Toyota Racing Series postpones races due to wind concerns

Average winds of 65 km/h and gusts of up to 100 km/h on Saturday afternoon have prompted Toyota Racing New Zealand to cancel all remaining Castrol Toyota Racing Series events at Teretonga Park for the weekend.

Castrol Toyota Racing Series Category Manager Nico Caillol stressed that the decision had not been taken lightly and was based solely on the safety of the 16 drivers and others involved in the series.

"Our conclusion is that the predicted wind speeds and gusts combined with the high speed nature of the coastal track could compromise the downforce of the 500kg machines and potentially put driver safety and the safety of others at an enhanced and unacceptable level of risk.

“It's a shame and we have considered the situation carefully for fans and drivers, but safety comes first and we have reluctantly decided to cancel our qualifying and racing today."

The remaining races have been rescheduled, with Race 2 to take place next weekend when Hampton Downs hosts Round 3, and Race 3 will be held in Round 4 at Taupo Motorsport Park.