Daracon Croft Racing #71 Dirt Late Model Race Team
Gunnedah NSW Australia
Shaping The Future
www.daracon.com.au
9th February 2010
Media Release
Daracon Croft Racing look for solid Parramatta run
ABOVE : Ken Croft will be looking for a solid run at Tyrepower Parramatta City Raceway (NSW)
Saturday February 13. Image courtesy of Gary Reid.
The Gunnedah based Daracon Croft Racing Dirt Late Model Team are looking forward to being back at Tyrepower Parramatta City Raceway (NSW) Saturday February 13.
Having only contested one meeting on the fast Parramatta clay this season, the Daracon Croft Racing Team are planning to use the opportunity to fine tune their car setup prior to the rescheduled Tyrepower Late Model Grand National.
“While it was disappointing to be standing in the
“Our heavy workload away from the sport has really played havoc with our schedule, meaning we have only had one run at
“We know the setup we ran in last years Casio G Shock Gold Cup worked well, and ideally we would like to use those settings again this year, but the
“Hopefully we will come through Saturday nights Round of the East Coast Late Model Series without any problems, gain some valuable setup information, and bank some solid results” concluded Croft.
Daracon Croft Racing is proudly supported by:
Daracon
17 James Street, Wallsend NSW 2287 Tel: 02 4903 7000
The Sebel Parramatta
350 Church Street, Parramatta NSW 2150 Tel : 02 9630 4999 or 1800 800 921
Tanelm Fuels
Tel : 02 6742 1411 or 0428 659 980
Gunnedah Driving School
Tel : 02 6742 4095 or 0408 610 793
Stuckey Ent.Racing
7520 Highway 1, Shreveport, LA 71107 USA Shop Tel : 318 929 2621
For information on Daracon visit www.daracon.com.au
For information on ‘The Sebel Parramatta’ visit
www.mirvachotels.com/sebel-parramatta
For more information on Stuckey Ent.Racing visit
www.stuckeycars.com
Ends Release
To view a PDF version of this Media Release click here
19th January 2010
Media Release
Daracon Croft Racing chase victory in Grand National
After enjoying a strong run in last years Casio G Shock Gold Cup at Tyrepower Parramatta City Raceway (NSW) the Daracon Croft Racing Dirt Late Model Team will be looking to repeat that form when it contests the Tyrepower Late Model Grand National Saturday January 23.
“Despite the name change this is the most prestigious Dirt Late Model Race on the East Coast, and every team will be going all out for victory on Saturday night” said Ken Croft.
“The Tyrepower Late Model Grand National has attracted entries from as far away as Western Australian and the USA so we are under no illusion that we will have to be right on our game if we are to stand on top of the dais at the end of the evening”.
“I must admit we’ve had limited on track preparation going into this Saturday nights race meet, although we are confident in the setup we have on the #71 Rocket as long as the track conditions come our way”.
“The track was very heavy last Friday night (January 15), and it was our first time back at
“We took it pretty easy on Friday night and finished with a 4th and 7th in the Heats. In the
“Most importantly we headed home to Gunnedah with the car in one piece, meaning we only have some minor maintenance to perform prior to the Grand National”.
“We lead last year’s race only to spear off the track and tag the wall, so this year we are planning to be there at the chequered flag, hopefully at the pointy end of the field” concluded Croft.
For season 2009/10 Daracon Croft Racing is proudly supported by:
Daracon
17 James Street, Wallsend NSW 2287 Tel: 02 4903 7000
The Sebel Parramatta
350 Church Street, Parramatta NSW 2150 Tel : 02 9630 4999 or 1800 800 921
Tanelm Fuels
Tel : 02 6742 1411 or 0428 659 980
Gunnedah Driving School
Tel : 02 6742 4095 or 0408 610 793
Stuckey Ent.Racing
7520 Highway 1, Shreveport, LA 71107 USA Shop Tel : 318 929 2621
For information on Daracon visit www.daracon.com.au 
ABOVE : Ken Croft competing at Tyrepower Parramatta City Raceway (NSW) Friday 15th January 2010
Image courtesy of Gary Reid.
Ends Release
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12th January 2010
Media Release
Daracon Croft Racing back on track at Parramatta
After a number of false starts the Gunnedah based Daracon Croft Racing Dirt Late Model Team is set to make its season debut in Round 5 of the East Coast Late Model Series at Tyrepower Parramatta City Raceway (NSW) Friday January 15.
“We had every intention of being there at the start of the season however a heavy workload away from the sport forced us to re-evaluate our plans” said Ken Croft.
“Sometimes ‘real life’ gets in the way of the things we like to do, but the long period away from the track also has a positive side, as its given us plenty of time to go over the entire car and make sure everything is in top condition”.
