General News
30 August, 2021
Targa revving up for return
MALANDA’S Tom English has spent the last couple weeks putting the finishing touches on his 1967 Holden HR Ute, in preparation for the annual Targa Great Barrier Reef race set to begin on Friday.
MALANDA’S Tom English has spent the last couple weeks putting the finishing touches on his 1967 Holden HR Ute, in preparation for the annual Targa Great Barrier Reef race set to begin on Friday.
After two years driving in the tour category Mr English decided that it just wasn’t enough to get his heart racing and blood pumping, hence entering the competition for this year’s event.
Mr English and one of his childhood friends Trent Vidler will lead the ute through the twists and turns of the Kuranda Range, Cairns and Tablelands areas in the Thoroughbred Trophy category.
Racing has always been a passion for Mr English but he could never find that “kick in the bum” to get him into gear and onto the track, until Targa.
“I’ve always been interested in racing but never had the opportunity,” he said.
“It’s a passion I’ve always had just needed that kick in the bum to do something.
“I had a desire to compete, what we were doing was fun but we just want to rag it and have a good time.
“Nothing else gives you that rush.”
While Mr English always enjoyed his time behind the wheel in the touring side of the event, he wanted to experience the heart of the event, the pressure, enjoyment and adrenaline of competing against others and yourself.
“It’s all getting very close and I can’t wait for it to happen,” he said.
Mr English along with the rest of the other competitors will be making a quick pit stop at the Atherton Showgrounds on Friday before commencing the race.
There will be 70 cars in total split into the touring and competitive categories, the first cars are expected to arrive by 10:15am and last to leave by 12.30pm.
