By Emily-Rose Toohey
Five-year-old Lachlan Powell from Pittsworth won the Historic Leyburn Sprints colouring-in competition and attended the event with his family over the weekend.
Lachlan, his sister Mikayla, and his parents Brigitte and Clayton all experienced the Sprints after the former won two weekend passes for his Mum and Dad on top of two Leyburn Sprints caps, a t-shirt and stickers.
Reflecting on the experience, Brigitte said the family all thoroughly enjoyed the weekend.
“We thought it was a well-run event and Lachie thought he was very lucky to have won tickets,” she said.
Regarding the Sprints itself, Southern Downs Regional Council (SDRC) Mayor Vic Pennisi helped open the event on Saturday and said the act was a privilege.
“I’ve almost never missed the Sprints in nearly 15 years,” Cr Pennisi said.
“The weather was perfect, there was a wonderful array of historic cars and it’s amazing to see all those types of racing cars – that in itself is worth going to.”
Furthermore, he said it generates a lot of income for different community groups and the event itself.
“The sound of those cars is the sound of a strong economy and what it brings to the region is incredible,” Cr Pennisi said.
“Tricia’s (Historic Leyburn Sprints president) parents were the champions of the event and she’s keeping the legacy alive.
“It’s just another example of ordinary people doing extraordinary things.”
Furthermore, he said that the Sprints were another part of the tapestry that was the Southern Downs region.
“The volunteers are the engine room and the power,” Cr Pennisi said.
“I’m so incredibly proud to be part of those types of events – they are just wonderful.”
