š¦ Driver Spotlight: Hamish Cleland š¦
Next up is 32-year-old Hamish Cleland from Christchurch, returning for his second IORK appearance - and he's coming back with unfinished business. š
Hamish's route into karting is a little different from most. After spending several years competing at a reasonably high level in the Australasian sim-racing scene, he decided it was time to find out whether those virtual racing skills could translate to the real thing.Ā
His first year in real-world racing came with a steep learning curve but Hamish managed to put it all together when it mattered, finishing 7th in the 100kg+ Final!
This year, he's back with significantly more practice, training and real-world experience ā and his ambitions have moved up with him. His goal? A podium finish at IORK 2026. š„
Hamish has already raced at Eastern Creek, Auscarts Melbourne, SupaKarts and ACE Motorsports, giving him experience across a range of tracks.Ā
Away from racing, Hamish works as an IT Technician for a fresh produce company, and he also has a rather impressive fun fact: he has a Masters in Biochemistry š§ š§Ŗ
With a background in sim racing, a year of real-world racing under his belt, and considerably more preparation heading into IORK 2026, Hamish will be looking to prove that last year's 7th place was just the beginning.
Good luck Hamish - we'll be watching! š
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Commentator Notes
32 years old from Christchurch.
Returning for his second IORK appearance.
Competing in the 100kg & Over category.
Finished 7th in the 100kg+ Final at IORK 2025.
Came into IORK after several years competing at a high level in Australasian sim racing.
Used IORK 2025 as his introduction to real-world racing, describing it as a steep learning curve.
Has raced at Eastern Creek, Auscarts Melbourne, SupaKarts and ACE Motorsports.
Has put significantly more practice, training and experience into his preparation this year.
Goal for IORK 2026 is to make the podium.
Ultimately wants to progress into full-circuit car racing, with the NĆ¼rburgring 24 Hours among his motorsport ambitions.
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