In a dramatic end to the Giltrap Group North Island Formula Ford race at Taupo International Motorsport Park on Sunday, one of New Zealand’s best female racing drivers, Bree Morris, secured the 2021/2022 championship title.
After heading into the final round behind championship leader Hayden Bakkerus who was 117 points ahead of Morris, the three-race event resulted in the two tying on points.
Morris went home victorious with the title after a count-back of her race wins throughout the season.
Bakkerus hadn’t put a foot wrong in the previous four rounds but come race one on Sunday, an electrical problem causing a fire saw him retire.
Morris battled behind race leader Liam Sceats with Leo Scott but after attempting to pass Morris, contact ensued retiring Scott from the race. Sebastian Manson capitalised on the battle between Morris and Sceats gaining second place and leaving Morris in third.
The second race saw Bakkerus borrow Zac Blincoe’s car but to Bakkerus’s dismay, another engine issue left him further down the field in tenth place. Morris placed third for a second time.
Coming into the third round, double points were on Morris’ mind and after yet again crossing the line in third place, the championship was hers.
“I knew there was a possibility after the second race,” she said but, “didn’t know it was achievable.”
After being described as one of the best female racing drivers in New Zealand, Morris assures that she “likes to be viewed as a racer (among both men and women),” but wants to encourage other females to race at her level.
“I want racing to become my career and to be able to race internationally.” said Morris on her future ambitions in the world of motorsport.
Well done Bree!
