THE South Coast Drag Racing Association held its annual South Coast Nationals on Friday through to Sunday last week, with over 150 entrants taking to the asphalt for the first action the raceway has seen for the 2023-24 calendar.

There were a number of strong performers across the event, including local racer Jaydan Hoggan who took out top place in the Street Fighter category.

Association president Tim Parker said he was “extremely pleased” with how the event panned out, especially as it went ahead in spite of some adverse conditions.

“We copped a bit of dodgy weather which disrupted our test session on Friday a fair bit, but other than that the day was a massive success,” Parker said.

“It was incredible how all the volunteers out there were able to pull together to get the track up to a great standard.

“Obviously we got unlucky with the Street Machine Drag Challenge last month, it’s always a bit tough for us with that event and avoiding the weather at that time of year.

“I couldn’t believe how smoothly the event ended up running, it all ran really well, and everything ran on time if not ahead of time.”

Parker said it was great for the association to be able to successfully host what he said has been one of the most popular drag racing events going around.

“I have a lot of people coming up and saying this is their favourite track to race at, and just saying they love coming down to Portland and being a part of it,” he said.

“They do a great job of not just supporting us but also the local businesses in the area.”

Parker said all up the event saw close to 3000 people at the track including drivers, crew and spectators, and he said his sincere thanks goes out to everyone who helped out along the way.

“My thanks to all the committee, as well as sponsors and members who support the club and make this sort of thing possible,” he said.

“It’s comforting to know as president that you’ve got the backing of a group of people who you can rely on to help out.

“We’re always on the lookout for new members who are willing and want to become part of a friendly and welcoming club.

“A special mention also to a clubman in Graeme Pitts who couldn’t be there on the weekend, we were all thinking of him at the event.”