CARTS – AND FEATHERS – FLY AT BURLEIGH RACE
TORRENTIAL rain didn’t deter the Gold Coast’s billy cart drivers from racing down Burleigh Hill at lightning speed yesterday.
Now in its third year, the Gold Coast 600 King of Burleigh Hill competition attracted 24 entrants, who battled it out to claim the coveted title.
Event manager Tanya Bensley said she was “blown away” by the turn-out.
“Considering the weather I was really surprised by how many competitors we had out there facing the rain and the wind,” she said.
“We also had quite a few spectators turn out and everyone had a fantastic time ... I’m sure if the weather was like last year it would have been packed.”
SeaFM breakfast host Ben Hannant said he nearly hit a brushturkey as he flew down the hill.
“That’s how you know you’re going fast,” he said.
“When even the birds can’t get out of your way fast enough.
“It was really good fun ... sliding down the hill and pushing a few people out of my way.”
Burleigh resident Romolo Bos said the event was a great warm-up for next weekend’s Gold Coast 600.
“We live on the hill so we always come down and support it, even though we could see it from our balcony” he said.
“It’s a great event, it’s what Burleigh is all about.”
Oliver Churchill, 13, edged out Lachlan Caddy, 16, to take out the ‘secondary’ category while Xavier Steinfort won the ‘primary’ category.
“It’s a bit of a challenge, racing in the rain,” Mr Caddy said.
“My family are here and they’re all pretty soaked but it’s cool that they’re still here supporting me in this weather.”