For motorsport athlete Madison Dunston, being a SuperUte competitor in a cut-throat race is the ultimate day at work.
DUO: As a 20-year-old motorsport athlete in a male-dominated field, how’d you land in the world of racing?
I grew up watching Dad race Go Karts! He’s been my idol and the reason I jumped into Motorsport. I was seven when I raced Go Kart the first time. I instantly fell in love with the adrenaline and strength it gave me, especially with the helmet on! Being young and female in this sport has been challenging, but I’m up for a challenge and always pushing to do my best!
DUO: How did you transition from Go Karting to Aussie Cars?
After winning the Queensland Go-Kart Championships, I wanted to go further. Being smaller cars, the Aussie Race Car Series was a natural step and a great way to learn. Dad was supportive and helped source an Aussie Car. My first real practice at Phillip Island was also my first race!
DUO: Excelling at Motor Sports; what’s the formula?
I focus on consistently pushing myself to a quicker lap time! I’ve made a lot of mistakes, but knowing I can fix them is what makes me put the helmet back on. I train after-work, hitting the gym to develop my core, legs, and cardio. I reach up to 230km/hr on-the-straight on race days, but without local facilities, I can’t practice at speed; so, I use a simulator to practice and improve my reaction time (to avoid crashes)!
DUO: Speaking of crashes, have you had any?
A number actually! My first on my 17th birthday. I went around a corner at 160km/hr and crashed into someone who had spun-out in front. In Townsville, too, I came around a corner too fast and hit a cement wall.
DUO: How does your mother cope with you hurtling around tracks at-speed?
Poor Mum wanted a ballerina! I remember going to ballet classes, but it wasn’t for me. Mum tells me not to go too fast and to stay safe on the track!
DUO: You’re competing in the Watpac Townsville 400 Supercars Colorado SuperUte. What does this event mean to you?
I’m so excited to race the SuperUtes! It’s a step closer to the big game. Racing in my hometown is amazing, and I’m so grateful for this opportunity! I’ve been exercising, and training double-time to be ready as ever for the best weekend of racing!
DUO: Your past victories include the Sydney Shannon’s National 2017 Ladies Cup Champion, along with the Aussie Racing Cars 2018 Women’s Cup (where you were 16th outright). What’s your ultimate dream when it comes to motorsport?
Getting into Supercars fulltime, and even racing overseas one day; I’d love to race in Europe!
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