Revheads know the risks as they get ready to roar

An Albany car lover who has taken part in all Racewars events in Albany does not believe the death of a driver after last year’s event will deter revheads in 2020.

Event organiser Jon Murray said “just shy” of 270 vehicles from across the country had already nominated themselves for the 2020 edition.

The event is expected to bring thousands of people to Albany, packing out accommodation and cafes around the city.

Giles Mortimer, pictured above with his 1967 Ford XR Falcon, said competitors knew the risks they were taking in motorsport events such as Racewars.

“It’s a thought in just about every sport I think, everyone knows the risks,” he said.

“A surfer knows the risks if they go out surfing — he could have a shark bite his leg off or bite his head off.

“We know there are risks when we do motorsports, we know there’s a risk of mechanical failure, if you’re a bit old even a heart attack.

“Who knows what will happen?”

Mr Mortimer said Racewars gave drivers a rare chance to legally and locally test the limits of their pride and joy.

It also brought wider benefits to town, he said.

“What this brings to Albany is money, and it lets people in Albany have fun with their cars how they’re meant to be driven,” he said.

“I’ve got friends from Perth coming down. They’re coming down to race and spectate.

“Not everyone is coming down just to race — people come down to watch the event.”