“I must admit it’s been a little frustrating sitting on the sidelines, and I’m really keen to get back behind the wheel. We will use Friday’s show to dial ourselves in and make sure our setup is right for the Tyrepower Late Model Grand National to be held at Parramatta on January 23” Croft said.
“The Parramatta clay is super fast, and it can be tricky to master, but we enjoyed a strong run last year, leading the Gold Cup event in the early laps, so I have no doubt that we can get the job done again in 2010”.
“We just need to get a few laps under our belts Friday night in order to check things over, as its our first start at Parramatta in almost 12 months after engine problems shut down our 2008/09 campaign early” concluded Croft.
For season 2009/10 Daracon Croft Racing is proudly supported by:
Daracon
17 James Street, Wallsend NSW 2287 Tel: 02 4903 7000
The Sebel Parramatta
350 Church Street, Parramatta NSW 2150 Tel : 02 9630 4999 or 1800 800 921
Tanelm Fuels
Tel : 02 6742 1411 or 0428 659 980
Gunnedah Driving School
Tel : 02 6742 4095 or 0408 610 793
Stuckey Ent.Racing
7520 Highway 1, Shreveport, LA 71107 USA Shop Tel : 318 929 2621
For information on Daracon visit http://www.daracon.com.au/
For information on ‘The Sebel Parramatta’ visit www.mirvachotels.com/sebel-parramatta
For more information on Stuckey Ent.Racing visit http://www.stuckeycars.com/
ABOVE : Ken Croft in action at Tyrepower Parramatta City Raceway (NSW)
Image courtesy of Gary Reid
Releases Ends
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30th November 2009
Media Release
Daracon Croft Racing looking for Parramatta glory
Image courtesy of Jim Hersey of www.motofoto.com.au
Last minute circumstances forced the Daracon Croft Racing Dirt Late Model Team to miss the first Round of the East Coast Late Model Series at Tyrepower Parramatta City Raceway (NSW) back in late October however it’s all systems go for the December 5 Round at the same track.
“We had to miss the first Round of the Series but we are all fired up and ready to go this time” said Ken Croft from the team base in Gunnedah.
“Missing the original Parramatta date, and having the Nowra Round cancelled, means we have had more time to fully prepare for the remainder of the season. Having the additional ‘breathing space’ has allowed us to tidy up a lot of little jobs”.
“The Daracon Team is looking forward to getting back to Tyrepower Parramatta City Raceway that’s for sure, as we have some unfinished business there. Towards the end of last season we had some real pace on the Parramatta clay, and with a fully rebuilt engine under the bonnet we are expecting good things once again”.
“Luck hasn’t always been riding with us, but I know I’m driving as good as ever, and the team is putting in one hundred percent, so it’s just a matter of time before we are back on the podium on a regular basis” Croft said.
Last season saw the Daracon Croft Racing Team bring highly respected US Dirt Late Model identity Ron Stuckey to Australia to assist with its late season campaign. Stuckey immediately had an impact on the team, with his knowledge of Dirt Late Model chassis setup quickly establishing the #71 Daracon Rocket as a regular front runner.
“We intend to bring Ron Stuckey back to Australia this season and his experience in all facets of Dirt Late Model Racing has definitely been a major factor in moving the entire Daracon Croft Racing operation to a new level”.
“It would be great to get some good results on the board early, as that would give us a real ‘jump start’ leading into the major late season races before Ron arrives” concluded Croft.
For season 2009/10 Daracon Croft Racing is proudly supported by:
Daracon
The Sebel Parramatta
Tanelm Fuels
Gunnedah Driving School
Stuckey Ent.Racing
For information on Daracon visit www.daracon.com.au
For information on ‘The Sebel Parramatta’ visit www.mirvachotels.com/sebel-parramatta
For more information on Stuckey Ent.Racing visit www.stuckeycars.com
Image courtesy of Jim Hersey of www.motofoto.com.au
Ends Release
27th October 2009
Media Release
Daracon Croft Racing ready for new season challenges
The Daracon Croft Racing Dirt Late Model Team will be striving to continue last season’s good form when Ken Croft steers the #71 Rocket around Tyrepower Parramatta City Raceway (NSW) Saturday October 31 in Round 1 of the East Coast Late Model Series.
A strong run in the second half of the 2008/09 season was only cut short following sudden engine failure in the NSW Late Model Championship.
“We had a great run going towards the end of last season” said Ken Croft, speaking from the teams Gunnedah base.
“After bringing Ron Stuckey out from the USA to assist us we immediately got back on the pace at the pointy end of the field. To have the engine fail while we were competing at Tamworth was a bitter pill to swallow but I’m confident that we can make amends in 2009/10”.
The damaged engine was shipped to the US immediately following the Tamworth meeting and has since been totally rebuilt with all the latest updates.
