HQ Holden Racing is the definitive entry level category for saloon car racing in Australia, providing the opportunity to enjoy close racing and develop race craft at an affordable price. The HQ “race car” was developed in Tasmania in 1988 and quickly spread to the mainland. The basis of the vehicle is the HQ Holden six cylinder three speed manual, four door sedan. The constitution and a set of technical regulations ensure that all cars are presented in the same manner, and that all competitors compete on an equal plane. Some items i.e. camshafts, springs, shock absorbers and tyres are controlled items, which again keeps competition close and costs contained. Major components, engine, gearbox and diff are examined and sealed on assembly, ensuring strict adherence to the rules. The success of HQ Racing Australia also lies in the overall management by the National Category Manager, National Eligibility Officer and the State Delegates. These people, who are passionate about HQ Racing, meet annually to discuss proposed rule changes and make decisions affecting the future direction of the class. A significant clause in the HQRA Constitution states that the class will… “never allow any freedom within the regulations of the HQ Holden class that will allow the class to deviate from its roots of providing low cost circuit motor racing.” While the National body oversees the category, each state has a separate club that supports its local members and works with their state race promoters to facilitate their involvement in the local competition. HQ Holdens, while being primarily club level racers, compete on all tracks in Australia with the exception of the high profile street circuits. From the exciting high speed tracks like Bathurst, Phillip Island and Eastern Creek to the tighter challenging circuits, Mallala and Winton there are events including HQs in every state of Australia throughout the year. Each year an event to determine the National Champion is held in a different state by rotation, while the individual states run an annual point score series to determine the Driver of the Year for that state. From short sprint races of five lap distance, to a four hour Enduro, the various states provide plenty of variety and the opportunity to test drivers and crew. For further information: www.hqracing.org |
