Gold Coasters battle it out to be crowned King of Burleigh Hill

THE curtain-raiser for this week’s GC600 has seen all the thrills and spills of the real thing as Gold Coast, including a leading radio star battled to be named ‘King of Burleigh Hill’.

TORRENTIAL rain didn’t deter the Gold Coast’s billy cart drivers from racing down Burleigh Hill at lightning speed yesterday.

Now in its third year, the Gold Coast 600 King of Burleigh Hill competition attracted 24 entrants, who battled it out to claim the coveted title.

Ben Hannant (front) and Krisyian Paino. Photo by Richard Gosling

Event manager Tanya Bensley said she was “blown away” by the turnout at the event.

“Considering the weather I was really surprised by how many competitors we had out there facing the rain and the wind,” she said.

Marlo Willox. Photo by Richard Gosling

“We also had quite a few spectators turn out and everyone had a fantastic time ... I’m sure if the weather was like last year it would have been packed.”

SeaFM breakfast host Ben Hannant said he nearly hit a bush turkey as he flew down the hill.

“That’s how you know you’re going fast,” he said.

Steele Holmes. Photo by Richard Gosling

“When even the birds can’t get out of your way fast enough.

“It was really good fun ... sliding down the hill and pushing a few people out of my way.”

Burleigh resident Romolo Bos said the event was a great warm-up for next weekend’s Gold Coast 600.

“We live on the hill so we always come down and support it, even though we could see it from our balcony” he said.

Dominic Skjonnemand. Photo by Richard Gosling

“It’s a great event, it’s what Burleigh is all about.”

Oliver Churchill, 13, edged out Lachlan Caddy, 16, to take out the ‘secondary’ category while Xavier Steinfort won the ‘primary’ category.

Brian Hickey (front) and Mick Steinback. Photo by Richard Gosling

“It’s a bit of a challenge, racing in the rain,” Mr Caddy said.

“My family are here and they’re all pretty soaked but it’s cool that they’re still here supporting me in this weather.”