Fast track to success
Toby Elmiger talks to media after racing at Manfeild this year. Photo: Tayler Burke
At just 17 years old, Toby Elmiger is already making history on New Zealand's motorsport circuit.
He's become the youngest race winner in TA2 championship history while juggling high school classes.
The Taupō driver sits third in the TA2 championship standings heading into the final round which will be held at the Supercars event in his hometown.
Organisers expect between 70,000 and 80,000 spectators over two days, so it will be the biggest weekend of racing he has been involved in so far.
In his debut season, Elmiger has finished on the podium in all but one race.
"I just like the feeling of going fast, having to work and do everything to millimetre perfection. Getting everything correct so it all falls into place and works."
Motorsport runs in Elmiger's blood. His grandfather, Tony Elmiger, raced competitively, as did his uncle and father.
Toby talks about the upcoming racing at Taupō Motorsport Park. Photo: Dan Hutchinson
Elmiger started karting at age 6 before transitioning to cars in August 2024, competing in Toyota 86s before moving up to TA2.
“I'm the youngest driver in the championship. I only turned 17 like two weeks before the first round. So, first season in these cars, but it's been a good one so far."
The young driver's schedule is demanding. He attends school three or four days per week, spending the remaining time testing at Taupō Motorsport Park or working on motorsport-related activities.
While he’s still on his restricted licence when it comes to public roads, he was no slouch when it came to starting the process and should have his full licence by the middle of this year.
“The second I turned 16 I went for my learner’s, like the day of my 16th birthday."
At school, he focuses on engineering, economics and business classes that complement his racing career.
"Obviously that's the goal. I want to try and make it to Supercars in the future. So yeah, TA2 is just another step on the way."
For the upcoming Supercars weekend, Elmiger has been testing alongside Supercars teammates Brodie Kostecki and Rylan Gray. The three shared a car during practice sessions.
"Just getting ready for the weekend coming up … Obviously a good experience working with those top guys."
Supercars weekend will feature three races for Elmiger, along with two practice sessions and one qualifying session.
While mathematically he can still win the championship by winning every race, he remains focused on performing well in front of his hometown crowd.
"It'll be a cool one in front of the hometown, I guess."
He hopes it’s a fine weekend for the fans but says he enjoys racing in the wet too.
Elmiger will compete in car No. 74 at the event.
