It’s been a long time coming, but the Burson Auto Parts Albany Classic 2021 and Burson Auto Parts Mt Clarence Hill-Climb has finally arrived.
Hosted by the Vintage Sports Car Club Of WA, the hugely popular motorsport festival will take over the township of Albany as more than a 100 classic cars from yesteryear are showcased throughout the weekend.
On Saturday, the event kicks off with the hill climb where competitors get four runs of the course in a bid to post their fastest times – giving fans a chance to see these cars roar to the full extent.
While there is plenty to get excited about for the hill climb, the main event takes place on Sunday as the streets of Albany are turned into a mini race track.
Similar to the Northam Flying 50 earlier this year, the Albany Classic will see five groups of between 20 and 30 vintage cars complete multiple runs of the one and half kilometre track in a regularity style format.
Each driver will choose a lap time with the winner to be the individual who can amass the most points by posting laps closest to their nominated lap time.
Outside of the regularity, car clubs displaying their pride and joys will get the opportunity to drive them in front of the crowd when a special parade takes place during lunch time.
With multiple activations and food stalls also taking place throughout the weekend – the event is family friendly and appealing to people of all kinds.
Vintage Sports Car Club Of WA secretary David Moir will also be competing in the event in his Austin Healy and was excited for the event to return after being cancelled in 2020.
“It’s brilliant that we are back and we are really excited to be running again,” Moir said.
“There has been heaps of interest surrounding this event – both from a competitor and spectator point of view. A number of our categories were actually oversubscribed and we had to knock back a few people – so I think a lot of people are keen.
“With that said, Albany has always been a popular event despite it being a fair way from Perth and being the first weekend of winter, I think people just enjoy coming here because it’s a great atmosphere and there is great support from the Albany Council and local community.
“From a fan’s perspective – it’s a pretty big event. This and the Flying 50 are the only events of its kind in Australia and I think people just love seeing old vintage cars in action – this event also attracts members of the public who don’t know much about motorsport – so it’s a great introduction for them.
“Unfortunately there is a bit of rain expected, which could make it difficult for the drivers because it’s a street course, not a race rack, so the roads are harder. But with that said, everyone is looking forward to it.”