Ebifulumiziddwa: 19.06.2017
Last weekend was the highlight of the year in Darwin - the V8 Supercars series had their race in Darwin. Lots of tourists are now in the city. The special thing about the race in Darwin is the 'Crown Bet', which means for the V8 drivers they have to win the race on Saturday and Sunday, as well as a sprint race, then they will receive the 'Crown Bet' with a prize money of 1 million $.
Between the V8 races, there were lots of other racing series and entertainment. We saw races from the Porsche Carrera Cup, Touring Cars Master, Commodore Cup, and Stadium Trucks Race. Between qualifying and races, there were entertainment through stunts by Hot Wheels and motocross riders. Next to the racetrack, we could visit the pit lane, lots of attractions for children (free entry for children up to 13 years old). In the evening, there were concerts. The army was also exhibited. We could look at and sit in tanks and helicopters. Before the race start on Sunday, there was an unforgettable flight show with the fighter jet.
We cheered for the Shell team, as Shell reminds us of home :). There are no tickets for seats/stands around the racetrack. You buy a day or weekend ticket, which gives you access everywhere (including the pit lane), for an additional fee, you can then visit the respective stand. 90% of the audience, like us, sat along the track with camping chairs. For food, we brought sandwiches and apples. We bought a portion of fries and mango ice cream (which was even advertised as gluten and lactose-free). For drinks, we brought canned soft drinks and our water bottles, which can be refilled for free! We also treated ourselves to a can of Bundaberg Rum Cola - for 12$!
For us, it was an exciting and eventful weekend.