Kyle Putland Completes Seven Car Field For Top Fuel In Perth

West Aussie drag racer Kyle Putland is gearing up for a big weekend at the Perth Motorplex ahead of his second round competing in the Burson Auto Parts Australian Top Fuel Championship. Kyle’s Worx Equipment Top Fuel Dragster will for the second time take to the track during the MAC Track 52nd Internationals after a successful debut earlier in the season.

Putland’s entry will complete the seven car lineup for Round 5 of the championship in front of a massive home crowd in Perth. We spoke with Kyle ahead of his second race meeting in Top Fuel to hear all about his preparation heading into the event.

With a round of experience under your belt now, yourself and the team would have learned plenty on the fly. Do you have more confidence and familiarity coming into this next round of racing? 

“We really have a lot more confidence, and it’s not just because we’ve been to one round. We’ve had two private test sessions between the rounds to get more familiar with the car, the class and all of the work that goes into getting these cars down the track. 

As a group we’ve definitely learnt plenty, but we still know we don’t necessarily have the same gear to run into the 3.70s like the other teams have. What we do know is, if they put a foot wrong, we’ll be right there with them. We’re not racing just to make the numbers, and with each round we compete in we get closer.”

It must be a pretty special feeling to race alongside some of the biggest names in Australian drag racing, how does that feel?

“It was definitely a pinch yourself moment the first time round. Racing alongside those guys is very special and I’ve said it before, all those guys have been my idols for years now. They’re all staples of the sport in our country. Now, I get to race right with them. It’s a pretty cool feeling.

"They’ve all been hugely accommodating and welcoming to us. There hasn’t been a moment where I’ve felt alone. They’ve all said if you need anything, if you want to know anything, just come knocking. It’s unbelievable to have that support coming into the category.”

How does it feel to race in front of a home crowd like that, you must be excited to do it again in March?

"Honestly, the reception from the crowd we got last time was unbelievable. It was almost overwhelming, the second pass against the other West Aussie Damien Harris was a very special feeling and something I’ll never forget. 

The fans are what make the sport, and we’re just so appreciative to be able to share our passion with them. I can’t wait to see everyone again at the Motorplex.”

Can we expect to see more of you in the upcoming seasons?

“Yes for sure. You can expect to see the Worx Equipment Top Fuel Dragster at more races in the future, and we’re really excited to hit the road and visit more people and put on a show across the country.”

It was great to chat with Kyle about his love and passion for the sport of drag racing, and we’re excited to see him back out on track in a few weeks time. There’s plenty of drag racing action headed to the ‘Plex for the 52nd Westernationals event including Top Doorslammer, Top Bike, Nitro Max and a stack of sportsman categories. We’ll be there so make sure you grab your tickets and come check out all the action at the Perth Motorplex March 4-5.

Tickets and event info: https://motorplex.com.au/52nd-...