Media release
22 March 2013

Pukekohe celebrates 50 Years of Motorsport

A festival celebrating the 50th anniversary of Pukekohe Park Raceway – the country’s spiritual home of motorsport - takes place in the town’s main street on Saturday 6 April, a week out from the return of the V8 Supercars ITM 400 Auckland.

Organised by ATEED, the Golden Autoversary is a chance for visitors and locals to celebrate Pukekohe’s motorsport pedigree.

“We have had incredible support from the community excited about the return of the V8’s to Pukekohe, and the potential growth of the event year on year for the region,” says Jennah Wootten, ATEED’s Manager Major Events.
Kenny Smith, three time winner of the New Zealand Grand Prix (1976, 1990 and 2004), and the only man to have competed in an event at Pukekohe Park Raceway every year since 1963, will join other racing royalty for the event.

Greg Murphy (V8 Supercars ITM 400 ambassador) and three time winner of the V8 Supercars Championship round at Pukekohe will also be available for autograph signings.
Members of the Bourne family will unveil a bronze statue of the late great Possum Bourne, as part of the Civic celebrations led by the Mayor of Auckland Len Brown.

“The V8s and the events surrounding it are really exciting for motorsport fans and for the people of Pukekohe, and it is great to be a part of welcoming this memorial to an Auckland motorsport legend’s home,” says Len Brown.

The life-size bronze statue, was previously sited at the scene of his accident at the Snow Farm access road at Cardrona, is moving to the driver's home town.

Franklin Local Board chairman Andy Baker said Bourne was a legend in Pukekohe, where his accomplishments and contribution to the community made him a source of pride.

“It is extremely rewarding to be able to bring Possum's statue home to this prominent position in the town that he loved so much. I know Possum’s friends and family are extremely excited,” says Mr Baker.

The Golden Autoversary is one of several lead up events organised by ATEED to celebrate the return of the V8 Supercars ITM 400 to Pukekohe.

Tickets are on sale from Ticketek for the V8 Supercars ITM 400 Auckland at Pukekohe Park Raceway on 12-14 April for as little as NZ$30 plus fees, with three-day general admission for NZ$110 and three-day grandstands from NZ$145. Kids 12 and under receive free GA entry into the event with a paying adult. Patrons who pre-purchase tickets will have special event services by train or bus from Auckland included in the price.

Ends

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