Manfeild best place for Grand Prix - CEO
"Our impetus since gaining host rights has been consistent - to make the New Zealand Grand Prix a motorsport festival for the public." Julie Keane, Manfeild chief executive
Getting fans through the gates is deemed the most important factor in Manfeild’s fight to retain the New Zealand Grand Prix ahead of abig-dollar challenger.
Manfeild has hosted the Grand Prix since 2008, but has come under fire after concerns the Feilding venue no longer has the profile the national race deserves.
Hampton Downs owner Tony Quinn has been one of the most vocal in his criticism of Manfeild’s operations.
‘‘I would love to host the New Zealand Grand Prix at Hampton Downs in February, every year, and make it the event it should have always been,’’ Quinn told the Manawatu Standard last year. ‘‘So that all of New Zealand recognises we have a Grand Prix.’’
However, Manfeild chief executive Julie Keane remains staunch that Manfeild has the best motor racing circuit in New Zealand.
‘‘We don’t have unlimited resources, but we do have limitless passion,’’ she said.
‘‘Our impetus since gaining host rights has been consistent - to make the New Zealand Grand Prix a motorsport festival for the public.
‘‘The circuit stands alone in New Zealand in providing entirely unimpeded viewing of the track. It is also hugely enjoyed by drivers they find the banked corners a unique and exciting challenge.’’
Keane said they had increased hospitality options this year in a bid to better satisfy spectators.
‘‘We have created a family entertainment area. We have commissioned the app - a first for New Zealand motor-racing facilities and quite potentially a worldleading concept.
‘‘We have increased the number of racing categories, nine classes ensures an action-packed, high value programme.’’
Host rights are up for review this year and the sport’s national body, Motorsport New Zealand, has determined a new selection process.
Rather than continue to seek suitor bids, it would leave the venue choice to the series promoter. This year it is Aucklandbased Speedworks Events.
However, Keane said the best ingredient to ensuring the event stayed in Manawatu was getting punters along.
‘‘We want to keep it local. We have fought hard in the past to maintain our association and we will continue that fight going forward.’’
‘‘But now, more than ever, is the time when our supporters must speak out, and loudly. The best thing our community can do to support us is turn up.’’
Manawatu mayor Helen Worboys supported Keane’s efforts. She said this Grand Prix would be the best yet.
‘‘We do care and we want to retain this event here,’’ she said.
‘‘Loss of this event would mean a loss of awareness and economic benefits to our town and region. It brings large numbers of participants and spectators to our region.
‘‘There are still plenty of opportunities and willingness by our community to build on complementary activities and participation once the Grand Prix has been reconfirmed as being at Manfeild.’’