Nathan Shortis is having a successful year on the racetrack.
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For Nathan Shortis, speedway racing is more than just a sport, it is a family tradition spanning four generations.
The local driver has enjoyed a season to remember, achieving a long-held dream of becoming Victoria 1 for the Goulburn Ovens Sedan Association (GOSA).
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Shortis is the fourth generation of his family to take to the track, following in the footsteps of his great-grandfather, with his father, uncle and other family members continuing the racing tradition.
Growing up around speedway meant racing was always going to be part of Shortis’ life, with the sport becoming something he knew from an early age.
“When you grow up wanting to do that, you don't know anything different,” Shortis said.
“Once I got to the right age, it was like I was going to do that as well.”
Shortis began racing in the senior class around 14 years ago, and his journey has culminated in one of his most successful seasons to date.
Nathan Shortis’ Holden sedan, is taking to him to one of this most successful seasons ever.
Nathan also added the Colin Young Memorial Award and Blue Shed Series Championship for the second consecutive year, while also taking home the Most Consistent Award and being named VSC Senior Driver of the Year.
“To win it one year was good enough, but to win it both years; it has been good,” he said.
The success has been built on plenty of work away from the track, with Shortis taking responsibility for building and preparing his own race cars.
His production Holden sedan has now undergone a full rebuild and is ready to hit the track for the new season.
He has also had plenty of support from his partner Samy, and parents Kerry, Kylie and Darren all play a significant role in his career.
“They're massive. I tell them, I am going to go do this race… everyone helps as much as they can,” Shortis said.
2027 looks to be a big year for the Yarrawonga driver.
“This season we're focusing on just another (getting in another) class now.”
“Our main focus is we want to win the Australian title.”
Shortis thanked his sponsors Woods Bus lines, Moos Brews Mobile Coffee Van, Pixie's Custom Crafts and Confections for their continued support.
