THE family that races together stays together.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
And, in the case of the Cartwrights, it was certainly evident at the Racing Sedans Australia (RSA) national series at the Gilgandra Speedway at the weekend.
Father Ben picked up third place in the prestigious street stocker category on February 15 and 16, while son Chevy Eldridge did likewise in the junior sedan class.
Even though dad was thrilled with his own result, he was especially proud of the Muswellbrook High School Year 8 student's performance.
"It was a great accomplishment, as Chevy's still learning the craft," Cartwright said.
"He's only 13 and fairly new to the sport.
"For he and I to both finish third at the same event was a special moment for the family.
"Chevy had a huge smile on his face.
"That, in itself, was worth a million words."
Cartwright senior, who's been racing for about five years, entered the 25-lap final in excellent form.
He won the first heat, claimed sixth in the next and secured fourth in the third to manoeuvre his six-cylinder Ford Falcon FG into seventh position on the starting grid in the decider.
The 30-year-old then produced the goods, while others faltered, to claim the long-awaited spoils.
"It was a big achievement [third], particularly finishing behind an ex-Australian champion," he said.
"That's how strong the field was.
"I'd never stood on the [national] podium before, however it felt good up there.
"I've always been a contender, and been close a few times, but I finally put it all together on this occasion.
"Now, I'm keen to go one spot higher or even win the title next time.
"I honestly think I can be competitive enough to do it.
"Although, I'll admit, I was a bit rusty to start with at the weekend, as I hadn't raced in six months.
"Thankfully, my brother [Tim] had the car in excellent order."
Cartwright will next hit the track for the Charlie McGarva Memorial at Tamworth on Saturday, February 29.
The event, which attracts competitors from throughout the state, is known to be one of the toughest because its course covers an endurance-sapping 50 laps.
As for the Muswellbrook racer, himself, he has additional motivation to succeed.
"My brother won it a couple of years ago, so I'm determined to add my name to the winner's list," Cartwright said.
"That's the goal."