Boult Takes Up The Challenge To Compete In Arrowtown Trolley Grand Prix

August 3 2009: Christchurch Airport CEO and high profile motorsport competitor Jim Boult is using the skills of an aeronautical engineer to help design his entry for the Arrowtown Pre-School’s trolley grand prix on November 21.

The popular event, being held for the fourth time in Arrowtown, is a key fundraising venture for the Arrowtown Pre-School and Boult, who resides at Lake Hayes, says he is keen to support it.

He has also thrown down the challenge for other local businessmen to compete.

“The pre-school obviously plays a significant role in the local community and as for any community group fundraising is an ongoing issue. The trolley grand prix is an excellent way to raise money, at the same time providing competitors and spectators with a lot of fun.”

Boult has a noteworthy motor sport pedigree, racing a range of production cars over the years on the national circuit. He most recently competed in a BMW 130i in the New Zealand Production Racing Series and was one of the main movers behind the re-launch of the series. After his resignation last year as president he was appointed patron and provided with a life membership.

While he is currently taking a break from motor racing he does intend to return to competition. But in the meantime he is focusing on designing his “secret weapon” for the trolley grand prix.

“I decided that if I am going to do it, I am going to do it well, and am working with an aeronautical engineer to come up with the concept. The machine is going to be under wraps until the day and I hope plenty of other people will get involved as well because the pre-school is such a good cause.”

Arrowtown Pre-School spokesperson Gerda Schumann says last year’s trolley grand prix attracted 15 entries and raised $5,500 to assist with the successful running of the pre-school.

“It is such a great event and an excellent fundraiser which we alternate with the popular Battle of the Basins event.”

She says it is exciting to have someone of Jim Boult’s calibre competing this year.

“We are looking forward to receiving other entries and we are encouraging people to get out there and start building their trolleys as soon as possible.”

The Arrowtown Pre-School will also run food stalls and entertainment during the derby which starts on Durham street, beside the preschool, and follows a course to the finish line in Ramshaw Lane.
“We like to create a festive atmosphere for families and visitors to Arrowtown,” says Ms Schumann, “and it’s always a great day out as well as a fantastic fundraiser for the pre-school.”

ENDS

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