MAKE A DATE WITH THE GAS DASH

WA’s Kickstarters Gascoyne Dash is famous for its varied terrain, hometown hospitality and fantastic atmosphere. And if you get in before August 31, entry only costs $500.

When was the last time you and your bike went on an adventure together? A real adventure? Well, if you reckon it’s overdue, then WA’s longest-running and toughest off-road races, the Kickstarters Gascoyne Dash, could be just the ticket…

Set to take place on October 22-25 in and around WA’s Carnarvon and Gascoyne Junction, the “Gas Dash” has forged a reputation for being one of the most picturesque off-road races in the country. And with growing support from WA Tourism and the region’s local communities, organisers for this year’s 12^th running of the event have worked hard to boost entry inclusions and ensure competitors experience the sort of amazing atmosphere that outback events are renowned for.

Much like the Hattah Desert Race, the “Gas Dash” kicks off with a street parade through the centre of Carnarvon, followed by the event’s prologue on October 23 – which starts and finishes at the Carnarvon Racecourse. From there, competitors travel east to Gascoyne Junction and the event’s Coonatha HQ – where there’s free camping and amenities – for two days and 400km of racing on October 24-25. The event follows an arrowed course – so no navigation gear is required – that incorporates fast and flowing station tracks, rocky hillclimbs, flat-out clay pans, natural sandy riverbeds and red sand dunes.

“The Gas Dash kicks off with a street parade in the centre of Carnarvon, prior to two days and 400km of racing through an incredible variety of picturesque WA terrain.”

According to the David Kearney, president of the Gascoyne Off-Road Racing Club, ”We’ve had some rain in recent months, so the conditions appear to be shaping up well. For the 2015 event, almost all of Day 2’s 200km course will cover new terrain and tracks, so we’re confident that competitors – whether in the Auto, Quad or Bike divisions – will really enjoy this course.”

Early-bird discounted entries ($500) are available until August 31, and revert to $600 from October 1 to 15, when entries close. The entry fee includes FOC entry/access to all event facilities and functions.

For more information about a race that could be your adventure of a lifetime, check out the Gas Dash’s website, and keep up-to-date with news via the event’s Facebook page.