GULF WESTERN OILS WINTERNATIONALS: LESSONS, HIGHS, AND A TASTE OF THE BIG STAGE

Thursday: Drop the clutch and hang on

Thursday drew to a close with a beautiful sunset at Willowbank Raceway as the Valenhold Racing, Slaughter Motorsport Supra rolled into the burnout box, the Supra left wheels up and pulling hard, but went into wheelspin with Ben aborting the pass.

Wheels up and ripping, the Supra is starting to show signs of what it can do.

Friday: Chasing the Perfect Pass

Friday brought two more runs at the track. Both runs had their share of niggling issues, but we managed a best of 11.40 @ 198mph—a number that definitely got the commentators talking! While we knew there was more in the car, it was a solid effort and a reminder of just how competitive the field is.

Saturday: The Big Stage Beckons

Saturday morning was crisp and cold, and the team was buzzing with anticipation for the first round of racing. After warming up the car, we towed into the lanes and got ready to let it rip. A big burnout set the tone, and as Ben brought the Supra into stage for round one of the Winternationals, it was a true pinch-yourself moment—a dream come true for Ben and the whole team.

Saturday had a packed house at Willowbank Raceway

But racing rarely goes exactly to plan. As Ben staged the car, the engine stalled. Quick thinking got the Supra fired up again, anti-lag engaged, and Ben was ready for the lights. In the heat of the moment, muscle memory from Jamboree mode kicked in; one flash of orange and Ben launched—unfortunately, red-lighting in the process. He stayed in it, chasing down his opponent by the 1000ft mark, and crossed the line with a 7.40 @ 179mph. The run was quick, but the early start meant the round was over before it began.

Working into the night.

Sunday: Sharing the Passion

Post-race, we put the Supra on display for fans and corporate guests to check out up close. It was fantastic to see so many people come through, take a seat, and share in our passion for speed and competition.

Looking Ahead

It was a huge weekend for the Valenhold Racing, Slaughter Motorsport team — full of highs, a few lows, and plenty of lessons learned. We’re proud of what we achieved, and even more motivated to come back stronger next time. Thanks to everyone who supported us, stopped by, and cheered us on. The journey continues, and we can’t wait to see what’s next!

Stay tuned — Valenhold Racing, Slaughter Motorsport will be back, faster and hungrier than ever.

Staring down the challenge, until next time Willowbank, we look forward to seeing you soon.