WARRNAMBOOL competitor Darren Mollenoyux is confident entering his first World Series Sprintcar campaign as a contracted driver following a stunning win in Max’s Race.
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Mollenoyux rated his win in the Premier Speedway event on Saturday night among his career’s finest.
Jamie Veal, Kerry Madsen and James McFadden – who have five Grand Annual Sprintcar Classic titles between them – rounded out the A-Main top four.
“I don’t think anything will ever top running second in the classic unless I win it but this is right up there,” Mollenoyux said trackside after the $5000-to-win 35-lap feature.
“I think this is probably the best field we’ve ever beaten for a win.
“Pity it didn’t pay a little bit more money. Usually when you have to beat those guys it pays pretty well but we’re still happy to get the win and it’s a really good start for Speedweek which starts next week.”
Australian number one Madsen started on pole after clocking the fastest time in the gold shootout.
Mollonoyux, who quickly worked his way to the front, said his own performance in the shootout boosted his A-Main chances.
“We were only six on points and then the shootout helped us start on pole and track position is key,” he said.
“It’s a lot easier to pass six cars in a time trial than having to race 35 laps for it, so that set up our night I suppose and I was glad to finish it off.”
Mollonoyux revealed changes to the car setup played a crucial part in the result.
“We actually tried something different, something we’ve never tried before and I’d like to think we might have found something,” he said.
“Just a few things with the car. It was great, it was awesome. It was great fun to drive.
“The boys have worked really hard all week in preparation for world series, a lot of late nights.
“We still have a lot to do but this does give them some reward.”
Mollonoyux, Veal and McFadden ensured Warrnambool had three drivers in the top four.
Mollenoyux will start his World Series Sprintcars campaign at Murray Bridge on Boxing Day.
The 2016-17 Premier Speedway track champion said he was excited to compete in the Australia-wide competition.
“It will see us travel to Queensland, Tassie, Western Australia so it’s a big step for us so we’re looking forward to the challenge,” he said.