Street Sprint brings race action to town

Stratford's industrial area was a scene of fast cars and tyre smoke on Sunday afternoon with the 25th annual Westend Hire Stratford Street Sprint.

Organiser Helen Cameron says she was thrilled with how successful the day of racing was, "it was a great day of slick racing as spectators got to see some of the best drivers in the region".

Almost 30 competitors raced in near perfect conditions at the event hosted by the South Taranaki Car Club.

While the current record was not broken, Helen says New Plymouth driver Kevin Fisher took out first place over all with his time of 1.34.74 in his Toyota-MR2.

Helen says one of the biggest highlights of the day was the drifting demonstration. "We had ten, very well presented, drift cars which the spectators loved." Helen says in the past the cars were only allowed to drift around one corner, but this year that was extended to two.

"It was also a real treat to have D1NZ driver Chad McKenzie in Stratford, there were a lot of people eager to see him drive."

Helen adds the classic motorcycle demonstration by Stratford's Club X was also received well by the almost 200 spectators that lined the track throughout the day. Helen says both the spectators and competitors were fantastic and all adhered to the safety measures put in place.

"It makes the day run much smoother and ensures everyone has a good time and is safe."

Marshalls for the day were members of the Stratford High School mens and women's hockey teams. "The students did a great job and were a big help, we are pleased to be able to help them with their fundraising efforts."

Helen says the South Taranaki Car Club thanks event sponsor Gavin Cox at Westend Hire and all the local business who donated prizes for the event. "It really was a hugely successful day and we look forward to seeing everyone again next year."