Motor Racing
6 September, 2025
Pike duo dominates Rainbow Rises
The Rainbow Rises and Victorian Off Road Racing Association's short-course off-road racing event roared into action over the weekend, attracting nearly 60 cars and close to 500 people across three days of competition.
Glenn and Blake Pike claimed outright victory, with Evan Lampard and Ben Philp second, and Peter Sibson, Greg Barker, and Josh McPhee third.
Rainbow Rises Event president Russell Eckermann said the strong turnout and smooth running of the event made it one of the most memorable weekends.
"Look, there were nearly 60 cars, and it was an exceptionally well-run event," he said.
Mr Eckermann said the atmosphere was electric, boosted by feedback from competitors.
"The atmosphere was probably one of the best I've seen," he said.
"The competitors really, really enjoyed themselves and one of the best prologue tracks or short-course tracks, at least in Victoria if not in Australia."
The event drew entries from across southeastern Australia.
"Mostly cars were from Victoria, there were a couple from South Australia, and a couple from New South Wales, but mainly Victoria," he said.
He said many families enjoyed racing together.
Spectator numbers were slightly down due to the weather, but enthusiasm remained high.
"Because of the weather, I don't think we had a lot of spectators," Mr Eckermann said.
Mr Eckermann said the highlight was the sense of community and flawless organisation.
"To me, the highlight was just the atmosphere, the way the race was run, and the way the competitors sent the feedback was just really good," he said.
"I'm exceptionally proud of the way VORRA and the Rainbow Rises Event Association ran the weekend; we really catered for everyone."
The next event on the Rainbow calendar will be the Australian Tractor Pull Association national round on October 4.
