This weekend, the much-anticipated ARB Gundy 250 will kick off the 2026 Queensland Off Road Racing Championship in Goondiwindi, showcasing an impressive field of 54 competitors ready to tackle the new and challenging event.
Hosted by the Goondiwindi Motorsport Association, the race will feature a 21km layout, allowing two vehicles to start simultaneously. Drivers will vie for early-season supremacy on this fresh course that promises to put their skills to the test.
"The competition is fierce this year, and we can’t wait to see how it unfolds," said race organizer, noting the excitement that the inaugural event has generated.
Among the standout competitors in the Ultimate Class, local favorite Michael Napier (#11) and Troy Duff (#24) are expected to set a blistering pace. They will be joined by notable racers including Seeton Battle (#28), Craig Krog (#23), and former Queensland champion Jan Kraaij (#40). “It’s going to be intense right from the start with such a talented lineup,” said Napier as he prepared for the challenge ahead.
Local pilots Jamie Knight (#439) and Symon Knight (#475) are itching to compete in the highly anticipated Class 4 division. They will face stiff competition from Stuart Chapman (#415), David Muir (#433), Mark Robertson (#481), and Brett Comiskey (#434), a previous Gundy 400 winner. “We know the terrain well, and we’re ready to give it our all,” said Jamie Knight as he expressed confidence in their chances.
In the Class 1 segment, a strong field also awaits. Reigning Queensland AORRA champion Tony Fehlhaber (#138), David Loughnan (#104), and Ian Baker (#146) are among the key players vying for success in this group. “Everyone’s pushing hard, and it’s going to be a battle out there,” expressed Fehlhaber, determined to retain his title.
Class 6 presents the largest and one of the most competitive lineups. Notable drivers such as Zac Marsh (#6140) and Lachlan Waters (#699), the defending champion from Dalby, are ready to vie for the top spot. “This class is packed with talent, and I'm pumped to see what everyone brings to the table,” remarked Marsh, who is a former Queensland champion.
In Class 10, the depth is equally impressive, with contenders like Michael Marson (#1032) and Darren Orr (#1015) prepared for the rigorous challenge laid before them. "Every race is a learning experience; we’re here to improve and compete," said Marson.
Competitors in other classes, such as Class 6’s Mitchell Huxstep (#618) and Darren Brandon (#689), as well as Class 8’s Jayme Challacombe (#838) and Anthony Dalton (#849), are also gearing up for an exhilarating showdown. "It would be great to come out on top; we’ve been preparing all season," said Challacombe.
This weekend’s race format brings an innovative twist with up to five sections, each comprising one to three laps around the challenging 'Torridon' terrain. For many of the drivers, the lack of historical data adds to the thrill of the competition. “Not knowing what to expect makes this event unique — we are in for some surprises,” said a representative from the Goondiwindi Motorsport Association.
The Gundy 250 owes its success to key sponsorship support, particularly from ARB 4X4 Accessories and Comiskey Mining Services. Additionally, gratitude is extended to numerous in-kind sponsors whose assistance has been instrumental in preparing for the event.
The ongoing support from Mickey Thompson Tyres and other championship sponsors signifies a strong commitment to Queensland's off-road racing community. As the inaugural ARB Gundy 250 unfolds, both competitors and spectators can look forward to an electrifying weekend of high-octane motorsport.
With thrilling performances expected and a fresh format to conquer, the 2026 ARB Gundy 250 is set to deliver an unforgettable experience for all involved. "We’ve worked hard for this moment, and I believe we’re going to have a fantastic event," said the event coordinator, encapsulating the sentiment of everyone involved.