NZ Sidecar Champions at Gillman Speedway

Power Production Media Release 26 May 2024

Kiwi top guns locked and loaded for International Speedway Masters

New Zealand’s leading sidecar team, comprising Mike Zachan and Ben Franklin, are confirmed starters in the upcoming International Speedway Masters, at Adelaide’s Gillman Speedway Stadium.

The dynamic duo, the current New Zealand Champions and reigning NZ Grand Prix title-holders, will contest the Darrin Treloar Cup, slated for night one (December 27), of the two night speedway extravaganza. Night two (December 28), will feature international 500cc solos, contesting the Leigh Adams Medal.

Mike Zachan, aged 48, resides in Hastings, NZ, whilst his 44 year old passenger, Ben Franklin, is based in Tauranga. The duo has ridden together since 2016 and has amassed multiple victories in all of New Zealand’s major sidecar speedway events.

Zachan, an established engineer, has gained significant notoriety in recent years, by virtue of developing and constructing the all-conquering Stinger Sidecar Frame, as used by the legendary Darrin Treloar and multiple Australian Champion, Mark Plaisted.

Organiser of the International Speedway Masters, David Tapp, says it’s a real coup to have the Zachan/Franklin Team committed to racing in the Darrin Treloar Cup.

“Mike Zachan and Ben Franklin have been the dominant force in NZ Sidecar racing in recent years and fans attending the Gillman event will see one of the world’s most professional outfits in action. They will be genuine contenders”.

Meantime, Mike Zachan says he’s excited to be a part of what will be a highly competitive meeting, on an extremely big stage.

“I’m rapt to be asked to race at the International Speedway Masters, incorporating the Darrin Treloar Cup, and we are coming over to do a great job and represent the New Zealand flag with distinction,” Zachan enthused. 

“Whilst I’ve had some great results racing in New Zealand in recent years, the highlight of my career, thus far, has been developing and building the Stinger Frames that have served Darrin and Mark so well in winning many titles, both at state and national level.

“Ben and I can’t wait to be a part of this event and we’re going all out to perform well. We’ll be bringing plenty of gear and our mechanics, Mark Davenport and Kevin McDonald, who are integral to the team’s success”.

Mike Zachan and Ben Franklin are the first of several international sidecar teams announced, that are expected to take part in the International Speedway Masters, at Adelaide’s Gillman Speedway Stadium, on December 27.

The team’s appearance at Gillman Speedway is proudly supported by; Tree Control, 007 Paintball, Patton Engineering, Rogers Yamaha, Stinger Race Frames, ZPR Civil, KJ Morgan and Go Slideways.

Further announcements are imminent in coming days.

The International Speedway Masters is being staged on December 27 (sidecars) and 28 (solos).

Tickets go on sale July 1.

For further information email: speedwaymasters24@gmail.com