MOTORSPORT CLUB CALLS FOR PUKEKOHE RACE VOLUNTEERS
In the wake of one of the most chaotic Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000s in history, organisers are hoping to secure more volunteers for the penultimate round of the Virgin Australia Supercars Championship.
The ITM Auckland SuperSprint will take place at Pukekohe Park Raceway on November 4-6, with the championship fight between Jamie Whincup, Shane van Gisbergen, and Craig Lowndes likely to take centre stage.
Volunteers for the Pukekohe event are sourced from The Motorsport Club, the largest volunteer group of its kind in New Zealand.
Volunteer co-ordinator Deborah Day tells Driven that, beyond having the best seat in the house, the main advantage of being a motorsport volunteer is the camaraderie.
"It's a fantastic way to meet new people and get involved in motorsport. A number of our event team are coming back for the third year in a row," she says.
The Motorsport Club has been crowned "the best volunteer group" by the Supercars Championship for the past two years, which represents the skill level of the group. "I want that title again this year," says Day.
"It's such an amazing high to know that all the background hours and the efforts of the 450 volunteers over three days are recognised by Supercars. It's a testament to the volunteer team, and it's all about attitude. I'm so proud of all of them.
"It's hard work, but watching the team come together and seeing them pull off a world class event time and time again is so rewarding. We're a massive part of how the fans view the ITM SuperSprint, and it's a real opportunity to showcase Pukekohe and the wider Auckland region."
Becoming a volunteer is also an opportunity to climb the motorsport industry ladder -- several of The Motorsport Club's event volunteers having become sporting officials at the SuperSprint as well as at other events on the domestic motorsport calendar.
The checklist for beginner volunteers is a humble one: applicants need to be at least 16 and have "a positive attitude and common sense".
"Most of our training is on the job, but we do hold induction days at national and club level events," says Day.
"We have a fantastic group of under-21s in the Motorsport Club and welcome anyone to come and give the sport a try."
To learn more about The Motorsport Club, like their page on Facebook or visit themotorsportclub.com — or fill out an application to volunteer at the ITM Auckland SuperSprint by clicking here.