2026 ARCHERS SMASH STREET SERIES ROUND 1 RECAP

13 March 2026

Willowbank Raceway kicked off the 2026 season in style as the Archers Smash Street Series returned in January, drawing an impressive field of racers and a lively crowd for the first hit-out of the year. The event reaffirmed its status as Queensland’s home of grassroots drag racing, with a blend of seasoned competitors, fresh faces, and a buzzing community atmosphere.

Returning 2025 Knijff Earthmoving Powderpuff Champion Roxanne Thomas faced a tough Round 1 exit at the hands of Street Series newcomer Brooke Shore, while it was seasoned competitor Kristie Bauer who powered through the field to claim the final over Rhonda Larfield.

Heavy hitter and one of Willowbank Raceway’s winningest competitors, Tammy Goldthorpe, launched her comeback campaign in style with a strong win over Jason Clarkin in Street Bike.

In just his third Archers Street Series event, Caleb O’Brien secured a breakout victory over current NewSkool Champion Matthew Barron. O’Brien showed impressive form, holeshotting Barron off the line and forcing him into a breakout at the finish.

OldSkool delivered a familiar showdown, with two regulars returning to the winners’ circle. Mitchell Bauer joined wife Kristie as one of the evening’s champions after defeating Josh Fletcher, who had to settle for runner-up honours.

All winners, runners-up, and third-place points scorers now head into Round 2 as the hunted, giving their fellow competitors the chance to score valuable bonus points if they can knock them off on April 11.

Entries for Round 2 are now open, and it’s not too late to start building your championship campaign. Racers who haven’t yet registered for points can complete their details at https://www.willowbankraceway.com.au/event/archers-street-series/

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