Microsprint rookie, Mike Riddings, came from out of the clouds to claim the 2008 Australian Microsprint Title. The event (the 16th running) was successfully staged at the picturesque Gunnedah Speedway, where promoter, Barry Towers and his team provided a lightining fast racetrack for what was only the micros second ever visit to the well run facility in 16 years.

With defending title holder, Troy Little absent due to sprintcar commitments in Victoria, the favorite for the event was thrown wide open with anyone of about six drivers capable of taking the crown. At the conclusion of three action packed qualifying heats, former two time National Champ, Rhys Marchant emerged as a standout with two resounding heat wins and a fighting sixth in the third (courtesy of a broken right-rear shock) to cement pole for the 20 lap final.

Rollovers marred the heats, with no less that 3 drivers defying gravity. First to test the laws of physics was Central Coast speedster, Dick Koen and Queensland Champion, Paul Curran, who clashed, resulting in a violent 2 car flip in heat 2. Sadly the damage to the Koen car meant it took no further part in the hostilities, while Curran was able to restart and complete the race. Queenslander, Tim Napper was the third driver to join the upside down club, crashing hard on his own in heat 3. He was able to take his place in the final following repairs.

The air was electric, as the cream of Australias Microsprint chauffers, lined up to take the green for 20 laps of warfare to see who would earn the right to carry out Australia 1 for the next twelve months. On the show of the green, Marchant skipped away an proceeded to open a gap over his rivals.

As the race wound down, Marchant maintained his lead over the angry swarm of micros giving chase(at one stage half a lap),but it was becoming obvious fatigue could play a part in deciding this race.Paul Curran made an aborted attempt to bridge the gap to the race leader,(who was visibly tiring),but it was the excitment machine,Mike Riddings,who closed the gap with a parrallizing burst of speed with one lap left to run.Riddings caught Marchant at the end of the back straight,drew level through turns 3 and 4,then proceeded to edge clear within sight of the finishline to take an unexpected win.Marchant finished second with Paul Curran holding on for third.It's worth noting this years Final was one of the few to ever go flag to flag without a stoppage. Well done everyone and congratulations to MIKE RIDDINGS AUSTRALIA #1.