View Full Version : Hampton Downs sold
sil3nt
27th March 2015, 12:47
Heard rumours over the last few days about HD being sold and this article adds fuel to the fire.
Quoted from Facebook https://www.facebook.com/VelocityNews?fref=nf
HAMPTON DOWNS SOLD TO TONY QUINN?
Hampton Downs Motorsport Park has reportedly been sold for around $13.5 million to Australian pet food mogul and Highlands Motorsport Park owner Tony Quinn.
Velocity NZ understands a decision was made earlier this week to accept Quinn’s offer to buy the circuit, a process which will see the North Waikato facility removed of all debt. Velocity NZ sources close to the Highlands Park owner indicate Quinn has intentions to complete the circuit extension and facilities, and retain existing circuit management.
The surprising news comes just one month after Quinn was denied the opportunity to acquire Taupo Motorsport Park, though he has made efforts to acquire Hampton Downs before.
Speculation surrounding the purchase of Taupo Motorsport Park indicated Quinn would likely bring the Australian GT Championship to New Zealand for a second round of the series. However the failed attempt to buy the Central North Island circuit now opens the opportunity to bring the series to Hampton Downs Motorsport Park.
Whilst the purchase has not been confirmed by representatives of Quinn or Hampton Downs - who were unavailable for comment at the time of publication - Velocity NZ understands the purchase is set to go through within the first two weeks of April.
Hampton Downs Motorsport Park has quickly become New Zealand’s busiest race facility boasting over 320 days of use per year. With the impending change of ownership, it is unclear what changes will be made to the circuit’s availability.
Be great if he does finish that extension (IMO it would be better if he modified that extension....). He is worth $400 million so it is hopefully good news for HD.
Gremlin
27th March 2015, 14:23
He seems like a bloke that pushes forward and gets things done...
Voltaire
27th March 2015, 14:29
Notice anything missing on Mr Quinns Highland Motorsport Park?
http://www.highlands.co.nz/
Grubber
27th March 2015, 14:37
Just for the record, Tony Quinn hates motorcycles and loves exotic cars with a passion.
Will be interesting how this effects some riding time.
nodrog
27th March 2015, 14:42
he will own taupo shortly
sil3nt
27th March 2015, 14:51
Just for the record, Tony Quinn hates motorcycles and loves exotic cars with a passion.
Will be interesting how this effects some riding time.does he hate motorcycles? My understanding is that Highlands has some very restrictive noise limits that most motorcycles exceed which is why we don't see bikes there.
he will own taupo shortlyI hear they have a backer already after they rejected Quinns offer
malcy25
27th March 2015, 14:56
does he hate motorcycles? My understanding is that Highlands has some very restrictive noise limits that most motorcycles exceed which is why we don't see bikes there.
I hear they have a backer already after they rejected Quinns offer
Yeah, I'd heard he didn't like bikes also, then subsequently heard that this supposition was probably moreso from the fact that Highlands isn't and couldn't be really set up for bikes and other issues.
Maha
27th March 2015, 15:02
I read that people have ''heard'' a lot. Successful business people don't turn away business when there is a money to made, the worst will be an increase in track hire.
ducatilover
27th March 2015, 15:15
Lets all hope it doesn't become a playground for the rich :no:
Reckless
27th March 2015, 15:21
I read that people have ''heard'' a lot. Successful business people don't turn away business when there is a money to made, the worst will be an increase in track hire.
Especially if he does the extensions and increases the price?
AMCC and the track days might not be able to afford more track hire so that would be a blow to the bike scene.
But if we piss him off with to much speculation an negativity he might say stuff the bikes?
Wait and see I reckon :first:
cynna
27th March 2015, 15:31
does he hate motorcycles? My understanding is that Highlands has some very restrictive noise limits that most motorcycles exceed which is why we don't see bikes there.
I hear they have a backer already after they rejected Quinns offer
or is it something to do with the conrete barriers and bike safety at highlands
sidecar bob
27th March 2015, 15:36
I read that people have ''heard'' a lot. Successful business people don't turn away business when there is a money to made, the worst will be an increase in track hire.
He should expect a return of at least what his money would bring in if it was invested in stocks or commercial / residential property.
jellywrestler
27th March 2015, 15:40
He should expect a return of at least what his money would bring in if it was invested in stocks or commercial / residential property.
maybe, but maybe like some wealthy people he will settle for having a second park which is his when he wants to play with the big boys and the rest of the time ticking along as it always was.
one would hope so, does he get a full financial return from highlands park, or is it a dream accomplished.
take a lok at the nelson motorcycle museaum, all his income goes to the workers and charity fifty fifty.
Reckless
27th March 2015, 15:40
He should expect a return of at least what his money would bring in if it was invested in stocks or commercial / residential property.
That's track day costs unaffordable then :(
Hopefully its a passion not a pure business enterprise. He must love his racing?
sidecar bob
27th March 2015, 15:42
That's track day costs unaffordable then :(
Hopefully its a passion not a pure business enterprise. He must love his racing?
