A1GP Transforms Idyllic Lakeside Town
21 Jan 2008
With dramatic mountains and a massive freshwater lake, Taupo has provided the perfect backdrop to the ultimate in motor racing.
Thousands of A1GP fans poured into the town for the second year in a row for three days of screaming tyres and engines - and Taupo did not disappoint with temperatures in the mid 20's (degrees celcius).
22 nations compete in the series which moves on to Sydney in a couple of weeks.
Critics of the high octane gas guzzling motorsport have less to complain about this year, for the first time the A1GP cars were running on a 30 per cent biofuel mix which is an enthanol-based product from European sugar beat.
Kiwi driver Jonny Reid, in his sleek looking car Black Beauty, satisfied his local fans winning the sprint race, while a fourth place in the feature race have put the Kiwi team in the series lead, two points ahead of Switzerland and France.
Taupo Mayor Rick Cooper, says the A1GP World Cup of Motorsport is a wonderful event injecting an estimated $50 million into the local economy.
"Twenty-two nations compete in this series and each round is broadcast in more than 150 countries, so it's hugely influential in giving potential visitors a taste of Taupo."
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