The Street Machine Drag Challenge 2025 has kicked off with a bang, showcasing some of Australia’s most impressive drag and drive vehicles. This annual event, renowned for its high-octane excitement and diverse range of participants, continues to captivate audiences with its blend of seasoned veterans and fresh faces. From newly built machines to classic revivals, the competition is fierce, and the stories behind each car are as compelling as the races themselves.
Aaron James’s Chrysler Centura: A Family Affair
Aaron James returns to the Drag Challenge for the fourth time, but this year marks his debut with a 1977 Chrysler Centura. Previously racing a VG Valiant, James sought a lighter vehicle, transferring the VG’s driveline to the Centura. “It’s the same 528ci big-block Chrysler, with a 727 and Strange nine-inch. It’s a father-and-son build – my car with Dad’s engine,” he shared.
Despite having only driven the Centura for about 10 kilometers with its new setup, James is optimistic. His goal is to achieve eights by week’s end in the ITF Hire 235 Aspirated class, having already clocked a 9.30@145mph on Day One.
Heath van der Waerden’s Resilient Torana
Heath van der Waerden’s LX/UC Torana, a 2024 SMOTY winner, faced early challenges but managed to impress on Day One. After resolving ignition issues, van der Waerden achieved an 11.93@120mph in the Unrivaled Engineering Stick-Shift class. “It started!” he exclaimed, relieved after troubleshooting gas pressure issues.
This development follows a series of setbacks, but van der Waerden’s determination paid off, highlighting the resilience required in drag racing.
John Kerr’s Mercury Comet: A Battle-Tested Veteran
John Kerr’s 1964 Mercury Comet is a familiar sight at the Drag Challenge, known for its reliability. However, even the most well-maintained machines face challenges. “I bent the valves at the Hardass 1000,” Kerr admitted. After rebuilding the engine, he sought more horsepower but found it elusive.
Running in the Enthusiast Motor Insurance Outlaw Aspirated class, Kerr’s Comet managed a 10.86@125mph. “A 10.2 is my PB, but now it runs slower,” he mused, contemplating the possibility of outperforming competitors who might not finish the event.
Tim Browne’s Mustang and Future Aspirations
Tim Browne’s 2016 Ford Mustang, a contender in the Powerplus Racing Fuels Outlaw Blown class, achieved a new personal best of 9.80@137mph on Day One. Browne aims for 9.5s by week’s end, after which he plans to sell the Mustang to focus on a long-term project: a Model A Tudor build powered by a 427ci LS.
This move represents Browne’s commitment to evolving within the sport, anticipating the debut of his new creation at next year’s Drag Challenge.
Anthony Fortunato’s Turbocharged Torana
Anthony Fortunato’s LC Torana has undergone significant upgrades for DC 2025, now boasting a 1050hp turbocharged Nissan RB30 engine. Despite a scare during the test-and-tune day, Fortunato’s team quickly addressed a coolant leak that caused the car to veer off course.
With the issues resolved, Fortunato’s Torana ran a 9.55@142mph, demonstrating the potential of his meticulously engineered machine in the Speed Pro Six-Cylinder class.
Ollie Kent’s XE Fairmont: A New Generation
Seventeen-year-old Ollie Kent has taken the reins of his father’s XE Fairmont, competing in the PSR 9.5 Radial class. Despite a minor setback with a drained battery, Kent managed a commendable 9.79@137mph by Day One’s end.
This transition marks a generational shift in the Drag Challenge, with younger drivers stepping into roles traditionally held by their predecessors.
Hayley Vella’s Ford Capri: Continuing a Legacy
Following in her father’s footsteps, 17-year-old Hayley Vella made her Drag Challenge debut in a Ford Capri, achieving a 9.03@146mph. The car, previously driven by her father, has been slightly modified for her entry into the Kemppi Australia Radial Aspirated class.
As Vella navigates her first DC campaign, her performance underscores the enduring legacy of the Vella family in drag racing.
Daniel Rankin’s Chevy II Nova: A Newcomer’s Enthusiasm
Daniel Rankin’s Chevy II Nova, a rarity in Australia, made its Drag Challenge debut in the ITF Hire 235 Aspirated class. Rankin, experiencing drag racing for the first time, described it as exhilarating, achieving a 12.06 on Day One with aspirations for the 11s.
Accompanied by his son and brother, Rankin’s enthusiasm highlights the communal and familial aspects of the Drag Challenge.
As the Street Machine Drag Challenge 2025 progresses, these stories of innovation, resilience, and familial bonds continue to unfold, promising a thrilling conclusion to the event. With each participant striving for personal bests and overcoming challenges, the spirit of competition remains as vibrant as ever.