“It was discovered that the engine had been running too rich, and that’s what caused the damage. The guys in the US did a great job with the rebuild though, so there should be plenty of horsepower on tap for tracks like Parramatta”.
“We haven’t made any major changes to the car setup as we were pretty happy with how things went towards the end of last season”.
“I’m looking forward to getting back behind the wheel though, as it seems like an eternity since we last raced! I’m sure the opposition will have lifted their game during the off season so our first night at Parramatta should be a good gauge of exactly where we stand. One thing is for certain, I will be giving it my best shot as it would be great to come away from night one with a victory for our loyal supporters Daracon, The Sebel Parramatta, Tanelm Fuels, and Gunnedah Driving School ” concluded Croft.
During the off season the Daracon Croft Racing team also completed some work on the team transporter with the aim of making life a little easier for crew members when undertaking maintenance tasks.
The #71 Daracon Rocket will compete in Round 1 of the East Coast Late Model Series with the same colours campaigned in 2008/09. Updated bodywork and graphics are planned to be in place for Round 2.
Despite concentrating on the East Coast Late Model Series the team will also target select events in the inaugural Extreme Motorsports Thunder Series held in Queensland.
To keep up to date with all the news in regard to Daracon Croft Racing visit the team website at www.croftracing.net
For season 2009/10 Daracon Croft Racing is proudly supported by:
Daracon
The Sebel Parramatta
Tanelm Fuels
Gunnedah Driving School
For information on Daracon visit www.daracon.com.au
For information on ‘The Sebel Parramatta’ visit www.mirvachotels.com/sebel-parramatta
Ends Release
To view a PDF version of this release click here
22nd April 2009
Media Release
Daracon Croft Racing wind up season
ABOVE : Ken Croft is a study of speed at the wheel of the
Daracon / The Sebel Parramatta # 71 Rocket.
Image courtesy of Jim Hersey of www.motofoto.com.au
The Daracon Croft Racing Dirt Late Model team was forced to curtail its 2008/09 campaign early after suffering engine failure at Tamworth City Speedway in the first round of competition for the NSW Late Model Championship.
“It was a disappointing end to the season” said Team Principal / Driver Ken Croft from his Gunnedah NSW base.
“We had set ourselves for a good crack at the NSW title, and with it being a big two night affair at Tamworth and Gunnedah we were feeling reasonably confident. The car had been fast at meetings leading up to the title, and I was happy in my own ability to get the job done, but as often happens in speedway ‘fate’ had other ideas”.
“I had a good run going in Heat 1, leading most of the distance before Scott McPherson got through” said Croft.
”After greeting the chequer flag in second it was apparent there was a serious engine problem and all we could do when we got back to the pits was load the car in the transporter”.
“Immediately following the Tamworth race meeting we pulled the engine out of the car and shipped it over to the US for a full inspection as to the cause of the failure. We will get the engine fully rebuilt and be back in action for the 2009/10 season” Croft said.
The Daracon Croft Racing Team had shown good form in the second part of the 08/09 season.
“Bringing Ron Stuckey over from the US in January helped us to really get the car, and team, up to speed” said Croft.
“Ron really got us heading in the right direction in regard to setup. It’s a pity that the engine failure put paid to any further development in that area, for this season anyway”.
“It really was great to have Ron here in Australia, and Daracon Croft Racing cannot thank him enough for his support and input” Croft said. “We are already making plans to bring him back when next season’s race calendar is released and there is an appropriate blue-ribbon event.”
“With the season complete I’d really like to thank our loyal supporters, Daracon, The Sebel Parramatta, Tanelm Fuels, and Gunnedah Driving School. Daracon have been right behind us from the word go, and The Sebel Parramatta came on board this season, looking after us really well when we compete in Sydney”.
“I’d also like to thank dad for all the hours he puts into the team, and to thank all of our crew who usually go beyond the call of duty in order to keep us on the track and competitive”.
“We’ll be back next season, bigger and better, that’s for sure. It’s only been a month since the last race and I’m already keen to get behind the wheel!” concluded Croft.
To keep up to date with all the news in regard to Daracon Croft Racing visit the team website at www.croftracing.net
Daracon Croft Racing is proudly supported by:
Daracon
The Sebel Parramatta
Tanelm Fuels
Gunnedah Driving School
For information on Daracon visit www.daracon.com.au
For information on ‘The Sebel Parramatta’ visit
www.mirvachotels.com/sebel-parramatta
ABOVE : Ken Croft and the Daracon Croft Racing Team
will be back on track for the 2009/10 season.
