Mackay Blokarters soared to victory at the Australian National Blokart Titles, held from March 21-23 at Waratah Bay, Victoria. The competition brought together the best blokart sailors from across the country, with competitors battling varying wind conditions over four intense days of racing.
Four competitors from Central Queensland and Whitsunday Blokart Clubs raced for top honours, showcasing their skills and determination on the sand. Among them were two Mackay women, including a husband-and-wife duo who took on the challenge with remarkable sportsmanship and competitive spirit.
In the lightweight production class, Bev Shultz put on an impressive performance, securing first place. As a former world champion, she demonstrated her elite sailing skills, navigating the tricky conditions with precision and strategy. Her victory reaffirmed her status as one of the top blokart competitors in the country.
Tony Francis also delivered a stellar performance, taking first place in the heavyweight performance division. His expertise and control in the demanding conditions set him apart from the competition, earning him a well-deserved national title. His wife, Katie, competed in the lightweight production class but, despite a strong effort, narrowly missed a podium finish.
Miles Wood from the Whitsunday Blokart Club showcased exceptional talent, securing first place in the medium weight performance category. His achievement contributed to an outstanding overall performance for the Central Queensland Blokarters, further establishing their reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the sport.
The event saw a total of 42 competitors battling it out, with fluctuating winds adding an extra layer of difficulty to the races. Despite the challenging conditions, the skill and determination of the competitors ensured thrilling and closely contested races.
Dave Moore, spokesperson and founder of the Central Queensland Blokart Club (CQBC), expressed immense pride in the team’s achievements.
“We at the Central Queensland Blokart Club are very proud of our team,” he said, acknowledging the dedication and effort put in by the competitors.
The Queensland team consisted of members from Whitsundays, Mackay, Yeppoon, and Bundaberg/Woodgate Beach.
The trophies, handcrafted by the Men’s Shed Victoria, were awarded across eight divisions, including lightweight, middleweight, heavyweight, and super heavyweight in both the production and performance classes.
Mackay Blokarters dominated the Australian National Blokart Titles in Victoria, with Bev Shultz and Tony Francis securing first-place wins, showcasing their skill despite challenging wind conditions. Photos supplied