Rough ride for charity

The car painted pink to raise awareness for breast cancer is looking a bit worse for wear after its first season at Waharoa Speedway.

In fact, its driver Richard Edwards has earned the track’s tongue-incheek title of Panelbeaters’ Nightmare.

It was all worth it though to raise a total of $400 for the New Zealand Breast Cancer Foundation.

‘‘It gives you a bit more of a reason to go out there,’’ said Mr Edwards.

‘‘You’re not just going out to race, you’re actually doing something for somebody.’’

The firewood and shearing contractor had never driven speedway before when he was approached by his mate Maurice Hodgkinson.

‘‘He got given the car and decided he would paint it pink for breast cancer and asked me if I wanted to race it for the season.

‘‘It’s a contact sport and it’s a lot of fun.’’

It was the first season he hadn’t watched most of the races from the safety of the sideline.

He must have learnt something from all his years as a spectator, picking up a small collection of trophies over the season.

The newcomer came second equal for jalopies at the Club Champs, earned the second most points for jalopies over the season and was overall jalopy winner at the track’s two-day meet.

He is looking forward to racing next season and the car is off to the panelbeaters for a bit of attention.

It will also be back on the track in October, although it may not be recognisable.

‘‘It’s going to be a new colour,’’ said Mr Edwards. ‘‘Same car, different cause.’’ While the new cause is still under wraps, Mr Edwards would like to thank all the car’s sponsors and anyone who made a donation.