Vasse driver grabs another title in Perth
Young local racer Josh Birch (middle) won the Fab Martinelli Cup at the Ellenbrook Speedway's first winter meet. Image supplied
Young Vasse resident Josh Birch has added another trophy to his growing collection, winning the Fab Martinelli Cup at the Ellenbrook Speedway’s first winter meet.
At just twelve years old, Josh is proving that age is no barrier in junior sedan racing, following a summer season filled with podium finishes across the South West racing scene.
Those early days trackside, watching races with his dad, led Josh straight to the driver’s seat when he turned ten.
“My dad always took me to the speedway when I was younger to watch,” Josh told the Mail.
“Then, when I turned 10, I got the chance to get behind the steering wheel. I love the adrenaline and the excitement of racing!”
Starting with a Toyota KE30 Corolla and later moving to a 1996 Hyundai Excel, Josh spent his first season gaining experience at various tracks.
His dedication paid off with placements on the winner’s podium at Albany, Margaret River, Bunbury, and Manjimup during the summer.
His recent victory at Ellenbrook showed genuine grit.
Despite coming back from a crash at Margaret River and finding the heat races tough, Josh’s determination carried him to victory.
“I got the lead early in the 15-lap feature race and maintained it through multiple restarts,” he shared.
“I was so happy and couldn’t believe that I did it!”
The sport has taught Josh more than just racing skills.
“I’ve enjoyed learning to work on cars, and learning how to drive a manual car at 10 is a great experience
“I’ve made new friends in the sport and the racing community is awesome – always welcoming and always ready to help anyone out.”
His parents, Matt and Tammy, watch their young driver’s progress with pride.
“Josh has worked hard to learn to drive a manual car – a skill in itself these days. He is committed to giving each race everything and has learnt to take the good with the bad.”
Safety is paramount in junior sedan racing, which welcomes drivers aged 10 to 17 years old.
“Josh has had a few nasty crashes, but the safety gear is amazing, and he has come away fine each time,” his parents noted.
As one of the younger competitors, Josh continues to gain experience with each race, showing true racing passion as he chases his dream of competing in sprint cars in the future.
For Josh, it isn’t just about being in the driver’s seat. ”
Watching races can be just as much a thrill,” he said, encouraging others to experience the speedway for themselves.
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