A myriad of street and competition vehicles are set to take to Hidden Valley Drag Strip for the first time in 2012 this Friday night at the SCF Constructions Off Street meet.
Fittingly scheduled for Friday the 13th, a number of teams are hoping to leave their own black marks on the freshly prepared quarter mile surface.
“After our traditional wet season break we are looking forward to seeing a range of new cars venture out” said HVDRA President Jay Jukes.
“Early signs suggest this is going to be another bumper season of racing and it all starts at the grass roots Beat the Heat Off Street events.”
“Off Street racing is the perfect way to have fun in your car and race your mates or simply strive for a new PB.”
“Our major sponsors, Beat the Heat, 7mate, Hot 100, Shannons Insurance and Lucas Oil are all back on board for 2012 and we are looking to announce another major sponsor very shortly.”
“It is through the support of our partners, and the increasing number of track supporters that we are able to provide this much needed community service, allowing people to explore their vehicles in a safe, legal environment.”
All new for 2012 is also the ability for some of Darwin’s faster cars to venture onto the strip.
A change in licensing and vehicle equipment regulations will allow racers of high performance, off street vehicles to continue to participate in the safety of Australian National Drag Racing Association (ANDRA) sanctioned off street events.
ANDRA events and operations manager Brenton Myers said the change will see four wheel disc brake and airbag-equipped vehicles slower than 11.00sec (previously 12.00sec) able to race on a Divisional Drag Racing Licence and with simplified safety requirements of a seat belt, long clothes and an approved helmet at ANDRA off street events
“There is always a requirement for ANDRA to act in the interests of the safety of competitors so we take time to carefully consider changes to safety rules” he said.
“We would much rather see people returning to the track to race and enjoying the thrill of drag racing in a safe environment” Mr Myers said.
The Beat the Heat Off Street Series runs through until September and is open to any street registered car or bike. Passengers are also welcome.
Gates open at 6pm on Friday 13th April with racing underway from 7pm and burnouts rounding out the night at 10pm.
Spectators are only $10 with competitor entry from $35. For more details check out www.hiddenvalleydrags.com
