The decision by organisers to start the event 20 minutes early proved wise, as storm-force winds blew in moments after Invercargill's Greg Baynes crossed the finish line to win the final race, the 50-lap Burt Munro Trophy event. Jason Feaver (Christchurch) was second, ahead of Lockie Lott (Tuatapere).
A dozen races were held without major mishap, though there were a few spills. David Glover (Mataura) was treated by St John medics after he crashed in the final eight-lap open class race - a ''tank-slapper'' sent him to the ground and his bike somersaulting.
The crowd cheered on Australian rider Alan Kempster who, with no right arm or leg, took each bend tentatively, before accelerating hard down the straights. He did not feature in the placings.
Sprint races will be held at Teretonga Park Raceway this morning followed by speedway racing at Oreti Park Speedway in the evening. The final Burt Munro Challenge event, the Wyndham Street Races, will be held tomorrow.
- Robert Landreth
