The "fiercely competitive" Midget Car division makes its first Baypark Speedway appearance of 2023 this Saturday night to battle for the track's annual signature title.

The second running of the Bay 51 Midget Car Spectacular has attracted a quality 30-car entry from throughout New Zealand with a custom trophy and a $5000 cheque awaiting the winner of the 51-lapper, according to an event spokesperson.

"The only sure bet for the race is there won't be a repeat winner. Last year's inaugural winner Hayden Williams has focused his attention on Australian racing so far this summer.

"But there is no shortage of talent and highly-tuned four cylinder horsepower eager to claim the title. Nine-time NZ champ Michael Pickens (Auckland) heads the field and is the most recent Midget Car winner at Baypark, leading home an international field to win the 30-lap feature on December 28.

"The field includes former NZ champions Brad Mosen and Peter Hunnibell along with reigning South Island champ Jack Low (Christchurch). Mosen recently claimed the North Island title.

"Other front runners include the in-form Aaron Hodgson (Auckland), last years runner-up Hayden Guptill (Auckland) and Christchurch racer Jeremy Webb, who makes a return to the four-car HLR team. Webb has already won the biggest event of the season at Auckland's Western Springs.

"Travis Buckley makes his second Baypark appearance since returning from a US racing campaign during 2022 while Wanganui, Kihikihi and Palmerston North drivers are also among the entry, including former international freestyle MX star Levi Sherwood.

"Joining the Midgets for a night of fast-paced open wheel action there is a field of 24 sprint cars entered and a 19-car grid for the F2 Midget category. In the Sprint Car ranks, young Tauranga racer Luke McClymont - who has been the pace-setter in the Six Shooter class - will make his debut in a car from the Bayspeed stable."

Racing starts at 6.30pm.