It’s been another big year in Australian motor sport, with CAMS’ latest statistics confirming an increase in licence holders, events, officials, affiliated clubs and junior participation in the past 12 months.

2018 was a strong year for CAMS, with an impressive 7.36 per cent growth in the number of licence holders, climbing to 27,568 for the year (2017: 25,677).

Last year, there were 3,051 CAMS permitted events, up from 2,652 events in 2017 – a 15 per cent increase.

When it comes to CAMS Officials, CAMS celebrated the historic 10,000 milestone in 2018, ending the year with 10,536 licenced Officials, an extra 1,246 on 2017 numbers.

The number of CAMS car clubs also rose, with 591 clubs now affiliated at the end of 2018, up from 581 at the same time last year.
 
Participation in the popular Ricciardo’s Racers program also rose, with 1,691 participants taking part.

CAMS CEO Eugene Arocca said the numbers showed there was strong and growing interest in motor sport.
 
“Motor sport in Australia is thriving and it is a really exciting time to be involved, there is no question,” Arocca said.
 
“Competitors, officials and enthusiasts are clearly enjoying the benefits of being associated with CAMS and we are delighted to continue to build the sport’s profile and accessibility at all levels.

“It was a big year for CAMS, with the opening of The Bend, the creation of the Australian Women In Motor Sport Commission, the introduction of the ground-breaking Dare To Be Different Program (D2BD) and plenty more. 2019 has a lot to live up to, but we’re excited about what lies ahead.”

Arocca also praised CAMS’ staff for their efforts in helping to achieve continued growth.

“It is worth acknowledging the hard work of our staff around the country who are making a determined effort to support all aspects of motor sport,” Arocca added.
 
“The increase in numbers is a fitting reward for the dedication and commitment of the entire administration who have worked passionately to ensure we improve our service and encourage growth across all disciplines.

"We are now all working hard to make sure 2019 is even more successful than 2018.”