He didnt get where he is by giving pet food to people that love dogs.
Grubber
27th March 2015, 15:58
does he hate motorcycles? My understanding is that Highlands has some very restrictive noise limits that most motorcycles exceed which is why we don't see bikes there.
I hear they have a backer already after they rejected Quinns offer
It does ave restrictions but is still usable for bikes. Problem is it wasn't built for bikes at all. Thus barriers.
Lets all hope it doesn't become a playground for the rich :no:
Highlands has only had Porche racing etc there and only a couple of meets to be fair. Very much picking the cream out.
Yeah, I'd heard he didn't like bikes also, then subsequently heard that this supposition was probably moreso from the fact that Highlands isn't and couldn't be really set up for bikes and other issues.
I was fortunate enough to ride on there last year and that was the last time allowed due to noise for one and a few other issues to boot.
or is it something to do with the conrete barriers and bike safety at highlands
Concrete barriers were put there with cars only in mind, no bikes were factored into the equation at the time.
Real nice track all the same.
Danger Dave
27th March 2015, 16:13
Highlands is very restricted to the number of events that it can run hence the reason for only running selected car events, We will see what happens with hampton as the only person who knows what he has planed will be himself, there is a lot of people saying he hates bikes and won't let them run but as fair as i have read nobody can show a direct quote of him saying these things so it's still very much up in air.
The only thing for certain is that he is an avid motorsport fan that has worked hard and has now acheived every motorsport fans dream of not only owning their own track but owning two of them.
nzspokes
27th March 2015, 16:40
Especially if he does the extensions and increases the price?
AMCC and the track days might not be able to afford more track hire so that would be a blow to the bike scene.
But if we piss him off with to much speculation an negativity he might say stuff the bikes?
Wait and see I reckon :first:
I was wondering that if it can be split like Taupo to run 2 events at the same time it may get cheaper so more can afford to go.:rolleyes:
jellywrestler
27th March 2015, 16:55
I was wondering that if it can be split like Taupo to run 2 events at the same time it may get cheaper so more can afford to go.:rolleyes:
yes then full track has that option, not everyone has to make a buck out of everything they do, case in point, sidecar boo sponsors several riders, he won't get and doesn't expect a full return on this. some people will go hard out in one area to make a buck , then spend a little differently cause they can acheive their dreams, goals supplemented by income from elsewhere.
one hopes he's sort of collecting the set but realises the need to make it float and won's discount the proportion of income that bikes provide.
Reckless
27th March 2015, 17:01
I was wondering that if it can be split like Taupo to run 2 events at the same time it may get cheaper so more can afford to go.:rolleyes:
I doubt that very much as you'd need two sets of stands, speaker systems would clash, etc etc
Taupo and Manfield have track options but I don't think they've ever run two big events same day?
Lets not get ahead of ourselves he could well let bikes have more time and create events that make profit and the track rates come down.
The mans gotta love his motorsport that's for sure :)
scott411
27th March 2015, 17:14
I was wondering that if it can be split like Taupo to run 2 events at the same time it may get cheaper so more can afford to go.:rolleyes:
it was designed to be that way, a club track, (the bit that is not built yet), a national track, (the bit that is there now) and the international track was the combination of the 2,
in the early days they even had the prices listed to hire each part, or the whole lot,
sidecar bob
27th March 2015, 17:30
yes then full track has that option, not everyone has to make a buck out of everything they do, case in point, sidecar bob sponsors several riders, he won't get and doesn't expect a full return on this.
Frankly, I don't expect any financial return at all on bikes/riders I support, it's just fun stuff, but the only reason that I can sponsor people in the first place is because I have a performing portfolio creating disposable income.
It remains to be seen wether this latest purchase of Mr Quinn is that fun stuff he expects no return on, or part of his performing portfolio.
madbikeboy
28th March 2015, 08:45
The guys who built Hampton Downs need a bit of recognition for taking the plunge and building the track. I've met them many times, and they've worked very hard to manage costs and see the track to fruition. You need to spend huge capital costs upfront, and then race (crawl?) to profit. In a previous life, we gave the guys 10 km of fibre to run around the racetrack - from the start they had a vision to build a world class facility. No rational person would build a race track from scratch in this day and age.
Specific thanks to Jamie Kett, the ex-sidecar champ who drove me around the track when it was still mud and clay, and who gave me advice on lines and braking points (a couple of times from a double cab ute, which with Jamie driving, is an experience in itself).
sil3nt
28th March 2015, 13:25
http://www.odt.co.nz/regions/central-otago/337504/purchase-park-denied
:baby:
GD66
28th March 2015, 13:26
The guys who built Hampton Downs need a bit of recognition for taking the plunge and building the track. I've met them many times, and they've worked very hard to manage costs and see the track to fruition.
