V8 Supercars officials have reacted to misleading media reports that suggested that grid and promotional girls would be banned from the Armor All Gold Coast 600 later this month.
“There’s been a little mischievous media created by people that are no longer involved in the Gold Coast event, which has been putting some very misleading and above all – incorrect – information out there,” said V8 Supercars Acting CEO, Shane Howard.
“We haven’t turned our back on the grid girls. With our partner, Chill Milk we have introduced a fantastic new competition and they are named the Chillettes, which has evolved the grid girl concept into a high level competition.”
Howard re-iterated that event organisers are committed to ensuring the event will continue it’s traditional party atmosphere – considered South East Queensland’s biggest party.
“We’re absolutely committed to ensuring the Armor All Gold Coast 600 retains everything that it’s become famous for. Every team will have their grid girls on hand as with every one of our events – they are synonymous with motorsport around the world.”
Outspoken V8 team owner Paul Morris was flabbergasted when told of the reports.
“I for one would be kicking up a stink if they canned the grid girls,” said Morris.
“You always have to try new things to keep it (the event) fresh. You would never get rid of grid girls on the Gold Coast – they are part and parcel of our event.”
The Chillettes – which were launched at this weekend’s Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000 – are competing for $80,000 in cash and prizes which will be awarded at the Sydney Telstra 500.