American Sprintcar star Donny Schatz landed yet another Australian Open title as he dominated the field at Brisbane’s Archerfield Speedway.
The North Dakota driver led from start to finish as he fended off an all-star international field to win the prestigious 50 lap final and pocket the $20,000 jackpot.
After winning Friday’s preliminary final Schatz, driving for the Crimsafe backed Scott Jennings Racing squad, made no mistakes in the Saturday’s final, which also doubled up as round seven of the World Series Sprintcars Championship.
Competing in his final race in Australia this season, he immediately grabbed the lead before opening up a healthy advantage.
However, the race was not without incident as Robbie Farr and championship contender Dave Murcott collided on the back straight. The clash, which saw Farr endure a series of barrel rolls, saw the pair retire from the contest.
While Schatz had opened up a comfortable lead at the front, the battle for the remaining podium places provided plenty of entertainment.
Former Australian champion Kerry Madsen became embroiled in a fight with Steve Lines, James McFadden and Jamie Veal for second spot.
Meanwhile at the front Scahtz proved unstoppable as he went on to take victory and his eighth Australian Open title. The win was also his sixth consecutive at Archerfield Speedway this season.
In the end, McFadden came through to finish second ahead of Veal, while Madsen had to settle for fourth.
Brad Sweet finished in fifth ahead of Jason Sides, Lines and Brook Tatnell, who opened up a 10 point lead at the top of the World Series Sprintcar standings over Murcott.
The World Series Sprintcars Championship will continue at South Australia’s Murray Bridge on January 30.
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