Yes, and they have been trying to flog it for quite a while as they appear to be sick of banging their heads against the wall. If the 13.5 figure is true he has scored an absolute bargain but as a moneymaking venture for the two owners it has been a hell of a lot of hard work and struggle for a meagre return, often against a background of advice from the sidelines from unappreciative critics.
Quinn is not everyone's cup of tea but he is a smart cookie and a racer, so let's see what happens. Some benefactor who has a better idea of looking after club-level participants who want to race for free would be quite welcome to outbid Quinn : yeah, won't be happening...
Reckless
31st March 2015, 11:19
Update here girls :P
Tony Quinn hasn’t bought Hampton Downs… yet
World
March 30, 2015FacebookTwitter
AUSTRALIAN GT and Aussie Racing Car series owner Tony Quinn has denied that a deal to purchase New Zealand track Hampton Downs has been completed.
Quinn confirmed that he is in the process of purchasing the track, but isn’t popping the champagne just yet.
The Scot-turned-Aussie is in the final stages of completing the deal.
“We are on the last lap of an endurance race,” he told AA. “It is not 100-percent signed, sealed and delivered, but we are on the last lap.
“Everyone should remember that I have actually tried to buy the track three times before, and mainly due to the vendor’s circumstance it hasn’t proceeded, but this time, we have managed to fills some of the holes.
“It will be a very very good thing for Hampton Downs, because I intend fully to make it what it was always supposed to be – a truly international icon of New Zealand motorsport.
“The main thing that needs to happen is it is business as usual.”
Quinn was quick to downplay any rumours that Hampton Downs would resemble his other track, Highlands Motorsport Park, under his ownership.
“It is a totally different model to Highlands,” he explained.
“Highlands is a tourist venue that has got a race track; Hampton Downs is an absolute commercial race track that services a major population area.
“It is a totally different model, and if people think that Hampton Downs is going to be another Highlands, that is not what it is going to be.
“It is going to be a top class international venue.”
The deal hasn’t been penned just yet, however Quinn hinted that he does have plans to bring international categories to the North Island track in the future.
The V.I.P Petfoods and Darrel Lea boss remained cryptic on which categories he would want to race at the venue.
“It is a whole lot easier to bring international categories into Auckland rather than Highlands,” he added.
“In my head I have tabled Spring of 2016 for the first major international event at Hampton Downs.”
Cameron Kirby
http://autoaction.com.au/tony-quinn-bought-hampton-downs/?adbsc=social_20150330_42906496&adbid=839138909474680&adbpl=fb&adbpr=204021419653102
neil_cb125t
1st April 2015, 20:14
does he hate motorcycles? My understanding is that Highlands has some very restrictive noise limits that most motorcycles exceed which is why we don't see bikes there.
I hear they have a backer already after they rejected Quinns offer
.
Hampton downs is a completely different race track and location with a different customer base. Any word of new owners or investors that want to FINISH Hamptons has to be great.
Reckless
7th May 2015, 10:46
Any more news on the Hampton Sale????
Taupo is officially on the market now: http://www.bayleys.co.nz/Listings/Waikato/Taupo/Lake-Taupo/4500518
Shaun Harris
7th May 2015, 11:29
Any more news on the Hampton Sale????
Taupo is officially on the market now: http://www.bayleys.co.nz/Listings/Waikato/Taupo/Lake-Taupo/4500518
Taupo being on the market finally does not surprise me, ( But one of the controlling parties of it, tells lots of lies) certain people involved in that place have no dam idea how to make money from that place. It is a gold mine just weighting to be opened up
TQ looked to buy Taupo too, but the TCC vetoed it. I think this was short-sighted, but I don't have all the facts.
I understand their position - they want to ensure that grassroots motorsport is promoted and gets use of facilities, but any purchaser is going to be a businessman looking for return on investment.
There's many worse than TQ around. He at least lives in NZ (many buyers won't), is actively involved in motorpsort (many buyers won't be) and will have a truer understanding of what needs to be done for success to follow.
As for HD - negotiations have progressed far further than ever before. No deal as yet (as far as I know).
scott411
7th May 2015, 12:00
Taupo being on the market finally does not surprise me, ( But one of the controlling parties of it, tells lots of lies) certain people involved in that place have no dam idea how to make money from that place. It is a gold mine just weighting to be opened up
i dont think gold mine can be used to desribe motor racing tracks,
money pit is more like it,
haydes55
7th May 2015, 12:27
Taupo being on the market finally does not surprise me, ( But one of the controlling parties of it, tells lots of lies) certain people involved in that place have no dam idea how to make money from that place. It is a gold mine just weighting to be opened up
i dont think gold mine can be used to desribe motor racing tracks,
money pit is more like it,
Best money pit ever, though.
Mental Trousers
7th May 2015, 16:27
Taupo being on the market finally does not surprise me, ( But one of the controlling parties of it, tells lots of lies) certain people involved in that place have no dam idea how to make money from that place. It is a gold mine just weighting to be opened up
i dont think gold mine can be used to desribe motor racing tracks,
money pit is more like it,
Best money pit ever, though.
