Rain dampens the road but not the spirits of spectators of Around the Houses Albany Classic 2024 races

The Albany CBD was clogged with keen spectators trying to stay dry as they watched vintage cars zip through the city’s streets for the 2024 Around the Houses Albany Classic on Sunday. The 88th edition of the car race saw more than 130 drivers compete in five racing divisions, each getting a practice lap before three time trials that are then averaged. Syd Jenkins took out the Auto One Albany Historic Touring Cars category in his 1966 Morris Cooper with 54 points. The Bendigo Bank Tin Tops title was won by William Robb in his 1965 Ford Falcon XP. The Camtrans Race Cars and Invited category was a close call, with only one point splitting winner Kim Barnard in his 1974 Leyland Panelva and runner up 1978 Leyland Mini S driver Matthew Lawson. Sponsored by the Premier Hotel, the pre-1960s Sports Cars category was knocked out by Hugh Fryer in his 1929 Austin Seven. Driving his 1970 Porsche 911, David Blainey won the top gong in the Pratt Logistics Post-1960s Sports Cars category. President of the Albany Classic Motorsport Club Glenn Badger said the event was a success despite the weather thanks to the enthusiasm of everyone who took part. “We had thousands of people sheltering under balconies and in buildings around town to watch the races,” he said. “Then there’s the diehards who are going to be out there on the street corner no matter what the weather is. “Our dedicated volunteers were an absolute highlight though — it was miserable conditions to be working in and they were brilliant and just got on with it because they love the event.” The wet weather only caused one minor accident, the slick road causing a vehicle to slip and hit a wall. There were also several breakdowns on the track, but this is to be expected with vintage cars. Mr Badger, who has attended 24 Albany Classics and been president of the ACMC for five of them, said the event gets better every year. “Every year, the set-up is more streamlined, and the volunteers aren’t fazed by s**t conditions, they just take it with good humour and get on with the job,” he said. “The crowds are so passionate even when they’re a bit damp, it’s great to see. “We’re going to finish packing up here and then start looking forward to next year’s event.”