Taupo’s Toby Elmiger is back for a second tilt at the Toyota 86 Trophy Series, and he returns for the four rounds as a race winner who’s made quite a name for himself in the 12 months since he last competed in a TR86.
Toby is still relatively new to the sport – having only raced cars for two seasons – but following his Trophy Series campaign in 2025, he got stuck into a full season of the growing TA2 category in New Zealand and made quite a name for himself.
Ten podiums, two race wins and the accolade of the youngest driver to win – anywhere – in a TA2 car means it’s a different Elmiger this time around. He is hoping to go well, make the transition back to the TR86 a seamless one and stay sharp for the forthcoming summer season.
“The main reason I’ve chosen to compete in the Toyota 86 Trophy Series over the winter is to just stay sharp,” Toby explained.
“I think having these competitive fields and constant close racing is great for a driver’s development, especially over winter when usually it’s just testing and sim work.
“The main objective in taking part is to see how quickly I can adapt and change my driving style to suit the 86 and put up a fight against some of the top upcoming 86 drivers from around New Zealand.
“I’ve done lots of miles in an 86 but got back in recently after a fair bit of time away from it. I tested at Hampton Downs, which went well, just readapting my driving style. Coming from the TA2, which is quite a different car to drive, it was an interesting but enjoyable process.”
Despite using the series to help keep himself sharp for next summer, Toby has still been spending a huge amount of time preparing away from the circuit, too.
“I’m treating this season in the Trophy Series as any other, working alongside my trainer every week to make sure I’m physically fit and as prepared as I possibly can be after doing relatively little testing.
“I know it’s going to be a challenge, but I’m ready to put my all into it.”
Toby’s return to the Trophy Series is being supported by GGL Site Development, Penny Homes, Nutrition Systems, C4 Energy, Taupo Irrigation and Zest Insurance Brokers.
The four-round Trophy Series begins at Hampton Downs over the weekend of May 16th and 17th before moving further south to Taupo Motorsport Park on June 20 and 21. Manfeild is the destination for the third round two weeks later, on July 4th and 5th, before the series concludes at the same circuit on August 1 and 2.
Header Image: TGRNZ
