News
Trans Am Returns to Sandown with 24-Car Field
A strong 24-car field is set to return to Sandown International Raceway this weekend as part of the Shannon SpeedSeries event, with Round 4 of the Trico Trans Am Series marking the halfway point of the 2025 season.
Todd Hazelwood has extended his championship lead following Round Three in Darwin, with Nathan Herne and James Moffat completing the top three in the standings.
Garry Rogers Motorsport will field six cars at Sandown this weekend, with James Golding making his return after missing the previous round in Darwin due to his Supercars duties.
Golding will drive the rebuilt car that was engulfed by fire in Darwin with Elliott at the wheel, while Cleary will compete in a brand new Ford Mustang that’s been donated to Cleary for the weekend by car owner and LMCT+ founder Adrian Portelli.
Adding to the excitement, Clay Richards, son of Bathurst winner Steven Richards and grandson of touring car legend Jim Richards, will make his Trans Am debut this weekend in the ex Mark Crutcher Ford Mustang.
On track action kicks off Friday with two practice sessions at 9:10am and 12:15pm, followed by qualifying at 4:00pm. Races One and Two are set for Saturday at 12:05pm and 5:05pm, with Race Three scheduled for Sunday at 4:10pm.
Round 4 of the Trico Trans Am Series takes place July 25-27 at Sandown International Raceway as part of the Shannon SpeedSeries event. Watch all the action live and free on 7plus, 7mate and 7two.
QUOTES
James Golding, #31 CTE Ford Mustang
“It’s obviously been a little while since I last drove the Trans Am Mustang, but it’s a car that really suits my driving style. I’m coming off a strong performance at Bathurst, and the last time I raced at Sandown in the Trans Am we were competitive, so I’m definitely looking forward to getting back in the car.”
“The car’s had a full rebuild after the fire in Darwin as most of the front end and all the major wiring components needed replacing. The GRM boys always do an awesome job with repairs and getting everything back to 100%, so I’ve got no doubt it’ll be just as quick as it was before once I’m back in the seat.”
Elliott Cleary, #38 LMCT+ Ford Mustang
“I’ve raced at Sandown before in Trans Am and came away with a really strong result, so I’m heading into the weekend with a lot of confidence. GRM have given me a great opportunity to get back behind the wheel after Darwin, where unfortunately I didn’t get the chance to race due to the fire.”
“I didn’t get to show my pace in Darwin, so I’m really keen to make the most of this second chance with GRM. We’ve got the potential to be very competitive and fight up the front and I’m thankful for the team’s support, and I’m going into the weekend expecting we can be right on the pace.”
Clay Richards, #44 RPM Hire Ford Mustang
“The level of competition in Trans Am really drew me in, it’s a growing category with some top drivers. I got a taste of the cars at the GRM Combine a few years back and loved how raw and race-focused they are. I can’t wait to get behind the wheel at Sandown this weekend.”
“The biggest challenge for me will be the preparation. This weekend will be our first proper look at the car and our first time understanding how it all works. It’s definitely going to be a big test, but there’s no expectations or pressure, it’s all about learning and I’m really looking forward to the experience and getting amongst it at Sandown.”