It'd need a pub and a strip club onsite to be the best money pit ever.
Shaun Harris
7th May 2015, 16:54
i dont think gold mine can be used to desribe motor racing tracks,
money pit is more like it,
Deff NOT when they are still managed like they were in 1963, like they are!
ellipsis
7th May 2015, 18:02
Deff NOT when they are still managed like they were in 1963, like they are!
...it's a complex issue...
Shaun Harris
7th May 2015, 18:38
...it's a complex issue...
Haha Yea, they do not really realise what they have in there hands. HD has 25% of the entire nation at its door FFS and still cannot make it happen
nodrog
7th May 2015, 18:54
Haha Yea, they do not really realise what they have in there hands. HD has 25% of the entire nation at its door FFS and still cannot make it happen
You should run it Shaun, you seem to know how to run a thriving business.
scott411
9th May 2015, 07:42
its not just NZ where race tracks struggle, miller motorsport park in Utah is ceasing operations,
http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865628232/Source-Miller-Motorsports-Park-to-cease-operations.html?pg=all
Shaun Harris
9th May 2015, 08:56
its not just NZ where race tracks struggle, miller motorsport park in Utah is ceasing operations,
http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865628232/Source-Miller-Motorsports-Park-to-cease-operations.html?pg=all
The world will be all back to just jumping puddles soon
Mental Trousers
9th May 2015, 14:05
its not just NZ where race tracks struggle, miller motorsport park in Utah is ceasing operations,
http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865628232/Source-Miller-Motorsports-Park-to-cease-operations.html?pg=all
That sucks. WSBK had some awesome races there.
Where would the best mbike racetrack be in NZ?
for sidecars?
for 250s
for 600s
for 1000+
for road bikes
does it depend
bike type, size, organisation, track, location, shape of track
curious :cold:
scott411
9th May 2015, 15:30
The world will be all back to just jumping puddles soon
that didint help this place either, it has a round of the AMA motocross series there, which i think is the last major event planned before the shut down
Where would the best mbike racetrack be in NZ?
for sidecars?
for 250s
for 600s
for 1000+
for road bikes
does it depend
bike type, size, organisation, track, location, shape of track
curious :cold:
Coro Loop ;)
trustme
9th May 2015, 18:58
The faster the track , the bigger the bike.
scracha
9th May 2015, 19:03
Where would the best mbike racetrack be in NZ?
for sidecars?
for 250s
for 600s
for 1000+
for road bikes
does it depend
bike type, size, organisation, track, location, shape of track
curious :cold:
Manfield full track before some ginger ex IOM racer said it was too dangerous to race there.
Manfield full track before some ginger ex IOM racer said it was too dangerous to race there.
I will keep an eye out for something to be on there.
Only been to Taupo, enjoyed the side cars there,
the trucks were crap, most cars couldnt pass, the bikes similar but good being able to view from above. Never been to Manfield, nor Hampton Downs.
Tentatively booked for Wanganui Boxing day Cemetry Circuit (its about then) for a deco
Kickaha
9th May 2015, 20:12
Only been to Taupo, enjoyed the side cars there
I fucking didn't and I was riding one
I'd probably say Ruapuna, good length and good spectator areas although I do quite like HD
Voltaire
9th May 2015, 20:20
I fucking didn't and I was ridng one
I'd probably say Ruapuna, good length and good spectator areas although I do quite like HD
Taupo seems to see a lot of bikes go down....me included after last weekend.
I like HD and hoping for good things to happen there.
The pipenslipperarti are pencilling in SOT for next year :yes: ( the Phillip Island trip started getting a bit $$$$$)
I fucking didn't and I was riding one
I'd probably say Ruapuna, good length and good spectator areas although I do quite like HD
Went last year to Taupo, spent most of the time watching the main track. then realised the sidecars were on #2 track. raced around to the track. Saw the last part of the day till they shut the track down because truck racing on #1.
Not many places now you can get to walk amongst the pits, see the workings of a team AND stand next to the track as the racers go by. IMO anyway.
It was a real buzz, made travelling there all worthwhile for me.
Booked this year as well to Taupo till they transfered it to Puke.
Going to Wanganui at end of year any good locations to see the racing (never been to cemetry circuit before)
I went to CHCH twice once last year on a 1 day work - tried to get some work, missed out but it was worth it.
Once this year for Theatre conference - what a blast.
Not likely to got back there, but I will keep it in mind - Ruapuna
Voltaire
9th May 2015, 20:32
HMCC racing at HD on the 24th, weather permitting should be a good day. You can always hang out at Team Bavaria :yes:
jellywrestler
9th May 2015, 20:37
Going to Wanganui at end of year any good locations to see the racing (never been to cemetry circuit before)
spend the whole day walking the whole circuit, there's enough time to watch a couple of races from every corner, best veiw is from the outside of a corner as you can usually see another couple of corners, one entry and one exit.
spend the whole day walking the whole circuit, there's enough time to watch a couple of races from every corner, best veiw is from the outside of a corner as you can usually see another couple of corners, one entry and one exit.
coolness thanks:niceone: looking forward to it, saving ma pennies for a month already.
