GREAT SCOTT
All the action from Hidden Valley
THE smell of burnt rubber amid the noise of howling engines has lured thousands of Supercars revheads through the Hidden Valley gates for Top End racing’s biggest weekend of the year.
Racing tragic Vince Caiafa sports a coat with countless badges and emblems sewn on, showing his support for different cars over the years.
He has been across Australia, New Zealand and America watching the Supercars, including 46 years of Bathurst 3000 in a row, but said Darwin is always the best.
“Darwin is by far the best, I think just the weather for a start is always great, the atmosphere and the people are real friendly, and it’s just real good. The pubs aren’t bad either,” he said.
“I’ve only missed the third round. I’ve been here every round since and I just love the place it’s brilliant.
“The racing, the people, the atmosphere and Darwin itself.”
At the other end of the spectrum, Lisa Barber is a first timer.
“It’s the first time I’ve ever seen racing on bitumen in my life,” she said. “It’s amazing – the sound, the vibe.”
For the younger folk, the HotWheels cars and motorbikes help keep the track warm between races with their dazzling tricks.
Lachlan McGregor is the first to admit he isn’t racing’s biggest fan, but he went along with his five-year-old Sean.
“My young fella enjoys watching them on TV and we’ve been here for the last three years, so I’ll take him every year if he’s keen on it,” Mr McGregor said. “(He likes) coming here and watching them go round the track, and all the activities here too.”
Those activities included live music and carnival rides for the kids, and racing apparel for all ages as fans ambled the pits looking for the latest merch.
Meanwhile up in the Paddock, the corporate punters enjoyed prime viewing position of the track, complete with free food and beverages.
From there they can see drivers preparing their cars and the teams analysing each drive. More in sport
“Darwin is by far the best — I just love the place — it’s brilliant.” VINCE CAIAFA