The Gold Coast calendar is full of nationally recognised events. Many of these are sporting events, which is why it was so difficult to narrow it down to just three.
With golden beaches and clear blue oceans surrounded by luscious green mountain ranges, it’s no wonder why it’s easy to attract national and international competitors to our corner of the world. As local Coasters we’ve experienced them all and, amidst much debate and community feedback, have finally selected the best three sporting events on the Gold Coast.
1. Magic Millions
Nothing gets the heart pumping like riding your horse home in the Gold Coast’s biggest race day of the year. Form guide in one hand and beer or champagne in the other is certain to relieve you from the January heat. With the backdrop of the Gold Coast skyline, the finishing post determines hugs of joy or tickets torn. The race day is preceded by many days of auctions where buyers from all over the world gather to begin or add to their portfolio. Located a short trot from Surfers Paradise and very reasonably priced tickets, this is the one event not to miss. Tickets should be pre-purchased, but general admission is available at the gate. Driving is not recommended, as you are likely to get caught up in the celebrations when you back your first winner!
2. Gold Coast 600
Without a doubt, the Gold Coast 600 is the most picturesque stop on the v8 Supercars calendar. Weaving down through the buildings and back up the shoreline of Surfers Paradise and Main Beach, the Gold Coast 600 is easily one of the best and most exciting sporting events put on by our city. Australia’s top racing car drivers, many of whom are Gold Coast residents, battle out for the honours of this endurance events. Being a street circuit, there is never any shortage of concrete barrier carnage. Whether you have hired an apartment, secured grandstand seating or prefer to walk the track on a general admission pass, you can be assured of an action packed 3-day event.
3. Quicksilver and Roxy Pro
As difficult as it was to narrow the contenders down to three, we make no apology for including the Quicksilver & Roxy Pro. With the Gold Coast being home to several world class breaks, this inclusion was a must. The Quicksilver Pro is an event that makes up the ASP Men’s World Tour and the Roxy Pro is one of the Women’s Tour events. Cruise on down to Snapper Rocks in Late Feb/early March to support our local champions. Best of all, there is no cost!
If you’re not staying at one of the many accommodation options at Cooly, Tweed, Greenmount or Rainbow Bay, you will probably want to park along the Coolangatta foreshore. This way you can enjoy a post-event dinner at one of the many eateries in town. Many of the surfers eat in town, so you might even end up seated next to one if you’re lucky.