Image courtesy of Jim Hersey of www.motofoto.com.au
Ends Release
23rd March 2009
Media Release
Daracon Croft Racing compete in own backyard
The Gunnedah based Daracon Croft Racing Dirt Late Model Team will compete in its own ‘backyard’ this weekend when the NSW Dirt Late Model Championship is contested at Tamworth and Gunnedah Speedways. Friday March 27 will see several Heats contested at Tamworth Speedway before the title chase moves to Gunnedah Speedway on the Saturday evening (March 28) for further Heats and the Championship Final. "Its great to only have to travel a short distance to race this weekend compared to our normal haul to Parramatta and back" said Daracon Croft Racing Team Principal and Driver Ken Croft. "We’ve missed a few meetings lately to attend to pressing business matters but the time off has also given us the opportunity to go right over the car and make sure we are fully prepared for this weekend". "Having Ron Stuckey from the USA out here to assist us at Parramatta in late January really paid dividends and we are hopeful that we can continue the good form shown then" Croft said. "I believe I’m driving as well as I ever have, and when you have confidence in the car setup it does make things a lot easier. I guess I could be perceived to have something of a home track advantage as I’ve turned plenty of laps at Gunnedah Speedway over the year’s, however you have to take each race meeting on its individual merits so the reality is everyone is on equal terms". "The state title was held here at Gunnedah last season, and we didn’t do that well, so hopefully we can make amends this time around. I’ve also managed to participate in a couple of practice sessions at Tamworth Speedway in the past 6 months so that’s a real bonus as well". "Whatever the outcome I know the race fans will be the real winners as the big V8 left hand drive sedans really are spectacular on these tight country tracks" concluded Croft. Daracon Croft Racing is proudly supported by: Daracon For information on Daracon visit www.daracon.com.au 
ABOVE : Ken Croft is a study of speed at the wheel of the
Daracon / The Sebel Parramatta # 71 Rocket.
Image courtesy of Jim Hersey of www.motofoto.com.au
The Sebel Parramatta
Tanelm Fuels
Gunnedah Driving School
For information on ‘The Sebel Parramatta’ visit www.mirvachotels.com/sebel-parramatta
ABOVE : Ken Croft will be chasing a NSW title victory.
Image courtesy of Jim Hersey of www.motofoto.com.au
Ends Release
10th February 2009
Media Release
Daracon Croft Racing
find top form
ABOVE : Ken Croft is a study of speed and concentration The Daracon Croft Racing Dirt Late Model Team is in an upbeat mood as it heads back to Tyrepower Parramatta City Raceway (NSW) to contest Round 8 of the East Coast Late Model Series on Saturday February 14. A strong performance in the inaugural Casio G Shock Gold Cup at Parramatta over the Australia Day long weekend has team members feeling confident that a Feature victory is within grasp. "We had a great run in the Casio G Shock Gold Cup" said Ken Croft. "The car was super strong during the Heats, with a couple of victories and other high placing’s earning us an outside front row start in the big 35 lap Feature on Sunday night". "Following a number of restarts early in the Feature I was able to get around Scott McPherson and settle into a smooth run at the head of the pack. A couple more restarts closed the field up again and Nathan Disney moved past McPherson and then got under me in turn two. As I attempted to power past Disney down the back straight (using the high line) the Daracon 71 speared off the track and slammed the wall. Luckily the damage was minor, and after restarting rear of field I was able to work my way back up to 8th before the race was declared owing to the track curfew. It was a pity the race ended that way as I felt we had a really good package to go the full distance, but that’s racing I guess" said Croft. "I was feeling really comfortable in the car, and it was a real rocket through turns 1 and 2 and down the back stretch, even when the track was fairly rough on the Saturday night. We had a fan go through the radiator in the Heats Saturday, but apart from that, and a little body damage, it was one of our best race meetings yet". "A lot of credit has to go to the crew, who worked tirelessly throughout the entire weekend. Bringing Ron Stuckey over from the US to help us for a couple of weeks was also a wise decision on our part. Ron’s a top guy, and he’s almost a walking bible on Dirt Late Model racing! When it comes to car setup he knows his stuff, and a lot of the credit for us being up front in the Gold Cup is a direct result of Ron’s input" concluded Croft. Ron Stuckey is a freelance crew chief based out of Shreveport Louisiana, and is engaged by many of the top US teams to improve the setup of their cars. The majority of visiting race team personnel attending the Casio G Shock Gold Cup stayed at The Sebel Parramatta, which was a fantastic sanctuary from the searing temperatures experienced over the weekend. The Sebel Parramatta is a loyal supporter of Daracon Croft Racing and caters for the corporate sector and the leisure traveller. After 7 Rounds of the East Coast Late Model Series Ken Croft and the Daracon Croft Racing # 71 are placed 6th in points. Daracon Croft Racing is proudly supported by: Daracon For information on Daracon visit www.daracon.com.au
as he steers the Daracon / The Sebel Parramatta
# 71 Rocket around Tyrepower Parramatta City Raceway (NSW).
Image courtesy of Jim Hersey of www.motofoto.com.au
The Sebel Parramatta
Tanelm Fuels
Gunnedah Driving School
For information on ‘The Sebel Parramatta’ visit www.mirvachotels.com/sebel-parramatta
ABOVE : Ken Croft leads Nathan Disney in the Casio G Shock Gold Cup
Feature at Tyrepower Parramatta City Raceway (NSW) Sunday January 25.
