Over a hundred competitors are busy making their final preparations before they hit the tarmac for the seventh running of the Quit Targa South West and three heart pumping days of rally through Manjimup and Pemberton this weekend.
Targa South West is known for successfully bringing together entrants from all levels of motorsport experience. This year there was further incentive for rookies to try tarmac rally with the Shire of Manjimup throwing their support behind a discounted entry fee.
Quit Targa South West Event Director Ross Tapper said the environment at Quit Targa South West is fantastic for both those new and old to the sport wanting to develop their skills.
“There’s quite a relaxed vibe at the Quit Targa South West which makes it the perfect event for newcomers to dip their toe into tarmac rally,” said Mr Tapper.
“The focus for everybody is not so much on times and being competitive, but rather having fun and enjoying the experience of being able to have a blast around some of Manjimup and Pemberton’s picturesque roads.
“We feel very privileged that these communities not only lend us their roads for a weekend, but are also very welcoming and supportive of this event.”
Mr Tapper’s sentiments are also echoed by returning Quit Targa South West entrant Denver Parker, who regularly enters a variety of motorsport events with his bright orange R33 Nissan Skyline.
“For me Targa events are purely for the fun of it. I don’t go to pitch myself against anyone – just myself,” said Mr Parker.
“It’s an event that anyone can have a go at. There’s no pressure to go outside your comfort zone – time and experience will develop your skills behind the wheel and grow your limits.
“This will be my second Quit Targa South West event. The roads are sensational with good pace and flow to them. My co-driver Lachlan and I have been looking forward to getting back down there.”
The event starts with a shakedown in Pemberton on Friday that includes a charity hill-climb to raise money to help build a storage facility for local community groups. It will also give competitors an opportunity to perform any last minute tweaks on the car and get a feel for the road, while the public will have the thrill of riding passenger in a rally car for a worthy cause.
Competitors also look forward to the social aspect of Quit Targa South West, with plenty of opportunity to mingle with other competitors, car enthusiasts and spectators at side events like the Saturday night dinner which attracts close to 300 attendees, and the vehicle display held on Pemberton’s main street on Sunday morning.
Spectators can not only expect to see over 50 rally cars from a variety of eras in action, but the community of Pemberton will put on a show with a variety of local activities and entertainment taking place over the weekend.
For more information on Targa South West including a list of spectator points please see www.targasouthwest.com.au