Winter wonderland awaits at the Gulf Western Oils Winternationals!

Ben Slaughter
17 minutes ago
2 min read

Get ready for an adrenaline-packed weekend! The Gulf Western Oils Winternationals is racing towards us fast, taking place from June 5th to June 8th at Willowbank Raceway. The Valenhold Racing, Slaughter Motorsport team is fired up after setting their personal best time at the Sydney Jamboree in March, and they are prepared to tackle their next challenge head-on.

With ideal weather expected, everything seems perfectly set for an exciting weekend of drag racing. The team has been diligently making critical adjustments to ensure they can compete at their best.

Team Dynamics and Commitment

Working in the mining industry, team members juggle shifts from Cobar to Central Queensland while maintaining their love for racing. Each member of the Valenhold Racing crew shows remarkable dedication and passion, even amid their hectic schedules. This commitment is what makes the team a real team and fuels their ongoing success.

The thrill of racing keeps the fire alive for this crew. They constantly strive to improve their vehicle's performance and are always looking to push limits, which is evident in their practices and preparation.

Embracing Data-Driven Decisions

Since the Sydney Jamboree, the team has significantly enhanced their data-collection methods. With new sensors fitted to the rear suspension and various points on their powerful 2JZ Toyota engine, they are focused on gathering real-time data. This advanced analytics approach allows the team to make quick adjustments during races.

For instance, during last year’s Winternationals, they managed to improve their quarter-mile time by 0.3 seconds by analysing data from their earlier runs and adjusting the car's tuning accordingly. This wealth of data is vital for mechanics and engineers to fine-tune the vehicle, enabling them to maximise performance on race day.

Close-up view of racing sensors on a suspension system — Precision sensors from Haltech have upped the team's data collection ability.

Facing SuperComp Challenges

This year, the Valenhold Racing team is stepping boldly into SuperComp racing as they face a change in competition classes. With Factory Extreme not having enough participants, they have the chance to compete in one of the most challenging classes in drag racing. SuperComp is well-known for featuring a remarkable variety of vehicles and engine combinations, making it a powerhouse of excitement and skill.

Last year, in SuperComp, racers faced an average winning margin of just 0.02 seconds, which highlights how competitive this class really is. This challenge excites the team, as competing against Australia's best is not just an opportunity for growth but also a moment to showcase their hard work and dedication to drag racing.

Engage with the Team!

As excitement builds for the event, fans are encouraged to come out and connect with the Valenhold Racing team. Look out for their new apparel line, designed for supporters to wear proudly. This is an excellent opportunity for fans, both new and old, to meet the team and engage with the sport.

Whether you have been following the team for years or are just discovering drag racing, the Valenhold Racing crew welcomes everyone to join them. Their appreciation for loyal supporters drives them to perform even better.