989 GP

Considering the luck IÂ’ve had at some events this year, and even throughout this one, I honestly didnÂ’t expect to be walking away with the National title. From an excellent start in practice to battling gremlins through qualifying and the semi-finals, the weekend was anything but smooth. But when everything finally came together, I managed to bring home the 2025 SpeedyRC RCRA Australian IC GT National Championship!
When the setup clicked, the Serpent SRX8 GTR was simply a dream to drive. Compared to the SRX8 GT Â’23, the new GTR is on a completely different level. The car offered noticeably more on-power and off-power steering, exactly what was needed to tackle the high-camber and technical sections of England Park Raceway. I could stay on throttle longer through the dips, twists, and turns that define corners 1 through 3, a section that can easily make or break your lap. It was genuinely impressive to feel a GT perform with agility somewhat similar to that of a Serpent 990 EVO or any 1/8th on-road car in that part of the track.

This National title was truly a team effort. Huge thanks to Robert Williamson, Tommy Lee, and David Chen for their work in the pits and the constant exchange of ideas. Big appreciation also to Tim Duggan (TIMED) for the endless text discussions as we chased every bit of performance from the car and engines. Thanks as well to Bryan Ruttley
(Moonshine Race Fuels) for producing my race fuel and to Ric Seymo for transporting all my equipment to the event.

A massive thank you to all the brands and businesses that support my racing and make these incredible RC adventures possible, especially Serpent, who continue to lead the way in GT innovation. Also to Jay from Walter RC who is instrumental in ensuring I have a competitive GT to drive with unmatched parts support.
Congratulations to Alister Ritchie (Serpent / NZ / SRX8 23Â’) and Jason Valley for completing the podium, Cameron Kendall for taking TQ and putting up a great fight in the final, and Ross Lalic (Serpent / AUS / SRX8 23Â’) for winning the semi-final and for the ongoing collaboration on setup ideas. Looking forward to more events with all of you.

This was one of the best Australian events IÂ’ve been part of. Huge thanks to QRCCRA and especially Dan Morris for putting together such a well-run Nationals. The large turnout across all classes, particularly GT, with a number of international drivers, was fantastic to see and exactly what the IC category in Australia has needed.
IÂ’m excited to continue developing and racing the Serpent SRX8 GTR across Australia and internationally in the months ahead.

Anthony Wasson
Team Serpent