GREAT MOTOR RACE.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 19278, 16 September 1924, Page 4

GREAT MOTOR RACE.

ACROSS AUSTRALIA. AMBITIOUS PROJECT. (From Our Own Correspondent.) SYDNEY, September 4. Despite some opposition from residents of Central Australia itself the ambitious project of a great motor race from Adelaide to Darwin —over 3000 miles—continues to excite the keenest interest amongst motorists and motoring firms, and the financial backing that has already boon offered leaves little doubt but that this race, which will be of world-wide interest, will take place. The opposition has been based on various ground's. One is that it is impossible to arrange equitable conditions, as parts of the route would he much more advantageous to the cars ahead than those following, and other parte vice versa, owing to the effect of the' first cars in either improving or damaging the tracks (according to the format (ion of the ground and the weather) as they pass over them. Another is that the participants in such a race, being unable to 1 make detours and talk with residents, would get a totally wrong impression of the country traversed —especially as the route lies along the great cattle track through Central Australia, and is consequently not representative of the surrounding country—and gave a had advertisement to the outside world. However, despite the enormous difficulties presented by such a race through the wilds, the motoring world seems enthusiastic about it. The scheme was originated by the Dunlop Rubber Co. It is argued that when a touring party aboard two oars can leave Adelaide' on June 4, and despite many detours and without undue haste, reach Darwin on July 7, there is little doubt that, aided by thorough organisation, and driving early and late, and saving every possible minute, that a great cut could be made in the above time. There is an astounding difference when clever drivers arc put to the test, as witness the many wonderful intercapital records established in Australia during the past 18 months. The road conditions are far from being suitable* for even average touring speed between Fremantle (W.A.) and Adelaide (1734 miles), yet this rough route has been negotiated by J. Burton in three days 13 hours 3 minutes. With the best motor drivers of Australia pitted against each other in a race over a route where ingenuity, resource, pluck, and stamina are essentia], some surprising performances may he anticipated should the proposed contest eventuate. Interviewed relative to the matter, Senator Pearce, Federal Minister for Home and Territories, stated that be was personally interested in the proposed motor race between Darwin and Adelaide, and thought such a contest feasible, provided it was thoroughly organised, and that dire provision was made for supplies at regular intervals of fuel and water. Further, if the contest was carried to a successful issue it would result in the Territory receiving a great advertisement. He stated that on the receipt of a full outline of the proposed event he would be pleased to consider it, and lay the matter before the Government as regards its patronage and co-operation.