Future of Wigram depends on public support
Preview of the 1979 Lady Wigram Trophy race day, the thirtieth anniversary meeting, warning that Wigram racing could end unless at least 6000 paying spectators attend. Stuyvesant had withdrawn sponsorship, with Shell, Ford, Champion and Union Travel jointly sponsoring the series. The programme included Formula Pacific, Formula Ford, OSCA, Shellsport saloons, motor-cycles, a demonstration race and a nostalgia parade.
Facts
- Organisers needed at least 6000 paying spectators at the 1979 Wigram meeting to make it pay without major sponsorship; the 1978 meeting had cost them $37,000.
- Peter Stuyvesant withdrew its sponsorship for 1979; the series was jointly sponsored by Shell, Ford, Champion and Union Travel.
- For 1979 Wigram's corners were renamed: Bomb-Bay Bend became Dunlop, the Hairpin became Hertz, Hangar Bend became Tingeys, and The Loop became Hutchinsons.
- The 1979 Shellsport Saloon Championship drew 18 entries (cars up to 2000cc) with $1800 prize money; Formula Ford drew 15 entries with $700 prize money; the classic motor-cycle race drew 15 entries.
- A vintage car race was planned for practice day (Saturday) before the 1979 Lady Wigram Trophy meeting.
