Racing ahead — meet Summer Rintoule

At just 17, Summer Rintoule is already making waves on and off the track. From a spontaneous birthday hot lap to competing in international GT4 events, her journey is as rapid as it is inspiring.

Currently part of the Triple Eight Race Engineering team, Summer is gaining valuable experience in the GT4 category as she builds toward her long-term racing goals. Her visit to Taupō — during the ITM Taupō Super440 — offered a chance to reflect, reset and share that story.

For Love Taupō, it’s about more than lap times. It’s about spotlighting the people who embody the region’s spirit: adventurous, grounded, and constantly pushing the limits. Summer’s experience here shows how Taupō is not only a place to race, but a place that welcomes bold dreams, fuels ambition, and leaves you with something distinctly Taupō — whether it’s the thrill of the track, a new perspective, or that crisp, Central Plateau air that stays with you long after the engines cool.

This interview is slightly delayed when Summer messages to say she’s running seven minutes late — stuck in traffic. “Traffic? In Taupō?” I quizzed. I didn’t think such a thing existed. Jokes aside, the town is buzzing — visitors and locals alike flooding in to catch the action at one of the biggest events on the calendar… and Summer is in the thick of it.

LT: Let’s rewind to the start. What first sparked your interest in motorsport?

SUMMER: It was actually my 14th birthday, fresh out of COVID. My dad got me a hot lap experience and I fell in love with the speed straight away. Within weeks, we had bought an Excel and I started racing. I didn't grow up karting like most kids, but I caught the bug and we jumped right in.

LT: Your journey has been rapid. What’s helped you progress so quickly?

SUMMER: Being a sponge. I ask a lot of questions — no matter how silly they might sound. Listening, learning and not being afraid to speak up has helped me develop really fast.

LT: When did it shift from fun to a serious path?

SUMMER: Honestly, only in late 2023. At first it was just family fun. But when Triple Eight came on board for GT4, that changed everything. My goal is to become a GT factory driver one day —racing for Mercedes, Ferrari, or Ford. That’s what I’m working towards.

LT: What was it like participating in the Women in Motorsport breakfast in Taupō?

SUMMER: It was such a cool event. I got to represent Triple Eight alongside our incredible mechanic Gabrielle Clift. The whole morning was inspiring — so many women sharing their stories and pathways through the industry. It was a great reminder of the progress we’re making.

LT: For someone watching you race and wondering if they could do the same, what would you tell them?

SUMMER: Just start. Ask questions. Reach out. There are so many programmes out there. You don’t know unless you ask, and once you start asking, doors start to open. It all begins with that first step.

LT: What’s something people might not see behind the scenes of being a young driver in a professional environment like Triple Eight?

SUMMER: Honestly, the amount of off-track work that goes into it. There’s the training, the travel, the media work and so much prep before we even get near the car. It’s not just about being fast on the track, it’s about being switched on in every part of the role.

LT: How do you balance the adrenaline of racing with the pressure that comes with growing expectations?

SUMMER: I think keeping it fun is the biggest thing. I try not to let the pressure take over the reason I started in the first place. When I focus on enjoying it and learning, I perform better. That mindset helps me stay grounded.

LT: Have you faced moments of doubt?

SUMMER: Absolutely. In 2024 I juggled three Toyota race series, year 12 and a business diploma. I burned out a bit and had to take a summer break to reset, physically and mentally. I worked with someone who supports Red Bull athletes and it really helped me refocus. It’s changed how I approach everything.

LT: Your favourite moments in Taupō?

• Track experience: Raced at Taupō twice in the Toyota 86 series. It rained both times, which helped me grow confidence in wet conditions.
• Adventure off-Track: Took on the AJ Hackett bungy swing just hours before our chat. "A little nervous, but so glad I did it."
• Scenic walks: Loved the vibe of the town and walking along the lakefront. "The place really has a pump to it during race week."

LT: What surprised you most about Taupō?

SUMMER: I think just how vibrant it is during a big weekend like this. The whole town gets behind the event and it creates such a buzz. And the scenery is incredible. I’d love to return and explore more!

LT: Do you look to other motorsport stars for inspiration?

SUMMER: I don’t follow F1 religiously, but I love seeing people do well and inspiring others. If someone’s doing good things for the sport, that motivates me more than just their results.

LT: What does success look like for you in the next few years?

SUMMER: Becoming a factory driver is the dream. Racing internationally, building connections, and pushing myself as far as I can go. That’s what I’m chasing.

Summer’s Taupō takeaway

While she wasn’t behind the wheel during the Taupō Supercars weekend, Summer was in the middle of the action with her Triple Eight Race Engineering team.

SUMMER: "Despite not racing this weekend, it was incredibly valuable to observe the team's operations firsthand and to connect with the many talented individuals within the paddock. The Women in Motorsport Breakfast was a particular highlight, providing a wonderful opportunity to network with influential figures in the industry."

LT: Last one - what keeps you going?

SUMMER: Passion. I love this sport. It’s fun, it’s challenging, and I get to do it with the people I care about. That’s what keeps me turning up.

Thanks to Summer Rintoule for sharing her journey. We’ll be cheering her on from Taupō and wherever the next race takes her.