By TC Media
Pics courtesy of Lehmann Motorsport Photography, Gears and Wheels Photography & Clutch Life Media.
In 2016, the Australian offroad racing world welcomed a new fearless talent, Griffith’s Steven Graham, better known as ‘Bowie’. Alongside his navigator and father Daryl, Graham embarked on a new challenge, a journey which has led him to this weekend’s ARB Tyrepower Griffith The Gap 440, and a shot at a fairytale triumph.
Behind every offroad story there is an inspiration and, for Graham, that hero was the late great Les Siviour, a renowned Australian and Griffith off road legend. Les’s skills, determination and all round character have served as motivation in Graham’s pursuit of success.
Fast forward to today, and Graham’s daughter Ella has taken over the navigating duties, in their 2020 Class 10 Alumi Craft #1065, and what a formidable force they have become, solidifying their position as one of the sport’s finest crews.
Over the years, Graham has experienced several remarkable achievements, last season, he and Ella secured 1st in class and 3rd outright in the ARB Australian Off-Road Racing Championship. Additionally, Graham emerged victorious at the Rainbow Rises 240 in March 2022, which launched his most successful campaign to date.
So far in 2023, the Grahams have completed the ARB Big Desert 480 at Rainbow, coming 1st in Class and 5th outright, the perfect platform for their new ARB championship assault. Graham and navigator Dean Mcginley also joined forces with good mate Jason Richards at the inaugural McIntyre 900 in March.
The Griffith crew battled to a brilliant 2nd outright in Richo’s Chenowth, after 11 plus hours on track. With another opportunity to compete on home soil this weekend, Graham will be eager to improve on his best outright finish of 4th at Stackpoole in 2019 – a result that meant the world to all involved.
From all the challenging tracks and events across Australia, Graham’s heart beats the fastest at one in particular, Goondiwindi. Made iconic by the infamous melon holes, and electric atmosphere, Graham’s debut appearance at Goondiwindi in 2016 started a love affair like no other. However, it took Graham until August last year to finally finish his favourite event, a class win and 6th outright capped off the memorable moment.
Sitting around the campfire, sharing laughter and stories with a beer, eagerly awaiting Collis’ race day report, has become a cherished tradition for the Willbriggee based farmer as the race weekend unfolds.
Away from racing and life on the land, Bowie still finds time to pursue other interests, including fishing and spending time with his loved ones. In addition, if the father of three was to choose his last meal, a plate of crumbed lamb chops and tomato casserole with rice, and a cold glass of Wild Turkey 101 would be his first choice.
Graham and his crew are also scheduled to tackle the remaining rounds of the ARB Australian Off Road Racing Championship at Goondiwindi and Millicent. A possible trip north for the Don River Dash is also on the radar, depending on work commitments.
None of Graham’s success would be possible without the support of his entire family and friends, and the teams sponsors, including F&R McNabb Mobil, RaceTrans, Neill Automotive, Graham Farming, and Roach Mobile Welding who have all enabled the humble Graham to pursue his dreams in offroad racing.
The 2023 ARB Tyrepower Griffith The Gap 440, takes place in Hillston this weekend, the 7th – 9th of July.
