North American Junior Stars Headed to Aus

North American Formula F1600 stars Tristan DeGrand and Max Mällinen have been added to the Borland Racing Developments Spectrum line up for the final round of the Australian Formula Ford Series at Phillip Island this weekend.

Newly crowned Canadian Toyo Tyres F1600 champion DeGrand and US Majors race winner Mällinen, who both race Spectrum 014s, earned the opportunity to compete in Australia as part of the Spectrum International Scholarship.

Backing the international initiative are long-time partners Kings Fibreglass, Speco/VHT, E-Steel and Zsidy Racing.

After a record breaking season in Canada, driving his Exclusive Autosport Spectrum, culminating in 18 wins from 24 starts, 18-year old DeGrand is excited to be competing in the Australian Formula Ford Series. “I can’t wait to make my way down under and race against Australia’s best emerging talent,” said DeGrand. “Formula Ford is the number one training ground for young drivers fresh out of Go Karts and Phillip Island looks like a very impressive track from the videos I have seen.”

Spectrum owner and designer Mike Borland was equally enthused about the visiting drivers – adding that the program could see more Australians heading overseas to pursue international careers. “We are excited to give the opportunity to successful Spectrum drivers from around the world to compete against each other and develop new skills. We look forward to again sending an Australian driver overseas next year to emulate the achievements of previous Spectrum drivers John Martin, Shae Davies and Mitch Martin.”

With the factory Spectrum team focusing on current points leader James Golding’s bid for the 14’ Series, Spectrum Championship winning team Ellery Motorsport Enterprises will look after the North American entries on behalf of Borland.

Round 6 of the AFFS is running as part of the Island Magic event at Phillip Island, November 29 – 30, with a strong field of 30 cars set to take part.