The 10th Muscle Car Masters

The 10th running of the Australian Muscle Car Masters was held on its usual Fathers Day weekend in weather reminiscent of the first MCM back in 2005. Saturday saw sporadic showers over the course of the day, and Sunday had longer breaks of dry weather but the showers were more intense.

The crowds were consistent with past years as many families, some even with strollers, came out to enjoy the wonderful spectacle of the “big banger” muscle cars of both Australian and American origins. Mustangs, Camaros, Pontiacs and Chevys matched it with Monaros and Commodores. Notably this year, John Bowe suited up and was seen driving the old Bob Jane Monaro of yesteryear fame.

There were plenty of great old restored cars on display including original Minis (not the current day re-incarnation) , a superb range of restored Mustangs, Pontiac GTO’s and V8 Commodores as well as a bustling trade show section under the grandstand. Trade displays included the massive semi-trailers with their branded logo wearables, offering all your favourite drivers look-alike gear.

Touring Car Masters had their custom t-shirts van, and Custom Karts had a wonderful display of very cool looking SuperKarts, They did a great job of giving advice to anyone who was interested in finding out how to get a grass roots start in motorsport, or just wanted to have a really fun time and enjoy the karting experience. The Telcalemet V8 race car simulator was a major attraction, and provided an exciting, and dry, simulation of the power and feel of a true V8 supercar experience. One customer was heard to say it wasn’t for the faint-hearted.

Over on the Figure 8 were the Historic Rally car demonstrations, in the capable hands of veteran rally drivers Neal Bates, Cody Crocker, Dave Thompson and Stewart Reid. Spending the day with these experienced chaps was Molly Taylor, the number one lady rally driver in the world. She was great to watch as she threw a big XY GTHO around the tight figure eight shaped track with consummate ease.

During the middle of the day, a one hour legends lunchtime autograph signing took place up in the Hinxman Room. With a line that was out the door it was a popular event and it was a great opportunity for fans to meet their racing hero’s of the past. It was a very special time for both kids and their dads as well. Names like Alan Grice, John Bowe, Jim Richards and and John Harvey were there in person giving of their time and offering friendly banter with both fans and their fellow driver alike. It was a wonderful session and the fans loved it.

Words by Rob Annesley
look@shotbyrob.com.au