Hundreds of students lap up Supercars action

Hundreds of local school children have spent a day trackside at the Merlin Darwin Triple Crown.

More than 1000 school-aged kids from across the Top End attended the opening day of action at Hidden Valley Raceway.

Supercars hosted 32 schools at the circuit, giving young fans a chance to learn about one of Australia’s top sports up close.

The students attended a mock media conference with Nick Percat, Garry Jacobson and Thomas Randle, before watching the opening practice session at Hidden Valley.

Students also spent time in the Supercars paddock, before touring the Superbikes, Porsche Carrera Cup and Hyundai Excel garages.

Zuccoli Primary School student, Riley, was very excited to take part in the experience.

“It’s awesome,” he said.

“The cars are so cool, and I really love the bikes.”

Assistant Principal of Zuccoli Primary School, Erin Ranie, said the day provided students the opportunity to experience a new sport.

“They have loved it,” Ranie said.

“We obviously couldn't take everyone, so these students have earned this privilege, but they are really enjoying it, especially the loud cars.

“We have 30 children here today.

“Six students are going up to the Chief Minister's tent with the principal, so the rest of us are getting up close and personal to the action in pitlane.

“It’s great to have the kids experience a different sport.

“We do hockey and footy and all that sort of stuff at school, but they don't actually get to see motorsport very often.

“It's nice for them to come out of school and see a different sport.”

Cars will return to the track on Saturday for ARMOR ALL Qualifying.

Purchase your Merlin Darwin Triple Crown tickets now.