- about the Event
2025 QLD State Cup - Bundaberg
The 2025 Queensland State Cup, held from October 3rd to 5th at the Bundaberg Kart Club, was a weekend of firsts, fierce competition, and unforgettable moments for young driver OJ. With no prior experience on the Bundaberg circuit, a brand-new Tony Kart EVM beneath her, and the backing of Harrison Hoey’s newly formed H-Sport team, OJ entered the event with no expectations—just determination and a hunger to learn.
Friday Practice: Finding Her Feet
The weekend kicked off with a detailed track walk alongside the H-Sport crew, followed by five timed practice sessions. Each lap was a lesson, each session a step forward. By the end of the day, OJ had climbed to 9th fastest out of 17 competitors, just +0.262 seconds off the leader—a promising start for a debut performance.
Saturday: Grit and Growth
Qualifying Drama
OJ showed impressive pace during the 6-minute qualifying session, with her data logger indicating she was 0.2 seconds up heading into the final sector. But fate intervened—a competitor re-entered the track directly in front of her, costing valuable time. Still, she secured 6th on the grid, just +0.195 off pole.
- Heat One: Starting on the outside of Turn 1, OJ was squeezed out and dropped to 11th. Undeterred, she fought back with clean overtakes to finish 8th.
- Heat Two: Another tough start saw her fall to 13th by Turn 2. But once again, her resilience shone through as she clawed her way back to 9th.
- Heat Three: With a better starting position in 7th and the inside line advantage, OJ engaged in thrilling battles and wrapped up the day with a strong 4th-place finish.
- Result
Sunday: Eyes on the Prize
Heat Four: OJ continued her upward trajectory, delivering consistent fastest laps and finishing 5th.
The Final Showdown
At 11:30am, the 16-lap final began. Starting 6th, OJ quickly settled into rhythm, moving up to 4th by lap 8. By lap 13, she was in the thick of the battle for 2nd. When 3rd place made a move, OJ followed through, claiming 3rd. On lap 15, sensing an opportunity for 2nd, she went for a daring move at Turn 2. The crowd roared—but contact with another kart ended both their races prematurely.
Reflections and Gratitude
Though the final didn’t end as hoped, the weekend was a resounding success in terms of growth, performance, and team spirit. OJ’s progression was undeniable, and the Tony Kart EVM proved its mettle. Huge thanks go to Harry, Troy, and the entire H-Sport team for their unwavering support.
A special shoutout to Bundaberg Kart Club, its officials, and volunteers for hosting a stellar event that showcased the heart and hustle of grassroots motorsport.
