Holden HQ State of Origin coming to Darwin

Hidden Valley Raceway will host a fierce new interstate contest when the Hi-Tec Oils Super Series heads to the top end.

The HQ Holden State of Origin Challenge will be one of the headline acts of the second round of the 2023 Hi-Tec Oils Super Series at Darwin from April 29 to May 1.

Some of the best Holden HQ racers from around the country are anticipated to be on show with state pride on the line at the 2.870km circuit.

A unique format has been introduced for the event featuring one of Australia’s most iconic race cars. 

Two drivers will share each car and take turns behind the wheel across the four sprint races held on Saturday and Sunday.

The big event then concludes with a big two-hour endurance race on the Monday public holiday, where compulsory pit stops for tyre and driver changes will feature prominently.

Drivers will score points for their respective state/territory across the sprint races, with the top performer being crowned State of Origin champions.

Hidden Valley will host a big weekend of Holden HQ racing in the Hi-Tec Oils Super Series. Image: LAT

Hi-Tec Oils Super Series Hidden Valley event coordinator and experienced Holden HQ driver Michael Fitzgerald said the new event should attract some strong interest with a number of local steerers determined to defend home turf.

“HQ Holdens have now been around for more than 50 years, and HQ racing has been part of the fabric of Aussie motorsport for over three decades,” he said.

“Up in the Northern Territory, HQ Holden racing has always had a big following and I have travelled there many times for great HQ events.

“Darwin is still home to some quality HQ drivers and teams, but they’ll have their work cut out keeping the interstate visitors at bay.

“HQ Holden racing is still predominantly the domain of grass roots motorsport competitors, so it’s fantastic we can give them the chance to compete in an event with the prestige factor of live television coverage.”

State pride will be on the line when the Holden HQ’s go racing in Darwin.

Holden HQ driver and Benalla Auto Club general manager Stephen Whyte said the new concept will be a great inclusion to the Hidden Valley event.

“Having HQs as part of the Hi-Tec Oils Super Series Darwin round was such an important inclusion – HQ Holden racing still has a place on a national stage,” he said.

“Whilst it is a unique opportunity for competitors from other states to race at Hidden Valley, the crowd will get to see their home-grown talent competing against the best from around the country.

“The HQ Holden State of Origin Challenge adds to what is shaping up as a blockbuster event for us in Darwin, and we can’t wait to announce some other headline acts in the lead-up.”

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