THE side of the iconic Valley Lake volcano will again be the host of the engine-roaring Legend of the Lakes Hill Climb event in November.
After originally opening up 135 positions, the South East Automobile Club has been over-subscribed with 151 competitors entering in just four days.
Club president Kevin Raedel said due to the influx the event will host the full 151 motorists.
“Stewart Reid and Andy Quattro have entered, they both have never been here before,” he said.
“Graham Alexander is another big name, along with Australian Rally Champion Simon Evans.
“Stuart and Angus Bowes have also entered again.”
Last year’s winner Dan Day will return in hope to defend his title, but Kevin Mackrell will also be doing his best to stand on the top step of the podium come the end of the event.
Along with these iconic motorsport names, there is a number of prolific locals who will do there best to keep up with the best.
Raedel said he believed both Simon Feil – who finished third overall in 2016 – and Damien Brand will be tough competitors.
However, organisers hope to see the return of multiple-time-winner Peter Gazzard.
“We are trying pretty hard to get Gazzard to have another go,” Raedel said.
“There is no show without punch, so if we can get Gazzard to enter it would be fantastic.”
With the “draw-card” of racing up the side of a volcano one for many motorsport competitors, Raedel said the event has always seen positive responses.
“You talk to drivers who compete in world class events and they say that ours is up there with the best,” he said.
“It is one of a kind.
“The scenery is amazing at this event, you can sit in the pits on a sunny afternoon and there is both the lake and beautiful green grass.”
The event promises jam packed engine-revving action over the three days.
The historic cars will open the event on the Friday, which will be followed by the Saturday and Sunday of tough competition.
Raedel said the final preparations of the event are underway, which will take place on November 10, 11 and 12.
“We are not into chasing final sponsors and the organisation of the event,” he said.
“The track barriers need to be ready to go, which is a big job.
“To get everything finalised takes about three weeks of full time work.
“But we have a good support system and a lot of young ones have stepped up in the last two years to help.
“It is a huge amount of work, but it is worth it.”
