Aloha!
Bet you didn't think I'd keep the blog going!
On November 1, I went to Perth, WA for the finale of the 2007 Red Bull Air Race World Series (www.redbullairrace.com).
It didn't start well as my brother and I missed our plane, thanks to the overwhelming ineptitude of Qantas. We got to the airport 40 minutes before our flight to find a massive line at check-in. Only six of 28 counters were open and by the time we reached the sour-faced clerk, she informed us we were five minutes late and wouldn't be allowed on. Consequently, we had to catch the next flight (Adam Gilchrist walked past us as we queued to make the switch, which was cool). Qantas really is a national disgrace...but I'll save that rant for another entry.
On November 2 (Friday), I picked up my media pass for the Race. I'd recently interviewed series contender Mike Mangold for "People", so I was in with the organisers. Aside from an unlimited supply of Red Bull, the main benefit of the pass was special entry to the pit lane, where I got to chat to the pilots and check out their awesome aircraft up close. Naturally, I got a pic with Mangold.
On Saturday, we watched qualifying and then went on a cruise up the Swan River. It's no Sydney, but I like Perth.
When Sunday came round, the atmosphere was electric. An estimated 300,000 people lined the river, armed with eskies and cameras. One after another, the extreme machines zipped past us at speeds of up to 400kmh.
By far the most exciting pairing was that of 2005 champ Mangold (USA) and series leader Paul Bonhomme (ENG). Mangold took the heat by about one second and went on to come third in Perth and overall champion for a second time. Amazing flying.
We flew home with excellent Virgin Blue, so there were no more dramas. Hopefully, I can go back for next year's race.
