Whitianga Festival of Speed to continue despite tragedy

by Paul Shanahan on 24 Mar 2010
The Whitianga Festival of Speed is on track to be the biggest thrill seeking weekend on the New Zealand events calendar, despite the tragic death of Stace Hopper, scion of the Festival’s major sponsor, Hopper Developments Limited.

Stace was well known as a freestyle jet skier, pilot and rally car driver. He fiercely competed against his father, Leigh Hopper in a signature component of the Festival; the helicopter versus rally car race. The week before his accident, Stace commented to a colleague that his 650hp Subaru WRX would see off the best efforts of his father’s Squirrel helicopter.

Leigh is adamant the Festival must go on and while he was offered the opportunity to introduce a replacement helicopter he said 'Stace would want me to stick to our plans. It will be a fitting tribute to his memory.' The car may be driven by his younger brother Gray.

Again, Leigh’s helicopter will race NZ’s fastest offshore power boat, Doosan.

Doosan (formerly Sleepyhead) crewed by Cary Gleeson and Sam Filmore is leading the NZOPA series and should provide a thrilling turn of speed at the Whitianga venue. Last year the battle was close. The power boat had the edge on the tight corners while the helicopter made a steep climb to 100ft and then dive bombed the power boat in a thrilling display of flying.

The Festival will feature NZ’s fastest water craft including jet skis, thunder cats, big game boats and a number of novelty stunts which include aircraft. The RNZN will be sending two of its new inshore patrol vessels which will be available for public viewing.

For further information visit www.whitiangafos.com