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.

After knocking on the door for many recent rounds, Dark Horse Racing’s Ash Miller has taken the victory at the latest sensationally exciting round or the QLD MX5 Cup, held at Lakeside Raceway on September 13th.

After pacing very quickly during practice the previous day, Miller and his DHR squad were optimistic about his chances.

“The car felt awesome during practice, and despite having to get used to a cavalcade of new things, including a new Haltech dash and a different seating position, the car felt great right out of the box.”

The pace continued into Sunday’s race day, landing on the front row of the grid behind Geoff Fane’s beastly 2B monster. However, fortunes would fall into Miller’s favour come the start of the first race.

“Geoff stopped on the roll up lap, something to do with his throttle position sensor playing up. So right from the outset I had a clear run into turn one.”

Staving off a challenge from David Gainer, Miller proceeded to command the opening race, streaking clear of Gainer and third place runner Damien Meneguzzo.

“The car felt amazing and we were easily able to just drive to the flag. I’ve never felt the car so good!”

The second race netted another victory, albeit by default – while Gainer took the win on the road after an intense battle with Miller, it was the latter who was awarded the win after David was awarded a 20 second penalty for jumping the start.

“That race was intensely hard fought but very fair – Lakeside isn’t renowned for it’s passing spots, but I tried every angle I possibly could to find one!”

The third race proved just as exciting, and Miller tussled with Meneguzzo and Gainer on the opening lap before taking command once again, finishing behind Geoff Fane’s 2B car.

With the points worked out, Miller took the overall victory for DHR, the team’s first after only two years in the MX5 class.

The absense of QLD MX5 Cup Championship leader Ash Lowe from the Lakeside round due to injury now sees a thrilling battle in the making, as a hair’s breadth seperates Ash Lowe and Ash Miller in the points standings.

Lakeside will once again play host to the next round of the championship, which will see the ‘Battle of the Ash’s’ resume in red-hot style.

“I love Lakeside, and we’ve been very good around here in the past, so we’ll be focusing 100% on getting the most out of the car for the next round. I can’t wait!”

Mark October 11th in your diaries, and set your GPS to Lakeside Park – it’s going to be a race meeting you won’t want to miss!