Christina Orr-West
Touring racing // Kiwi
I started racing when I was five and as I don’t tell anyone how old I am, all I can say is that I’ve been racing a long time and still love every second
Christina Orr-West is a versatile and accomplished New Zealand motorsports racer who began her career at age 5 and has competed in numerous racing disciplines including single-seaters, V8s, GT3, and Toyota series championships.
EARLY YEARS
Starting her motorsport journey at just 5 years old in karting, Christina quickly progressed to become the youngest person to compete in a single-seater race at age 12. Her early exposure to racing and supportive environment were crucial in fostering what would become an impressive career spanning multiple decades and racing disciplines.
EARLY SUCCESS
After debuting in Formula First at age 12, Orr-West finished second in the 2002 New Zealand Formula First championship. Her talent continued to shine as she transitioned to Formula Ford in 2003, winning the “Rookie of the Series” award despite facing challenging circumstances. By 2004, she was competing internationally in the Australian Drivers’ Championship, and later secured a fifth-place finish in the 2006-07 Formula Toyota season. Her versatility was further demonstrated with participation in the American Indy Lights series in 2008.
NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENTS
- 2010: Finished 14th in the Hamilton 400 Trophy – NZ V8s[1].
- 2011: Finished 20th in the BNT NZV8s[1].
- 2015: Secured 3rd overall in the SsangYong Actyon Ute Racing Series with 2 wins and 6 podiums[1].
- 2020: Claimed 1 win and 2 podiums in the SsangYong Actyon Ute Racing Series[1].
- 2023: Finished runner-up in the Masters Class of the New Zealand Toyota 86 Championship[4].
REPUTATION
Christina is highly regarded in motorsports for her exceptional versatility across different racing formats, including Castrol Toyota Racing Series, Indy Lights, and GT3. Her impressive record of 10 wins and 59 podiums from 385 race starts demonstrates her consistency at the highest levels of competition. Respected for her determination and resilience, she continues to compete effectively against younger drivers while maintaining peak performance, cementing her status as one of New Zealand’s most respected racers.
FUTURE GOALS/PLANS
Looking ahead, Christina aims to be competitive in the inaugural Bridgestone GR86 Championship during the 2024-25 season, driving for James Marshall Motorsport in the iconic yellow Dayle ITM livery. She will compete for both the Masters class title and overall points, leveraging her extensive racing experience to remain at the front of the pack. Her long-term aspirations include continued success in motorsport as she builds on her impressive career achievements.
References:
Christina Orr-West Profile on Speed Queens
New Zealand’s Speedqueen Christina Orr-West
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