international shores for the first time, to make his international debut at the annual BritCar 24 Hour race, held at Silverstone over the weekend of September 28 – October 2nd.

“I’m thrilled to get this opportunity lined up, but you have no time to get really excited, there’s always so much to work towards and I’m making sure everything is correct before my feet go anywhere near an airport!”

More reports to come.

All photos courtesy of (c) Hugh Millear Photography 2011

CHECK OUT THE COOLEST CLOTHING NORTH OF THE SOUTH POLE – SPADER!

Miller's MX5 will make its 2011 debut

Lakeside International circuit is in the midst of celebrating 50 years stamped proudly on what has become iconic ground for motorsport enthusiasts and competitors around the world.

But for Ash Miller and DHR, their celebration will be one of return – the #94 MX5 will be making a spectacular comeback, to join the burgeoning MX5 field.

In the double header event, the Mazda MX5 class are holding their annual Nationals in line with Lakeside’s celebrations – a chance that Miller could not miss to retain his hard-earned 2010 National crown.

“It was a no brainer – the car’s up for sale, and what better way to put it in front of the right crowd than to have it lap historic Lakeside!” Miller said.

Joining the Spader Clothing – backed Miller on the overflowing grid will be a number of Australia’s top MX5 vanguard, including 2009 National Champion Ash Lowe.

“Ash will be the major assailant, but we’re ready for the challenge. I can’t wait to drive the car in anger once again, and really tackle Lakeside once more.”

Lakeside’s last DHR show saw the North Brisbane team secure its first victory, en route to the 2009 QLD MX5 and Production Sports championships.

Join DHR – and visit Lakeside this weekend, July 22-24, for what will be a titanic event full of magnificent racing.

Saturday $20, Sunday $30, Weekend Pass $40.

Lakeside Raceway is situated in Kurwongbah, north of Brisbane. Check local Google Maps.

Check out the threads that Miller can’t get enough of – SPADER.

Ash Miller appears in SpeedCafe exclusive

As Ash Miller continues to create waves around Australia, it has been revealed that plans to focus his career internationally have become a major new direction for Miller.

Speaking to SpeedCafe.com.au, Miller revealed initial investigations have led to several options opening, one of which would see the young Australian compete in the prestigeous BritCar 24 Hour race, held at Silverstone.

“It’s a dream for me to take the committment one step further and run with it, I’m not stopping until I’m a driver in the UK,” Miller powerfully proclaimed.

The SpeedCafe article can be viewed here.

More news as it comes.