The final touches are being made to the streets of Surfers Paradise ahead of this weekend’s Gold Coast 600.

Despite being 188 points off the championship lead, Ford ace, Mark Winterbottom says he’s not out of the hunt yet, vowing to race hard to the end.

Michael Kersnovske reports.

TRANSCRIPT

It was lights, camera, action at Jupiter’s Casino today for the official V8 Supercar drivers welcome lunch.

Ahead of two, 300 kilometre endurance races, the drivers appeared unfazed by the tight street circuit that awaits them.

Craig Lowndes, V8 driver: “It’s an exciting event for all of us and it’s going to be fun to drive.”

At the track, last minute preparations were being completed before the expected large crowds descend on the glitter strip tomorrow.

Cole Hitchcock, V8 Media manager: “We’re tracking between five and ten per cent up on last year which is always what you want.”

Of the 28 international drivers competing in this weekends event only 13 have competed in the category before.

One of those is Australia Will Power who makes his return after missing last year’s event.

Power was ruled out after being seriously injured in the accident that claimed the life of Indy Car driver Dan Wheldon.

Will Power, V8 co-driver: “It was really tragic last year.”

Despite the future of the Gold Coast event hanging under a cloud, V8 Supercars remain optimistic of securing a new deal.

The current $55 million contract runs out next year.

Col Hitchcock, V8 Media manager: “This weekend we feel will go a long way to proving to the state government we are worthy of their support.”

All 56 drivers hit the track tomorrow for practice.

Michael Kersnovske, QUT News.