Celebrating its fifth anniversary in 2009, and with a new date of 20 - 23 August, QUIT Targa West is continuing to firm as one of the premier tarmac rallies in Australia.
The expressions of interests received for QUIT Targa West 2009 sent organisers back to the drawing board to review their restricted entry numbers and look at options to accommodate increasing the field.
“QUIT Targa West has never had this level of expression of interest before, and it is a clear indication that the event has come of age,†QUIT Targa West Event Director, Bob Schrader, said.
“More than 20 interstate teams have nominated their interest in travelling to Perth to contest the event - an increase on the numbers from past years.â€
Paul Summers will be contesting his fifth QUIT Targa West in 2009 and isn’t surprised by the event’s increasing popularity.
“One thing that sets Targa West apart is its very fast and flowing stages coupled with an organisational structure that results in the best run event in the country,†Summers said.
“Ross Tapper (QUIT Targa West Clerk of Course) and Bob Schrader have done an amazing job in promoting and running the rally, so good in fact that when you pass through the finisher's podium it is an anti-climax as you realise the disappointment of waiting another year until you can compete in Targa West again."
Organisers are also crediting the introduction of the Australian Classic Tarmac Rally Championship to the Australian motorsport scene for an increase in classic crews showing interest in QUIT Targa West 2009.
“The increased focus on classic cars has been welcomed by crews and the numbers we are seeing have already shown signs that its introduction has encouraged new drivers to come out and give tarmac rallying a go,†Ross Tapper said.
“There is no doubt the classic cars are among the crowd favourites and the event this year will provide even more for the fans out in the spectator areas.â€
While entry numbers have been increased in 2009, places are still limited to ensure QUIT Targa West maintains the event experience it is known for.
“It has been a priority to open the experience up to more crews while maintaining the close-knit feel of the event,†Schrader said.
“A large amount of effort has gone into reviewing the organisation of the 2009 rally – specifically road closure time frames - to ensure local residents and visitors to the shires of Chittering, Toodyay and Kalamunda will not be affected by the increase in competitor numbers,†Schrader continued.
Entry forms are now available and can be downloaded from the official website of QUIT Targa West www.targawest.com.au
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