The heavens opened up and the seaweed washed ashore just in time for the third installment of RattleTrap at Crowdy Head Beach. But you wouldn't find anyone complaining.
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Organisers from the Drag-ens Hot Rod Club, participants and spectators arrived at the beach on Saturday morning with heavy rain overhead and piles of seaweed at their feet (and tyres).
Once the rain stopped before the start of action, it was up to everyone on the beach to pick up the seaweed.
Hot rod club president Andrew McClelland said it was a swift operation to ensure the event got underway on time.
"They were really cool about it," Andrew said.
MidCoast Council crews were on the beach the day before to clear up as much seaweed as they could.
Unfortunately, the waves dumped it all back on the beach before competitors arrived.
"We really appreciate their efforts," Andrew said.
About 2500 people watched on as classic hot rods and throwback motorcycles raced up and down the beach in a series of bracket sprints.
Some embraced the wet conditions.
"A lot of the competitors ticked the box of driving in the wet weather," Andrew said.
The club was pleased to work alongside several community groups, who raised funds on the day.
For their assistance, Harrington Lions Club, Crowdy Harrington Marine Rescue, Harrington Men's Shed and Crowdy Head Surf Life Saving Club received a $500 donation.
Taree Rescue Squad received $3000 for their help on the day.
A lot of the competitors ticked the box of driving in the wet weather.
- Andrew McClelland, Drag-ens Hot Rod Club president
Parking was made easier by several buses relaying entrants and spectators to the beach from parts of Crowdy Head.
A return in 2020 appears to be a lock.
"We'll (the organising committee) do a wash up in the next week and discuss and determine what we're going to do," Andrew said.
"Every weekend in May is a possibility, it's just a matter of the dates and tides."
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