General News
15 August, 2024
Hillclimb championship contenders attract crowds to the Grampians
Victorian Hill Climb Round 6 draws crown at the August weekend
Round Six of the Victorian Hill Climb at the weekend drew record numbers. Local driver Nathaniel Kuchel lined up with the 85 entrants from across the state to bring it home in front of a home crowd, with only half a second between him and his main competitor Zachary Hanlin.
"The competition was fierce," he said.
"At the end of the first day, I was in provisional 1st place and 4th overall
"However, by the end of the second day, the competition had intensified, and we wrapped up the event in 2nd place in class and 8th outright," he said.
"Given the circumstances, especially considering our car still runs with an open differential, the team was extremely pleased with the results."
In the lead-up to the One Tree Hill event, In Ararat, Kuchel's team spent many days and nights preparing the car, his bright blue BMW 135i.
The small coupe, which weighs about 1450kg, is his third BMW, and he said he can't imagine competing in anything else.
The car is still street-registered but fitted with full bolt-down safety equipment.
"The competition was fierce, and with 85 drivers lining up and hundreds of spectators cheering us on," he said. "It was a fantastic weekend."
"The locals came out and supported us, and we were so grateful that they did. It was a great weekend for Ararat."
The weekend experience has fueled his excitement for coming events, including another run at the Australian Hillclimb Championship in October.
This event will be followed by the King of the Hill Hillclimb and the Legend of the Lakes in November, so for this keen racer, the rest of 2024 is busy with significant upgrades to his BMW on the calendar.
"We're gearing up to be top contenders for high outright placings at these events," he said.
His list of appreciation included Sponsors Ag Gear-Agricultural Parts and Accessories and Zephyr Auto Media, as well as new supporters LZ Vinyals, Carline Ballarat, Tyrepower Ararat, and Hansen Design & Print.
"Your backing makes all of this possible," he said.
"Our faith has played a massive part in getting us to where we are today. And we truly thank the Lord for His guidance and blessings."
For this contender, racing is a family affair, and he had high praise for their support cheering him on from the sidelines at the weekend.
"Your support means the world to me and was a huge part of our success."
"Looking forward to seeing everyone at the next event," he said.