Photo: Just some of the trophies handed out on the night

The 2011 drag racing season at Hidden Valley Drag Strip was remembered on Saturday night at the annual awards dinner. The relaxed casual atmosphere attracted over 130 people to celebrate the personal and team successes.

The first part of the night was spent acknowledging the tireless efforts of the volunteer officials and many sponsors that have supported the re-bolstered sport in the Top End. Special acknowledgement went to Major Sponsors 7mate, Hot 100, Shannons Insurance and Lucas Oil who have provided valuable advertising and financial injections throughout the year.

Photo: Amanda Reed and Jay Jukes present John Palamountain from Shannons Insurance with his Major Sponsor plaque

Three officials were surprised with accommodation packages for their tireless efforts throughout the year. Senior Track Officials Glenn Bull and Dale Bradley were known to spend over 36 hours in track preparation for each even, and commonly spent over 16 hours at the Valley during race events while HVDRA President Jay Jukes was also surprised by the management committee's gesture.

Photo: "Track Guru" Glenn Bull with Jay Jukes

The latest Hidden Valley Drag Racing Association life member was also inducted on Saturday night.

“Brian Smith was selected for his involvement in establishing night time drag racing at the 33 mile before being one of the co-signatories that secured the Hidden Valley facility that we still use today.” said HVDRA President Jay Jukes.

“Brian then went on to assist with launching the original Off Street series which has grown to the successful Beat the Heat Off Street Series. Brian still races today in his Supercharged Ford Escort.”

The night climaxed with competitor awards for financial club members. Highlights included the presentation of our first ever Junior Dragster trophies to Maddison Sperrer (Best Presented), Nathan Coles (Runner Up) and Jodie Coles, as well as the unfortunate Hard Luck award going to Butch Morrison for suffering multiple mechanical failures in his Supercharged Outlaw that put him out for the year.

The prestigious Champion of Champions was a close race with Street Bike rider Geoff Hawkins finishing the season only 20 points behind the overall winner, Jodie Coles (Junior Dragster) with 135 points.

“Once again on behalf of the Association I would like to thank all of the committee members, volunteer officials, competitors, sponsors and fans who have contributed to HVDRA this year” concluded Jukes.

“We look forward to an action packed year of drag racing in 2012.”