Ringwood Raceway, Matchams • Saturday 8th November 2025
Sponsored by Tony Smith Kitchens
There’s only one night on the banger racing calendar that truly matters — The Rookie Banger Championship of the World, and it’s back for its 21st anniversary at the legendary Ringwood Raceway, Matchams (BH24 2BT).
On Saturday 8th November 2025, more than 150 drivers from across the UK will go head-to-head for the most coveted title in rookie banger racing — the Gold Roof. Expect chaos, crashes, and pure adrenaline as the 2025 season reaches its explosive finale.
💥 The Event
Gates open: 12 midday | Racing from: 6 PM
Spectators are urged to arrive early — this one fills up fast. Last year the stands were packed long before the first green flag dropped, and organisers expect record-breaking crowds again this year.
Ringwood Raceway proudly presents the 2025 Tony Smith Kitchens Championship of the World, continuing a partnership that has kept this event at the top of the oval-racing scene.
“There’s no better sound than 60 gladiators in the ring, all gunning for that gold roof,” said event organiser Craig. “The atmosphere is electric — it’s everything banger racing is about.”
🏆 The Main Race
The centrepiece of the night is the 60-car World Championship final, supported by:
- 3 qualifying heats
- Allcomers races
- Non-qualifier clashes
- The Rookie Wrecker DD, held in memory of the late race steward Dave Driscoll, with a trophy presented each year in his honour
With the roar of V8s, the smell of petrol, and the sparks of twisted steel, The Big One never disappoints. This isn’t just racing — it’s a spectacle of courage, chaos, and celebration.
🎟️ Spectator Information
- Admission: Adults (14 +) £25 | Kids (5–13) £12 | Under 5s free
- Parking: £10 inside arena / £2 outside
- Tickets: All sold on the gate (no advance sales)
- Dogs: Welcome — must be on a lead
- Tip: Bring a deck chair and arrive early to secure the best view!
Please have the correct change ready for parking — no change given on entry.
🔧 Drivers’ Information
Drivers must book in online and will be confirmed only when full application forms are received.
Application forms are available from the pit office on race days or via the online Rookie page and must be returned by Saturday 1st November 2025.
Key points for racers:
- Gates open 12 midday – no queuing on the highway before this time.
- Mechanics must arrive with drivers – no late entries.
- No engine noise before 5:50 PM – strictly enforced under local noise restrictions.
- Drivers’ Briefing: 5:15 PM on centre green (attendance mandatory).
- All cars scrutineered before 5 PM.
- Zero-tolerance policy on fighting or unsafe behaviour.
- Race receivers will be supplied and must be returned after racing.
🏅 The Contenders
Over 180 drivers have booked in, making this the biggest field in the event’s history.
Among the automatic qualifiers:
| Title | Driver | Number | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Defending World Champion | Bradley Hunt | 775 | (c) |
| British Champion | Harrison Staples | 2 | (c) |
| Southern Champion | Jamie Turner | 256 | (c) |
| + dozens more from qualifying rounds nationwide |
A complete driver list is available on the Rookie Banger Championship page → View All Drivers.
⚙️ Race Format
- 3 Group Qualifying Heats
- 1 Last Chance Qualifier
- World Championship Final (60 cars)
- Allcomers Heats + Rookie Wrecker DD
Race receivers will be mandatory for the main event. Bulkhead water tanks are permitted but must not extend beyond half of the strut line.
🙌 Remembering Dave Driscoll
The night concludes with the Rookie Wrecker Destruction Derby, honouring the memory of long-serving race steward Dave Driscoll. His name now proudly stands on one of the largest trophies in the sport, celebrating the spirit, humour, and heart that define banger racing.
📣 Final Word
“Thank you to every driver, mechanic, and fan who makes this event what it is,” said organiser Craig. “This is the biggest turnout we’ve ever had — let’s make it a night to remember.”
So grab your ear defenders, charge your camera, and head to Ringwood Raceway for a night of full-contact motorsport mayhem.
When the lights go out and the commentator yells ‘DRIVERS, START YOUR ENGINES!’, you’ll know exactly why this is called The Big One.