HMCC racing at HD on the 24th, weather permitting should be a good day. You can always hang out at Team Bavaria :yes:
its a sunday - excellent my usual day off. I take it there a web site for details?
Keen to take a reco to see what track racing is all about.
Couldnt see into the pits at Taupo, dont need to get involved, just want to see what its all about.
swarfie
9th May 2015, 21:28
its a sunday - excellent my usual day off. I take it there a web site for details?
Keen to take a reco to see what track racing is all about.
Couldnt see into the pits at Taupo, dont need to get involved, just want to see what its all about.
Go here.
http://hamiltonmcc.org.nz/
Go here.
http://hamiltonmcc.org.nz/
Excellent:niceone:
ellipsis
10th May 2015, 00:56
...you sound like flaggie material...you should contact a local club and get involved...maybe even play one day?...:woohoo:
eldog
10th May 2015, 01:32
...you sound like flaggie material...you should contact a local club and get involved...maybe even play one day?...:woohoo:
Flaggie - flag marshall?
belonged to a number of clubs in the past (not MBike ones)
wouldnt mind having a training day (not racing) giving it a go, but would need to get a bigger bike and have lots of ks on it before trying. The Scorpio just isnt suitable. and the other bike is in storage for a while yet. But the Scorpio would be fun.
we will see. have a recco first HMCC
Kickaha
10th May 2015, 08:03
The Scorpio just isnt suitable.
I've been on the track on bikes from 125cc to 1000cc, all bikes are suitable
eldog
10th May 2015, 08:19
I've been on the track on bikes from 125cc to 1000cc, all bikes are suitable
Not for the purpose I have in mind :yes:
nodrog
10th May 2015, 10:25
Taupo seems to see a lot of bikes go down....me included after last weekend.
what corner did you crash on?
.....The Scorpio just isnt suitable. .....
giz a turn then.
Voltaire
10th May 2015, 10:39
what corner did you crash on?
.
On the small track just after the "chicane" that no one was using.
need some trainer wheels on the cylinder head :facepalm:
eldog
10th May 2015, 10:40
giz a turn then.
I would have to take the training wheels off :whistle:
nodrog
10th May 2015, 10:43
On the small track just after the "chicane" that no one was using.
need some trainer wheels on the cylinder head :facepalm:
Lucky, everybody else seems to crash at turn 2.
I would have to take the training wheels off :whistle:
na i'll need those.
steveyb
10th May 2015, 10:56
http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865628232/Source-Miller-Motorsports-Park-to-cease-operations.html
Shaun Harris
10th May 2015, 16:33
http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865628232/Source-Miller-Motorsports-Park-to-cease-operations.html
And will be back up and running again by 2016 according too a couple of friends over there that should know, as a very serious meeting took place yesterday between a few serious people there
nodrog
10th May 2015, 17:10
And will be back up and running again by 2016 according too a couple of friends over there that should know, as a very serious meeting took place yesterday between a few serious people there
who's friends?
Shaun Harris
11th May 2015, 08:15
who's friends?
well, People I give money too, to say they are my friends
Under tony Quinn's stewardship Hampton Downs may even get the airfence back to use, He seems to upgrade what he owns.
Reckless
21st May 2015, 12:50
Via FB on the Velocity NZ page Via National Business review if I read it right? https://www.facebook.com/VelocityNews?fref=photo
QUINN’S PLANS FOR HAMPTON DOWNS REVEALED
Highlands Motorsport Park owner and Australian pet food mogul Tony Quinn is reportedly set to spend $25 million on developing Hampton Downs Motorsport Park.
In an article published yesterday by the National Business Review, Chris Hutching reported Quinn had paid $15.5 million for the North Waikato circuit and has plans to complete the business park.
Talking with the National Business Review, Hampton Downs founder Tony Roberts confirmed the deal is set to be completed in the coming weeks.
“Tony [Quinn] has asked me to stay on and run the place after the deal settles on June 2,” said Roberts.
“In the next six months I expect him to inject quite a bit of capital. It will usher in a golden age for New Zealand motor sport.
“People are really positive about it [...] Tony’s entrance will see the fulfilment of a dream.”
The article comes after Velocity NZ confirmed in late March a deal had been reached between Quinn and Hampton Downs. It is understood the planned extension is included in the development proposal for the facility.
Latte
21st May 2015, 12:55
What did it cost to develop it originally, 15.5m seems cheap (but then again I own property in Auckland).
