After what appeared to be a slow start to the season, the F2 Midget class returns to Western Springs on January 13th 2007. A number of newcomers and established F2 owners have been preparing race cars and will enter drivers in the $7500 Streets National Championship series.

A new format will create two separate F2 heat races and a F2 Feature race. Drivers will qualify through the heats for the main feature race. This differs from the previous race format where F2 cars raced with the open class Midgets. Now with the increased number of cars and a generous prize money payout the class has its own programme of racing.

F2 Midget Concept

The Formula 2 Midget section is not a completely new class but is a section within the established Midget class.

With the ever-increasing costs involved in preparing and racing a competitive Midget in the very fast open class ranks the F2 Midgets provide an entry level into the Midget class and also a racing section where experienced drivers are able to compete at a significantly reduced cost.

Springs Speedway boss, Bill Buckley, sees the class as a continuing opportunity for drivers to enter or remain in the midget class at the right price and in a car that is less demanding to maintain. 

“Our goal remains the same with the F2 Midgets and that is to provide a cost effective and exciting racing section, that will enable new-comers and racing veterans alike to race competitively in a controlled class where the emphasis is on driving skill and smart car setup”. The controls on the F2 Midget engine are designed to create a similar power output regardless of engine brand or modifications. “The idea is to establish controlled engine specifications that will provide plenty of race speed but will ensure reliable engines that don’t cost a fortune”. “We believe that the F2 spec’s will guarantee that a large budget will not necessarily mean a faster car”.

Allowing different makes of engine will mean that drivers are able to obtain late model engines at a competitive and reasonable cost. Drivers and teams are then free to establish beneficial supplier and sponsor relationships with an increased number of production car importers and dealers.

The standard Midget class rules for the car itself ensure that the opportunity exists for developing drivers to enter the Midget class and establish a race programme for the future. They have only to change an engine when they are ready to compete in the open class.

The rolling chassis for the class will be a Midget and must comply with the existing SNZ midget class rules. The section will have the following engine controls:

·        Maximum capacity 2050cc.

·        In-line 4 cylinder, naturally aspirated production car engine.

·        Maximum of 4 valves per cylinder.

·        Mechanical fuel injection.

·        Controlled intake manifold. (Manufacture specs provided)

·        Controlled electronic ignition. (Specified supplier).

·        No clutch.

·        No self-starter.

·        Methanol fuel.

·        Maximum compression ratio.

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