Sydney, Australia – The motorsport community is in mourning following the death of Ronald Mackay, a two-time Australian Speedcar Champion and a 2022 inductee into the Australian Speedway Hall of Fame. Mackay, known for his exceptional driving skills and fearless approach to racing, passed away recently, leaving behind a legacy that has deeply influenced the world of speedcar racing.
Born into the Mackay family, a dynasty with four generations of involvement in speedway racing, Ronald Mackay’s journey into motorsports began at a young age. Under the guidance of his father, Don Mackay, a legendary car owner, Ronald started his career in kart racing. His talent was evident early on, leading to his Speedcar debut at Liverpool Speedway on June 23, 1968, when he was just 18 years old.
The 1970s were marked by Mackay’s dominance in the Speedcar racing scene. He captured numerous prestigious titles, including the Australian Speedcar Grand Prix in 1971, the Sydney Showgrounds World Derby in 1972, and the Australasian Championship in New Zealand in 1974. His success extended across multiple states, winning five state titles in New South Wales, South Australia, Queensland, and Victoria.
Throughout his illustrious career, Ronald Mackay achieved over 85 career feature wins, with 41 main event victories at Liverpool Speedway and 23 at the Sydney Showground. His prowess on the track made him a beloved figure among fans, who admired his fearless style and relentless pursuit of victory. Steven Gillespie, a lifelong fan, fondly recalled watching Mackay race at iconic venues like Sydney Showground, Liverpool Speedway, and Parramatta Speedway, describing him as a childhood hero.
Mackay’s influence extended beyond his own racing career. He played a pivotal role in the continued success of the Mackay family’s contributions to Australian motorsport. His father, Don Mackay, was not only a legendary car owner but also operated the Mobil Service Station in Five Dock. Ronald’s brother-in-law, Johnny Harvey, raced for the Marlboro Holden Dealer Team, and his son, Graham Mackay, was a part of the 1991 Penrith Panthers premiership-winning team.
Tragically, Ronald Mackay’s racing career was cut short at the age of 34 due to a severe accident at Parramatta Speedway in January 1984. The accident left him with significant injuries, including wrist and collarbone breaks and dislodged retinas, forcing him to retire from racing—a heartbreaking moment for both him and his fans.
Ronald Mackay’s passing has left a void in the hearts of many who admired his talent, courage, and contributions to Australian motorsport. His legacy as a two-time Australian Speedcar Champion, a trailblazer in the sport, and a beloved member of the racing community will continue to inspire future generations of racers.
As Steven Gillespie poignantly expressed, "Rest in peace, Ron Mackay. Godspeed."