Finke Desert Race: Everything you need to know
From the breathtaking racing to the fun festivities, here is everything you need to know about Finke Desert Race.
Alice Springs
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MOTORHEADS are gearing up for one of the biggest events on the calendar: the Finke Desert Race.
Thousands are expected to descend upon Alice Springs for the iconic annual off-road event.
Finke Desert Race competitor Brock Fry said he was thrilled for the major event.
“I am so happy to cruise along and see how I go,” he said.
“I just do it for fun.”
There’s plenty of fun for all of the family at the long weekend event.
Here is everything you need to know about Finke Desert Race.
Finke street party and night markets
Thursday June 9, 5pm to 9pm
The Finke Street Party and Night Markets at the Todd Mall is the starter event for Finke Desert Race weekend.
The free event kicks off the Finke Desert Race weekend, featuring shows from the Freestyle FMX Crew and ALL4FMX.
Motorheads can also meed their favourite competitors.
There will be food, drinks and merchandise for purchase.
The event will be livestreamed.
Scrutineering Night
Friday, June 10 4pm to 9pm
Spectators can get up close and personal with the riders, drivers and their incredible machinery as competitors have their vehicles and clothing checked.
Food and drink will be available. Admission is $20 and free for under 16s.
The scrutineering is held at the start/finish line along the South Stuart Hwy.
Prologue Track
Saturday, 11 June
Competitors will race against the clock to determine their starting positions for the race.
Food and drinks are available from 11am, with cars taking off from 8am and bikes at 12pm at the South Stuart Hwy.
Admission is $15 and free for under 16s.
Race Day 1
Sunday, June 12
The race begins at the South Stuart Hwy. Cars start from 7.30am and bikes depart at 11.45am, with the quad classes to follow.
The first car is expected to arrive in Finke at 9.20am and the first bike at 1.40pm.
Competitors camp in the Aputula Community (Finke) campgrounds overnight before heading back to Alice Springs.
Food and drinks are available from the Finke Bar, open from 11am.
Admission is $10 and free for kids under 16.
Race Day 2
Monday, June 13
Cars depart at 7.15am and 11.45am.
The winning car is expected to cross the finish line around 9am and the bike at 1.40pm.
Track podium presentations take place after the third place competitors arrive.
Food and drinks are available from the Finke Bar, open from 11am.
Admission is $10 and free for kids under 16.
Presentation Night
Monday, June 13
Competitors who complete the event can receive their Survivor Spike at the Alice Springs Convention Centre between 5.30pm and 9pm.
Awarding of outright and class winners begin from 8pm in the main room, with the event livestreamed via the Finke Live Stream.
Tickets are $20 and free for competitors and their crew.
Food and drink is available for purchase.
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