Arguably Australia’s most consistent off-road team over the past two seasons, Cougar Racing’s Craig and Megan Barnett #68 have overcome a last-minute hurdle to make the starting grid of this weekend’s ARB Gundy 500.
Courtesy of their tenacious ninth outright, second in class finish at The Gap 440, and an eighth at Rainbow in March, Barnett sits fifth outright, and second in class heading into Round 3 of the 2024 ARB Australian Off Road Racing Championship.
In a feat that will be hard to replicate, Barnett has completed an incredible eleven consecutive major events, including eight ARB Australian rounds, dating back to Hillston 2022; a record the proud Queenslander dedicates to his crew.
“Without a doubt, my crew are everything. What they do race after race at the track, and weekend after weekend in my shed is phenomenal. We are all so proud of our run over the last couple of years, I just hope it continues at Goondiwindi,” said Barnett.
Hillston wasn’t all smooth sailing though for Cougar Racing, with their beloved V8 powered Mark 6 Southern Cross needing lots of work before a third visit to the iconic melon holes of Gundy.
“Unfortunately, halfway through the final lap at The Gap we damaged the gearbox and broke the flex plate. After assembling it all back together, we discovered an issue with the torque convertor which needed some attention; let’s say it’s been a busy week.
The two-time defending ARB Australian Ultimate champion will look to carry on his extraordinary run at Goondiwindi; and in a title race that rewards consistency, Barnett knows the significance of a chequered flag.
“We are just aiming for a clean, smart run at Gundy, I really have no expectations for this weekend other than to finish well at another iconic Australian event with a huge line up.
“It’s been a big effort to make it to Queensland, we have put some pressure on the Great Northern beer fridge over the last few weekends getting ready.
“After finishing fifth and fourth in class at our two previous outings, we will be over the moon to see the chequered flag on Sunday before we turn our focus to the Pines Enduro.
Barnett would again like to thank his entire Cougar Racing crew for their continued dedication, plus the team’s major sponsors Cougar Mining Group, and CH4 Drilling for their support towards the team’s 2024 ARB Australian Off Road Racing campaign.
The 2024 ARB Gundy 500 takes place at ‘Torridon’ in Goondiwindi, Queensland this weekend, the 9th-11th of August.