Image courtesy of Jim Hersey of www.motofoto.com.au
Ends Release
21st January 2009
Media Release
Daracon Croft Racing
gunning for Gold Cup
The Daracon Croft Racing Dirt Late Model Team is leaving nothing to chance in its quest to claim victory in the inaugural Casio G Shock Gold Cup at Tyrepower Parramatta City Raceway (NSW) January 24/25. Speaking from the team’s Gunnedah NSW base Team Principal / Driver Ken Croft believes that the Daracon Croft Racing Team is one of the leading contenders to take out the event. "We’ve had a good run this season, and our form at Parramatta has been particularly pleasing. We have been on the podium a couple of times, and just outside it a couple of other times, so I’m quietly confident heading into the big Gold Cup Feature Sunday night." "A second place in the Feature at Nowra last Saturday was a great lead up result, and we were running strong in the Feature at Parramatta on the Friday night only for a competitor to slam into the back of the Daracon Rocket and destroy the left rear wheel." "All in all, like I say, we are pretty happy with how things are progressing. I also believe my driving style more suits the long distance events so the plan at this stage is to stay out of trouble, keep some tyres under the car, and be in contention at the end." "It’s going to be a tough assignment though, with a huge entry, and many of the nation’s leading Dirt Late Model racers in the field," Croft said. In order to hopefully give the Daracon Croft Team an edge the Team has flown Ron Stuckey from Shreveport Louisiana (USA) across to aid in car preparation and set up at the track. "Ron and I have been friends for a long time. We purchased our current Rocket through Ron, who is a freelance crew chief engaged by many of the top US teams to improve the set up of their cars" Croft said. "Having Ron on board for such a prestigious race is a real win-win situation for us" said Croft. The Sebel Parramatta, a major supporter of Daracon Croft Racing, is also figuring heavily in the Gasio G Shock Gold Cup event. The Sebel Parramatta is a high class Hotel catering for the corporate sector and the leisure traveller. Most of the visiting teams participating in the Casio G Shock Gold Cup will be staying at The Sebel Parramatta. "The Sebel Parramatta has been a loyal supporter of our Team throughout the season and it’s great to see them getting right behind Dirt Late Model Racing. It would be great to greet the chequer flag first on Sunday night, and a real reward for our loyal supporters like The Sebel Parramatta and Daracon," concluded Croft. Daracon Croft Racing is proudly supported by: Daracon For information on Daracon visit www.daracon.com.au 
ABOVE : Ken Croft behind the wheel of the Daracon / The Sebel Parramatta
# 71 Rocket at Tyrepower Parramatta City Raceway (NSW) January 16.
Image courtesy of Jim Hersey of www.motofoto.com.au
The Sebel Parramatta
Tanelm Fuels
Gunnedah Driving School
For information on ‘The Sebel Parramatta’ visit www.mirvachotels.com/sebel-parramatta
ABOVE : Ken Croft powering around
Tyrepower Parramatta City Raceway (NSW) January 16.
Image courtesy of Jim Hersey of www.motofoto.com.au
Ends Release
13th January 2009
Media Release
Daracon Croft Racing
faces hectic schedule
A hectic four nights of racing, over a 10 day span, is the daunting schedule facing the Daracon Croft Racing Dirt Late Model Team in the next few weeks. Starting with Round 7 of the East Coast Late Model Series at Tyrepower Parramatta City Raceway (NSW) on Friday January 16, the action transfer’s south to the Fire Service Plus Nowra Speedway (NSW) Saturday January 17 for the Inter-state Challenge, before the team returns to Parramatta for the inaugural two night Casio G Shock Gold Cup Saturday January 24 and Sunday January 25. "With four race nights in close proximity it promises to be a real test of man and machine, and a logistical challenge for all teams" said Daracon Croft Racing Team Principal and driver Ken Croft. "Its great to see the Dirt Late Model ranks here on the East Coast continuing to build, and with the addition of a strong interstate presence over the next 14 days the future for the division is looking extremely solid". "I’m really excited about the Casio G Shock Gold Cup in particular, and would personally like to see a 50 lap Feature. That would be a great test of driver skill and fitness levels, together with car setup. Having a good long distance race here on the East Coast would certainly help to boost the divisions profile to a really high level" Croft said. "From the Daracon Croft Racing prospective we’ve enjoyed a good start to the season, with the last four Features at Parramatta reaping us a 3rd, 2nd, and two 4th’s". "We continue to take a conservative approach to out chassis setup, and that’s paying dividends at the moment. Having said that we will be aiming to step up further in the next few weeks. We plan to take each nights racing on its own individual merit, but I don’t mind saying that it would be a fantastic feeling to stand on top of the podium at the end of the Casio G Shock Gold Cup Feature" concluded Croft. Following a consistent start to the season Ken Croft and the Daracon Croft Racing Team are now 5th in the 2008/09 East Coast Late Model Series Pointscore. To keep up to date with all the news in regard to Daracon Croft Racing visit the team website at www.croftracing.net Daracon Croft Racing is proudly supported by: Daracon For information on Daracon visit www.daracon.com.au 