Reckless
3rd June 2015, 20:20
Hampton emailed me this At 6:41pm
http://us6.campaign-archive1.com/?u=45f550f32169a438481f77d0d&id=92d841a1bb&e=d6e3e35ed4
But looking at their web site the deal was done on the 21st
http://www.hamptondowns.com/pages/107/latestnews.htm ( the link is the same for each page in "latest news" but reading the
"QUINN KEEN ON V8 SUPERCARS AT HAMPTON DOWNS" Article it said this
“Pukekohe has got the deal for a while, but give it 18 months and Hampton Downs will be a truly international facility.
So it looks like its all happening quick as :) Few other big speculations in that article as well for the motorsport fan.
I'm guessing he's prob happier he got Hampton with international airport and population base closer by rather than Taupo TBH.
Now if he could get Transit NZ to let the the track run the right way round that would be a real plus :)
Kickaha
4th June 2015, 06:50
Now if he could get Transit NZ to let the the track run the right way round that would be a real plus :)
I'm not sure that it would be
Banditbandit
4th June 2015, 10:19
.
Now if he could get Transit NZ to let the the track run the right way round that would be a real plus :)
It was designed as a clockwise track ... having ridden it at speed I'm not sure it wold work as well as an anti-clockwise track
Kickaha
4th June 2015, 17:42
It was designed as a clockwise track ...
Are you sure about that? because there's a whole bunch of people who say otherwise
caseye
4th June 2015, 17:57
It's my understanding that the track was built to be raced in an Anticlockwise direction, all of the corners are cambered that way, and yes I've ridden it and while it's easy enough in the clockwise direction I can see how it would be better the other way.
Transit NZ stopped them running it the proper way because apparently they were concerned that cars might go flying off the end of the start finish straight onto the Southern expresway. Dickheads, what would they know???
Shaun Harris
4th June 2015, 18:02
I believe the above post to be 100% correct!
sil3nt
4th June 2015, 18:12
Doesn't really matter because it isn't going to change.
I think something more interesting could be done with the extension. Just seems to be adding more of the same corners to the circuit.
ellipsis
4th June 2015, 19:39
I believe the above post to be 100% correct!
...are all the rest not true...i feel violated and let down to the lowest point ever...i may find another forum where everybody tells the truth...my son tells me i am a naive fuckwit...
nzspokes
4th June 2015, 19:45
It's my understanding that the track was built to be raced in an Anticlockwise direction, all of the corners are cambered that way, and yes I've ridden it and while it's easy enough in the clockwise direction I can see how it would be better the other way.
Transit NZ stopped them running it the proper way because apparently they were concerned that cars might go flying off the end of the start finish straight onto the Southern expresway. Dickheads, what would they know???
That front straight would be epic quick the other way around. You would want a good set of brakes.
Shaun Harris
4th June 2015, 19:52
...are all the rest not true...i feel violated and let down to the lowest point ever...i may find another forum where everybody tells the truth...my son tells me i am a naive fuckwit...
hahaha cheers for that laugh, you have a wise son dude
Shaun Harris
4th June 2015, 19:57
Where the start finish line was originally painted tells any one that is was designed to be run in the opposite direction. Guess they just fucked up and forgot to change that detail after direction change untill all the crashes at the end of the last lap started happening
ellipsis
4th June 2015, 20:04
you have a wise son dude
...he doesn't quite realise it yet, but I taught him that...and wise is the wrong word...you don't really get that with age, but experience of failure and more testing and more failure...and more testing...
Shaun Harris
4th June 2015, 20:21
...he doesn't quite realise it yet, but I taught him that...and wise is the wrong word...you don't really get that with age, but experience of failure and more testing and more failure...and more testing...
wise was hard enough for me to type man
jellywrestler
4th June 2015, 21:10
It's my understanding that the track was built to be raced in an Anticlockwise direction, all of the corners are cambered that way, and yes I've ridden it and while it's easy enough in the clockwise direction I can see how it would be better the other way.
Transit NZ stopped them running it the proper way because apparently they were concerned that cars might go flying off the end of the start finish straight onto the Southern expresway. Dickheads, what would they know???
really, explain turn one the other way, especially once the full track has been finished, zero runoff, ditto withe straight from metalman to the dipper, no run off, and the dipper would just be an uphill drag, whereas now it adds quite a bit of a challenge with a borw of a hill right where the breaking is going on. it's simply poppycock that it was designed to go the other way
Delerium
4th June 2015, 21:10
I have heard quite a few concerns about 'what might happen' with 2k cup and trackdays now. Anybody know if there is any legit reason for this?
steveyb
4th June 2015, 21:25
I am pretty certain also, having followed closely the circuit story from first announcements, early circuit diagrams and artist impressions and the video of talking a car around the circuit before sealing, that it was always clockwise.
But answer me this. The current position of the finish line is problematic in it proximity to T1. Other circuits in the world, like Circuit del Termas de Rio Hondo for example, have different start and finish lines. This would solve that problem at HD. Why do they not do it?
