The Goulburn driver has about nine years experience in speedway racing starting in stock rods before graduating to the six cylinder version of the super sedans.

He has raced at Goulburn, Dubbo, Moruya, Nowra and Canberra circuits and knows what to expect at the highly competitive State titles, which are also part of the national series.

His first Super Sedan was his dad Tony Kranitis’s Commodore. Like many speedway drivers their passion for the sport was passed on from their parents.

Paul admits that it was his father’s racing that got him into the sport.

“Dad was pretty keen and is still heavily involved in the Goulburn Speedway. He has been quite a help to me over the years.”

Paul Kranitis said that the Super Sedan class is very expensive with the average state title competitive car costing over $100,000.

Last year Kranitis competed in the NSW titles and was grossly under-funded but still managed a credible performance.

“I am extremely grateful to my local sponsors and everyone who helps me prepare the car and finance the cost of my racing,” Kranitis said.

“Sponsors like Peter Kontos of the Paragon Café, Bill Martin who prepares and maintains my engine, RyLees Panel and Paint and Brian and Damien McAlister of Mick & Joe’s Discount Tyres make it possible for me to run a competitive car.”

In his last major outing he was competing against several international drivers as well as some of Australia’s top drivers and manage to finish eighth though he did get up to fourth position.

However, a restart put him further back in the field and with the cars closely bunched he was unable to work his way through the field before the race end.

Kranitis used to roll up to the Super Sedan meetings with the car on a trailer and a toolkit and tyres in the back of his ute.

For the full story, please see the print edition of Friday’s Goulburn Post, available from our Auburn Street office and from leading newsagencies across the Goulburn region.