ABOVE : Ken Croft behind the wheel of the Daracon / The Sebel Parramatta
# 71 Rocket at Tyrepower Parramatta City Raceway (NSW) January 2.
Image courtesy of Jim Hersey of www.motofoto.com.au
The Sebel Parramatta
Tanelm Fuels
Gunnedah Driving School
For information on ‘The Sebel Parramatta’ visit www.mirvachotels.com/sebel-parramatta
ABOVE : Ken Croft gets ready to go racing
at Tyrepower Parramatta City Raceway (NSW) January 2.
Image courtesy of Jim Hersey of www.motofoto.com.au
Ends Release
30th December 2008
Media Release
Daracon Croft Racing
look for Parramatta victory
Daracon Croft Racing will be looking to start the new year on a positive note when it contests Round 6 of the ELMA sanctioned East Coast Late Model Series at Tyrepower Parramatta City Raceway (NSW) Friday January 2. Despite only a 7 day turn around the team is hoping that its recent good form can continue. "We had a reasonable run in Round 5 at Parramatta on Boxing Night (December 26) and are hoping to improve even further this time out" said Team Principal Ken Croft from his Gunnedah base. "A fair bit of equipment was torn up in race incidents at the last meeting but luckily we avoided any carnage so we just have a few minor repairs to make and our regular maintenance program to undertake". After starting 8th in the Boxing Night Feature Croft was working his way slowly forward when a shock cone broke just after a restart. "We used the Heats to dial in our setup after we found the track conditions a little harder to read than usual. I was confident that we had a good package for the Feature but when a shock cone broke late in the race all I could do was back off and bring the car home safely. 4th was a great result given the shock problem" concluded Croft. Ken Croft and the Daracon Croft Racing Team are currently placed 6th in the 2008/09 East Coast Late Model Series Pointscore. To keep up to date with all the news in regard to Daracon Croft Racing visit the team website at www.croftracing.net Daracon Croft Racing is proudly supported by: Daracon For information on Daracon visit www.daracon.com.au 
ABOVE : Ken Croft behind the wheel of the Daracon / The Sebel Parramatta
# 71 at Tyrepower Parramatta City Raceway (NSW).
Image courtesy of Jim Hersey of www.motofoto.com.au
The Sebel Parramatta
Tanelm Fuels
Gunnedah Driving School
For information on ‘The Sebel Parramatta’ visit www.mirvachotels.com/sebel-parramatta
Ends Release
22nd December 2008
Media Release
Daracon Croft Racing
getting closer all the time
The Daracon Croft Racing Dirt Late Model Team head to Tyrepower Parramatta City Raceway (NSW) Friday December 26 confident that they are heading in the right direction with their car setup following several strong results at the teams last appearance earlier this month.
After being rained out on the original November 29 date the East Coast Late Model Teams returned to Tyrepower Parramatta City Raceway the following Saturday (December 6) and the Daracon # 71 Rocket Pontiac, with Ken Croft at the wheel, ran hard and fast all evening.
A 3rd in the first Heat was followed by a popular win in Heat 2, putting the whole team in a positive mood heading into the Feature. Towards the end of the Feature Ken Croft found himself at the head of the pack only to face a stiff challenge from Dean Smith. An attempted outside pass by Smith saw the two cars touch with Croft spinning, and Smith banished to the rear for causing the stoppage. "Following the incident with Dean Smith I felt confident that I had the race in my keeping, but I didn’t count on Bruce White charging past me to grab the chequer as we crossed the line!" said Ken Croft. "It just goes to show that the competition level is so high these days you can’t afford to back off even a little. Full credit to Bruce though, it was a heady drive and a great result for him aboard his new car. Rest assured though, I won’t be taking it ‘easy’ behind the wheel again, even if the lesson was learnt the hard way" stated a philosophical Croft. "Still, second was a good solid result, and I know there is plenty more in the car yet. It’s great to be getting back on the podium on a regular basis after all our troubles at the end of last season" concluded Croft. Courtesy of the good results achieved on December 6 Ken Croft has moved up to 6th in points heading into Round 5 of the ELMA sanctioned East Coast Late Model Series on Friday night. In other Daracon Croft Racing news the Team will be unveiling its new transporter at Parramatta Friday night. It had been intended to take the new transporter to the last Parramatta meeting however the team simply ran out of time to finish off some minor work. With Friday nights meeting being the last for Daracon Croft Racing in 2008 the Team would like to thank its numerous sponsors and supporters, and wish all a very Merry Christmas, and a happy and prosperous 2009. Daracon Croft Racing is proudly supported by: Daracon For information on Daracon visit www.daracon.com.au 
ABOVE : Ken Croft is a picture of concentration as he prepares to head out to battle
at Tyrepower Parramatta City Raceway (NSW) December 6.