Shaun Harris
4th June 2015, 21:42
I am pretty certain also, having followed closely the circuit story from first announcements, early circuit diagrams and artist impressions and the video of talking a car around the circuit before sealing, that it was always clockwise.
But answer me this. The current position of the finish line is problematic in it proximity to T1. Other circuits in the world, like Circuit del Termas de Rio Hondo for example, have different start and finish lines. This would solve that problem at HD. Why do they not do it?
It has been moved back once since opening
jellywrestler
4th June 2015, 22:53
I am pretty certain also, having followed closely the circuit story from first announcements, early circuit diagrams and artist impressions and the video of talking a car around the circuit before sealing, that it was always clockwise.
But answer me this. The current position of the finish line is problematic in it proximity to T1. Other circuits in the world, like the cemetery circuit for example, have different start and finish lines. This would solve that problem at HD. Why do they not do it?
fixed it for ya
Reckless
5th June 2015, 15:13
To create passing you need straights long enough to come to speed and corners sharp enough to have braking opportunity passes, more stop start than sweepers.
I think Hampton would be better the other way round because of some of the existing corner shapes.
Hence why I've always believed the track direction vs transit theory/rumor???
IE
1/- Coming past the start finish and down the hill, Round the sweeper, (depending how you took it) could create a pass into the now turn 5 as it would then be a hard braking area and sharp right?
2/- Again Corner 5 for example. Coming down the hill you generally only have one apex because the corner shape.
If you where going the other way you could early, mid or late apex it depending on how your bike handled and the power characteristics up the hill.
Which would then create passing opportunity over the hill into what would become a left hander at the now turn 3.
Especially if some one had a go at you going into it and upset both your lines.
3/- And turn one if you came up the hill you could also have different apexs and power down options, Whereras now coming down the hill clockwise its pretty much only a late apex corner.
4/- If you want to limit the top speed down into the sweeper put a tight chicane to the left into it at kink, the bottom of the hill, which again would create more passing opportunity.
I could type more but generally these are the 3 main reasons I think Hampton wold be a better passing track anti clockwise.
Made a couple quick rough arrows on the track in GIMP attached.
Just my 2c I'm actually far more comfortable on R/H tracks and you may agree or disagree because everyone has a different opinion but thats my take on it.
312592
Mental Trousers
5th June 2015, 15:26
There is no way in hell the current turn 5 was designed to run counter clockwise. To get enough run off area to make it safe means undercutting the start/finish straight up on top.
Myth: Hampton Downs was designed to run anti clockwise
Myth busted.
Mental Trousers
5th June 2015, 15:40
Farcebook link
https://www.facebook.com/hamptondowns/posts/10152951592399537:0
Latte
5th June 2015, 15:43
Doesn't really matter because it isn't going to change.
I think something more interesting could be done with the extension. Just seems to be adding more of the same corners to the circuit.
+1 The best part of the track is sweeping up and out of 2 then cresting around 3, the extension as it stands takes this bit out.
malcy25
5th June 2015, 16:47
To create passing you need straights long enough to come to speed and corners sharp enough to have braking opportunity passes, more stop start than sweepers.312592
Yes for cars, but that's a myth for motorcyles generally, where the best, tightest racing to be found world wide is on fast flowing sweeping circuits like Phillip Island, Mugello etc as they provide more opportunities and less concertina / rubber band effect which are flow disruptive - especially where you get 2 or 3 bikes and the guy who can get a tiny gap, then gets away and the rest trip over themselves. Taupo and to a lesser extent HD, are in that camp here, but overseas think Laguna Seca.
On my usual race bike HD is 3rd, 2nd, 2nd, 2nd 1st, 1st, 3rd gear for each of the corners. Phillip Island is 4th, 3rd, 5th, 1st, 2nd 4th, 4th, 3rd, 1st, 3rd, 4th and a whole tooth higher on the front, with regular drafting opportunities and shows of real skill rather than "stuff it up the inside and baulk them" type stuff.
Cars generally only pass under brakes and circuits are regularly built to artificially create that only opportunity....however, bikes pass everywhere and fast flowing circuits create multiple lines on entry and sorts the men from the boys. As perverse as it sounds, many circuits would be better with LESS corners (ie less small corners packed into a tight area allowing for a lesser number of real corners).
