New colour, new cause for driver
Waharoa Speedway driver Richard Edwards is back this season with a new cause and a not-so-new car.
Edwards raised $400 for the New Zealand Breast Cancer Foundation last season with his custom-painted cherry pink jalopy.
Now the car has been made over fire-engine red and is out on the track in support of the Westpac Rescue Helicopter.
The club has already collected about $ 150 for the chopper and Edwards said it meant a lot to the members.
‘‘One of our mate’s son in law was washed off some rocks over at Tairua and the Westpac Helicopter pretty much saved his life,’’ he said.
Westpac Matamata has jumped on board to help raise awareness, providing lollies and balloons for the kids at race meetings.
Collection buckets at the track are helping to bring the cash in, with any donation big or small helping out.
‘‘ The more the merrier,’’ said Edwards. ‘‘It’s all going to a good cause.’’ It is Edwards’ second season as a driver and after nine races this year he is ‘‘still buzzing’’ after each one.
‘‘It doesn’t matter where I come, I’m always smiling when I come off the track,’’ he said.
The car is a little worse for wear after earning the title of Panelbeater’s Nightmare last season but will be a welcome feature in the Westpac float at the Santa Parade next weekend.
The next race meeting at Waharoa Speedway is this Sunday and will include a 20-lap ministock feature race. All are welcome. Edwards would like to thank sponsors Neven Granich, Matamata Hire, Marc 1 Tyres and Visual Effects Matamata.