Brad Gartner Determined to Bounce Back after Terrifying Brake Failure and Crash
Posted
on 6 June 2023
The world of motorsports is known for its adrenaline-pumping action and fierce competition, but it also poses its fair share of risks and challenges. Such was the case for TA2 Muscle Car Series driver Brad Gartner during Race 2 of Round 3 at Queensland Raceway. A frightening brake failure at 200km/h resulted in a dramatic crash at Turn 4, leaving Gartner shaken but determined to make a strong comeback.
As the TA2 Muscle Car Series reached an intense moment at Queensland Raceway, Brad Gartner experienced a sudden and unexpected brake failure at Turn 4. The impact caused significant damage to Gartner’s #22 Castec Rural Supplies Mustang, thankfully the car absorbed the energy incredibly well as Gartner walked out of the wreck.
Thanks to the quick response of track officials, he was swiftly provided with immediate medical attention before being cleared from the medical centre shortly after the race.
Following the crash, fellow competitors rallied around Gartner, expressing their concern and extending a helping hand. Numerous drivers rushed to the medical centre to check on his well-being. Gartner later expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of support, emphasising the bonds that exist within the TA2 racing fraternity.
Despite the terrifying incident, Brad Gartner's resilience shines through as he sets his sights on a triumphant return to the TA2 Muscle Car Series later this season. Gartner, known for his unwavering determination and competitive spirit, remains undeterred by the crash. Drawing strength from the encouragement of his peers, he is determined to bounce back stronger than ever before.
TA2 Muscle Car Series Technical Manager Cameron Sendall confirmed the TA2 team will work diligently to identify the root cause of the incident.
QUOTESBrad Gartner, #22 Castec Rural Supplies Ford Mustang
”The support I received from my fellow drivers, including Josh Haynes and Jackson Rice after the crash was truly overwhelming. It's moments like these that remind me of the incredible bond we share as a racing community.”
"While the crash was a pretty frightening experience, I'm incredibly grateful for the swift response of the track officials who ensured my safety and well-being.
“As soon as I realised what happened I did my best to get out of the way of the other cars and loop the car around so we wouldn’t go front in first. More than anything I’m glad it was at Turn 4 rather than Turn 3 which would have been much higher speed and a front-on impact.
"Motorsports can be unpredictable, and accidents happen, but this setback has only fueled my determination to get back on track and show what we’re capable of.”
“It’s been a tough start to our championship campaign, but we’ll keep our heads down and work as hard as we can to get back on track as soon as possible and get back to racing in this awesome category.”
Cameron Sendall, TA2 Technical Manager
“We have initially looked at the car to establish what happened. It looks like it may have pushed the calliper seal out. Obviously the brake pedal went down a long way and Brad had to turn the thing around and back it into the tyre wall which he did a really good job at in the heat of the moment.
“The chassis looks fine. It's obviously copped a good impact on the rear, it’s actually pushed the rear bumper iron forward and then the body has then then concertinaed up from the tyre wall, so it's actually looking worse and structurally than what it is.
“The main frame is good and the fuel cell is in perfect condition, so that's a good sign.”