The poxiest circuits are the ones where artifically slow corners are implemented to 'slow things down" due to other issues. These slow corners are usually where the most painful acidents happen. Technically know at Shitcanes in my vocab. (Chicanes for the uninitiated)
Reckless
5th June 2015, 17:00
Yes for cars, but that's a myth for motorcyles generally,
Thanks Malcy for a great well reasoned reply my Karting/Car racing background getting in the way :rolleyes:
Makes sense and not afraid to admit my lack of actual racing experience on a bike is showing my ignorance. :doh:
Hopefully an old dog can still learn new tricks then aye :msn-wink:
malcy25
5th June 2015, 18:02
Thanks Malcy for a great well reasoned reply my Karting/Car racing background getting in the way :rolleyes:
Makes sense and not afraid to admit my lack of actual racing experience on a bike is showing my ignorance. :doh:
Hopefully an old dog can still learn new tricks then aye :msn-wink:
Yeah, some interesting differences in dynamics!
jellywrestler
5th June 2015, 18:46
+1 The best part of the track is sweeping up and out of 2 then cresting around 3, the extension as it stands takes this bit out.
only if it's used.
several things have to be taken into account re using the extensions.
more marshalls needed
less action per corner as the same number of competitors will be spread out further on the track
possibly an added charge for using the longer track
jellywrestler
5th June 2015, 18:48
Technically know at Shitcanes in my vocab. isn't that a wellington rugby team?
Grumph
5th June 2015, 19:23
Yes for cars, but that's a myth for motorcyles generally, where the best, tightest racing to be found world wide is on fast flowing sweeping circuits like Phillip Island, Mugello etc as they provide more opportunities and less concertina / rubber band effect which are flow disruptive - especially where you get 2 or 3 bikes and the guy who can get a tiny gap, then gets away and the rest trip over themselves. Taupo and to a lesser extent HD, are in that camp here, but overseas think Laguna Seca.
On my usual race bike HD is 3rd, 2nd, 2nd, 2nd 1st, 1st, 3rd gear for each of the corners. Phillip Island is 4th, 3rd, 5th, 1st, 2nd 4th, 4th, 3rd, 1st, 3rd, 4th and a whole tooth higher on the front, with regular drafting opportunities and shows of real skill rather than "stuff it up the inside and baulk them" type stuff.
Cars generally only pass under brakes and circuits are regularly built to artificially create that only opportunity....however, bikes pass everywhere and fast flowing circuits create multiple lines on entry and sorts the men from the boys. As perverse as it sounds, many circuits would be better with LESS corners (ie less small corners packed into a tight area allowing for a lesser number of real corners).
The poxiest circuits are the ones where artifically slow corners are implemented to 'slow things down" due to other issues. These slow corners are usually where the most painful acidents happen. Technically know at Shitcanes in my vocab. (Chicanes for the uninitiated)
Did you ever ride Wigram ? Bloody superb circuit for bikes, wide, fast, choice of lines, sit up twice a lap, flat on the tank for the rest. Two artificial corners though. The one year they didn't put the hairpin in at the end of the back straight, more people crashed there than at the usual hairpin. It became a scary fast left at the end of a very long straight. Mike Sinclair broke an ankle when his Greeves seized when he rolled it off the gnat's dick needed to get round...
Kickaha
5th June 2015, 19:37
Did you ever ride Wigram ?
Yes
Fucking horrible circuit, flat as all fuck and actually hard to see where the corners where, shit loads of run off though
Voltaire
5th June 2015, 21:53
only if it's used.
several things have to be taken into account re using the extensions.
more marshalls needed
less action per corner as the same number of competitors will be spread out further on the track
possibly an added charge for using the longer track
I think Taupo is an extra 2 K for the long track. Have only done that once as the Pom Bombs prefer the short circuit :lol:
Grumph
6th June 2015, 10:04
Yes
Fucking horrible circuit, flat as all fuck and actually hard to see where the corners where, shit loads of run off though
bike, chair or Kart ? Club day or proper lady Wigram ?
If a club day, yes probably very little reference points put out. When it was done proper for the Lady Wigram meetings it was very good indeed. Chair or kart would be quite hard to see far enough ahead to distinguish the edge of the track at a club day.
Pretty sure the bike record finished up just over 100mph average - with two very slow corners per lap....Stroud had a go at it on a Britten at one of the last ever meetings there after i'd told John that the bike record stood at around 99mph.
Kickaha
6th June 2015, 10:40
bike, chair or Kart ? Club day or proper lady Wigram ?.
Bike, Italian car club day and they invited the bikes along
malcy25
6th June 2015, 23:20
Did you ever ride Wigram ? Bloody superb circuit for bikes, wide, fast, choice of lines, sit up twice a lap, flat on the tank for the rest. Two artificial corners though. The one year they didn't put the hairpin in at the end of the back straight, more people crashed there than at the usual hairpin. It became a scary fast left at the end of a very long straight. Mike Sinclair broke an ankle when his Greeves seized when he rolled it off the gnat's dick needed to get round...
Grumph, once in '93 on my RS125 in the open Lady Wigram Trophy races with everything bigger than me, up to a couple of Brittens! Lol, on the little 15 which was so low when tucked in, I could't see the sides of the track! I ended up using half the width of the Taxiways so I didn't get lost out there.
Latte
8th June 2015, 15:57
only if it's used.
several things have to be taken into account re using the extensions.
more marshalls needed
less action per corner as the same number of competitors will be spread out further on the track
possibly an added charge for using the longer track
Good point!
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