Racing
Canberra Festival of Speed sees extremes on and off the circuit
The Canberra Festival of Speed’s third edition was marked by extreme circuit displays and extreme weather.
Thousands braved the heat on Saturday, 31 January and rain on Sunday, 1 February to enjoy the Festival's unique celebration of automotive culture and performance with over 250 vehicles in attendance.
While overall crowd numbers were slightly down on previous years due to weather conditions, approximately 40 per cent of all tickets sold were purchased by patrons from outside the ACT, reinforcing the Festival's role in attracting visitors and driving overnight stays.
The Festival also recorded international ticket sales, with attendees from the United States, Poland, Belgium and France, alongside visitors from across Australia. This highlights the Canberra Festival of Speed's increasing profile on the global motorsport and automotive calendar.
"We want to say a big thank you to the fans who came out to support the Canberra Festival of Speed and contribute to what was a great atmosphere despite the extreme weather." Canberra Festival of Speed Director Darren Pearce.
"We are incredibly grateful to our volunteers, staff, sponsors, and vehicle owners and drivers who put the weather aside to make sure the fans got all the Festival action."
"The incredible display of exotic cars, both static and on circuit didn't disappoint and it was thrilling to see so many families enjoying everything the festival has to offer."
"Our patrons are passionate about motorsport and automotive culture and to see families across multiple generations sharing this experience together is very satisfying."
The People's Choice for Vehicle of the Festival was a tie between the 2024 winner, a purple McLaren 720s and the DeLorean who was particularly popular with their owners dressed as 'Doc' and 'Marty McFly' from the film, Back To The Future, throughout the event.
Gold Logie winner and professional driver Grant Denyer was among the celebrities to participate in charity hot laps that saw money raised for Hands Across Canberra. Denyer was joined by the legendary John Bowe, Australian Rally champion Harry Bates and Festival Media Host and racer Tammie Soole, with auction winners getting to experience the thrill of the Festival's circuit.
Media Contact: Robbie Ringland, Head of Commercial & Communications, Canberra Racing Club M: 0439 832 972
Check out the latest South African News