Russell Taylor delivered a commanding performance at the Slinglift Nitro Slam today, taking top honours in Direct Mining and Industrial Top Doorslammers at the Perth Motorplex. This victory, achieved during Round 3 of the National Drag Racing Championship (NDRC), marks a critical milestone in Taylor’s campaign for the championship title and reinforces his status as a top competitor in Top Doorslammer Australia category.
Facing fierce competition, Taylor emerged victorious in the A Final against Northern Territorian Matt Abel, delivering a stellar 5.678-second pass at 410.13kph (254.84mph) to secure the win. Taylor was the only driver to win all his heats in the all-run format, earning 76 points—28 more than Abel’s 48—further solidifying his position as the championship leader. Heading into the event, Taylor already led the standings with 230 points, ahead of Lisa Gregorini on 217 and John Zappia on 192.
Despite early setbacks in Q1, the team’s methodical approach and attention to detail allowed Taylor to regroup and secure the Top Qualifier position with a blistering 5.763-second pass in Q2. Taylor, who holds both the ET record of 5.598 seconds, and the speed record of 415.23kph (258.01mph) from last season, is determined to back up his record-breaking performances with consistent success this year.
“Today’s victory is a testament to the team’s professionalism, skill, and methodical routines,” Taylor said. “Their unwavering attention to detail and relentless drive for perfection ensured the car performed flawlessly. Winning all our heats and the A Final here at our home track, the Perth Motorplex, is an amazing feeling.”
Event Highlights
Q1: Aborted pass due to technical issues.
Q2: Win 5.763 ET at 410.08kph/254.81mph vs. Matt Abel’s 5.982 ET at 373.29kph.
R1: Win 5.698 ET at 407.54kph/253.23mph vs. Maurice Brennan’s 6.210 ET at 263.01kph.
R2: Win 5.679 ET at 410.94kph/255.34mph vs. Frank Taylor’s 7.126 ET at 234.69kph.
A Final: Win 5.678 ET at 410.13kph/254.84mph vs. Matt Abel’s 5.910 ET at 358.03kph.
Looking ahead Taylor now turns his attention to the next round of the NDRC, the Electrical Group Training 54th Westernationals, set to take place on 1st and 2nd March at Perth Motorplex. With two Top Qualifier awards and consistent top speeds and elapsed times this season, Taylor continues to build on his momentum, striving for perfection as he aims to defend his championship and prove that last season’s rookie title was not a fluke.
Acknowledgements and Sponsors: Taylor credited his success to the tireless efforts of his crew, including Crew Chiefs Stuart Rowland and Steven Ham (providing remote assistance), as well as Josh (Pro Chassis and Fabrication), Alan, Mick, Jack, and Renee. Special thanks were extended to Skarlett and Kade, who contributed their time to support the merchandise tent.
Taylor also expressed gratitude to his valued sponsors:
• Royal Precision Lubricants
• Pro Chassis and Fabrication
• OGL [Australia] (Oil and Gas Logistics)
• RDW
• Hydraulic Technical Solutions
• Pro Spray Automotive Refinishing
• Welshpool Welding & Fabrication
Photos by Phil Reeve
