Brett Bull is optimistic that the upcoming Top 10 Shootout will provide him with the opportunity to improve upon his second-place finish from last year. [IMAGE0CONTEXT:audi_260] The 29th annual time trials will introduce an exciting new format where the fastest drivers will compete head-to-head in an effort to beat their best times on a 1.0-kilometre closed street course. Following seven individual runs for the 260 entrants, the ten quickest drivers will have a final chance in a special eighth run to secure the fastest time and claim the Col Furness Memorial perpetual trophy. Although all runs will count, the ultimate winner will be determined by the fastest time recorded over the weekend.
“We reached out to the usual top drivers, and they all embraced the idea enthusiastically. There’s a diverse range of vehicles among them, from specialized single-seaters to sports and touring cars, making the competition even more compelling,” said Bull. “This will also serve as a major draw for spectators, giving them a reason to stay until the end and cheer for the winners on the podium.”
Historically, the fastest times have often been achieved during the final runs of the weekend when the cooler conditions are more favorable. Therefore, there’s every reason to believe that the winner could emerge from a do-or-die effort in the Top 10 Shootout. “All runs will be counted, but there will definitely be plenty of motivation for the Top 10, including a special winner’s trophy and a new podium ceremony for the top three finishers.”
The Top 10 Shootout is set to feature Australian Hillclimb Champion Dean Amos, who will be aiming for his 10th Sprints victory in his English-built Gould GR55B V8. Key competitor Brett Bull, who finished second in 2024, has constructed a new, ultra-lightweight racer powered by a turbocharged Kawasaki motorcycle engine. He looks forward to the chance for an additional run against the clock. “It’s a fantastic idea; I usually achieve my fastest run at the very end,” Bull remarked, also keeping an eye on four-time winner and 2024 third-place finisher Warwick Hutchinson.
In addition to the thrilling on-track sprints, there will be a variety of off-track attractions, including the Motorsport Alley display featuring special cars, Shannons Show ‘n’ Shine, Vintage Van Village, VIP driver appearances, a charity auction, and a fun run. Attendees can enjoy live music at three venues, food and market stalls, and raffles with prizes such as a Gold Coast Supercars 500 weekend for two, Supercheap Auto vouchers, and hot lap rides. Adult tickets are priced at $30 per day or $40 for the weekend, available at the gate or online in advance. Accompanied children under 14 can enter for free, and street parking is complimentary. Food and drink prices at community-run outlets are kept affordable.
The Historic Leyburn Sprints receive support from the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland, along with the Southern Downs Regional Council, which provides financial assistance to promote the event and attract visitors to the Southern Downs region. Proceeds from this community-run event benefit local organizations and projects via the Historic Leyburn Sprints Community Benefit Fund. Numerous private organizations also support the Sprints, including Platinum Sponsors such as JMC Performance, Boral, Loaders R Us, Speedcafe.com, Collins Hay, Shannons Insurance, and Tait Freight.