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The Weekend Sun
Professional photography by
DEAN PRESTON (LRPS)
Ph: 578 4951 Mob: 021 237 3805 dean@lifebylens.co.nz www.lifebylens.co.nz
Steve Wadsworth Pahoia School
life by lens P R O F E S S I O N A L
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Ray Scott Aquinas College ATS Wild O
P H O T O G R A P H Y
It’s a mental game
67M The banter is building and the nerves are creeping in for the Bay of Plenty principals racing in the debut Sunlive Principals’ Challenge next month.
OTUMOETAI COLLEGE
Ian Watson Otumoetai College
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Craig Price Selwyn Ridge School ven Fairha Flyer
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All 34 amateur racers have now taken a mini-stock for a spin or two around the Blokart track, in preparation for the big race at Baypark on December 1. Speed and skill might make a winner on the night – but for now, it’s a mental game. “They’re all having a bit of fun with each other,” says Baypark project manager Leona Smith. “There’s a whole lot of banter going on. “I’ve heard a couple of the principals talking about smashing into each other… they’re definitely not allowed to hit each other.” While some of the high achievers are taking the training in their stride, others are coming down with a case of pre-race jitters. “One of the females is a bit nervous. She was thinking of pulling out, so I told her ‘just do it for your kids’.” Leona says they’re rapt with how the event is progressing. All 34 principals now have sponsors and are scheduled to take place half way through the night’s proceedings.
Bruce Jepson (Principal, Te Akau Ki) tries to steal steering wheel off Brendan Clarkin (Principal, Pyes Pa School). “The most important thing now is to get people along to show their support for the principals. It’s going to be an awesome night.” The event will also feature sprint cars, saloons, super saloons, stock cars and mini-stocks. Gates open at 5pm for a 6.30pm start. “It’s important people know this is a normal race night, and the principals’ race is extra entertainment. The principals’ are getting all the practice they can.” says Leona. Students from each of the participating schools will be at the entrances, vying for viewers’ tickets – with Baypark promising to donate $0.50 to the school for each ticket the students collect.There is also a best- dressed fan award and a ‘Best Banner’ competition – with the most creative and eye-catching support banner earning its school a $4000 prize.
USE THIS AS A GUIDE ON RACE NIGHT
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By Corrie Taylor
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