Led by a commanding display from Cooper Cutts and a strong collective effort across all five entries, the weekend marked a statement of intent from the Arise Racing outfit as they look to lock down all three major titles—Drivers’, Teams’, and Challenge Cup.
Cooper Cutts Dominates: Four from Four
If there were any doubts about Cooper Cutts’ credentials as a championship contender, they were erased at Sydney Motorsport Park. From the moment he set the fastest time in qualifying, Cutts was untouchable. He led every race from the front and executed faultless drives to claim all four victories—securing the outright round win and making it a perfect weekend.
Team Manager Michael Epple was full of praise for the young West Aussie. “Clean sweep for Cooper. Absolute dominant weekend, especially this far from home and without any testing,” he said. “His focus and adaptability were exceptional.”
Cutts’ performance not only puts him firmly in title contention but also sets a new benchmark for the season. This was a display of total control, speed, and maturity.
“Rowdy” Avern Rises on Debut Weekend at SMP
In just his second international round, Ruairi “Rowdy” Avern showed why he’s one to watch. After qualifying a modest P10, Avern immediately impressed by climbing from P8 to P3 on the opening lap of Race 1 and holding on to secure his first Radical Cup podium. He would follow up with P6, P3, and P4 finishes across the remaining races—securing third overall for the round.
“Rowdy’s Race 1 drive was a real standout. That opening lap set the tone after a tough quali,” said Driver Coach Macca Jones. “He’s learning fast and developing under pressure. He’s a quick study and absorbing everything we throw at him.”
Avern’s growing confidence and race craft were among the highlights of the weekend, and he’ll be a strong asset as the season unfolds.
Brad Russell Stays in the AM Cup Hunt
Brad Russell delivered a composed and consistent performance to secure second in the Challenge Cup (AM Class) for the round. Russell was quick out of the blocks, qualifying P4 outright and finishing P4, P7, P5, and P8 across the weekend’s four races.
While not everything went to plan, the speed was there. “Brad’s qualifying and overall pace were a standout,” said Driver Coach Andre Heimgartner. “We didn’t maximise everything, but the raw speed is exciting. The potential is obvious.”
Russell’s performance keeps him well within striking distance in the AM class championship, and with momentum building, he’ll be one to watch in Queensland.
Reindler & Moore Overcome Setback for Fourth Overall
Chris Reindler and Bryce Moore were forced into a comeback story after a qualifying penalty sent their #28 entry to the back of the grid for Race 1. Reindler responded with a barnstorming drive through the field—climbing 14 positions to finish sixth. Moore then took over for Race 2 and delivered a composed drive to secure P3.
The pair would continue with P6 and P5 finishes to end the weekend just outside the podium in fourth overall. Their resilience and teamwork drew praise from the Arise pit wall.
“Chris last to sixth was huge, especially with that electric first lap. Then Bryce backed it up with a cool, calculated podium,” said Macca Jones. “They dug deep and delivered across all four races.”
It was a mature performance from a well-matched pairing showing increasing synergy with every session.
Cirillo & Allan Battle Through Adversity
It was a challenging weekend for Mark Cirillo and Dave Allan, who were forced to adapt quickly after Cirillo was sidelined with illness early in the weekend. Allan took the reins solo through practice and qualifying, placing the car 14th on the grid.
Race 1 saw Allan bring the car home in P14. Cirillo, medically cleared on Saturday, returned to drive in Race 2, staging an impressive comeback to finish 10th despite starting from the rear. Allan followed with P13 in Race 3 before Cirillo’s weekend ended prematurely in Race 4 with a DNF due to a technical issue.
“Dave and Mark had a rough start, but they gave it their all. It was their first time at SMP and under the circumstances, it was a solid showing,” said Epple.
While the results weren’t headline-making, their grit and determination helped keep Arise Racing’s team points tally in healthy shape.
Inside the Garage: Coaches Reflect on Team Execution
Driver Coach Andre Heimgartner was buoyed by the team’s pace and execution, especially with limited crew on the ground in Sydney.
“Cooper was flawless—his energy and intent were top-tier,” said Heimgartner. “Brad had great pace too, and while we didn’t hit every mark, the core fundamentals are there. Across the team, the group stepped up. Everyone’s wearing multiple hats and owning it.”
Heimgartner also praised the evolution of car setup strategy. “We found a few gains here at SMP we’ll carry into Queensland. There’s still work to do on tyre management and overtaking setups, but the baseline is strong.”
Macca Jones, working alongside Heimgartner, also noted the team’s calm and proactive mindset.
“Four wins, pole, and multiple top fives — you can’t ask for more. The guys stayed focused and executed the one-percenters. We’re still fine-tuning our support processes, but the culture in this team is fantastic.”
Team Manager Epple: “The Vibe Is Unmatched”
Team Manager Michael Epple was beaming after the team’s performance, not just for the wins but for the all-in attitude shown by the Arise Racing camp.
“The results are a reflection of the hours this crew puts in behind the scenes,” said Epple. “From logistics to engineering and race-day strategy, it’s been a massive lift from everyone. The energy is strong. Morale is the best I’ve ever seen it. Everyone’s pushing for that extra 1%.”
Epple reiterated the team’s sights are set on all three championships. “We’re in it to win it. Driver’s title, Team’s title, Challenge Cup — that’s what we’re chasing. And this round proves we’re on track.”
Looking Ahead: All Eyes on Queensland
With momentum now squarely in their corner, Arise Racing heads to Queensland Raceway for Round 3 from May 30 to June 1.
For Cutts, it’s about maintaining his flawless form. For Rowdy, Russell, Reindler/Moore, and Cirillo/Allan, the next round represents another opportunity to lock in consistent results and extend their lead in the respective classes.
The Radical Cup Australia continues to build as one of the country’s most competitive and exciting single-make categories, and Arise Racing is determined to lead the charge.
Queensland will bring new challenges, including another fast-flowing circuit, warmer conditions, and a hungry grid. But if Sydney was any indication, Arise Racing is more than ready
