VW Sydney Shootout

[VWMAT5]

Hi All,

Well, that was an interesting weekend, and one I hope not to repeat in the near future. The series has had a fortunate run of eight years without a cancellation/postponement, so I guess the odds were for a damp call one day.

Thankfully, the experience and courage of Ray Treasure, Venue and Events Manager for Sydney Dragway, diverted a potential disaster and called the meeting off before anyone got wet. His call proved 100% correct, and as a result managed to postpone the event rather than cancel it altogether. I apologise to those travelling for the inconvenience, but at least time was not wasted at the track waiting for a blue sky that would not eventuate.

I also would like to thank all the competitors, crew and sponsors for their unanimous support for the rain call. Although everyone was disappointed, there was nothing but gratitude for the effort made to organise the event, and many offers of assistance to ensure the new date will run smoothly. I personally thank everyone for making a difficult decision less stressful.

I'm pleased to announce that Ray and I have secured a new date to run the VW Showdown on Saturday June 29th. Under the circumstances, Ray and the management team at Sydney juggled dates and events to accommodate us into an already packed calendar. Although the new date will not suit everyone, it is the best outcome for the event to be staged and I hope we can build on the number of competitors that were booked in for the original date. Another consideration was keeping a reasonable period of time between the new Sydney date and Warwick on October 5-6th to avoid taxing people's resources, time, etc. Although close, there is still a two month buffer until Warwick.

All ticketing, gate passes, entries, programme, etc will remain the same, and entries will be re-opened for those unable to attend the original meet until Friday June 21st. The website - http://www.vwma.net.au - will be updated shortly to reflect the new date and entry details.

Here's looking forward to some VeeDub drag action at Sydney on June 29th.

Cheers
Craig Hughes
Editor VWMA / Part-Time VW Drag Racer

[allenmarton]

hi everyone,
very nice post,thanks for the info ...

[VWMAT5]

Hi All,

Less than one week to register for racing and just under two weeks to the day. Registrations close this Friday 15th February so please get them in early if you intend to compete. Please pass the word around to those who may not be on the email list or forums. The entry list already looks impressive with a number of new cars competing. All the same, I'd like to see the numbers increase by Friday to guarantee the future of the event so don't be shy and/or pull your spanner out and finish the beast!! We've been offered a unique opportunity with Sydney so let's not drop the ball.

The proposed programme for the day can be found at Volkswagen Magazine Australia. © 2013. Note, this is not chiseled in stone and can be altered by the hour to suit conditions, etc. Use as a guide. Generally, the programme runs 90% as intended. The PA will be operational this year, which will help unnecessary waiting in the staging lanes and the VWMA stand will be nearer to the scrutineering bays to avoid unnecessary walking on my part.

Good news for those staying at the track on Friday night - the gates will remain open until 10pm. This will also allow those wishing to cruise to Dino's Pizzas the opportunity to do so. Please do not stretch the friendship beyond this time. Only drivers and registered crew may camp at the track (unless other arrangements have been made directly with me). No vehicles are to be driven at night within the Sydney complex unless entering or exiting the facility. RC drag cars are an exemption. Ensure you have plenty of portable shelter as there is none provided at the track, and power is available at designated poles.

Please also check the website for an update on helmet specs - Snell SA2000 and Snell M2000 are no longer allowed for cars 10.99 seconds or quicker, but I have removed these helmets altogether to avoid any confusion on the day. If you follow these guidelines there should be no need to visit the local store for a new helmet.

I'll have another update at the end of the week and one beginning next week before the event. Best of luck with your preparations (I'm still waiting on my ECU to arrive….).

Cheers
Craig Hughes
Editor / Part-Time Drag Racer
VWMA

[VWMAT5]

Hi All,

Entries have closed for the Sydney drags VW event, but genuine late reasons (the dog ate my Mk1 engine, etc) will be accepted if you call me on 0419 735 596 before 5pm Tuesday 19th February.There are already 15 watercooled cars entered into their own bracket of racing with trophies awarded. Prize money is also on offer for RT.

Cheers
Craig

[1303Steve]

Hi

Come on guys, for this event to be viable and be on again next year Craig needs a good number of entrants.

You don't need a quick car to compete, just be consistent and after all its no worse for your car than a traffic light derby with no risk of having your car confiscated by plod.

Steve

[Redliner]

My motor is still being built.
Will be at the next one.

[vw54]

People

Just received a call from Craig Hughes VWMA

The Sydney Drags have been CANCELLED due to weather

If you know someone who was running please advise them

Dave

[HuH]

Well that's a bummer. I was really keen to get out there and check it out. The whole thing is officially called off?

[VWMAT5]

See first post in this thread for new date - Saturday June 29th.

[HaydEn]

Will be definitely making this now!