Image courtesy of Jim Hersey of www.motofoto.com.au 
ABOVE : Ken Croft behind the wheel of the Daracon / The Sebel Parramatta
# 71 at Tyrepower Parramatta City Raceway (NSW).
Image courtesy of Jim Hersey of www.motofoto.com.au
The Sebel Parramatta
Tanelm Fuels
Gunnedah Driving School
For information on ‘The Sebel Parramatta’ visit www.mirvachotels.com/sebel-parramatta
Ends Release
26th November 2008
Media Release
Daracon Croft Racing
ready to taste Parramatta success
The Gunnedah (NSW) based Daracon Croft Racing Team will look to improve upon its last start success when it contests Round 4 of the East Coast Late Model Series at Tyrepower Parramatta City Raceway (NSW) Saturday November 29.
"Our last start at Parramatta, in early November, saw the Daracon Croft Racing Team really on the pace, and it was fantastic to get on the podium after a great 3rd in the Feature" said team principal Ken Croft.
"We will be looking to maintain that form, and hopefully get on the top step of the podium this time out".
"There is still more untapped speed in the car, and we continue to make minor adjustments to the setup in order to get the chassis working to its full potential. It’s really great to be behind the wheel when everything comes together. With every run we get a better handle on the Parramatta track layout and surface so I’m confident we will be a serious contender by the time the big two night Gold Cup meeting comes around at Parramatta at the end of January" concluded Croft.
The Daracon Croft Racing Team will also unveil its new Transporter at Saturday nights meeting. The team has spent a considerable amount of time and money to ensure that the new Transporter meets their needs at the track and on the long hauls to and from race meetings.
The Teams 3rd place finish in the Feature at Tyrepower Parramatta City Raceway November 1 followed a 9th and 4th in the Heats.
Daracon Croft Racing is proudly supported by: Daracon For information on Daracon visit www.daracon.com.au
ABOVE : Ken Croft behind the wheel of the Daracon / The Sebel Parramatta
# 71 at Tyrepower Parramatta City Raceway (NSW).
Image courtesy of Alan Thompson of www.sprintcar1.net
The Sebel Parramatta
Tanelm Fuels
Gunnedah Driving School
For information on ‘The Sebel Parramatta’ visit www.mirvachotels.com/sebel-parramatta
Ends Release
29th October 2008
Media Release
Daracon Croft Racing
in confident mood
A solid test session at Tamworth Speedway has the Daracon Croft Racing Dirt Late Model Team in a confident mood heading into Round 2 of the East Coast Late Model Series at Tyrepower Parramatta City Raceway (NSW) Saturday November 1.
"We elected to take the # 71 Rocket Pontiac across to Tamworth for a test session last Saturday and came away from the day with a lot of confidence" said team principal Ken Croft from his Gunnedah base.
"A large number of parts had to be replaced after an incident at our last Parramatta start so the hit-out at Tamworth was an excellent opportunity to ensure the behind the scenes work translated to performance on the track. After a few runs I came away feeling that we have a very competitive package for the remainder of the season".
"The engine performance was strong, with plenty of horsepower on tap. Following a few minor chassis adjustments I was able to turn some solid laps at high speed" Croft stated.
"It was also a good opportunity to get some more laps on the board at Tamworth, as the first night of the NSW Late Model Championship will be held there in March".
"The Daracon Croft Racing Team will be looking for a good run at Tyrepower Parramatta City Raceway Saturday night as we endeavour to get our season back on track. We have loyal sponsors who are right behind us so it would be great to get amongst the results in order to repay that support" concluded Croft.
One of the Daracon Croft Racing Team’s new sponsors for 2008/09 is ‘The Sebel Parramatta’. A high class Hotel catering for the corporate sector and the leisure traveller, ‘The Sebel Parramatta’ will be providing a high level of support to the Daracon Croft Racing Team throughout the season.
Despite the problems that surfaced in Round 1 of the East Coast Late Model Series Ken Croft sits 10th in points heading into Round 2.
