By TC Media
Pics courtesy of JS Motorsport Photography, Lukie Shots Photography, Craig Houston Photography, Jeff Newick & Andrew Stott.
Rhett Standen, a passionate local farmer who resides near the peaceful town of Hillston, will next weekend compete on home soil at the 2023 ARB Tyrepower Griffith The Gap 440, an event that means so much to so many.
Inspired by his brother-in-law Dean Meginley, who introduced him to off-road racing by taking him for a ride in his Class 3 machine around the family farm, Standen wasted no time in seeking a buggy of his own. His search led him to a Toyota powered Class 2 Hunter Rivmasta machine, which has taken the proud Griffith Offroad Club member to new heights in the racing arena.
Standen has achieved numerous milestones over the years, but his most significant accomplishment to date was winning his class in the 2019 ARB Australian Championship, strengthening his status in the Class 2 ranks.
When asked about his greatest strength as an off-roader, Standen emphasised his consistency and accurate car preparation which has built the platform for a solid finishing rate, since debuting at the 2016 Griffith 400.
In 2023, Standen has already completed the Darren’s Day Out at Sea Lake in April, securing an impressive 1st class and 4th outright, whilst last month he also participated in the Nandaly 300.
As Standen prepares for a sixth appearance at his local event, he remains on the hunt for a maiden class victory, one that has eluded him after second place finishes in 2019 and 2022. One thing that is for certain, come next Saturday is Standen will put his right shoe on first, a superstition he has had since his early days at motorcross.
Other then working on his family farm, Standen enjoys fishing and cherishing memorable moments with his family during holidays, and for the father of two, a mouthwatering steak paired with a refreshing schooner is one of his favourite combinations.
Standen and crew are not only scheduled to Hillston at ‘Mactocton’ next weekend, they also plan to contend Round 3 of ARB Australian Off Road Racing Championship at Goondiwindi, an event that holds a special place in his heart, following consecutive class victories in 2018 & 2019.
Standen’s success wouldn’t be possible without the unwavering support of his close friend Josh Lyell, who also serves as the current navigator, and his group of dedicated mates who form his pit crew. The Hillston local would also like to extend his gratitude to his father, Dale Standen, brother-in-law Dean Meginley, and his loving wife and children who have enabled the humble Standen to pursue his offroad dreams.
The 2023 ARB Tyrepower Griffith The Gap 440, takes place in Hillston next weekend, the 7th – 9th of July, an event Standen is determined to leave his mark on this year.
