The Motul Honda Cup has declared its 2019/20 season early amid the Covid-19 pandemic, crowing champions in both its main class and Hardrace N1 category.
Palmerston North-based racer Bayley Walker (main image) has been gifted the spoils in the Motul Honda Cup championship after erstwhile points leader Paul Muldoon was stripped of his points following the discovery of a technical breach.
Chris Hughes and Andrew Johnston meanwhile have rounded out the podium, the duo separated by a mere nine points heading into the final round.
In the N1 series, Jason Weel has claimed a strong championship victory, finishing ahead of title rivals Mike Hoeft and Mark Elley.
Since its inauguration in 2015, the N1 class has acted as an excellent stepping stone for aspiring kiwi drivers looking to learn the basics of a front-wheel-drive racing saloon.
Despite efforts to see out the season finale round from Hampton Downs Motorsport Park, the round was ultimately cancelled as the nationwide lockdown and subsequent mass gathering bans meant it was too difficult to determine when a revised round could go ahead.
The 2019/20 season saw the series run in conjunction with several of MSNZ Speedworks events, a relationship Honda Cup organisers are hoping will continue moving forward.
“Although shortened by the pandemic, we’ve enjoyed a fantastic season of racing at top-tier events,” said series coordinator Zaf Khouri. “Next season is already shaping up to be even better.
“We would like to send our thanks to all of the competitors for your patience while the committee worked through the lockdown impact and completed Technical checks.
“Of course, a massive thank you goes to all of our fantastic sponsors, partners and supporters that made it happen this season. We look forward to supporting you on the road to recovery in the future.”
A 2020/21 calendar is yet be finalised but can be expected to be revealed over the coming months.
Images: Motul Honda Cup