Race ready for sophomore year

ENTRIES have opened for a second annual drag racing event set to get engines starting later this year.

Following its debut late last year, the Western Highway Shootout will return in December with dozens of cars expected to burn rubber and send smoke drifting across the Ballarat Airport’s old runway.

Organiser, Luke Preston, said he’s keen for more racers to take part this year.

“Entries opened up last week. We had 50 cars last year and this year we’re really hoping to get it up to about 75, 80,” he said.

“It’s simple heads-up drag racing. There’ll be four different classes which are based around engine capacity each with and certain times for certain cars.

“There’s categories for the full-on drag racer to entry level where someone can race their daily driver.”

Once each race has been had down the runway’s 200-metre circuit, each competitor will head to Ararat’s Barkly Street via the Western Highway to display their vehicles in a show and shine.

Last year’s display saw about 120 cars.

Following a $150 entry fee, each competitor must hold an Australian Auto Sport Alliance day licence as well as pass a safety check before the race.

The winners and runners-up in each category will receive $1500 and $500 respectively, while proceeds from the event will go towards the Ballarat Drag Racing Club.

Mr Preston said with this year’s event he wants the race to become a family-driven one.

“We’re really wanting that family atmosphere. There’s lots of entertainment for the kids this time with jumping castles and face-painting. It’ll be free entry for kids as well,” he said.

“It’ll be family-oriented. Racing for dad to watch. Free entertainment for the kids. It’ll cater for everyone.”

The Western Highway Shootout will take place on Saturday 9 December and to register, visit the event’s Facebook page.