Sydney set for showdown
It’s only been on the calendar for three years but already the Sydney Telstra 500 set on the streets of Homebush has made a big impression on V8 Supercars, setting a new standard for season finale events.
It’s not only the challenging street circuit around the former Olympic precinct that makes it such an exciting weekend, but also how the surrounding facilities are utilised to put on an event that is more than just race.
Leading the off-track entertainment are the concerts held in ANZ Stadium on the Friday and Saturday night of the event. Bliss N Eso, Jebediah, The Herd and Calling All Cars led Friday night’s bill, providing a mix of hip-hop and rock. Saturday night sees Hunters & Collectors playing for a one-off performance for the first time in 13 years, alongside John Farnham, Noiseworks and James Reyne.
During the day there’s plenty to see and do as well as the racing – everything from car shows, freestyle motorcycling and more in the various pavilions within the precinct.
Speaking of pavilions, make sure you check out the V8 Supercars drivers, cars and teams in the indoor exhibition paddock, their base for the weekend, which allows fans a unique and close-up look of the teams going about their business.
And, of course, don’t forget to visit the XXXX GOLD Retreat at the northern end of the Olympic Boulevard.
On track there’s the final event of the Fujitsu V8 Supercars along with Aussie Racing Cars, Touring Car Masters, Carrera Cup and the always-popular V8 Utes.
Last season Homebush hosted arguably the most dramatic title decider in the history of Australian touring cars when Mark Winterbottom, Jamie Whincup and James Courtney, all three championship contenders running first, second and third on the road, followed each other into the wall as they were caught out on slicks on a wet track.
It’ll be hard to live up to that drama this year, though the championship remains unresolved; with Jamie Whincup needing to finish fourth or better on Saturday or 16th or better in both races should title rival and teammate Craig Lowndes win both races.
If you’re in Sydney or surrounding areas, get yourself to Homebush. It’s one of the marquee events on the V8 Supercars calendar for good reason.
