Reynella Raceway 1/32 Slot Cars

Looking for a hobby combining electronics, computers, carpentry and racing?

Check out Reynella Raceway 1/32 Slot Cars, our volunteer Matthew Blandford Interviewed Keryn Riddle

Keryn Riddle of Reynella is a self-proclaimed hobbyist and car enthusiast – he sponsors a sprint car and is a frequent visitor to Speed Way. When these two worlds meet the result is an impressive four-lane, 1/32 slot car track in his own home – an indoor space 6 meters by 4.5 meters that houses four different tracks. In addition to a build at Reynella Raceway where Keryn also runs a race programme for his and 4 other tracks. 

Being somebody unfamiliar with slot cars I was intrigued to learn that ‘1/32’ indicates the size of the slot cars relative to the real thing. Keryn has been racing slot cars since 2004, but built his own track with the help of his good friends Graham and Dennis. Dennis also happens to be Keryn’s neighbour and remains Keryn’s go-to-guy when the track malfunctions – ‘he’s a bit of a genius,’ Keryn remarks on his friend. The combined expertise is no doubt essential to accomplish what these three have.

When I spoke to Keryn on the phone he explained to me how the fully functioning track requires knowledge of electronics, computers and carpentry, as Keryn's track is made from wood unlike the classic plastic scalextric tracks.

Slot car racing transcends generations
A former teacher himself, Keryn enjoys teaching the art of slot car racing, there are a number of skills to learn as the controllers have elements of complexity - more than simply on and off - whilst letting go of the accelerator and braking properly is a technique in itself.

He recalls how both adult and children race meets create great fun as following a speeding slot car along the course is tricky, and the younger ones in particular, sometimes lose track of which car is theirs resulting in hilarity and a lot of guessing while hoping for a win, and all in all, a great activity for families.

Races are arranged into ability groupings and end of season championships are held with medals to be one. On the whole Keryn says these experiences serve as great life lessons and the hobby teaches kids focus, patience, social skills and the importance of being nice to one another.

Looking for new members to share the passion for the track
Keryn says the track appeals to everyone, and is open to anybody who is interested, in fact it is often the parents that have the most fun. Currently meets are held for adults on a fortnightly basis, and Keryn is always looking for more people to attend and share in his passion.

Here there exists a potential partnership opportunity for a community organisation to harness Keryn’s impressive construction and equally impressive expertise. In particular SAcommunity envisage Lions, Rotary, Apex or a similar community organisations as slot car racing could be the perfect fit for a family activity or event day or fundraising endeavour.

Interested? Contact Keryn at Reynella Raceway 1/32 Slot Cars