Up and coming racing drivers are looking to next month’s Gold Coast 600 as a major stepping stone to greater things.

Today they joined their peers to inspect the track, and gave it the thumbs up.

Rebecca Forsyth reports.

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TRANSCRIPT

It’s now only 22 days until Queensland’s premier motorsport event kicks off on the streets of Surfers Paradise.

With construction on barricades and grandstands gearing up, the new-look circuit is well on track to winning over the formerly Indy-loyal Gold Coast.

A complete redesign adding serious curves and a tight hairpin corner will put drivers on the edge of their seats.

Paul Stokell, Hertz Mini Challenge: “There’s no room for error, and unfortunately if you get hung out to dry and you’re next to a wall, there’s a fair chance you’re gonna touch it.”

Ryal Harris, Yokohama V8 Ute Racing Series: “You’ve got to grab the car by the scruff of the neck, but also keep it within those limits, otherwise you eat concrete.”

But it still promises high-octane thrills and a dedicated party vibe.

Paul Stokell, Hertz Mini Challenge: “They come for the party, the atmosphere, the entertainment, the whole lot. We’re just part of the show.”

Too young to hold a road licence Gold Coast high-schoolers Sam and Jack Howard will be out there in Formula Fords.

Jack has big plans for a V8 future.

Jack Howard: “Formula Ford is a stepping stone up to the big series.”

Sam Howard, Ford Formula Championship Series: “Pretty lucky I guess. Some kids fon’t even have their road license, and we’re racing around the track.”

But despite being young motoring superstars, the boys still rely on Mum.

Mother of Sam and Jack Howard: “Come on Sammy, time to go home.”

Rebecca Forsyth, QUT News.