2009 Hay Mini Nationals

Hay was initially chosen to stage the event as it is equidistant between Adelaide and Sydney. As always, the Nationals were held on the Queen's Birthday long weekend, with the event starting unofficially on the Friday night with clubs gathering in the country town's pubs and hotels.

The official start was on the Saturday morning with a parade through Hay's main street with locals waving at the procession of little cars. A show and shine took place in a nearby side street. NSW Club member Wayne Whitcombe picked up a couple of awards including the People's Choice award with his matt black and lime green striped, roundnose Mini saloon. Another gorgeous car which was proudly displayed belonged to Charlie Kotzur, it was a 1966 Morris Cooper S.

For many, the second day of the event is the main attraction of Hay - the Motorkhana. Days of persistent rain leading up to the event had turned the paddock where it's held into a quagmire. After a short delay, the Motorkhana did start with 103 entrants, many of whom had entered their car in the previous day's show and shine!

South Australian Gary Kotzur won the competition overall with New South Wales's Dean Cook picking up the Rookie award.

Well done to the organising committee and the enthusiasts who took part showing that despite the ripe old age of 50 the humble little Mini can still show its stuff, especially in a muddy Motorkhana!

Words by Sam Smith;

Photographs by Jodi Dismorr