Daracon Croft Racing is proudly supported by: Daracon For information on Daracon visit www.daracon.com.au
ABOVE : Ken Croft behind the wheel of the Daracon / The Sebel Parramatta
# 71 at Tyrepower Parramatta City Raceway (NSW).
Image courtesy of Alan Thompson of www.sprintcar1.net
The Sebel Parramatta
Tanelm Fuels
Gunnedah Driving School
For information on ‘The Sebel Parramatta’ visit www.mirvachotels.com/sebel-parramatta
23rd September 2008
After finishing 10th in Heat 1 of Round 1 of the East Coast Late Model Series held at Tyrepower Parramatta City Raceway (NSW) Saturday 20th September 2008 Ken Croft and the Daracon # 71 Rocket Pontiac were sidelined for the remainder of the event. The Daracon machine was the innocent party in a crash after the chequer flag fell on Heat 1 (when a rival car suffered mechanical failure).
The Daracon Croft Racing Team will be back in action for Round 2 on November 1.
ABOVE : Ken Croft in action moments before disaster struck.
Image courtesy of Alan Thompson of www.sprintcar1.net
18th September 2008
Media Release
‘The Sebel Parramatta’
join Daracon Croft Racing
in new season campaign
Daracon Croft Racing is ready to tackle the 2008/09 season head on, starting with the first Round of the East Coast Late Model Series at Tyrepower Parramatta City Raceway (NSW) Saturday September 20th.
Team principal Ken Croft was excited about the Daracon Croft Racing Team’s prospects for the upcoming season.
"Season 2008/09 is looking good, and I am extremely proud to announce that ‘The Sebel Parramatta’, a high class Hotel catering for the corporate sector and the leisure traveller, has signed on as a Daracon Croft Racing team sponsor".
'The Sebel Parramatta’ provides first class service across the board, with everything from top line conference facilities, to high quality accommodation, and fine dining. It’s fantastic to have ‘The Sebel Parramatta’ join our team, and they will be providing Daracon Croft Racing with a high level of support across the entire season. Daracon Croft Racing will be working extra hard to ensure that our arrangement with ‘The Sebel Parramatta’ is extremely beneficial to both parties" said an enthusiastic Croft.
For full information regarding ‘The Sebel Parramatta’ visit the Hotel website at : www.mirvachotels.com/sebel-parramatta "All of our long term sponsors and supporters, such as Daracon, are back on board, and everything is pointing to a great season. To be honest, in 2007/08 we didn’t achieve the results that we had hoped for, so we have spent the off season going over the car, and are confident of a much improved showing". "The East Coast Late Model Affiliates have released a sensational schedule, with an 11 Round East Coast Series, the two night G Shock Gold Cup at Parramatta at the end of January, two nights of racing to decide the NSW Championship right here in our ‘backyard’ at Tamworth and Gunnedah, and another two nights at Mildura. I guess you can tell that I’m really keen to get behind the wheel" concluded Croft. To keep his hand in over the winter months Ken Croft gave the Daracon Croft Racing # 71 Rocket Dirt Late Model a brief shakedown at Tamworth Speedway and was happy with how the car performed, and the track conditions. The team expects to have its new transporter on line for Round 2 of the East Coast Late Model Series in early November. To keep up to date with all the news in regard to Daracon Croft Racing visit the teams new look website at www.croftracing.net Daracon Croft Racing is proudly supported by: Daracon For information on Daracon visit www.daracon.com.au For information on ‘The Sebel Parramatta’ visit www.mirvachotels.com/sebel-parramatta
The Sebel Parramatta
Tanelm Fuels
Gunnedah Driving School
Inaugural Max Clark Memorial Trophy
Ken Croft of Daracon Croft Racing was on hand for the ELMA end of season awards function at 'The Sebel Parramatta' Saturday 26th July 2008 in order to present the inaugural 'Max Clark Memorial Trophy' in memory of valued Daracon Croft Racing Team Member Max Clark who lost his life in tragic circumstances towards the conclusion of the 2007/08 season. Pictured with Ken Croft are (left to right) Dean Smith, Scott McPherson (the Max Clark Memorial Trophy recipient) and Darryl Grimson.
Image courtesy of Tony Hodskiss of www.hotpicsphotography.com
2007/08 Media Releases
14 04 08 Daracon Croft Racing aiming to end season on a high - PDF
19 03 08 Daracon Croft Racing look for results at Parramatta - PDF
11 03 08 Daracon Croft Racing ready for NSW Title assault - PDF
24 12 07 Daracon Croft Racing look for better luck at Nowra Speedway - PDF
27 11 07 Daracon Croft Racing to compete at Nowra Speedway - PDF
20 11 07 Daracon Croft Racing set for season debut - PDF
02 11 07 Daracon Croft Racing ready for 2007/08 season - PDF
08 10 07 Daracon Croft Racing launch new website - PDF
