By Jack McGuire
Small town grit and self-determination are hallmarks of South Australian sidecar speedster Trent Headland and his Roxby Rockets team.
Ranked second in Australia behind nine times national champion, Sydney’s Darrin Treloar, Trent is number one on Far North South Australia’s podium having placed the region at the forefront of International Speedway fans.
He has gunned it around sidecar tracks from France to Broken Hill and has competed against the best the sport can throw at him.
Trent’s small team of “true believers” – World champion passenger Daz Whetstone, mechanic Tommy Hannigan, public relations person Millie Thomas and Trent’s biggest fan, nine year-old son Nate – put in the time, effort and personal funds to travel more than 25,000 kilometres a season to compete at an elite level.
Trent Headland and Daz Whetstone in action – photo Judy Mackay
“We want to develop the sport and at the same time promote our great region,” says Trent.
Win or lose Trent also wants to leave local junior riders a positive legacy.
“It’s important juniors are encouraged to participate,” he says.
“Racing takes dedication and hard work, but it’s a legacy I want to pass on to future riders and passengers.”
Trent Headland and his mechanic Tommy Hannigan – photo Jack McGuire
Trent is considered an aggressive, no-nonsense style of rider and considered one of the sport’s top riders; so far an Australian Championship has eluded him – for now.
“I know I can beat anyone in Australia but to win the golden prize, I haven’t quite done it,” he says.
“Winning the Australian Championships is not something that just falls in your lap.
“You need a good bike, a good rider, a good passenger, good sponsors, a supportive community and a lot of luck.
“Without them, you’re stuffed.”
With accolades including 2nd place in this years Australian and NSW sidecar championships, King of the Hill at Broken Hill Speedway, and a cabinet full of trophies collecting red dust in their adopted town of Roxby Downs – the Roxby Rockets are “quietly” on the verge of cracking the big time.
Trent Headland and Daz Whetstone second at the Australian Championships – picture Judy Mackay
“We allow our success to make all the noise,” Trent says. “It is an excellent methodology combined with the complete and absolute fusion of our team.
“Each person’s capabilities determine our successes.”
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