Taylor-made racers

by Nicholas Duck
Drouin brothers Ryder and Cruz Taylor have been tearing up the track as they compete together - and against each other - in speedway racing.

The pair, age 15 and 12 respectively, finished first and second in the juniors at the recent Drouin Speedway meet and are carrying on a legacy that goes back multiple generations.

The Taylor brothers are fourth generation racers from both sides of their family, taking up the sport when they were just five years old in the junior quarter midgets.

Both their parents were keen racers, with their father Warrick still giving it his all.
Growing up around the speedway the pair quickly fell in love with the sport.

"When we were watching we'd always bring Hot Wheels cars and make our own little speedway with Hot Wheels," Cruz recalled.

While some parents might baulk at the idea of their kids taking up racing, the boys' mum Kellie was happy to see them follow in her footsteps.

"I love it. It was always going to happen. I think it was just a natural progression for what they were going to get into. I was happy as long as it wasn't motorbikes. As long as they had a roll cage, I was happy," she said.
"I love watching them grow and learn. The support behind each other is the best thing for me."

Despite that, it's had a few nervy moments.
"It was nerve-wracking, they've rolled a few times. That's never nice as a mum or dad watching that, it's very scary."

Most brothers have a competitive streak against one another but taking it to the track has brought it to another level for the Taylors. Their relationship has always been a strong one, but when the win is there for the taking it's no holds barred.

Ryder has taken the lion's share of their battles in part thanks to his age advantage, but that doesn't mean Cruz hasn't had a few wins along the way.

The pair has raced all around Victoria from Bairnsdale to Nagambie, and love the thrill of getting out on the track and getting their speed up.

Ryder most recently finished runner-up at two Victorian Speedway Council state title events as he looks for that elusive win. His confidence behind the wheel - or rather, lack of fear - has helped pay dividends.

"You just hop in the car, put on your helmet and just send it," he said.
"If I hit a wall, I hit a wall. If I roll, I roll."

The family really enjoys the supportive community that comes with every speedway meet, with everyone always ready to lend a hand when needed.

"We've had some good racing, we've had some ups and downs," Ryder said.
"And some upside downs," Cruz added.