for Launceston competitor

Launceston’s David Cooper has signed up for his fourteenth Targa Tasmania, which starts in his home town on April 15.

Cooper will be driving his aqua 1977 Holden Torana in the biggest field of classic cars in the country.

“Targa Tasmania is our version of Bathurst,” Cooper said. “It’s like climbing Mt Everest. You have to stay focused and push your car for five days straight.”

He admits that since entering the event back in 1995, he has done his best to get to the pointy end of the field.

“I always aim for a top three finish, and hope to take a win in my handicap class this year.”

Event director, Mark Perry, has worked hard to bring the Classics back into Australia’s ultimate tarmac rally.

“Mark has done a great job in bringing the classics back. The spectators love seeing the old Muscle Cars and I love driving my Holden Torana.”

Cooper and his iconic car have become well known and regarded over his many years of competition.

“I have spoken to guys who have competed in Targa West, Classic Adelaide and all over Australia, but they all say our roads here in Tasmania are the best in the country.”

The event takes competitors on the North, East and West coasts of the state, ending at Hobart’s Wrest Point on April 20.