Raceway rev-heads in heaven
THE noise was deafening and the air was thick with smoke, but it was smiles all round at the Queensland Raceway on Saturday.
Petrol-heads embraced the three-day Powercruise event, which featured cruising, drifting and skidding sessions.
Perth driver Fred Watson wore one of the biggest grins at the track after taking out the top prize in the $50,000 burnout competition on Saturday night.
Powercruise organiser Michael Gilbert said the star of the main event had brought great skill to the track, as well as a top-notch vehicle.
"He drove a modified 2008 Holden Monaro, and the engine was interesting," Mr Gilbert said.
The car was fitted with a 580 cubic inch super-charged methanol engine, which is ideal for drag racing.
Organiser Nicki Derrick said Mr Watson was among many interstate drivers who travelled to compete for the prize, which is the largest in Australian motorsport.
"We had people coming from all over Australia, including Victoria and Western Australia," Ms Derrick said.
"The weather was great and there were heaps of spectators - Queensland Raceway said we've had some of the biggest crowds in the track's history."
Ms Derrick said cruising sessions attracted many people to Powercruise.
"Not a lot of events allow spectators to travel as passengers during cruising sessions, but we do," she said.
"It's a way for people to get more involved in the event."
Ms Derrick said car enthusiasts embraced Powercruise because it was safe and sent out a positive message about driving.
"We have a diverse age group. People from 18 to people in their 50s turn up to drive," she said.
