Thousands lap up Classic day of high-octane fun

The vibrations of classic and vintage cars hurtling around the streets of Albany were felt by thousands at the weekend.

Families and car lovers gathered for the 2019 Albany Classic, soaking up plenty of thrills and a handful of spills.

More than 150 cars arrived in town for the event — a record number of entries.

The weekend got under way with the Saturday hill climb, where drivers tested themselves on Mt Clarence ahead of the historic Around the Houses event on Sunday.

For the Sunday street circuit race, thousands turned up to watch locals and visitors zoom around the centre of town.

Event organiser Vicki Clark said the 2019 Albany Classic drew another great crowd, which enjoyed the benefits of the pedestrian bridge over York — a new addition this year.

“It was such a brilliant weekend,” she said. “The weather was perfect — we couldn’t have had better if we had tried — and the bridge was a brilliant success. It allowed people to move freely throughout circuit.

“We had such an incredible response from people about the bridge. Now we just need another one at the bottom of York Street for future events — that’s our long-term goal.”

She said the pedestrian bridge was a certainty to return for next year’s event.

As is the case at many motorsport events, a few cars came unstuck during the Around the Houses program.

Ms Clark said there were several minor crashes around the circuit. “One car lost the brakes on the bottom of York Street and some others turned in a bit fast at the bottom of Aberdeen,” she said.

“They were all minor with no major injuries. The poor cars got a few scratches.”

A crowd highlight was the all-mini category, in which a rainbow of minis raced around the track, like Albany’s version of The Italian Job.

Perth driver and long-time Albany Classic entrant Tony Brett said it was another fantastic weekend escape.

“Today has been absolutely brilliant — a lot of fun as it always is,” Mr Brett said.

“It’s such a great weekend and it’s great to see so many spectators come along and watch.”