Forssman Motorsport has deep roots in Australian off-road racing. Founded by Ron Forssman in 1981, the family now has a new Class 2 ARB Australian champion in Brendan and navigator Leigh Whitehand #202.
After successfully completing all rounds of the 2024 ARB Australian Off Road Racing Championship, the Geelong based Forssman was delighted to finish the season on a high at the weekend’s Pines Enduro 400.
“We are really proud that we achieved 100% finish rate for the year. It’s tough going in the little 1600 but we just work hard to get through where we need to and go fast where we can. It’s difficult, but not impossible,” said Forssman.
Despite a fourth-class victory of 2024, it wasn’t all smooth sailing for Forssman in the team’s Tickner built Class 2 at a damp and cold Millicent, crossing in 28th outright.
“Unfortunately, we did two power steering belts. We thought the belts must have just been no good but realised we had the engine out prior to the event and slightly misaligned the power steering pump pulley when putting it back in.
Forssman’s journey started when he navigated for his father Ron at 16 in 1988, where he balanced racing with football and cricket commitments. Despite stepping back from the sport himself, his brother Jason and cousin Andrew continued to carry the torch.
In 2019, Forssman returned to the track at 46, after the purchase of a single-seat Class 10 beam buggy from Scott Schiller; a comeback which hit its summit on Sunday.
“I can’t believe the remarkable run we have had this year in the ARB championship, none which would be possible without our dedicated crew of 20 or 30 at most events and Leigh my navigator. Regardless of the outcomes, the enjoyment of being together is what truly matters.
“Leigh’s support both in the workshop and in the car has been invaluable, we both thrive on the challenge that each long track presents. Away from the racing, just the general camaraderie amongst the teams, officials and volunteers is what we all love.
As the Forssman family continue to embrace the thrill of racing while fostering a supportive community, Brendan’s story is one that has led him to off roads highest honour, an Australian Class title.
By TC Media
Pics courtesy of Show ‘n’ Go Photography & Clutch Life Media
